What is naturism?

Broadly speaking, it is doing anything you usually do dressed, but doing it without clothes when it is more comfortable and practical to do so.Sunbathing, swimming and taking a sauna are the obvious activities which spring to mind.

Why do people choose to be naturists? Individual responses to that question vary greatly. For some, naturism is a carefully considered lifestyle; for others, it is no more complicated than a day at the nearest nude beach. What connects these two extremes is the sense of freedom naturist activities provide. It may be a matter of simple comfort—first-time skinny-dippers frequently marvel at how good it feels to be clothes-free—or there may be something more profound. For many, the social nudity that helps define naturism is personally liberating; through it, we come not only to accept ourselves but others.

• The Naturist Society defines it very well, "Body Acceptance is the Idea, Nude Recreation is the Way."
• British Naturism says: The human body was not designed to be wrapped up in clothes and there are numerous health benefits associated with clothes-free activities. More and more people are realising the significant benefits nudity brings to mental, emotional and physical health, body image issues, and their ability to relax and escape the rigours of daily life. It’s widely accepted that it’s good for everyone to have the sun and fresh air on their skin – so why not get the maximum benefit? When you shake off your clothes, you do more than just peeling away the layers of fabric. It often feels like you are removing your worries, stresses and particularly any hang-ups you have about your body. If you’ve yet to try it, there is no greater feeling of freedom than giving your whole body – and in fact your entire ‘being’ – a good airing.
• Suntrekers say: Naturism is the practice of going without clothes. Whatever you may think about people who do such a thing, it is not shameful, embarrassing or ridiculous, in fact when the weather is hot it’s the sensible option – and great fun! It’s good for you too – the human body was not designed to be completely wrapped up in clothes and subjected to artificial heat and light sources and air conditioning 24/7. Millions of normal people have discovered how good it feels to have the sun and breeze on their skin and feel better, more relaxed, less self-conscious and de-stressed as a result. Poor body image is improved when you realise that almost no-one has a “perfect” body. Sunbathing and swimming are the most popular activities – there is nothing like an all-over tan, and swimming in the nude is bliss. Swimming costumes are among the most uncomfortable, unhealthy and pointless items of clothing! Naturism is also very sociable. Naturists are happy, friendly people who are pleased to have discovered such a great way of being and treat everyone with respect, and as equals. Being among contented, comfortable and like-minded people brings about a sense of mental well-being and – despite what you may think – you quickly become used to being naked among other naked people. Sounds impossible? Even the most reluctant first-timers say how they “forgot” they were nude after only a few minutes and stopped noticing that everyone else was too. Also, simple nudity is not sexually stimulating – in naturist places you will find people doing what you see anywhere else, only without clothes.