Naturist Blog
Naked Utopia: how England’s first nudists imagined the future
Annebella Pollen, University of Brighton
The naked body is as old as humanity. But nudism as a social form, organised into clubs and societies, only came of age in England in the 1920s. Its practitioners were from a range of backgrounds and included those with interests in “physical culture” (today we would refer to this as body building and beauty contests). Many were interested in natural health, including vegetarian and raw food diets, and new exercise regimes from hiking to yoga.
Nudism was particularly embraced by artists and intellectuals as part of a wider set of progressive practices associated with free thought. Many were internationalists inspired by longer standing German nudist traditions, which were far more popular and organised on a larger scale than English efforts. They understood disrobing to be part of a wider ideal of physical, mental and spiritual liberation.
For nudists in this mould, taking one’s clothes off in organised groups promised nothing less than heaven on earth. As one 1933 enthusiast claimed in the magazine Gymnos (“For Nudists Who Think”):
It stands for all-round regeneration, in that it changes the false for the true; bondage for freedom; hypocrisy and cant for truth of purpose and resolve, and, above all, elevates the mind, and prompts the soul to strive for heights far above the petty and mean things which are attached to civilisation, as we know it today.
Civilisation – here indicating the modern, mechanised and industrialised world – was seen as corrupt. Its manifold problems were made material in everything that was wrong with contemporary clothing.
The death of fashion
If nudism was Utopian and escapist, dress was necessarily its inverse: dystopian and imprisoning. Garments were described by impassioned early nudists in their publications as “dirty cloth jails” and “the iron chains which civilisation and custom have riveted on suffering humanity”. Illness was seen as “largely an inevitable result of the enslavement of the body within the dark walls of its own clothing”. Rather than suffer this fate, interwar nudists proposed an alternative way of life, declaring in magazines from Sun Bathing Review to Health and Efficiency: “Clothes are dead.”
For some of its most ardent supporters, nudity was proposed as a complete cure to modern ills. If its physical and mental benefits were to be felt, nothing at all should be worn at any time. These enthusiasts looked forward to a time when nudism would become the norm on the streets of London, when “all normal-minded civilised people … live as nudists” and “permanently discard clothes”. Some nudists predicted that bodies would evolve to have no need of garments for warmth or protection; the healthy and vigorous bodies produced by total exposure would be impervious to changes of climate. Some of nudism’s most ardent early practitioners climbed mountains and even skied in the buff.
But others saw these kinds of practices as a bridge too far from the conventional world. More moderate voices argued that “clothing has an important place to fill and no one but a crank would propose its total abolition”.
It is worth remembering that nudity in public was (and is) a prosecutable offence. The establishment of private “sun clubs” and “sunbathing societies” in the interwar years, with strict membership procedures, ensured that nudists avoided arrest, and they also helped maintain respectability. Popular conceptions of nudism ranged from the amused to the frankly appalled; nudist magazines regularly summarised articles from the mainstream press that claimed nudism to be immoral, even “evil”. Even if viewed benignly, nudism was popularly seen as eccentric, so a “sane” or rational approach was promoted by those who wished to avoid accusations of cultishness.
Those who followed a more moderate line of nudism acknowledged that shifting practices of dress and undress as circumstances allowed were needed. This more pragmatic approach promoted occasional sunbathing, under appropriate conditions, in the minimum of attire for the purposes of improved health and well-being. It also led some to invent clothing for nudists as a concession to the country’s many sunless days. Design ambitions ranged from the rational to the fantastic.
The nudist’s wardrobe
The most complete scheme was proposed in 1933 by Maurice Parmalee, author of Nudism in Modern Life. He proposed that articles of dress, to be worn when some form of protection was required, should be open, airy and cover no more of the body than was absolutely necessary.
In addition to these practical suggestions, he offered more visionary ideals, including the elimination of sartorial differences between the sexes. He promoted specific garments to resolve issues of warmth, protection for the feet, and the practicalities of menstruation at a time before internal sanitary products were widely used. Inspiration was freely drawn from across history and geography, with the net result forming an outlandish ensemble of doublet, cummerbund, Bavarian braces, Scottish kilt, socks and Japanese sandals, a hooded South American poncho, and a clutch bag for daily necessities.
The individual items were designed to address specific practical shortcomings of nudity, but they also reflected the changed nature of the coming nudist world. Parmalee argued that in his nudist future: “There will be less temptation to dishonesty, so that the lack of pockets will not be a serious drawback.”
The nude future
For all the claims of nudism’s inevitability, nearly 100 years on it’s no more common to find naked people on the high street than it ever was. The nudist Utopia of the 1920s remains an impossible dream. Even by the mid-1930s the fantasy had begun to tarnish; the dramatic political shifts in Germany showed that undressing alone could not bring a new democratic, pacifist, egalitarian world. Nonetheless, the visions of the English moderates, with their ambition for lightweight clothes and sunbathing in a minimum of attire, gained steady traction during the 1930s as part of a general relaxation of dress and manners. Post-war, it was only English social nudism, organised through clubs and societies, which waned. Nudism for leisure, especially on continental holidays, continued in the pink of health.
These days, contemporary practitioners of what is now more usually called naturism tend not to link their undressing to the socialism, vegetarianism or anti-materialism of nudism’s interwar pioneers; it is merely perceived as a pleasant pastime. As such, the campaigns of the first social nudists in England might seem to be a closed case.
Yet at their most radical, philosophers of nudism recommended the deconstruction of all social propriety in search of a new future. The world they foresaw would unite all in one brotherhood, re-establish a union with nature and make the world a safer, fairer, and more beautiful place. These ambitions remain today, although modern subscribers might differ in their approach to how they should be delivered. It may take centuries to come, as Parmalee expected, but the hope of a new world springs eternal.
Annebella Pollen, Principal Lecturer in the History of Art and Design, University of Brighton
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
https://stmdailynews.com/naturist-blog
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Naturist Blog
The Health Benefits of Being Naked: Letting Loose for Your Well-Being
Being naked offers health benefits like better sleep, improved skin, and enhanced body positivity. Embracing nudity promotes self-acceptance and can positively impact mental well-being as well.
As summer heats up, there’s a common yearning for the ease of skin against skin, and guess what? That longing might not just be a fleeting thought! According to a 2015 article on Today.com, stripping down can be surprisingly good for your health. From better sleep to improved skin and enhanced body positivity, being naked has a multitude of benefits. So, let’s get comfortable with the idea of shedding our layers!
Savoring Sleep: The Optimal Temperature
First and foremost, let’s talk about one of our most important daily rituals: sleep. The National Sleep Foundation suggests that keeping your sleeping environment at an optimal temperature of about 65 degrees Fahrenheit is essential for a restful night. Ditching pajamas could aid in lowering your body temperature, making it easier to drift off into dreamland.
But that’s not all! A study in the journal Diabetes reveals that sleeping in cooler temperatures can boost your levels of metabolism-enhancing brown fat. So, while you’re enjoying a cozy, naked snuggle in your sheets, your body might be working hard to help you burn a few extra calories!
Skin Deep: Breathe and Revive
Onto another juicy benefit—healthy skin! Have you ever noticed those pesky imprints left behind by tight-fitting clothes? Dr. Michael Fiorillo, a plastic surgeon and skincare specialist, explains that going nude allows your skin to breathe, which can alleviate dryness and prevent wrinkles. Plus, it aids in the elimination of sweat toxins that can accumulate when clothes are layered on.
Dermatologist Dr. Lance Brown echoes this sentiment, noting that restrictive clothing can lead to excessive sweating, inflammation, rashes, and breakouts. By freeing ourselves from these constraints, we’re not just enjoying a little more comfort; we’re giving our skin a chance to flourish.
Sun-Kissed Benefits
Now, if you’re brave enough to take your nudity outdoors, the benefits only multiply! Shaun Galanos, a sex educator and host at the famous nudist resort Hedonism II, emphasizes that basking in the sun can significantly improve your mood and increase your Vitamin D intake. Research shows that our skin absorbs Vitamin D from sunlight better than from supplements. Just make sure to keep your time in the sun limited to 10-15 minutes to maximize these benefits while protecting your skin!
Embracing Your Body: A Mental Refresh
Beyond the physical perks, there’s an undeniable mental advantage to getting comfortable in your skin. Dr. Jenn Mann highlights that spending time in the nude can reconnect us with our bodies. In our fast-paced, often body-critical society, this disconnection can lead to self-doubt and negative body image.
Embracing nudity can be a healing practice. It diminishes feelings of shame and promotes self-acceptance, allowing us to celebrate our bodies just as they are!
Final Thoughts
So, what are you waiting for? This summer, take a page out of Lippe-McGraw’s article and give yourself permission to embrace the liberating experience of going naked. Whether it’s in the comfort of your own home to get a better night’s sleep, a chance to rejuvenate your skin, or stepping out for a bit of sun-soaked joy, the benefits are clear: being naked is not only empowering but also a surprisingly powerful tool for personal improvement.
So, go ahead, strip down, and enjoy the health benefits that come with it! After all, sometimes the best clothes are the ones you were born in!
Related links:
The health benefits of being naked: How stripping down is good for you
6 Reasons to Spend More Time Naked
Embrace Your Naked Bliss: Unlocking Body Positivity Through Nudity
Naturists: Stay Informed
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National Nude Day: Embrace Authenticity & Celebrate Body Positivity!
Break free from societal norms, embrace your body’s natural beauty, and celebrate National Nude Day on July 14th. A day of liberation and self-acceptance!
July 14th commemorates a unique occasion – National Nude Day. Indeed, it is a day to discard garments, embrace liberation, and honor the allure of the unclothed human form.
First things first, let’s address any concerns or prejudices that may arise when we mention nudists or naturists. Nudists are not perverts or weirdos. They are individuals who believe that the human body is most beautiful in its natural state. It’s about embracing the authenticity of our bodies and encouraging others to do the same. So, let’s set aside any judgments and stereotypes and explore the beauty of this unique observance.
National Nude Day isn’t just a frivolous celebration; it’s a serious holiday that nudist groups around the world embrace. It’s a day to defy societal norms, challenge the conventions of modesty, and embrace authenticity. The nudist movement is about breaking free from the restrictions of clothing and embracing the natural state of being.
Now, you may be wondering how being nude can be relevant to keeping cool on a hot summer day. Well, let me tell you, it’s the perfect way to beat the heat! On National Nude Day, you can enjoy an “air bath” where you simply let your skin breathe and feel the natural breeze against your body. It’s refreshing, liberating, and an experience like no other.
You might be surprised to learn that the naturist spirit has been around for quite some time. Even Benjamin Franklin, the notable founding father, was known to enjoy what he called “air baths.” He would open his window and let the fresh air swirl around his birthday suit. So, National Nude Day has a historical connection too!
The timing of this observance is no coincidence. It falls in the middle of the summer when the Northern Hemisphere basks in the warmth and sunshine. And let’s face it, who wants to be restrained by heavy layers of clothing when the sun is shining brightly? National Nude Day encourages us to embrace the weather, connect with nature, and enjoy the freedom that comes with feeling the sun’s rays on our bare skin.
Apart from the sheer enjoyment and liberation of being in our natural state, there are practical benefits to the nudist lifestyle as well. When you travel, you’ll notice a lighter suitcase because you won’t require many clothes. And let’s not forget the reduced laundry loads! Plus, without the “shields” of clothing, the natural signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging become embraced rather than hidden. It’s a powerful statement about self-acceptance and body positivity.
Ultimately, National Nude Day is about celebrating diversity, body acceptance, and the natural beauty that exists within each and every one of us. Whether you choose to fully embrace the day or simply take a moment to acknowledge its significance, it’s an opportunity to challenge societal norms, break free from inhibitions, and appreciate the uniqueness of our bodies.
So, let’s strip away the judgment, embrace the freedom, and celebrate National Nude Day on July 14th. Remember, it’s not about being scandalous or indecent; it’s about embracing our authentic selves and fostering a healthier, more accepting world.
Happy National Nude Day, everyone! Let’s keep it cool, keep it natural, and keep it positive!
https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-nude-day-july-14
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Imagine a day when the breeze is your outfit and the sun dresses you in warmth – that’s July 14th, National Nude Day! A lesser-known yet liberating holiday, National Nude Day offers a cheeky escape from the textile world and a unique opportunity to celebrate the human form in all its natural glory.
What Is National Nude Day?
National Nude Day is more than just an excuse to skip out on doing laundry. It’s a celebration rooted in the naturist movement, which advocates for social nudity. Naturists (or nudists) believe that being naked removes social inequalities and promotes a deeper appreciation for nature and healthy body image. While it might seem unconventional, the aim is simple: to normalize the human body in its purest form and to encourage freedom from the constraints of clothing.
The Nudist Lifestyle: A Deeper Look
To many, nudists are just a group of people who enjoy life without the encumbrance of clothes. However, it’s more than just going nude. Nudist communities focus on respect, equality, and a close connection to nature. These qualities foster environments where body positivity flourishes and judgments based on physical appearances dissolve.
Nudism isn’t about exhibitionism but about returning to the basics and appreciating the simplicity of being. On National Nude Day, nudist groups around the globe organize gatherings and events in secluded beaches or private resorts where participants can sunbathe, swim, and engage in recreational activities, all in the nude.
How to Celebrate (Respectfully)
If the idea intrigues you, National Nude Day might be the perfect time to explore the naturist lifestyle in a respectful and controlled environment. Here’s how you can celebrate:
- Visit a Nudist Resort or Beach: Many nudist communities are welcoming to newcomers and offer day passes. It’s a chance to experience naturism in a safe and respectful setting.
- Host a Nude Dinner Party: If public nudity isn’t your thing, consider a private gathering at home with close friends.
- Learn About Naturism: Read books or watch documentaries about the naturism movement to understand its principles and benefits.
- Solo Celebration: If joining others isn’t appealing, simply spend some time at home without clothes. It can be remarkably freeing and a new experience of comfort in your own skin.
A Note on Etiquette
It’s important to remember that while celebrating National Nude Day, respect and consent are crucial. Nudity should never be imposed on others, and personal boundaries should always be honored. If you’re visiting a nudist community, familiarize yourself with their rules and norms. The goal is to embrace simplicity and freedom, not to cause discomfort or cross personal limits.
Why Celebrate National Nude Day?
At its heart, National Nude Fish acknowledges the purity and equality of human beings without external adornments. It challenges societal norms about body image and privacy, promoting a healthier, more naturalistic view of ourselves. Whether you’re a seasoned nudist or just nude-curious, the day offers a different perspective on freedom and simplicity.
On this National Nude Day, whether you choose to participate publicly or privately, the essence is about finding comfort in your own skin, appreciating nature, and embracing a lifestyle that champions simplicity and honesty. Remember, the best outfit is sometimes no outfit at all! Happy National Nude Day!
Escape the conventional and explore something uniquely freeing this July 14th! #NationalNudeDay
News for those loves nature and live the clothes free or clothing optional life!
Naturism is a lifestyle of practicing non-sexual social nudity in private and in public; the word also refers to the cultural movement which advocates and defends that lifestyle. Both may alternatively be called nudism. Though the two terms are broadly interchangeable, nudism emphasizes the practice of nudity, whereas naturism highlights an attitude favoring harmony with nature and respect for the environment, into which that practice is integrated. That said, naturists come from a range of philosophical and cultural backgrounds; there is no single naturist ideology. https://stmdailynews.com/news-for-naturists/
Ethical or philosophical nudism has a long history, with many advocates of the benefits of enjoying nature without clothing. At the turn of the 20th century, organizations emerged to promote social nudity and to establish private campgrounds and resorts for that purpose. Since the 1960s, with the acceptance of public places for clothing-optional recreation, individuals who do not identify themselves as naturists or nudists have been able to casually participate in nude activities. Nude recreation opportunities vary widely around the world, from isolated places known mainly to locals through officially designated nude beaches and parks and on to public spaces and buildings in some jurisdictions. (wikipedia)
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