Heroic Nudist

Naturism and the Romantics

2012-02-10T14:08:00.000-06:00

Walt Whitman American writer, A Sun-bathed Nakedness:

Never before did I get so close to Nature; never before did she come so close to me... Nature was naked, and I was also... Sweet, sane, still Nakedness in Nature! - ah if poor, sick, prurient humanity in cities might really know you once more! Is not nakedness indecent? No, not inherently. It is your thought, your sophistication, your fear, your respectability, that is indecent. There come moods when these clothes of ours are not only too irksome to wear, but are themselves indecent.[50]

Henry David Thoreau, In wildness is the preservation of the world., Walking:

We cannot adequately appreciate this aspect of nature if we approach it with any taint of human pretense. It will elude us if we allow artifacts like clothing to intervene between ourselves and this Other. To apprehend it, we cannot be naked enough.[50]

Naturism was part of a literary movement in the late 1800s (see the writings of André Gide) which also influenced the art movements of the time specifically Henri Matisse and other Fauve painters. This movement was based on the French concept of joie de vivre, the idea of revelling freely in physical sensations and direct experiences and a spontaneous approach to life.[51] Later this movement became called Naturalism.

Source

Nude Beaches Within The Uk

2012-02-06T11:01:00.001-06:00

Many people discover naturism on a beach on holiday, but there are plenty of places around our beautiful coastline to stretch out on the sand and get an all-over tan.

Whilst it is perfectly legal to strip off on any beach, the law of the land works in such a way that all manner of legislation can be applied to the naked sunbather if complaints are received. Many naturists quietly minding their own business in an out of the way spot have suffered from this when discovered by a prudish member of the public.

However, nude use of some beaches has received the sanction of the landowner or local authority and those are therefore considered to be “official” beaches. We have marked them as such in the list. Because of the official designation and the fact that warning signs are erected, naturists’ enjoyment should not be spoiled by anyone - and we can take action against any non-naturists who disturb us.

From the excellent site from the UK iNaked, click here

In the following places, top freedom is in effect:: United States

2012-02-03T10:23:00.001-06:00

The following cities are officially topless "tested":

* Asheville, NC
* Austin, TX,
* Boulder, CO
* Columbus, OH
* Eugene, OR
* Keene, NH
* Key West, FL at Fantasy Fair
* Madison, WI,
* New Orleans, LA, at Mardi Gras
* New York City
* Portland, Or,
* Santa Fe, NM
* South Miami Beach, FL (on the beach)
* Washington, DC

How can I find out if my city is topless?

Simply google the city name and its municipal code and key in the word "nudity". Do the same for the county where the city is located to be sure.

Can I be arrested for going topless in a topless city?

Even if a top free law is firmly in effect, the police can still arrest you under the pretense of "disorderly conduct". Don't be intimidated! You can sue the city back for wrongful arrest (if your only crime was to go topless). That is what Phoenix Feeley did in NYC in 2005 (you can read her story in our news section)

See map of states where toplessness is legalized.

How to find a naturist date

2012-01-30T17:53:00.000-06:00

Are you new to naturist (nudist) dating? Regardless if you are returning to the dating game after many years have gone by, or that you have been dating for a while and are still looking for the person that is right for you. If your thoughts have been speaking to you and you would like to try dating a naturist in your area, and have had no luck. There is still hope, with a little guidance that can lead you towards the direction where you will find your true naturist soul mate.

Let us begin by simply having you pull your suit and shoes out of the closet, do not forget to iron that shirt, and give everything a spiff and a polish. Looking sharp is important, as you well know, it is regardless of whether you are clothed or a naturist. Dating a naturist does not mean, you meet your date in the nude, that would be a fun fantasy for a later date. At least not on the first date if or when it comes around, although there have been far few occasions that you will meet someone that will say, “Hey, why don’t we meet at the nude beach or the club?”

It is very rare, and it is a big “if” on your first date with a naturist that they would ask such a question, unless you have known each other for a while, and have met at a naturist gathering spot. Wondering where the two of you should meet for the first time. Sometimes taking your date to a regular location (that would mean you are clothed), outside of the nudity scene is best, to get you started, think of a coffee shop maybe. Picking a quiet place will give you both the opportunity to get to know each other a little better, and plus, you will not be distracted by the surroundings that can spoil a good conversation.

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Consumer nudism

2012-01-29T08:25:00.001-06:00

Source Daily Kos

Nude Beach

2012-01-26T12:02:00.000-06:00

Nude beaches came into popularity and common public knowledge in the 1950s when they started popping up along the French coast and other places in Europe such as Germany and Denmark. Since then, nude beaches, while still fairly rare, have shown up all over the world. Usually isolated, signs are put up to “warn” others who may be uncomfortable with nudity—and the isolation also helps to protect nudists from unwanted voyeurs. Nude beaches are similar in nature to a “regular” beach, except, of course, the patrons are completely au naturel.

Many people, when considering going to a nude beach or becoming a nudist, question not only the legal aspects, but the moral aspects as well. It may surprise you to learn that many Christian—and denominations thereof—are perfectly fine with social nudity. In America, the Christian Nudist Convocation believes in the beauty of “chaste” nudity. Nudity and sexuality are often linked, but they don’t necessarily have to be. In fact, most Christian nudists believe that it’s clothes that make a body sexual. To put it simply: if you see someone in the nude all the time, you begin not to notice it anymore. It becomes normal and you no longer feel “urges” toward that person. However, if that person is normally clothed, due to the curiosity of the unknown and the “forbidden,” when they remove their clothing, it is more likely to become a sexualized experience. Most anti-nudity views are originally politically-based, not rooted in religion.

Those who choose to go to a nude beach not only enjoy the anonymity it provides (most nude beaches don’t require any sort of membership), but they also enjoy the acceptance they feel. In a nudist environment, social barriers are shed and things such as race and social status no longer matter. Without clothes, everyone is forced to rid themselves of their pride, guilt, shame, insecurities, and ego. Culture and society are left behind and all that’s left is their true selves.

Source

British Skinny Dip 2012 - winter event announced

2012-01-24T08:20:00.000-06:00

British Naturism’s The Great British Skinny Dip (GBSD) is a big, fun event that happens twice a year, in summer, and in winter. Get involved and tell us what you think about this event on Facebook.

STRIP OFF INTO SOMETHING MORE COMFORTABLE
There is nothing quite so liberating and life-affirming as swimming without clothes and the wonderful sensation of the water over your whole body. In fact, the swimsuit is the most pointless item of clothing invented – it neither keeps you warm nor dry! Modern designs also serve to draw attention to the very parts of the body that costumes intend to hide.

GIVE YOUR BIRTHDAY SUIT AN AIRING
We’ve all got one - and it wasn’t designed to be wrapped up in clothes 24/7. Yet cultural issues often mean that simple human nudity is treated with shame, or seen as provocative or dirty. In fact, it’s all good. We all benefit – mentally, physically and psychologically - from shedding our clothes. It’s fun, liberating, relaxing, healthy, de-stressing, bringing a sense of well-being, and an escape from daily life and social convention.

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Tambaba - A Brazilian Nude Beach

2012-01-22T10:03:00.001-06:00

Excellent. A Guide to Tambaba and region. Spoken in Portuguese, subtitles in English.

Source

How Nudism Can Save You Money

2012-01-21T06:46:00.000-06:00

A couple of excerpts, the rest is at the link.

Stuff: Nudism is often referred to as the “Great Equalizer”. When people are naked around other people, it is difficult to tell if a person is the president of a bank, or a school janitor. Consequently, nudists tend to be far less “class-conscious”. Nudists are typically less likely to want to keep up with the Joneses, realizing that not only do clothes not really make the man, but neither do homes, cars, boats etc.

More Health – Less Stress – More Money: Studies have also found that children raised in nudist homes tend to be more socially developed (and often more intelligent) than those raised in “textile” families. Nudists generally feel that they have nothing to hide. That attitude permeates the rest of their psyche as well, so they tend to be less stressed out and more sure of themselves. We have probably all heard about the health problems produced by living under stress. Nudists save money by not having to treat as many stress related disorders. (source – pdf format) Also, by being more self confident, and supposedly better educated, they are more likely to get better jobs, making more money.

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Topless Protesters at Occupy Wall Street

2012-01-19T11:09:00.002-06:00

Taken 9/24/11 Liberty Park, NYC.
9:57 a.m.

Here

The Occupy movement that spread across the country last fall has already changed the national discussion: It's brought attention to the serious, systemic problem of gross inequities of wealth and power and the mass hardships that have resulted from that imbalance.

Occupy put a new paradigm in the political debate — the 1 percent is exploiting the 99 percent — and it's tapping the energy and imagination of a new generation of activists.

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Judge H. Lee Sarokin - What TV Harms Children More: Seeing a Person Murdered or Seeing a Person Naked?

2012-01-19T11:03:00.000-06:00

H. Lee Sarokin served on the United States District Court (N.J.) appointed by President Carter, and the United States Court of Appeals (3rd Cir.) appointed by President Clinton. He retired in 1996 after 17 years on the federal bench and now resides in Rancho Santa Fe, CA.

As the Supreme Court (FCC v Fox Television Stations) once again wrestles with government control of profanity and nudity on broadcast television, I marvel at the focus. Children can watch murders, rapes, kidnappings, stabbings and beatings a hundred times a day, but it appears they need protection from profanity and nudity! In considering the difficult First Amendment questions, should the Court be asking whether there is a need or justification for the regulations? The statute and regulations creates a "safe haven" -- safe from what?

The network that allowed Janet Jackson to bare her breast for a millisecond was fined $550,000. The supposed basis for these regulations is to protect our children. How are children harmed by seeing a bare breast or a naked behind? I am not talking here about pornography or obscenity -- which also have their own definition problems -- but language and nudity. What happens to the children of the country after seeing a breast or even an entire naked person? When we were kids we called them "dirty pictures" and somehow we have incorporated that concept into law (and survived and even enjoyed the experience). Every child has or will see someone naked during their lifetime. Are they somehow traumatized by seeing them when they are young?

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Nudists' Bill of Rights

2012-01-17T13:14:00.000-06:00

As law-abiding citizens who are friends of nudism, including many members of the American Association for Nude Recreation, we proudly affirm that we have and are entitled to exercise the following rights. These are self-evident and based on the Constitutions of the United States and Canada, the laws of those countries, and their court rulings.

1. Nudists have the right to hold their values and beliefs.
2. Nudists have the right to petition and be heard by their governments.
3. Nudists have the right to responsibly enjoy nudity within their homes and on private property.
4. Nudists have the right to exercise decision-making in the upbringing of their families in a manner consistent with their beliefs and without interference from others.
5. Nudists have the right to assemble in the nude within appropriate settings.
6. Nudists have the right to decisions about what constitutes acceptable nudity to be made free from considerations of age, gender, marital status, religious beliefs, ethnic origin, or sexual orientation.
7. Nudists have the right to responsibly enjoy being nude within appropriate locations on public lands.
8. Nudists have the right to be free from adverse actions by their employers as a result of their lawful enjoyment of nudity when away from work.
9. Nudists have the right to experience accurate, life-affirming portrayals of the human body in all its stages as depicted in the performing arts, the fine arts, literature, and human history.
10. Nudists have the right to be treated as law-abiding citizens.

Show your support by signing the Nudists' Bill of Rights

View Signatories (2,731)

Links above are at the source

Freikörperkultur

2012-01-14T08:31:00.001-06:00

Freikörperkultur (FKK) is a German movement whose name translates to Free Body Culture. It endorses a naturistic approach to sports and community living. Behind that is the joy of the experience of nature or also of being nude itself, without direct relationship to sexuality. The followers of this culture are called traditional naturists, FKK'ler, or nudists. There has been an extensive removal of restrictions on public nudity in Germany since about the 1980s.

History

Beginnings in the 18th century

In many parts of central Europe up until the 18th century, people bathed naked in rivers and lakes, although often separately by sex. Beginning in the late 18th century, public nudity became increasingly taboo, though this never penetrated into sparsely-populated Scandinavia. At the same time, Lord Monboddo (1714-1779) practiced and preached nude bathing as a revival of Ancient Greek attitudes toward nudity. This found literary reference in Georg Christoph Lichtenberg's (1742-1799) book Das Luftbad.

"Nude culture" and life reforms - up to World War I

In 1898 the first FKK club was founded in Essen. In 1900 more and more Swedish baths arose in rooms in Berlin and on the North and Baltic seas. A few years before there were mixed sex baths in many places, which, although requiring contemporary, modest bath clothes, were either forbidden or regarded as immoral. Also, in 1900 the naturist movement began in France.

Behind the FKK movement lay, at least in Germany, an attitude towards life in which the naked body is not shameful. The nudity of FKK should not involve sexuality. In this light, the need to be nude in the shower or sauna does not belong with Freikörperkultur, since it's practically necessary. FKK'ler put here nudity with prior group consensus, and therefore demanded no reserved zones, such as separate beaches or club areas.

A while later, after the political liberalization, conservative circles tried to challenge the increasingly popular (especially among urban intellectuals) nude baths as a corruption of morality.

Read more

True Nudists

2012-01-12T10:11:00.000-06:00

Social networking for nudists. That was the thought when True Nudists was launched in 2007. The site was created as a way to tap into a younger generation and attract a whole new generation to nudism. Naturists and nudists can sometimes find it challenging to find other like-minded friends, especially in a new town or while on vacation. Let's face it, asking someone, "Do you like to get naked?" can turn into an awkward conversation! Now, those who don't like textiles have a way to get to know others who also appreciate a clothes-free lifestyle.

True Nudists' mission is to provide a safe place for nudists to express themselves. The site—and the lifestyle—is not about sex. Indeed, many naturists are comprised of families, and children are welcome at most events. Not finding a family-friend, ethical site online was the impetus for starting True Nudists.

Now, the site has members from around the globe and has more than 100,000 users. Membership is free, with a paid option to gain access to viewing additional pictures. Since privacy is often an issue, users have the ability to block people, hide their profiles, and ensure that they are only discovered by search engines if they want to be.

We invite you to become a member and start meeting nudists around the world. So take off your clothes and stay awhile!

Web Site of True Nudists

Going Bare

2012-01-09T11:11:00.003-06:00

Going Bare from Ruby Keighley on Vimeo.

Going Bare is a Documentary about Linda Adams, a Naturist, or as some people may call her - A nudist.
This documentary was made as an assignment as part of the DFTV610 course at the New Zealand Broadcasting School.

Director, Editor, Director of Photography: Ruby Keighley
Producer: Danielle Stanbury

My naked yoga class

2012-01-06T07:09:00.000-06:00

I want to challenge my own anxiety about nudity. But can I really handle downward dog without any clothes on?

My instructor looked at me from the head of the dim room and smiled. Not in a creepy way, more in a “you can do this!” way. But I wasn’t so sure. I had struck a Warrior One pose a thousand times before, yet I still stumbled into the person next to me more often than I cared to admit. Normally I’d just offer a little self-deprecating shoulder shrug and move on, but what would I say in this situation? “Oops! I just ran into your bare penis”?

I had enrolled in a naked yoga class on impulse. My husband was gone for two months that summer, and in my solitude, I began a spiritual exploration of sorts, signing up for Buddhist book groups, taking long, contemplative walks, and reading a good deal of Eckhart Tolle. I was in a normal, fully clothed yoga class when I struck up a conversation with the woman I’d been paired with for partner poses. She was incredibly flexible.

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10 Celebs Who Breastfeed In Public (Photos)

2012-01-04T10:42:00.000-06:00

With celebrity babies getting so much attention from the paparazzi, it’s no wonder that the photographers often snap a shot of celebrity moms breastfeeding in public! But these moms certainly have no shame when “committing the crime.”

We’ve seen many celebrity moms commit this act before, but now a whole new slew of moms including Mayim Bailik, Gwen Stefani, and Kate Hudson are getting in on the action.

Whether you agree with breastfeeding in public or not, these photos certainly provide another insight into the lives of the rich and famous.

Take a look below at photos of 10 celebrity moms who have been caught breastfeeding in public!

Here

Introduction to European Sauna Culture

2011-12-31T07:46:00.000-06:00

Europeans—and Northern Europeans in particular—value the institution of the sauna very highly, and the love affair with the sauna is manifested in innumerable saunas in parts of Europe, from the humble to the humongous. Sauna customs are not uniform throughout Europe, but, from an outsider's perspective, the facet of certain European sauna culture that is most notable—and perhaps even shocking—is the nudity. It's not that being naked in a sauna is all that radical a concept, but most English speakers are familiar with sauna nudity only in a gender-segregated context. In some countries in Europe, saunas are almost always mixed. Men and women use them together. Furthermore, nudity is generally not considered optional. It is expected. This reality certainly causes many North Americans to gasp in disbelief, but certain European nationalities are exceptional even among other Europeans for their casual attitude about mixed nudity.

As ubiquitous as saunas are in parts of Europe, they are mostly off the radar of those who live in other parts of the world. It can be a challenge to figure out how everything is set up and what to expect, not to mention to know the proper etiquette. We have written this page to illuminate sauna novices about the basics. The other pages in this sauna guide detail about 800 saunas in Europe, sorted geographically.

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Uncovered in New York - News Feature

2011-12-29T07:56:00.003-06:00

Uncovered in New York - News Feature from Alan Haburchak on Vimeo.

New York's Topfree movement confronts society.

2011-12-24T16:26:00.003-06:00

Breasts Against Society - News Feature from Alan Haburchak on Vimeo.

Is Pubic Hair Coming Back Into Fashion?

2011-12-23T07:12:00.002-06:00

New pictures of Dutch model Saskia De Brauw in vintage Versace jewelry, stilettos, and nothing else, shot for the magazine Industrie are notable for one thing: they actually show her pubic hair. While toplessness is practically a staple of fashion photography, a frank depiction of pubic hair — or even just the acknowledgement of pubic hair's existence — had become a sort of oughts-age taboo.

This year's Pirelli Calendar, which Mario Sorrenti turned into a 24-oversized-page celebration of the male gaze, was obviously rife with full-frontal nudity. But at the key moment, a funny kind of modesty prevails: here a wrist obscures Lara Stone's crotch, there a shadow falls over Kate Moss's, and there the soaking wet white garment that fully reveals the shape of Isabeli Fontana's areolas pulls discreetly, and opaquely, away. Everything gets slightly blurry at the crucial cleft. From the waist down, these women are all shown to be about as featureless as Barbie. De Brauw, coincidentally, also posed for Sorrenti's calendar: her shots betray no hint of the hair Industrie was apparently comfortable enough to let her rock.

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British Naturists Interviewed for Breakfast TV (Part 2)

2011-12-21T09:56:00.001-06:00

British Naturists Interviewed for Breakfast TV (Part 2) from iNAKED on Vimeo.

British Naturists Interviewed for Breakfast TV (Part 1)

2011-12-20T12:28:00.002-06:00

British Naturists Interviewed for Breakfast TV (Part 1) from iNAKED on Vimeo.

Dove Pro-age Campaign

2011-12-17T09:32:00.003-06:00

Breastfeeding Flashmob in Brighton

2011-12-17T08:54:00.003-06:00

Nudist-Resorts.Org - Naturist Discussion Forum / Bulletin Board

2011-12-15T11:03:00.000-06:00

The World's Most Complete Nudist Discussion Forum / Bulletin Board

Discussions include taking a nude cruise, visiting a nude beach, nudism, naturism, nudist resorts, organizations, clubs, beaches, nude cruises, family oriented resort vs adult oriented resorts, the best nudist colony, camp, beach or cruise, clothing optional travel, and favorite naturist destinations.

Visit the site

#OpenMinday @Ladygod1va and naturism

2011-12-14T07:01:00.000-06:00

My wife’s contact was originally a blogger who calls herself Lady God1va, and you can read her blog here – http://ladygod1va.wordpress.com/. Obviously, this might not be strictly safe for work.

She asks a great deal of questions that I couldn’t go into detail here, about women in naturism, about how to improve the image of British naturism, about how the reactions of others make it difficult to live what is, effectively, a harmless choice of life.

For my own part, I’m still conflicted. The whole last month and a half has raised questions in me about what it means to be yourself, to expect others to respect your choices, and what responsibility we hold to ‘edit’ or self-modify in order to prevent other people’s choices being affected or taken away from them.

Should people walk around naked? I’m unsure. I know that I wasn’t offended by the naked ramblers, the naked woman, even though they were by no means attractive to me. But they raised a lot of questions about how I view the body and about sexuality. So should we all walk around naked? Or should we just respect those who discover that shedding clothes allows them to wholly possess their own identities?

If I were to choose to be offended by someone’s nakedness I can be. But then who is responsible for me being offended? I’m finding it hard to argue that it’s anyone’s responsibility to carry, understand and address other than my own.

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Naked Freedom Performers in Freedom Park Atlanta, GA

2011-12-14T06:54:00.001-06:00

A Naked, Post-Soviet Hot Tub Experience

2011-12-14T06:43:00.000-06:00

I never truly understood the term "squeaky clean" until then. There wasn't a lick of dead skin or oil left. I felt like a piece of Tupperware pulled from a hot dishwasher. I couldn't help but laugh at how much it...hurt!

After all was said and done, we emerged into the daylight dehydrated, physically exhausted, and still dripping dry. We leaned against a wall to catch our breath. As we rested, we watched hardy, working-class men walking out with a spring in their step, invigorated by the same scrub that had almost killed me. Humble old ladies proudly protected their new hairdos with bright silk scarfs. What a sorry sight we must have been to these well-groomed regulars!

That day I realized Tbilisi's famous "spas" aren't spas at all. They are bath houses...places for people without hot running water at home to bathe. The experience gave me a treasured insight into real working-class Georgian life and culture. And that was worth every inch of red skin.

Full piece

Enjoying Nudity

2011-12-11T13:53:00.000-06:00

My blog promotes health, and the appreciation and normalization of nudity. I'm a thinker and I have been thinking about nudity for over three decades. Here are a few thoughts:

1) Nudity should be enjoyed outside of the sexual context.

2) Nudity can be both good and bad. As for me, I'll chose healthy nudity.

3) I appreciate not only extremely beautiful people when nude, but also normal people doing everyday things naked and unashamed. You will see that I often post pictures of ordinary people; people who do not have "perfect" bodies but overcome that to be comfortable sharing their nudity with others.

4) I often wonder why is it that views of male and female nudity are so different. It seems women and men both seem to appreciate the female nude, but the not the male nude. Why is it that the male nude is usually associated homosexuality or used a pro for a photo featuring a nude female?

Web Site

Skinny Dipping World Record Attempted for Cancer Cure

2011-12-07T12:51:00.000-06:00

Imagine 400 Welsh folks of all ages running into the ocean. Now imagine them naked.

Hundreds of skinny dippers may have now broken a Guinness World Record -- the largest group of naked people to jump into a body of water together and wade for at least 10 minutes.

Congratulations?

Well, Guinness has yet to evaluate the feat, but the group that organized the nude dip raised an estimated $20,000 for its favorite charities, the National Trust and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Interview nudist.

2011-12-07T10:29:00.001-06:00

Benefits of Naturism - New Zealand Naturist Federation

2011-12-06T14:21:00.002-06:00

Some excerpts, much more at the link below.

Sun exposure and vitamin D

Naturism has many health benefits, despite the negative publicity on the risk of skin cancer from too much sun exposure. It is a known fact that sun burn leads to skin cancer but not sun EXPOSURE.

Mental health

Being naked outdoors on a sunny day isn't sexual, but it is sensual – a delight to your senses – creating a feeling of well-being. We all know how invigorating the sun can be and how depressed we feel in the winter, during days and days of cloud and rain. It even has a name – SAD (seasonal affective disorder). We all appreciate the warmth of the sun on our bodies when wearing clothes. Imagine the feeling when the whole body is exposed to the sun – totally naked. Naturism allows us to feel the breeze over the whole body and the cool grass under our feet. Add swimming without clammy togs into the mix, and you get a total stimulation of the tactile (touch) senses. Without clothing, you have improved blood circulation in your skin and nerve endings which gives a feeling of well-being. Unless you have tried it, it's hard to believe how much more alive being totally naked can make you feel.

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THE NAKED LIFE! - NUDISM

2011-12-03T07:19:00.001-06:00

Naked ambition: Ukrainian topless protests go global

2011-11-28T11:16:00.001-06:00

Queen: Bicycle Race

2011-11-28T10:51:00.001-06:00

Queen Bicycle race by timanou76

Hardfire NUDISM / PAUL NOCERA / SANDY ALDRICH / SAM SLOAN

2011-11-27T21:13:00.003-06:00

Hardfire NUDISM / PAUL NOCERA / SANDY ALDRICH / SAM SLOAN from gary popkin on Vimeo.

The Great Penis Debate 0f 2011

2011-11-27T17:38:00.000-06:00

On Nov. 16 we hosted a discussion about penises. The plan was to summarize and refine the responses we received but that proved to be impossible. There was no real consensus about erections other than yes, they probably should be covered if they happen if for no other reason than people expect you to. I’m not even sure that was a consensus. At the very least, you can read through the comments and maybe learn something about how men think about their penises!

The Penis. Every male’s first question about attending a nudist event is, “What if I get an erection?” The standard response is usually, “That’s unlikely to happen but if it does, cover it up or go in the water until it’s gone.” Right?The topic today relates to the oft-repeated idea that nudists/naturists do not view the human body as a sexual object, and see nudity as a natural state. If that is the case, why do we find an erect penis to be something to be hidden? Is it unnatural? Is it obscene? If it is accidental, is it sexual?Could it be that one who sees an erect penis or erect nipples as necessarily sexual is actually less of a ‘true’ nudist than one who sees them as a natural part of life?You can start with these thoughts and take this wherever it goes! Let’s be civil and respectful, ok? Have fun!

118 Comments on this big nudist issue, Read more

Egypt's naked blogger is a bomb aimed at the patriarchs in our minds

2011-11-20T08:45:00.000-06:00

By posing naked, Aliaa Mahdy has brilliantly challenged the misogyny and sexual hypocrisy of Egypt's leaders

When a woman is the sum total of her headscarf and hymen – that is, what's on her head and what is between her legs – then nakedness and sex become weapons of political resistance. You can witness how nudity sears through layers of hypocrisy and repression by following Aliaa Mahdy, a 20-year-old Egyptian who lit the fuse of that double-H bomb when she posted a nude photograph of herself on her blog last week.

Full story

I'll be posting less as I take on another job

2011-11-14T21:45:00.001-06:00

The fight for nudism acceptance in the United States surges on with many folks committed to maintaining our basic right to happiness. Keep fighting the good fight!

I'll still post from time to time, thanks for making this my most successful blog.

The Skinny on Nudism in the U.S.

2011-11-11T19:49:00.000-06:00

People who do stuff in the buff say there are a lot of misconceptions in U.S. society about what they are doing and why

There are nude cruises, camping grounds, tennis courts, and motorcycle rallies across the country. There are at least three nude summer camps just for teens and about 260 clothing-optional family resorts in North America—nearly twice the number of ten years ago, according to the American Association for Nude Recreation.

"Naturists" say the benefits to sloughing off both clothes and convention include a sense of freedom and a better self image.

Clothing Optional

"I've taken lots of friends to nudist beaches, both men and women," said Mark Storey, an editor of Nude and Natural magazine and a philosophy professor at Bellevue Community College in Washington State. Storey is also the author of Cinema au Naturel: A History of Nudist Film.

"Some of them walked away thinking it was great, some walked away thinking it was boring. But they all walked away thinking, Most people look somewhat like me."

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15 Things You Should Know About Breasts

2011-11-08T12:43:00.000-06:00

My Breast Friends [infographic]

The very fruit of the female anatomy. Peaches, melons, you’ve heard it all before…That’s right: boobies. The lovable funbags we’re all very familiar with.

So, what’s the big deal? What’s so magical about these gelatinous masses? Well, for one, they attract quite a lot of attention. Some women detest this, some love it, and some hunger for it. On the other end of that spectrum, there’s the men that have breasts and never wanted them… Poor guys. That’s why we have plastic surgery!

Whether it’s for approval, reconstructive, or purely “enhancing” motives, breast augmentation is the #1 cosmetic procedure in the US. Unfortunately, those procedures come with a variety of possible aftereffects. Those who wish to have a gallon or so of silicon in their bodies will often pay a dear price.

Excellent graphic dealing with most issues about women's breasts.

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Lake Como Nudist Resort

2011-11-07T20:20:00.003-06:00

Lake Como Nudist Resort from Vita Nuda on Vimeo.

NetNude Naturist Site

2011-11-07T20:13:00.002-06:00

International naturist/nudist site featuring information, chat facilities, message board, and pictures from participating naturists worldwide.

Home Page

What is Naturist-Christians.org?

2011-11-07T20:10:00.002-06:00

Our emphasis is on how Christians can live naturally in their homes and enjoy recreational or social activities while free of clothing and shame. In our forums we will talk about how that works, and in our albums we will show pictorial evidence of Christian naturism in action. You will see natural affection, by way of smiles and occasional hugs, but nothing more. You will not see enticing shots inviting the thought of eroticism, that is not what we are about.

Home Page

Topless protests slam Ukraine’s future as global football bordello

2011-11-07T08:09:00.001-06:00

The pro-active Ukrainian women's movement FEMEN have staged a topless protest against what they say are UEFA’s plans to turn economically weak Ukraine into a destination for sex tourists from around the globe. Read more

Mike and Tracy's Naturist World

2011-11-06T12:38:00.001-06:00

I'll recommend some wholesome nudist sites from time to time.

Welcome to Mike and Tracy's Naturist World. We are naturists living in New England. Naturism is a lifestyle that allows us to enjoy ourselves and the world around us as nature intended. Stripped of clothing, we are opened to the beauty that surrounds us, both in nature and in other people. We enjoy visiting beaches and clubs in our area as well as destinations throughout the world. We invite you to join in our adventures as you explore the pages in this site and learn what naturism is all about.

Visit the site

Want to Know How to Become a Naturist?

2011-11-05T11:49:00.001-05:00

Lara Belmont Oh Marbella by alexserbia

Hat tip to A Naturist's Journey

Testimonies: First experience at a nude resort

2011-11-05T11:40:00.002-05:00

I had never at this point in my life, intentionally stripped off and fully exposed myself to not only the suns rays but also the beams of everyone else who populated the beach. I grabbed a long chair, dragged it down to waters edge, bore my soul and began to relax. Within minutes the whole drama, the whole heart-pounding anxiety that I had earlier felt had completely dissipated. Nude seemed totally natural and the sense that everyone was going to sneak a peek was completely unfounded. The only one doing that was me! I was amazed though; I have to tell you. The stereotype for Hedonism envelopes the old, the flabby, the red-neck. Those people that we in the civilized world consider to be less. To have morals and shapes that are all bent and twisted. This could not have been more wrong.

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Are nudists actually swingers?

2011-11-05T11:14:00.001-05:00

Most non-nudists have preconceived notions about the nudist lifestyle. Orgies and sexual activities are supposed to be the norm while walking around nude in public, right? That’s not exactly true.

Nudist parks and/or resorts are usually family oriented. That means that on any given day, you will see children of all ages running around playing and splashing in the pool-totally nude. It would be very inappropriate to engage in any sexual activity around them!

But, there are some parks and/or resorts that are ‘adult only’ and members must be at least 21 or over to join. These locations are not sponsored by the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR). ANNR has ‘been the credible voice of reason for nude recreation since 1931’ and is the organization that gives guidance and educational information about nudist parks and resorts all over the world.

Continue reading on Examiner.com Are nudists actually swingers? - National Nudist Culture | Examiner.com

Janet Jackson exposure fine is dropped

2011-11-04T10:17:00.001-05:00

US TV network CBS should not be fined for broadcasting Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" in 2004, a federal appeals court has ruled.

CBS aired a glimpse of Jackson's breast during the Super Bowl half-time show.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) appealed to the US Supreme Court in 2008 to force the TV network to pay a $550,000 (£345,270) fine.

The FCC said it was disappointed by Wednesday's ruling. CBS said it was grateful for the decision.
The 3rd US Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia said that in imposing the fine, the FCC "improperly imposed a penalty on CBS for violating a previously unannounced policy".

Full piece BBC

Love Your Body: 8 Reasons to Feel Great About Who You Are

2011-11-04T10:16:00.000-05:00

These are some reasons why you should feel good about your body:

1. It enables you to recognize yourself, and other people to recognize you. Which is really important, because there are billions of people in the world. You have stuff going on that no one else does. It's fantastic. It's a really good thing. In fact, I want to meet you, just to see all the ways in which we're interestingly different and comfortingly similar.

2. It is incredibly complicated, but tends to work. And you're alive. Which is absolutely astounding, when you take a moment to think about it.

3. Even though you can recognize yourself, you always look different. How you feel and what you do and who you're with and what kind of mirror you're looking in all shift and rearrange the way you appear to yourself. It's cool. Sometimes it's awful. Sometimes you feel like total crap. But there's always potential for startling beauty. Or surprising awesomeness.

4. No matter what you look like, you're hot to other people. Like, seriously hot. Except to internet trolls. Even supermodels aren't hot to them. Once I read someone's rant about how big Gisele Bundchen's nose is. Which made me feel like my nose was about the size of, let's say, the moon. But longer. My friend told me that she was feeling really ugly the other day and then someone on the street was like, "Hey, you're beautiful!" A homeless guy on the street told me I have a gorgeous ass two nights ago. OK, not exactly the same. The point is -- it's pretty sweet that we're all attractive. Did I really mess that point up, with the homeless guy comment? Moving on.

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Naturism and Race

2011-11-04T10:13:00.001-05:00

This post came out of discussions about how to make naturist events more inclusive. It is deliberately quite short, we are wanting to tease out some of the wider issues in later posts. We are looking for people who are interested in sharing their own personal experiences with us, please get in touch through the contact details here.

Have you noticed how everyone in the naturist community is white? Well, maybe not everybody, but there is certainly a noticeable lack of people of colour in our community. Its worth noting that quite a lot of other communities; vegans, feminists, activists, etc. also have this problem.

How can we explain this? Asking around, a few people have made vague attempts to explain it away with “cultural differences”, but this doesn’t seem to sit right with me. The “cultural differences” explanation puts the work in addressing this problem back onto communities of colour, or at least somewhere external to our community. It says that people of colour need to change their cultural identity in order to fit in to our (white, western) naturist community.

Whilst culture, particularly religious ideology, may play its part – there is nothing innately white about a liberal attitude towards non-sexual nudity, nor is the anything innately non-white about a more moralistic attitude.

Full piece

Vacation Naked

2011-11-02T22:44:00.005-05:00

Vacation Naked takes you inside the worlds most luxurious clothing optional resorts. Meet the people who vacation naked. Cameras aren't allowed in these resorts but, ours are! Dayle Hoffmann is your host as well as co-writers & co-producer. Watch more at youtube.com/vacationnaked

Source

Vacation Naked from Dayle Hoffmann on Vimeo.

The Courts Are Still Ruling on Janet Jackson’s Super Bowl Nipple

2011-11-02T22:37:00.000-05:00

Seven years (almost eight, at this point) after Janet Jackson's intentional "wardrobe malfunction" at the Super Bowl and the $550,000 fine leveled against CBS is still being argued in court. Just today an appeals court in Philly threw out the case. Now it might be headed back to the Supreme Court.

Yes, the Janet Jackson Nip Slip was heard by the Supreme Court in 2009 and sent back to the appeals court. Today the appeals court ruled that because the FCC created a new policy in order to fine CBS for the offending aureola without announcing the change in advance, it acted arbitrarily and therefore illegally. Yes, that means there is no fine. But now it might go back to the Supreme Court again. This thing just follows us around like some kind of stink we can't get rid of.

Source

Being nude: Nothing unnatural about it

2011-11-01T00:23:00.003-05:00

New Delhi : Kedar Ramanathan brightens up at the prospect of finding himself alone at home. He slips out of his clothes, brews himself some coffee and turns on the music. He roams around the house naked, taking pleasure in just being in his own skin.

While many would view his activities as kinky and bordering on sexual perversion, Pune-based Ramanathan doesn't actually have sex on his mind.

Far from it, being in the buff is his way of feeling free, shedding both physical and emotional baggage and being close to nature. He is a naturist, or in other words a nudist.

Naturism is a way of life that advocates practising nudism - both in private and public - without indulging in any sexual activities.

A fairly popular concept in the US, Britain, Canada and Thailand, a regular nudist meet abroad has both men and women engaging in any activity - from cooking to cycling to sunbathing - with only one precondition, everyone should be naked.

However, timid first-timers can be allowed to turn up fully-clothed to get used to the nudity around them. No one stares, no one gets erotic ideas. The whole idea is to have a friendly get-together -- sans clothes.

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This is why we fight

2011-11-01T00:21:00.002-05:00

Some people have asked why there has to be an "-ism" around being nude. Why isn't being nude enough just by itself? Why does there need to be a movement behind it? Simply put, nudity can't defend itself. We need people to stand up for nudity; to advocate for it; to calmly and patiently explain why it's not evil or sinful or otherwise bad.

Because otherwise, we get stories like this. To say that Lindsay Lohan's career has been a train wreck is an insult to both trains and wrecks; it's been a complete and utter disaster. She needs something to get back in the public eye. Someone has apparently convinced her that posing in Playboy would do the trick, and so that's what she's doing. Even though she said back in 2005 that she'd never do such a thing. What a difference six years of self-destruction make, eh?

Here's a few things that come to mind about this. One: Magazines like Playboy, and far more pornographic stuff, exist because of the attitude our society holds around nudity. The textile world attaches all these taboos to the nude body, making it either something to be lusted after (for the "beautiful" bodies) or something to be shamed and hidden (for the rest of us.) There's no room in this mindset for the healthy appreciation and celebration of the body that is naturism. And that's why, instead of being a completely uninteresting career decision by a now B-list actress, this is such big news.

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Caribbean beaches

2011-10-28T15:56:00.000-05:00

Clothing-optional beach

Plan A: St. Martin's Orient Bay is easily the Caribbean's most famous nudie beach. It's quite the scene, with barbecue shacks and at least a half-dozen chi-chi beach bars hopping throughout the day, and plenty of motorized watersports. In reality, birthday suits generally are worn only at the south end — that would be the side with the parking lot where cruise ship visitors in taxi vans circle for a peek. Perhaps you were anticipating more solitude?

Plan B: Look no further than the next island over, St. Barthelemy, where wild and undeveloped Anse de Grande Saline is the solution for a beach-lover's most sybaritic dreams. Even on the busiest days it's never packed. From the parking area, a quarter-mile trail leads over a shrub-lined dune to the sand, which is soft, wide and generous. As the island's de facto clothing-optional beach, there are subsections within — hip/gay tend to swing left, newcomers usually head right. It's also probably the locals' favorite.

Source

The joy of nudity, summer or winter

2011-10-28T15:52:00.000-05:00

It's just like any town and country club or Rotary meeting – except in the nude.

Like most of the group – mostly farmers, and a few mechanics – Southern Naturally president Bevan Tait strips off and enjoys the vitamin D with the ten other club members several times a year, when sunshine is in abundance. Mr Tait's sheep farm is handy, being just down the road.

In the winter, when the temperatures drop and the fire is roaring inside the old schoolhouse near Otautau that the club bought 33 years ago, it can be daunting to be outside, he says.

But part of the joy of nudity is feeling the night air – even in Southland, in July.

And, if you're part of the southernmost naturist club in the world, you are expected to be tougher than most.

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A brief history of Canadian nudity laws

2011-10-28T15:41:00.001-05:00

In Canada, public nudity is allowed so long as you don’t “offend against public decency or order.” In fact, nudity is considered a political crime, one of the few offences that requires the Attorney General’s approval to lay charges. So, letting it all hang out among thousands of like-minded souls at the Pride Parade? You’re probably safe. But going for a naked jaunt to your local A&W—not so much. Brian Coldin, of Bracebridge, Ontario, currently faces five charges for his repeated clothing-free visits to fast-food restaurants located near his naturist resort. Coldin is fighting the charges, calling Canada’s nudity laws unconstitutional. A judge is expected to rule this fall. Until then, here’s a full-frontal look at our country’s long history of public nudity.

1918 First Canadian nudist club founded in Welland, Ontario.

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Here's looking at you

2011-10-28T15:35:00.000-05:00

In every art studio, there is always someone who is willing to do what would make most people blush. That person is the model, the man or woman who is there to disrobe casually in front of a group of strangers for a couple of hours, hold a series of poses without a word of complaint about the inevitable chill that sets in or the hard edges of the furniture that make the joints stiffen as the body is held relaxed, but motionless.

Live models are an essential part of an artist’s education, and there is a steady demand for them. There’s also a steady supply of people offering up their bodies. Samantha Youssef, who hires for drawing sessions at Studio Technique on Ste. Catherine St. W., gets 30 emails a week expressing interest in modelling, but on average, only one of the applications will be taken seriously. Most of the ignored applications are from young people who have a friend who models and think it’s an easy way to make money, but have sought no training and don’t offer much information about themselves, like references and CVs, Youssef said.

“Some experienced models recommend people and I might try them because I respect the model,” she said. “I like people with a performance background and stage presence because they have fluidity to their poses and are athletic.”

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Yet Another Reason Why Nudism Is Good For Your Health

2011-10-26T20:44:00.000-05:00

Looking for a good excuse to strip off your clothes, for good?

Here's a new one, from science.

Nudists (or naturists, in the U.K), are more aware of their skins' needs and consequently take better care of their outer layers, according to a new study commissioned by Comfort Pure, a fabric softener sold in Britain (via UK Express).

The research, which studied the behaviors of naturists and people who kept their clothes on, found that 45% of naturists applied sunscreen daily, and 82% examinied their skin for abnormalities on a regular basis.

Explained one nudist, Andrew Welch:

Because our members feel that clothes are not always an essential part of their daily routine, it is important that we promote awareness of how to properly look after our body and skin. However, contrary to perception, many naturists are dressed most of the time, and when we do wear clothes it’s better to go for natural fibres that are soft to the touch, and take care of them with fabric softeners, so that our skin looks and feels radiant whether it’s covered up or not!

Nudists were also found to feel much better in their own skin, with 54% saying they felt comfortable in their own bodies, while only 1 in 10 people who regularly wore clothes responded the same way.
Nudists also say there are other benefits to their lifestyle, including feeling happier and more broadly accepted by a community. And of course, there's far less laundry involved.

Source

Women were bare breasted in Korea

2011-10-25T10:23:00.000-05:00

The late Horace G. Underwood once told the tale of an American woman missionary who was offended by her perceived immodesty of the Korean women. According to Underwood, this missionary traveled through the streets of Seoul with safety pins and pieces of cloth and covered up the bared breasts of the Korean women she encountered.

Most Westerners were unaware of the significance of the breasts revealing jackets and merely thought of them as part of a quaint Korean custom, but only women who had borne sons were allowed to wear these jackets and thus they were a symbol of pride, and not shame.

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Can sunshine help nudists avoid breast cancer?

2011-10-25T10:12:00.003-05:00

For the last 25 years, October has been Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But one organization, GrassrootsHealth, wants to change the name to Breast Cancer Prevention Month, by conducting a survey about something that nudists have been enjoying all along through sunshine-vitamin D.
Their premise is that vitamin D deficiency is the cause of this horrible illness and they are beginning a 5 year study to prove it. As most people know, sunshine is a good source of this vitamin, and nudists have been soaking it up for generations.

Carole Baggerly, director of GrassrootsHealth says

“When you can project that fully 75% of breast cancer could be prevented with higher vitamin D serum levels, there is no justification for waiting to take preventive measures such as getting one’s vitamin D level up to the recommended range of 40-60 ng/ml (100-150 nmol/L).”

Continue reading on Examiner.com Can sunshine help nudists avoid breast cancer? - National Nudist Culture | Examiner.com

Grow up, America

2011-10-22T09:17:00.001-05:00

Jaimie O’Neill feels that it is important to point out how upset we should be about butt-naked men in San Francisco, where he lived “two decades ago.” Really? His sad assumption is that all of the people that he saw were gay. However, many heterosexuals are using the lack of nudity laws in S. F. to go “au naturel.”

Besides, I have been more often offended by the lack of “decorum” at our local Walmart (see www.peopleofwalmart.com), and that is not in Sin City.

More seriously, I must point out that it would be a fair comparison if we saw the following article in a Saudi Arabian newspaper: “Women seen in public, driving their own car and not wearing a burka.” Using O’Neill’s own words, “Call me insufferably intolerant, call me old-fashioned, but in this particular dust-up I’m siding with the people who have the right not to view” … your female body without the burka driving a car.

See how this plays out? If societies are going to evolve and allow for true human freedom, we have to allow for some bumps on the road. Without them, we are just as repressive as any dictatorship. You know, the US of A really does need to grow up.

Robert Zadra
Psychiatrist

Source

Top 10 Misconceptions About Nudism

2011-10-22T09:07:00.000-05:00

Many people have found nudism a great resource for freedom and relaxation. However, nudism (what some also refer to as naturism) is also one of the most misunderstood lifestyles among the general population. Lets take some time to explore nudism and break through the misconceptions many have formulated over time about this exotic lifestyle. [JFrater: You won't believe how hard it was trying to find work-safe images for this list!]

Click here to see the list

Nudism 101: What is nudism?

2011-10-22T09:04:00.003-05:00

Here are five (5) categories for nudism:
1. Researching-there is an interest in being socially nude but these people want to make sure they will be safe in a nudist environment and comfortable with body issues before taking the plunge.

2.       Part time at home-these people will walk around the house nude at some point but quickly dress when someone enters the room or they start to feel uncomfortable without clothes on.
3.       Full time at home-they feel comfortable being nude at home-either alone or around family and friends; but have not made the decision to interact nude with people they do not know.
4.       Part time in public-these social nudists will only go bare occasionally for a weekend or nakation (nude vacation) and usually it’s in a location far from their home (just in case they might meet someone they know).
5.       Full time in public-being without textiles is a must with these nudists. Of course they do, on occasion, put on clothes when needed (i.e. during cold weather, going shopping, or going on trips where nudity is unlawful)

Continue reading on Examiner.com Nudism 101: What is nudism? - National Nudist Culture | Examiner.com

Normalising nudity

2011-10-19T19:26:00.000-05:00

"We started it as a hobby, but it is now a worthwhile business that I think is worth carrying on. This awards appraisal has made me focus on that. It's made me look at things a lot more clinically."

They have started events like Nudie Foodies Sounds Adventure, an annual get-together where a charter boat ride is followed by dinner in the garden and a golf tournament the following day.

For Ms Hannam the decision to do all of that nude is a simple one. "My attitude is that I sleep in the nude and when I get up in the nude I shower in the nude, and if it's a really nice day I think why would I put on clothes?"

She wishes more people could see it that way. "I think that's what I'm out there to do. Normalise it."

Source

Top 10 nude vacations

2011-10-15T08:26:00.000-05:00

Looking to let it all hang out on your next vacation? Nudist vacations are increasingly popular among all types of travelers, in some of the most unexpected places. Reasons for the uptick, according to the American Association of Nude Recreation: Nude vacationing is more relaxing, relieves stress, and offers travelers a welcome respite from the (fully-clothed) crowds. Here are some of the more popular spots, according to Shermans Travel.

Click here

Topless men and women promote breast health

2011-10-15T08:23:00.000-05:00

As a relief from cold, calculated corporate ad executions, the Toronto-based Rethink Breast Cancer charity has gone cheeky, bold and bare-breasted to generate awareness on the street and online with two recent campaigns.

Photo, video, read more

Connecticut law protects a mother’s right to breastfeed in public and workplace

2011-10-15T08:19:00.000-05:00

The Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition has joined with the Departments of Public Health and Labor, as well as the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities to create the “Guide to Connecticut Breastfeeding Nondiscrimination and Workplace Accommodation Laws.”The State law allows mothers to nurse their babies in public places and the workplace. It also protects employed mothers’ rights to express milk during the workday.

The guide answers frequently asked questions, such as “Why can’t the mother cover the baby when nursing?” and “Do I need to provide a special room or space for an employee who wants to breastfeed or express milk at work?” It also explains what recourse a woman has when she believes her rights to breastfeed have been violated under Connecticut’s breastfeeding laws.

City officials reach deal with nude body-painter

2011-10-15T08:15:00.001-05:00

Under an agreement approved by city lawyers and prosecutors, Golub will be allowed to paint topless, but not bottomless, women all day long -- subject to any crowd control issues.

Full public nudity is allowed in New York city, so long as it is part of a play, performance, exhibition or show. And the city has no law specifically banning nude body painting. But city officials can set what are called time, place and manner restrictions, banning nudity, for instance, at times or places when very young children might see it, Kuby explained.

As a compromise, the city has agreed to leave painters of nude bodies alone so long as the models don't go bottomless before sunset, he said, an accommodation tailor made for Golub, who has continued to ply his odd art niche at Zuccotti Park, where paint-thirsty protesters are stripping for his brush left and right.

The plastic surgery a model needs to look like Barbie

2011-10-15T08:13:00.001-05:00

We know that Barbie’s body is anatomically impossible. So why are we still trying for it?
Every day a new plastic surgery promise emerges: scooped-out backs, rear-end lifts, sculpted kneecaps. If it’s possible, it’s suddenly necessary.

But what exactly would you have to go through to get the 'perfect' Barbie body? In the latest issue of O Magazine, model Katie Halchishick becomes the human diagram.

Posing for photographer Matthew Rolston, her glamorous, Marilyn Monroe-type features are surgically outlined according to Barbie's proportions.

Here’s a breakdown of what she'd need done to be the kind of doll women aspire to: a brow lift, a jaw line shave, rhinoplasty, a cheek and neck reduction, a chin implant, scooped-out shoulders, a breast lift, liposuction on her arms, and tummy tuck, which would also have to be sculpted as if it were lined in whale-bone from the inside. And that’s just the half of her.

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Occupy Blog

2011-10-13T23:09:00.002-05:00

A blog for videos, interviews, articles, opinions, news, information, and facts about what is going on in New York, and many other cities across the United States, even the world. Comments are moderated. So far there are 10 long pages of useful information, inspiring articles, and video of us of the 99%. Bookmark us for continuing coverage and in depth study.

Part of nudism is fighting for our rights, like the pursuit of happiness. I've been working hard for a week now on a new blog that documents the Occupy Wall Street Movements around the country.

Click here to visit the site. Comments are welcome.

Nudism embraced by younger generation

2011-10-13T23:05:00.000-05:00

Phillip and Cora have been participating in social nudism for only a few months, although Cora says she started exploring nudism as a teenager at home and she and Phillip have been "closet nudists" together since they got married over a year ago.

"I still feel rather limited in my nudism experience," says Phillip. "Cora has done this much more than me."
However, making the jump from the "textile world" to the world of nudism wasn't that hard of a leap for Phillip.

"He's very accepting of everyone. Period," says Cora. "He's never been one to judge based on appearance or beliefs."

"Cora, on the other hand," says Phillip, "has always enjoyed being naked, and social nudism has given her a way to meet like-minded people."

Cora says that for her, nudism is an escape from the stress of day-to-day life.

"There is nothing more freeing, more relaxing, than being naked, especially being naked outside. When I take those clothes off, my stress goes with them and I feel like I can breathe again, even if only for an afternoon. It's therapeutic."

Read full piece

Nude cruises for an all-over tan

2011-10-12T19:23:00.001-05:00

If you ever have trouble packing for a cruise, or are confounded by weight restrictions on airline baggage, I may have found just the holiday - a naturist cruise in Croatia.
Niche operator eWaterways is launching four cruises next year on a fleet of motor sailing ships, island-hopping along the Adriatic coastline and among Dalmatia's hundreds of secluded islands.

Two different itineraries for the naturist cruises will be available, both offering plenty of opportunities for guests to be as nature intended while on board - or in the water - with clothes required only when in port and during meal times.

The Kvarner Bay Naturist Cruise offers a round trip from Opatija where liberal holidaymakers can enjoy day trips to tranquil islands and secluded beaches for snorkelling, swimming or sunbathing. In the evenings, guests can join the crowd and explore inland dining options and enjoy tours of the picturesque towns and villages.

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We Love Indian Summer

2011-10-11T06:43:00.000-05:00

It’s October in New York, but you wouldn’t know it from the temperature. 80 degrees and sunny! God bless you, Indian Summer.

So, out we went, into the park once more, toting our copies of GETTING OFF and CHOKE HOLD and QUARRY’S EX. We had a bit of extra excitement this time out, our first ever run-in with the police, but all ended amicably: after coming by twice to ask us to put our tops back on, they checked in with headquarters, confirmed that what we’d told them was true (it’s legal for women to go topless anywhere a man can), apologized for bothering us, and wished us a good day.

And we had a very good day, as you can see.

Congrats girls, you are a true inspiration to all of us. Click here to see the post.

Elizabeth Warren, Scott Brown spat highlights hypocrisy on nudity

2011-10-08T10:59:00.000-05:00

This, from the GOP (Grand IOkl’ Prudes?), which historically has railed against nudity everywhere – on TV, in movies, in go-go bars, in magazines (like Cosmo), at the beach, during halftime at the Super Bowl, at a Lady Gaga concert, you name it.

The naked truth: When it’s one of them, Republicans are willing to look the other way. (After a quick peek, of course.)

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ESPN 'Body Issue' PHOTOS 2011: Naked Athletes

2011-10-08T10:52:00.000-05:00

ESPN The Magazine's 2011 "Body Issue," in which several athletes strip down and pose nude or semi-nude, comes out on Friday and the cover images have been released. ESPN announced last week that women's soccer star Hope Solo, Rams running back Steven Jackson and NBA phenom Blake Griffin would be among the athletes to pose. Solo, Griffin, snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler, Mets shortstop Jose Reyes and star goalkeeper Tim Howard were chosen to grace the covers of the 2011 issue.

Source and photos

George Clooney: Skinny-Dipping at My Italian Villa Is Tradition

2011-10-07T18:31:00.000-05:00

Skinny-dipping in Lake Como is apparently a tradition at George Clooney's Italian villa. The "Up in the Air" star gushed about it when met at the New York City premiere of "The Ides of March" on Wednesday, October 5, and asked about Marisa Tomei's claim that she and the cast went swimming in the buff at his retreat.

"It's a tradition at my house," the 50-year-old told New York Magazine's Vulture. "Charlie Rose, let me tell you - first we got Walter Cronkite to jump in, then I got David Gergen to jump in. I used Walter Cronkite to get Gergen to jump in, and then I used Marisa [Tomei] and Evan [Rachel Wood] in the lake to get Charlie Rose to jump."

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Clothing Optional: should it be?

2011-10-06T19:39:00.000-05:00

Many, perhaps most, but not all naturist venues don’t actually require you to be nude all the time. Most have a “clothing optional” policy, which means pretty much what it says: you don’t have to wear anything you don’t want to. The implication is that if you’re more comfortable being only partially nude, the clothing optional policy permits it (although there are usually exceptions, such as no clothing at all permitted in pools and hot tubs.) This is said to be friendly to the newcomers who aren’t quite ready to bare all.

Not everyone likes these policies. Upon some recent reflection, I’ve decided I’m one of those people. And it took me a while to put my finger on exactly why I don’t think “clothing optional” is a good idea, but I’ve got it now. In simple terms:

If you’re not nude, you’re not a participant; you’re a spectator.

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Revealing all

2011-10-05T08:01:00.000-05:00

No 19th-century artist paid closer attention to the naked female form than Edgar Degas. Yet none seemed to harbor such complicated feelings about women.

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From the 1870s until about 10 years before his death in 1917, Degas knocked out one magnificently drawn, gauchely posed female nude after another. Only the means and the materials changed - charcoal, pastel, paint, monotype, lithograph, clay, pastel on monotype, and so on.

These now look like some of the greatest nudes in the history of Western art. Picking up on cultural currents that were gaining momentum in the mid-19th century, Degas aggressively stripped away centuries of idealization, sentimentality, and pomposity to reveal the female form as it was.

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Jane Lynch Rode Her Bike Around Topless

2011-10-05T07:31:00.002-05:00

The actress grew up wanting to be one of the boys - and she refused to wear a shirt or a bra while out playing in the summer.

She says, "I used to ride my bike through the neighbourhood (and I did it) one summer too long. My mum was like, 'You have to put on a shirt...' I wanted to be a boy... Boys ride on their bike with their shorts and no shirt.

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Baring it all for Boobyball

2011-10-04T11:41:00.000-05:00

For Candace “Candy Marie” Bascoe, one of four volunteer models who bared their breasts Monday for hundreds of googly eyed gawkers — all in the name of breast-cancer awareness — the stunt was more than just a cheap gimmick.

Both her grandmothers had breast cancer, and her best friend was diagnosed last year. Bascoe, 26, had a partial mastectomy herself four years ago after discovering a “golf-ball-sized” lump in her right breast. So now she’ll do whatever it takes to get people to pay attention.

“I could probably stand out here all day in a trench coat trying to hand out pamphlets and nobody would notice,” she said. “This is louder.”

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Dame Helen Mirren nudism and more

2011-10-01T12:28:00.000-05:00

At 3:49 in the Conan interview she speaks on her views of nudism, nudist beaches, and even invites conservative Conan to go the nude beach with her.

Five Exercises Best Done Naked

2011-10-01T08:37:00.000-05:00

Sure, you've heard of exercises that claim to make your naked bod look divine. But what about exercises to actually do while you're nude?

Whether you're getting hyped for naked aerobics or yoga pretzels, working out without clothes sounds like a pretty good way to burn some calories while avoiding pit stains during an endless summer.

Check out five videos of totally NSFW exercises to do naked (yes, apart from sex) after the jump ...

Note: You may need to sign in to YouTube to view some of these videos.

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State of Undress: Is Nudity Still Newsworthy?

2011-09-29T06:22:00.000-05:00

The conversation around San Francisco's recent "Nude-in," held to protest a proposed law that would limit public nudity, which is currently legal in the city, raises an interesting question: When a practice arrives at the point where it has a system of etiquette, has it lost its shock value?

According to The New York Times, one of the objectives of the Nude-in was to draw attention to a proposed ordinance -- introduced by Scott Wiener, a city supervisor -- that would prohibit nudity in restaurants and require unclad people to put a towel or other material down before sitting bare-bottomed on public seats.

What I found funny wasn't that Weiner felt he needed to nix bare-cheeked seating, but that the protesters were insulted at the idea that they would do anything so uncouth and inconsiderate: George Davis, who the Times reported is a "self-described 'urban nudist'" and "campaigned in the buff" during an (unsuccessful) run for mayor, said that putting that towel between your backside and the bench is "basic nudist etiquette," rendering legislation requiring it "totally unnecessary."

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Scott Wiener Talks SF Nudity on CNN

2011-09-28T10:08:00.000-05:00

Put nudity and San Francisco together and you easily get the nation's attention.

Add a San Francisco supervisor trying to put conditions on public nudity and said pol gets invited to defend his views on national television.

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Coming out of the nudist closet

2011-09-27T10:48:00.001-05:00

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Just north in Tennessee, you’ll find a campground where everyday things done differently. The campers don’t wear clothes.

Debbi Tannock hates wearing clothes.

“I don’t know how to describe it. I walk out on my front porch, the sun shinning, wind blowing, birds chirping, put my arms up and feel it all over my skin,” Tannock said.
Every year thousands come to Rock Haven Lodge to be naked.

“When you’re nude all the time,” Don Rawlings said. “It doesn’t bother you to be nude.”

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British stars bare all in fight against TV ageism

2011-09-25T12:55:00.000-05:00

Some of British TV's most familiar female faces have dared to bare to prove that no matter how old they are, they should not be subjected to ageism.

Loose Women Sherrie Hewson and Andrea McLean posed naked alongside Coronation Street's Beverley Callard and EastEnders actress Gillian Taylforth for Best magazine's Body Image issue.

The ladies spoke of the way that women, despite their talent, can be denied roles on camera simply because producers believe them to be too old.

Wreck Beach, Vancouver, British Columbia

2011-09-25T10:29:00.003-05:00

Where else in North America let alone in the world – can you spend spring mornings skiing powder snow, and then, spend the afternoons sunning your bare buns, but at Wreck Beach, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada?

This 7.8 kilometers long, wilderness-like beach, which follows a promontory below an emerald-green forested, 200-foot high cliff system magnificently weathered to beauty, is Canada's first and largest, legal, clothing-optional beach and is a Mecca to visitors from around the world!

San Francisco tests its limits on public nudism

2011-09-25T08:56:00.000-05:00

"No shoes, no shirt, no service" is a sign you see in a lot of US stores. In San Francisco, restaurateurs might soon have to add "no pants" to the list, as a row flares over nudism in the vibrant heart of the city's gay community.

On a sunny September day, Woody Miller strolls through the district, known as Castro. He's tall and fit, with a long grey beard and heavy silver nose ring -- and wearing nothing more than sneakers, a baseball cap and a watch.

"I go naked on a nice day because I like the feel of the sun and the air on my skin," says Miller, 55, who is one of the city's growing number of public nudists, popularly known as Naked Guys.

"There's nothing obscene about the human body," he adds. "The belief that there is is something that's taught. It's just another form of prejudice."

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Art buff? Join in the Naked Tea Party at Salford's Islington Mill

2011-09-21T07:49:00.003-05:00

A mass nudity event is expected to attract hundreds of willing volunteers who will strip off to be drawn, painted and photographed.

Naturist Jess Bradley, 22, from Rusholme, is behind the project which he says will celebrate ‘body positivity, non-sexual nudity and feminism’.

Members of the public are invited to Islington Mill, Salford, tonight between 6-10pm to get their kit off and be drawn, painted and photographed by artists. He said: “Our project is basically what we would be doing anyway as naturists.

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"The Ultimate Symbol of Humanity: Nude!" at Studio A Gallery

2011-09-21T07:47:00.000-05:00

In the world of contemporary art, it’s quite possible to walk into some galleries and find objects that bear little resemblance to what most of us think of as art. Take heart that traditional craftsmanship lives at Tarrytown’s Studio A Gallery with drawings, paintings and sculpture. While some people may be uncomfortable with images of the nude, the skill level of the works in this multi-artist show is undeniable and highly respectable.

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Nonchalant about nudity

2011-09-21T07:43:00.001-05:00

For Bonita Summers, her career as a nude model means contributing to someone’s artistic development.

“Someone made art out of observing me. That’s pretty amazing,” she said.

In the art world, the position is referred to as an undraped model. It’s a job that requires extreme stillness — sometimes for hours on end.

“It requires you to be uncomfortable for a long period of time,” Summers said. “You can’t fidget.”

Summers said as an undraped life model for fine art at Queen’s, she would hold poses for an hour and a half.

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Nudism in Scandinavia: Scandinavia for Nudists

2011-09-21T06:54:00.001-05:00

Nudism in Scandinavia is nothing unusual - after all, Scandinavia is the most open-minded region in the world. It's perfectly legal in Scandinavia for nudists to swim naked, or to sunbathe either topless or completely in the nude.

Scandinavian travelers interested in nudism can find beaches quickly on the maps of nude beaches sorted by country.

In Denmark, nudism is allowed on 4,500 kilometers of coastline and there are 4 "free beaches" dedicated to naturists only. Norway has over 20 clothes-free beaches, and Sweden offers about 60 CO beaches for nudists! Signs are often used to inform beach visitors about nude-only or CO (clothes optional) beaches.

Where can you find a good spot for nudism at your Scandinavian destination? More about nudism locations in each Scandinavian country:

Click here

Fancy a 'nakation'?

2011-09-21T06:41:00.000-05:00

"They have only one wish, that this remains a purely nudist camp."

Most of the naturist tourists in Croatia are Germans, who account for around 40 percent of Koversada's 4700 guests. They are followed by Slovenians, Austrians, Hungarians and the Dutch.

While many Croatians enjoy the occasional dip in the buff, few visit naturist resorts, making up less than one percent of Koversada's visitors.

The movement's heyday in the Mediterranean country was the 1980s though global naturism is picking up, according to the National Naturists Association.

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The Nicest, Nakedest People on Earth

2011-09-21T06:31:00.000-05:00

There are several other deliberate cultural differences. Perhaps the most immediately apparent is the tolerance of nudity. Nudity comes in all shapes, sizes, and genders at Burning Man. Twenty-year-old women wearing nothing but sequined hot pants. Seventy-year-old men wearing nothing but pith helmets. People of every sort wearing nothing but knee-high, rainbow-fur boots.

At times the nudity can feel political. The "Critical Tits" bike ride featured hundreds of topless women, on bicycles, making a vague statement about torso equality. To my amazement, gazing at that many breasts at once actually managed to de-eroticize them. (For a few hours, anyway. And please let's not talk about all the dudes eagerly snapping photos or—it was rumored—engineering a bumpy stretch of sand to enhance jiggle-osity.) Most of the women in my camp remained fully clothed all week, but a couple of gals whipped 'em out on Critical Tits day in what seemed to be an act of sisterly solidarity.

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'Prude Rev covered topless statue with crude breastplate'

2011-09-20T07:06:00.002-05:00

The 400-year-old Goddess of Abundance was originally sculpted with her chest exposed.

But conservators working on the 900-year-old building where she graces a fireplace found her charms concealed with a crudely fashioned breastplate.

Abundance, who is seen holding a cornucopia overflowing with treats, was made for St James Priory in Bristol.

And experts believe Rev John Wesley — the founder of the Methodist movement — hid her boobs behind the cuirass when it became his parish church more than 250 years ago.

See photos

Norfolk OKs mural of Roman goddess with bare breast

2011-09-18T07:21:00.000-05:00

A mural of the Roman goddess Virtus, replete with a bare breast, will be exposed to passers-by on Monticello Avenue after all.

The City Council voted 7-0 after little debate Tuesday night to reverse a decision by the Planning Commission to deny the law firm Montagna Klein Camden permission to paint the mural.

The firm, at 425 Monticello Ave., had proposed a 23-foot-by-11-foot mural depicting the city's progress, with ships, light rail and the skyline. Looking down on all of it would be the goddess Virtus, who appears on the Virginia state seal.

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