WHAT NATURISM IS NOT:
It is not sexual by nature.
Any practice of social nudity, within the naturist context (whether it be at a nude beach, naturist campsite, naturist event or resort), is of a non-sexual nature. Yes, non-sexual social nudity is possible; and this is often one of the most surprising facts for those curious about the lifestyle. But, is often one of the more challenging concepts to grasp for those outside looking in; and this is mainly due to societal, religious and/or cultural conditioning that has, ultimately, sexualised nudity.
In today’s society, there is a hyper-sexualisation of the human body. And, unfortunately, nudity and sex have become interchangeable concepts. But, this is not actually the case. Nudity is not inherently sexual in and of itself.
And that is one of the beautiful things about the naturist lifestyle; it offers the empowering opportunity of experiencing one’s own nudity and body in a respectful and non-sexual environment that is removed from society’s sexualised gaze.
It is not a hedonistic playground.
Just because there is nudity involved, one does not get to do as one pleases without the consideration of others.
Nudity is NEVER consent. It is NOT a green light for inappropriate behaviour. Nudity is NOT an invitation for unsolicited sexual advances.
It is not a cult.
Naturism is not some dogmatic ideology. Whilst there is etiquette and morals any respectable person would be expected to uphold (as is the case in all civilised societies), you can choose how you get to practice naturism. And whilst many naturist venues are ‘clothing-optional’ (based on the idea that most people will opt for nudity, but also considerate of newbies who might be a little nervous starting out etc), there are some venues that prefer a more ’nudity compulsory’ kind of policy. So, depending on the kind of environment you’re looking for, policies can change from venue to venue, from club to club, so be sure to check out your chosen venue’s policy to make sure it’s right for you and what you’re looking for.
It is not about exhibitionism.
Confidence and/or comfortability in one’s own body should not be mistaken for exhibitionism.
‘Exhibitionism’ alludes to someone who gets gratification from exposing one’s genitals to unsuspecting and non-consenting people. Naturism, in no way, shares any fundamentality with this description or activity.
Naturism is not about exposing oneself to other people for gratification’s sake. Naturism is about someone merely delighting in the simple pleasure of enjoying their own nudity. Someone who merely enjoys being naked in nature, minding their own business by taking a skinny-dip or strolling along a clothing-optional beach, for example, does not fit the description of an ‘exhibitionist’.
