Naturism is a lifestyle that has been on the rise since Ancient Greece. This way of living without clothes promotes values that are accepted within a defined space and that bring together several people under rules or laws. Much more than a simple practice, these laws are designed to give a certain legitimacy to this philosophy of life, with the aim of avoiding any criticism linked to voyeurism or exhibitionism. Respect for oneself and the environment is one of the movement’s key values. Traditionally, this lifestyle adopted by people known as naturists is celebrated on July 04 with the International Day of Naturism. In the next few lines, we’ll tell you more about the history, values and activities associated with naturism, as well as the benefits of this lifestyle.
When and why was World Naturism Day created?
Every year, on World Naturist Day, naturists get together to share and exchange views. Find out below when and why this day was established.
The origins of World Naturist Day
Naturism saw the light of day in Germany from the 19ᵉ century onwards, where the first encounters began to be permitted. Contrary to thoughts of a trivialization of collective nudity on beaches or a simple tourist practice, this philosophy advocates a lifestyle based on a healthy and authentic relationship. In France, this lifestyle began to develop between 1918 and 1939. The pleasure of freeing one’s body, of exposing one’s nudity without embarrassment, is part of the philosophy developed.
Several naturist communities and associations began to form over time. In 1953, the Fédération Naturiste Internationale / International Naturist Federation (FNI/INF) was created, and the French federation was founded 3 years later in Vendays-Montalivet (Gironde). Years later, this federation decided to dedicate an official day to followers of the naturist philosophy. And so, in June 2006, the first World Day of Naturism was organized.
Reasons for the creation of International Naturism Day
World Naturist Day was created to bring the benefits of naturism to a wider public. At the same time, it aims to break down stereotypes and misconceptions about the practices of this movement. This international day aims to encourage people to open up to human experiences in our society.
This day is a means of promoting this lifestyle of self-respect and respect for nature or the environment in the media and in spaces set aside for this purpose. Beaches are among the most popular destinations for this dedicated day. In France’s Var département, for example, the beaches of Les Grottes and Pampelonne in Ramatuelle offer areas reserved for the International Day of Naturism.
On this day, many clubs organize activities to enable non-members to discover naturism. They’ll be able to ask any questions they may have, and find people willing to give them the right answers to all their questions.
Naturism activities for this day
International Naturist Day is the perfect opportunity for naturist associations and communities active in a given territory to visit sites dedicated to naturism and open to the general public. In addition to promoting the movement, the day is also an opportunity for millions of naturists to meet up and enjoy a variety of activities for relaxation and entertainment.
Yoga
Created over 3,000 years ago, yoga is a discipline that originated in India and became increasingly popular around the world from the 20ᵉ century onwards. Yoga is a practice based on postures, movements and breathing exercises that enable meditation. It’s also a discipline you can practice in many naturist locations. Yoga classes in these spaces are very popular among naturists.
Practicing yoga without clothes in naturist spaces allows you to be completely at one with nature. You’ll learn to feel your body better and eliminate shameful feelings about your physique. It’s the ideal way to come to terms with your body and its flaws. That said, you’ll have total freedom of movement during this activity.
Fitness
Fitness is a sporting activity with proven benefits for both mental and physical health. And for the naturist movement, this type of sport is an undeniable asset for the development of naturist enthusiasts. It’s another way of doing nude fitness in total freedom. You’ll be able to enjoy yourself in a pleasant, unhindered environment with your fellow naturists.
Swimming
Swimming is one of the most popular water sports at naturist get-togethers in summer. Swimming in pools is a unique opportunity for naturists of all ages to get together and enjoy themselves. For some naturists, swimming nude in the pool or sea allows them to feel free and closer to nature.
In addition to all these activities, there are other activities that take place during the day, such as hiking, volleyball, soccer, cycling, pétanque, tennis and many others.
Why are more and more people adopting this lifestyle philosophy?
Every year, France attracts some 2 million followers of the naturism philosophy to naturist campsites, clubs and resorts. The French are the most numerous among these practitioners. What’s more, these numbers are set to continue growing, according to the President of the French Federation of Naturist Spaces. Most enthusiasts are attracted to this lifestyle by the feelings of freedom and serenity it offers. According to some naturists, the benefits of this philosophy become apparent over time. For others, it’s all about having a good time during their summer vacations, or relaxing under the sun by the beach.
Naturism is also a lifestyle experience where you can show off your Adam and Eve attire without being observed by others. So you don’t have to worry about people staring at you in a way that might make you feel uncomfortable.
It’s also worth noting that this lifestyle helps preserve your health. Exposure of the naked body to the sun stimulates the development of vitamin D. Naturism also promotes blood circulation. In other words, when you go nude, your blood circulation improves.
In short, naturism continues to emerge around the world, sharing the values of respect and authenticity. And International Naturism Day puts the spotlight on this lifestyle based on respect for oneself and the environment. It breaks down misconceptions about this lifestyle and promotes its benefits through a range of fun and sporting activities.
