Honestly, I’m pretty sure I’d be a terrible nudist. While I’m no prude at home, the thought of strutting around in my birthday suit at a gym or pool makes me cringe. I work out regularly and do my best to keep my mom hips from spilling over my jeans, but let’s just say that I’d rather keep my mom-shaped assets under wraps, thank you very much.
One of the biggest surprises I encountered when I hit 40 was discovering just how little some women care about modesty in the gym locker room. My local gym is like a showcase of soft mom bodies—hips and breasts all on display. I find myself trying really hard to avoid looking at the “bush brigade” parading around me. For me, being naked in front of strangers is a hard pass. I’ll be over here, wrapped in a towel while you ladies enjoy your nudity. No judgment, but wow—what happened to your lady garden since I last saw you? #AwkwardMoments
While I admire those who can confidently embrace their bodies in public, I personally have zero desire to go topless at the beach or take a naked stroll through the woods. The thought of poison ivy in sensitive areas? No, thank you!
However, it turns out that nudist communities and the practice of nudism are more prevalent than one might assume. There are hundreds of thousands of Americans who feel comfortable enough in their own skin to engage in activities like volleyball or even running a 5K completely nude. According to the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR), nude recreation has blossomed into a $400 million industry, with over 270 clubs across the country where people can embrace their natural state.
The AANR’s mission is to promote nudity and nude recreation in suitable environments while educating society about its benefits. So, before you judge your neighbor for sunbathing au naturel by their pool, consider that around 213,000 people are doing just that in their backyards and at nude recreation clubs nationwide.
Nudism is legal at AANR-affiliated clubs and resorts, and the organization actively collaborates with local authorities to maintain designated areas for nude recreation, complete with proper signage. Nudists are not the perverts some might imagine; they view the human body as beautiful and strong, choosing to live free from societal clothing expectations.
So, what’s the issue? Why do we jump to conclusions about those who choose to experience life without clothes? Before diving into this topic, I mistakenly thought nudist resorts were merely places for naked lounging, complete with rampant public displays of affection. But, in reality, nudism is a lifestyle choice that many find calming and restorative amid the chaos of modern life. It’s not about sexual attraction; rather, it’s about stripping away clothing—and the social status that comes with it—to foster acceptance among individuals, regardless of their backgrounds.
Sure, a little more acceptance and tolerance would be beneficial for us all. And yes, there’s etiquette to follow at these clubs. For instance, guests are required to carry a towel for sanitary reasons and are encouraged to wear footwear. Jewelry is generally accepted, and many clubs offer “clothing optional” events for newcomers who aren’t ready to go completely bare. Oh, and cameras? A big no-no.
Interestingly, most nudist resorts prefer couples over singles to maintain a balanced male-to-female ratio. Public displays of affection are also frowned upon. Nudists emphasize that their quest for nudity is not sexual in nature.
While I personally wouldn’t be comfortable exposing myself to anyone other than my partner, I commend nudists and naturists for celebrating the human body in all its forms. The idea of spending a week at a nude resort without a bra sounds liberating, doesn’t it? Although I’m not rushing to book a stay at one of the nearly 300 nude resorts in the US, the thought of lying on a sun-drenched beach, bra-free and lost in a good book, sounds quite appealing. Maybe someday.
In conclusion, nudism is more common than many realize, with a thriving community that values body positivity and acceptance. Whether or not you choose to partake, understanding and tolerance of different lifestyles can enrich our perspectives.
Keyphrase: nudism awareness
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