Dare to Go Bare

By Roz Lewis

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If you've ever secretly stared at those going topless on beaches, thinking, gosh, I really wish I had the nerve to do that, or, I bet my tan would look sooo much better if I sunbathed in the buff, then you're not alone. There are an astounding one million or so British nudists, who regularly go to beaches, clubs, local swimming pools and leisure centres. Yes, there really are that many people out there, going nude, every week. According to naturists, naturism is an extremely healthy, relaxed way of living. So when did it all start?

The History of Naturism
Naturism, or going nude, has been around in modern-day society for a long time. It all began as a defiant form of body liberation, way back before the turn of the century. The first modern naturists took their clothes off in Germany at the end of the 19^th century. Although they weren't accepted at first and many of them were prosecuted, the trend gradually grew.

Here in slightly more conservative Britain, naturism began to grow slowly at the same time. At first it was confined to single-sex bathing areas and select gatherings, but the idea soon grew that it could be healthy for people to shed their clothes in the open air and bare their bodies to the elements. Think pasty Victorians, and you get the reason why being tanned was then equated with health.

Why Be a Naturist?
Naturists claim that by shedding their clothes they also shed their social roles and are much more relaxed about their bodies and sexuality. "Naturists are generally very friendly, easy-going people," says Andrew Welch, Commercial Manager for British Naturism, an organisation with 16,000 members.

Is Naturism Healthy?
Although there hasn't been any scientific research done on the subject, it is feasible that naturism may have some health benefits. Women suffering from conditions such as cystitis are known to benefit from not wearing restrictive clothing. Many skin conditions – particularly psoriasis – improve when the skin is exposed to sunlight so without clothing, there's much greater exposure. Naturists tend to exercise regularly and are usually very fit and healthy – swimming is the most popular naturist activity world-wide.

Boosting Your Confidence
Psychologically, people may experience a general feeling of wellbeing when they become naturists. "It is very relaxing not to be judged by the state and appearance of your clothes," says Welch. "And naturism is a great social leveller. No one knows if you are a wealthy stockbroker if you haven't a suit on." Nick Mayhew, a dedicated naturist and author of Bare Britain, says: "I often hear women discussing how their body image has improved since becoming naturist." Welch agrees. "True naturists I do think are quite mature individuals, who have come to a degree of self-acceptance about themselves and their bodies."

So whether you've just taken the first step towards weight loss and are feeling great about yourself, or have reached your weight loss goals, this could be a great way to exercise your new-found confidence!