Sunwalkerism

“Nakedness is a genuine psychological need.” – Kensunwalker

QUOTES 11/30/2016

“[I meet people while freehiking] All the time.  I have a set of rules I follow and have never had issues:  I hike with my shorts in my hand.  1) if there is a mixed couple coming down the trail, I will hold the shorts in front of my crotch to show some respect.  2) If just women, I slip the shorts on.  3) you can always hear kids coming so I put shorts on.  4) If guys, hell, why should I cover up?  All is good and have had compliments of ‘I wish I had the guts to do it.’” – nkdman1, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=132&idt=57646&page=2

“I began as a nudist at 10 years old.  I was a Christian and my parents discouraged nudity.  I got curious and went on Wikipedia.  I put in nude and I found out things I never knew before.  Being nude doesn't mean sex.  So one night I took off all my clothes and I felt so free.  At 15 years old I went to Gunnison Beach, NJ.  It was so relaxing to see all those people nude just like me.  I loved it ever since.” - E.W, http://aanr.com/first-time-nudist-experience&page=40

“We had a pool in the backyard when I was a kid so I would skinny dip when my parents were not home.  Otherwise a buddy and I would head to an old farm pond and skinny dip.  Now that I'm older my wife and I put a pool in last year and we can go chunky dunkin' at night.” – Nekidmike, https://www.truenudists.com/forum/viewthread.php?id=16710&page=1

“I'm A Man, And I've Spent My Life Ashamed of My Body - It's only now, at age 27, that I realize I have body image issues. . . I was the kid too scared to swim in public without a shirt. . . David LaPorte, a psychology professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania . . . discovered that 1/5 of men considered to be in shape were uncomfortable taking their shirts off. . . About half of all men don’t like having their picture taken or being seen in swimwear . . .and more men than women would sacrifice at least a year of their life in exchange for a perfect body. . . At 27, I'm able to admit I don't like my body.  But it shouldn't have taken me years to get to that point.  I spent too long feeling like I had a secret . . . unable to talk about it, because rules of masculinity forbid it. . . Men don't face the same unrealistic expectations as women, but they still feel pressure to look better, and they're behind where women are in discussing insecurities.  All it takes to change that is one guy opening up to his friends. . . ‘Once one friend starts sharing, it sets the space for everyone else to do so as well.’” – Tyler Kingkade, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/male-body-image_55cb5fd2e4b0923c12bec79a

“Surprised, angered or insulted reactions do not mean simple nudity is unlawful.” - https://twitter.com/BritishNaturism

QUOTES 11/29/2016

“The first nude psychotherapy session took place on June 16, 1967 at a nudist resort in California, with 24 participants.  Other sessions were held at fancy hotels that offered natural environments and large facilities. . . Most participants were strangers to each other, but they were expected to share an unmatched level of emotional and physical opening with the group. . . Participants were invited to experience ‘eyeball’ (look into the eyes of each other over a short distance) and then, to respond in some physical form (embrace, etc.).  After this icebreaker, the participants were stripped down in the dark with musical accompaniment before joining a small circle to perform a ‘meditation’. . . Freely mixing psychoanalysis and Maslovian theory, Bindrim told participants that needed to renew the heartache and frustration in your life, in order to achieve a State psychologically sanctified. . . The naked body was seen as a window to the soul, the real . . . the process of stripping the soul.  Nudist therapy was based on the idea of naked body as a metaphor of ‘psychological soul.’  The exposure of the naked body revealed what was more important, the real true. . . Nudist therapy had a great appeal because people were looking for spiritual transformation and more authenticity. . . In late 1970 and early 1980, nudist therapy fell into disuse.  Social attitudes began to become more conservative.  The Americans wanted to return to the moral climate of the Decade of 1950.” - http://osnaturistas.com/en/noticias/historia-da-psicoterapia-nudista/

Nudism ‘expert’ shares thoughts (Audio) – https://clothesfreelife.com/2016/04/22/nudism-expert/

“The body confidence learnt at that Naturist event taught him to feel confident about himself and he can now attend any public gym or pool and not fear being stared at or made to feel an outcast.  He also feels confident that when he starts a relationship he can speak openly about his bag and Naturism as they are both part of his life and who he is. . . [Billy] needed Naturism to get over the stigma of having a stoma bag . . .The same will apply to virtually any circumstance you might find yourself facing, be it operation scars, amputation, disfigurement, skin conditions, obesity, anorexia; anything that general opinion would suspect to be a problem to live with.  We should be proud to belong to such a caring, supportive community bound together by the love of nudity as nature intended.  Long may the sun shine on us!” - Roni Fine, http://www.bn.org.uk/articles.php/_/information/about-naturism/roni-writes/naturism-my-bag-and-me-r379

“Most people are uncomfortable seeing naked human beings because they have never seen naked human beings in any social situation.  When something is unseen it becomes unseeable.  The cure is for human beings to become seen often.” – Brad Kemp, https://www.facebook.com/groups/PromotingNudism/

“Everything evolves, but churches are stuck in an old-time mentality when it comes to nudity.  If you look closely at Genesis, you will find that God did not intend for us to be ashamed of our bodies.  Rather, it was a by-product of Adam and Eves shame for committing the first sin.  Christians believe that Jesus died to help rectify those sins so that all people who believe can stand before God unashamed.  The church should emphasize this point of redemption when dealing with the human body.” – Nate Dekan, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=2925&idt=17173&vpage=1

QUOTES 11/28/2016

“My first outdoor nude experience was about age 9 or so.  One summer night I was on a sleepover with the boys who lived next door.  Someone dared someone else to get out of his sleeping bag and run naked across the yard to the back gate, and return.  Soon we had all done it.  And a few nights later we were daring each other to go out the back gate (our school yard) and over to the school.  Running naked through the night felt really good.  I was hooked.  I don't think it really matters why someone decides to take off his clothes or her clothes and run naked or stand naked or pose naked.  The experience for him and whoever sees him is worth whatever was the reason.” – Bob Knows, http://freerangenaturism.com/forum/index.php?topic=795.15;topicseen

“The modern Western ideas about ‘naughty’ areas of the nude body are pretty definitive: genitalia, buttocks and, in women, nipples and breasts.  It may surprise you to know that these particular ideas aren't embedded in European cultural history.  In fact, for certain periods in European fashion, the naked female breast was all the rage as a completely non-shocking addition to an outfit.” – JR Thorpe, http://www.bustle.com/articles/172288-7-strange-beliefs-about-nudity-in-western-history?platform=hootsuite

“In today’s age of sexualizing anything to do with the naked body, it can be hard to think of nudity as a family-friendly activity.  Those who are not familiar with naturists may find it inappropriate for parents and children to be doing anything together while not fully protected by textiles, but the truth is that children’s natural state is to be naked, and it’s the adults who make them feel as if they need to put on clothes. . . If you spend time with any toddlers, you know that they love to walk around naked.  Sometimes, it’s hard to even keep clothes on them!  At some point, though, most parents make their children wear clothes, and the innocence they had before is covered with shorts and T-shirts and with shame. . . When children are taught to cover up, its usually under the auspices of modesty and what’s culturally appropriate.  Around the age of four or five, parents who were naked with their children in the pool or shower are suddenly pushed away from that comfort.  All of a sudden, that natural state is made wrong, and children feel ashamed.  Instead, why not continue with that natural state and allow children to stay naked?  They understand societal expectations, so it’s easy enough to tell them they cannot go to school without clothes, but at home, being nude is just fine.  Children will learn to feel pride in their bodies and in themselves. . . Children learn much from their parents, but they are highly influenced by their peers as well even from an early age.  Introducing young children to other nudist families can go a long way to normalizing nudism as children get older.  Creating a community of other nudist families also teaches children to judge others on more than their body shape, looking instead to who they truly are.  While too many people think that normalizing nudism will create a sense of heightened sexuality in children, teens, and even adults, the truth is typically the opposite.  By allowing children to choose whether or not nudity is right for them, you’ll strip away all of the taboos they usually associate with their bodies as they grow and change.  Raising children in a society where nudism is normal could just create a whole generation that is more confident in themselves and more accepting of others.” - Amanda Collins, http://www.truenudists.com/blog/nudity-a-family-friendly-activity/

“If it's freezing cold, I'll pull on a sweater to get warm.  But on an 80- or 90-degree day, I don't want my body to be encumbered by clothes.  I want to be naked.  I want to be free.  I want to be the way nature intended.” - http://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2015/08/10/swimming-nude-blue-moon/31418849/

“My opinion on the value of celebrity bare-chestedness is that it depends, but in the balance, I think celebrities ‘freeing the nipple’ or otherwise going bare-chested or even flashing or having not-so-accidental ‘wardrobe malfunctions’, though usually motivated by career furthering and not social evolution, does ultimately help people normalize to the sight of the female nipple. . . On the other hand, posing provocatively with bared nipples creates a sexual association which makes it harder to disconnect the female nipple as a sexual object.” - Chelsea Covington, http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3591606/It-s-taking-ownership-body-really-powerful-Maryland-woman-seeks-normalize-naked-breasts-spending-time-bare-chested-public.html

Thanksgiving Anniversary

After eating Thanksgiving with family (Thursday), we drove down to the Magic Circle in Quartzite to enjoy a ‘naked’ Thanksgiving with Friends.  About lunch time, Lee and I freehiked the path around the circle (about two miles).  Later Lee, Larry, and I freehiked a few roads in the circle.  Five friends gathered for the nude meal that Lee had prepared in sun ovens.  That evening we enjoyed sitting around a propane fire and telling life stories, before Amy and I retired to a naked sleep in our trailer.  Kitty was sick that evening, but survived.  The weather was a little cool, and turning worse, so we decided to cut our visit short on Saturday.  That morning we hooked up with a NAZ member from Globe, AZ; it was his first visit to the Circle, and we were getting ready to leave, so we wished him well during his planned two week stay.  (In the past, it turned out he had met and freehiked with Lee in Northern Utah.)  Amy and I visited the spot we held our naked commitment ceremony the year before (a nude anniversary of sorts). We then drove into Quartzite and ate a clothed pizza lunch at Silly Al’s, and then visited with naked Paul (Sweet Pea), the book dealer down the street.  We arrived home just after 4 pm, the end to a wonderful Thanksgiving.

QUOTES 11/27/2016

"I personally feel that the only way naturism will gain general acceptance is if non-naturists have more opportunities to see it and get used to it.  And that means more mixed venues.  I know we worry about losing hard-won nude and C/O beaches due to an influx of textiles.  The solution however is not segregation and isolation, but to develop an army of textiles supportive of the option to be nude, textiles willing to speak up in support when some individual complains, textiles willing to tell a complainer to cool it and be tolerant, textiles ready to vote against intolerant regulations and instead be willing to discuss mutually agreeable modi operandi.  The change is not just for textiles.  We naturists need to be more open, to seek actively and publicly more officially sanctioned C/O spaces, to talk to our neighbors about things like backyard nudity, to be naturist role models that supportive textiles can point out, to sincerely not be bothered if we are seen nude by some colleague, acquaintance, friend or unknown invitee, to engage intolerant people in a patient and friendly way, to work to revise intolerant regulations.  We're simply not going to get textiles to recognize the distinction between ‘indecent exposure’ and ‘decent exposure’ unless they've seen the difference themselves.  We have a wonderful set of values to advocate, that are in tune with mainstream themes like gender-equality, ecology. tolerance and mutual respect.  It is time to let these out the gates of a hidden ‘lifestyle’.  It may seem more comfortable to be safe among certified like-minded naturists, but in the long run we need expand our naturist community to include actively-tolerant textile friends who share our values even if they don't shed their clothes." – Adge

“Wife and I spent a weekend at Orvis hot springs.  I took the opportunity to drive home nude, about 3 hours.  Also will drive nude if going on a free hike in our area.” – 1WildOne, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=8077&idt=78072&page=last

“Communing clothes-free with the trees and the animals and each other.  This is how we return to our spiritual home.” - http://thoughtsonnaturism.tumblr.com/post/143922251425/hiking-barefoot-touching-the-earth-communing?is_related_post=1

“The problem with covering up is that clothing enhances the ‘sexuality’ of the subject.  The briefer the clothing, the more the ‘other’ may become ‘excited.’  Our culture then blames the scantily covered . . .” – Emma, The Naked Truth Naturists Newdsletter, Vol 17, #8

“People have normal bodies like you have and everybody is a little bit different.  So there’s this great sort of body acceptance in nudism that is a direct sort of antidote to the nudity we see in marketing.  Or when you see people naked on TV or movies — they are all celebrities, they’re movie stars, models, or porn stars.  They don’t look like normal people.  So, nudism can kind of help people reclaim ownership of their body.  Like, ‘I look okay.  This is alright.’  It would be great if more people tried it because I think they would feel better about themselves.” – Mark Haskell-Smith, https://www.inverse.com/article/17249-we-were-supposed-to-be-fine-with-nonsexual-social-nudism-by-now-what-happened

QUOTES 11/26/2016

“'Nakations' offer a respite from clothes and stress . . . Nudists also appear to be seeking out a higher-end experience far removed from the more affordable rustic tent camping and family-oriented sing-alongs by the campfire of previous generations . . . Wanting to be able to have a cocktail, wanting to be able to join a petanque team or play tennis competitively, or something like that, there is a trend of people looking for more upscale resorts.  Increasingly, those options are more available.  As for the next nude travel frontier, there is no shortage of ideas for vacations nudists describe as a significant source of stress relief for them as they leave societal norms and expectations behind.” - Cynthia Johnston

“Last year we took our first nude cruise - Fastasea Fest – with Carnival.  It was fabulous!  Walking the ship, shopping, eating, singing karaoke, taking dance lessons, watching entertaining shows, sunning on a white sandy Caribbean beach, sailing, scuba diving (all nude), and then participating in a sort-of-clothed, ‘crazy’ festival on Key West - just having a great time with other nudists – wow!  We may never cruise clothed again.” – Ken Freehiker

“I suspect clothed hikers totally approve of seeing the freedom expressed in a fellow hiker having the balls to hike nude and do what something inside them wishes they were doing themselves.” - Deep Creek Hot Springs Freehiker

“For many years I've suffered with lower back problems, and for much of that time received chiropractic treatment.  Four years ago we moved home.  At that time my (female) chiropractor, who knew I was a nudist, suggested that I would benefit instead from regular remedial massage.  Once we had moved, I selected a massage therapist from the local phone book, and have seen her regularly ever since.  From Day One, she also has known that I'm a nudist.  I lay on my stomach, she lowers my undies, and proceeds to massage my ‘glutes’ (bottom), and then work up my spine - standard practice in the treatment of lower back pain.  We have often discussed my penchant for nudity - home and social - and my visits to nude beaches and other venues.  On my most recent visit I left her a copy of ‘Australian Sun and Health’ magazine to browse.  Prior to gaining the qualifications to be a massage therapist she had been a nurse who, in her own words, ‘always had a passion for anatomy’.  She has never had the least concern that some people, like myself, do go naked from time to time.” – Aussieian

“I remember when I was growing up . . . being naked in a locker room was not only not an issue, but it was something you were supposed to do.  You changed, walked naked to the showers . . . then walked again naked to the locker, and in between you could be chatting with a friend, or with a friend of your father. . . Every month we had to undergo a medical check-up.  The Dr. Office was in the locker room, so it was not unusual for men to be standing in line naked, waiting to see the Doctor.  There was a season when the original doctor was off, and a female doctor subbed for him.”

QUOTES 11/25/2016

“It is very relaxing to spend the entire day nude. I try to do so as often as possible. I was off work yesterday and today and I only got dressed to go out and mow the yard, and to go to the gym; I got naked again as soon as I finished these activities.  Now that the weather is warmer and the kids have moved out, I spend as much time naked at home as possible.  My wife is getting used to it and is even coming to expect it now, the other day I got up and put on some shorts and she wanted to know where I was going because I had on clothes!” – Eagle59

“I support the philosophy that, as naturists, we should promote, educate and participate in our lifestyle and be nude wherever and whenever possible.  That's why I also drive nude 90% of the time.  We are currently on vacation and I have been driving nude most everywhere.  There have been a couple times, on this trip, that I have had to wear clothes the entire time, such as, driving from our hotel room to the restaurant for dinner.  But anytime I can wear something that is easily slipped on and off, I'm driving naked most of the time. . . it's just who I am and how I prefer to be - all of the time! . . . believe 100% in your lifestyle and it's unharmful nature . . . doing simple things, like driving nude . . . [shows] who we are and what we do every day as a normal way of life.” - FP

"I was given a great tip for freehiking while on travel.  The location is called Weasel Creek.  It is very near the little town of Winston.  Only a car or two can park there so you know there is no one around.  I hiked the trails in a circular route to a large rock outcropping.  Spent a while there in the sun when it finally popped out.  It was only in the high 50's but when the sun was on me it we very comfortable.  I wish there were more places in CA like this.  What a great place to hike naked.  If you are ever up in MT you should take this hike." - L & C Desire

"I am working on losing weight and increasing my exercise.  So far I have lost 40 pounds and am feeling great!  One thing I am doing to motivate myself and to really see the results is having fine art nude photos taken about every two months to document my progress.  They have made me feel beautiful from the start which has prompted lots of attitude changes in other areas as well." – BooBare

“I drive nude or as near nude as possible every opportunity I get.” - Jim

QUOTES 11/24/2016

“A link between sleeping in colder temperatures and lower blood sugar levels, which in turn prevents Type 2 diabetes, has been found in an American Diabetic Association study.  Scientists discovered that when participants slept naked their body temperature fell, while their metabolic health improved.” – Claire O’Reilly, http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/features/6615651/The-health-benefits-of-going-nude.html

“Shirley's Fall Creek Nude Hike Report - Hearing that the weather was going to be in the 80’s I decided to try and steal another nude camping/hiking weekend. . . Arrived at an undeveloped campsite in the Fall Creek area outside Eugene/Springfield around 5 pm on Friday evening. . . perfect for nude camping.  Woke up early Saturday morning to Oregon fog that only added to the experience.  Once the sun broke through the fog and I thought the trail would be drier I headed out for a hike. . . Usually I start a hike as early as possible so that I can assure myself that it is safe to hike nude.  So little traffic in the area had me feeling comfortable to hike/camp nude.  I started my hike going up stream from a near by bridge.  At the bridge the trail crosses over the road to go down stream.  I have always wanted to check out some skinny dipping locations on Fall Creek so hiking the trail gave me a great opportunity to do so.  A portion of the hike was on an old road no longer used close to the river. . . I hiked to a campground that has been closed for the winter months. . . I used an alternative trail to return to the bridge and cross the river to hike down stream. . . I found myself in beautiful moss covered old growth trees and the trail decorated with ferns.  This trail is one of the most beautiful I have ever hiked.  Simply indescribable!  The trail is close to the river and the road on the right. . . A short time later two men were fishing and if not for their dog would never have noticed me.  I had heard the dog and put on my long t-shirt.  They were friendly and I think one may have been nude previous to hearing me on the trail and the dog barking. . . I later made a decision to return back before reaching it.  The interesting thing about hiking trails is that returning back on the same trail and seeing it from a different direction is like hiking a new trail. . . I love Oregon old growth forests and nude hiking!” - Shirley

“I met the Northcoast Naturists group . . . we hiked along the creek bank a bit until we arrived at the painted rock where we undressed . . . It was more of a freehike than a skinny-dipping outing.  We didn’t spend a lot of time at the falls but it was refreshing to take a dip. . . At the point where we had originally come down into the gorge we . . . dressed and made our way back up to the top.  Outside of walking some short trails in a nudist camp, this was my first freehike.  I’ve never really had much of an interest in hiking but my hike through the Chautauqua Gorge was rather enjoyable.  I could describe it in the usual terms: the warmth of the sun, the breeze on my skin and the cool wetness of the water but they don’t adequately convey what I felt.  It’s something that has to be experienced firsthand to really be understood.” – Rick

“. . . consider the possibility of encountering a textile hiker while hiking naked on a typical late fall-early winter or late winter-early spring day!  The contrast in attire or lack there-of is a conversation starter to put it mildly.  Mutual respect and quiet confidence goes a long way in these situations.  As usual, I don't go out there to create these situations, but I have been there on occasion, and the experiences have been rich." – Dan

Naked gardeners are a unique type of home nudist, since they often have to bare the (potential) ridicule of neighbors.  Despite this however, naked gardeners persist because naked gardening just feels sooooo right!  Backyard naked gardening it is perhaps the most common nude activity.  In fact, a special day, World Naked Gardening Day, is set aside for those who enjoy digging and planting and mowing and cutting naked in the back yard.” – Ken Freehiker

QUOTES 11/23/2016

“All my friends and the people who I'm working with, know that I'm a real nudist.  I'm not ashamed of that, for me it's totally natural to be nude: indoors at home, outdoors on vacation.  For me it's a lifestyle!” - Joerievalu, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=2925&idt=82655&page=2

“My entire adult life thus far has been subjected to rules designed to prevent embarrassment to the ‘company.’  I've had to play by everyone else's rules.  Well for the first time I decided to take my first step of ‘freedom’ and took a trip to Haulover Beach.  WOW!  What a sense relief!  To be there, with all those beautiful people who had no care what others thought of them...and there I was with them.  How wonderful it was to feel the sun on my entire body.  Swimming in the ocean without the confinement of a swimsuit.  So enjoyable.  I can't wait for my next visit.  Unfortunately, here in Miami there aren't any clothing optional communities, so I'm planning a vacation to one in Central Florida.  I can't wait.  I'm so thrilled with my new found life.” – Michael, Miami, Florida, http://aanr.com/first-time-nudist-experience&page=35

“I tend to be in the 'not bother covering up' camp, and have never, so far, had any problems or complaints.  Some may say that the other people were too embarrassed to say anything or complain, but in my experience, they only ever smile, or give a friendly comment.” – Skin, http://freerangenaturism.com/forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=055f0535afdecf562fdd98338a579f8e&topic=6.0

“Nudity itself is NOT sinful.  In fact, it is the path to true worship. . . many early Christian baptisms and weddings were completely in the nude.  It made sense as it demonstrated that the believer was truly separate of the world. . . Jesus Himself was likely nude when He was baptized.  He described Himself as ‘the new Adam.’  What is wrong with worshiping the way God wanted us to all along in a ‘New Eden?’” - Rev. Dennis Justice, https://www.change.org/p/petition-nude-public-beach-for-north-carolina-new-eden-beach?tk=pT4BhTon7C8k9MyiHlEgtU_9sxIk5vRlJs86DFiMJg8&utm_source=petition_update&utm_medium=email

“It’s the naked truth: as human beings we enter this world resplendent in our birthday suits – an outfit that’s unique and intriguing, yet also unifying. . . most of us remain buried under layers of synthetic materials throughout our lives.  It would seem that we are, in fact, going against what is natural.” - Hannah Hughes, http://hijacked.com.au/whats-the-big-deal-with-nudists

QUOTES 11/22/2016

“Society tells us to be naked is weak, demeaning, and worse, bad, promiscuous, or deviant.  Only crazy people with severe mental problems take off their clothing.  However, society also tells us we are inferior and have body issues.  That we need to be part of the latest trend to fit in and be okay with ourselves.  Nudists know better.  When they get undressed, it’s not just to be nude, it is an affirmation that they are not their clothing.  They are in control of their lives, they accept their bodies, they love themselves and others.” - http://thenakedtao.tumblr.com/post/113428247037/madeinthenude-lifes-obstacles-it-sometimes

“Deciding to be naked — whether you let others see you or not — is an empowering decision precisely because it involves vulnerability.  Taking off your clothes means facing down your own body, and while not everyone finds that to be a confidence-booster, the very act of confronting yourself can be liberating.  That's one reason selfies can be a tool of empowerment.” - Amanda Chatel, http://mic.com/articles/112782/there-s-good-news-for-people-who-just-love-being-naked#.V9iVvt1bR

“Perhaps the most surprising thing for me was that with the shedding of my clothes, I shed all my fears and anxieties, and it happened in just a moment, that moment.  Anxious, pants off, not anxious any more.  What a strange thing.  Almost as if it was the clothes themselves which had some power over me and through some insidious influence were trying to prevent me from disrobing, and then, free from their influence I was liberated as humans must have been across the world before clothes were invented.” – Mike, http://www.bn.org.uk/articles.php/_/information/about-naturism/first-time-experiences/a-new-and-a-maze-ing-experience-by-mike-r25?pg=1

“The naked body is everywhere, but it's not easy for everyone to be naked.  The standard for perfection makes it hard for us to accept things like wrinkles, stretch marks, blemishes, scars, folds and fat.  Our impossible expectations for nudity, though, reflect what we see in advertisements and entertainment where bodies are regularly nipped, tucked and photoshopped.” – Rebecca Ruiz, http://mashable.com/2015/12/14/not-gross-things/#KmP0KWku8OqJ

“Today, religious organizations yearn for a return to the proverbial garden, for a paradise on Earth, for peace and love, which is admirable. . . Naturists pretty much yearn for the same thing: a return to the proverbial garden where they can be in their natural state, where everybody is equal.  I’m betting that nudism/naturism is almost a spiritual experience for some.  But while there are churches everywhere for people to get their spiritual fix, there aren’t a lot of public places where naturists can congregate and bask in their God-given/natural-born state.  Indeed, of all the groups of people I write about who face discrimination, surely nudists face the most.  They are relegated to tiny spots in far too few locations, and if they bare it all in public places elsewhere, they can be hauled off and punished.  It seems ironic that one can be persecuted for being in their natural state, doesn’t it?  It’s got nothing to do with God or the evolution of the species, because if it did, we’d be born with clothes on.” – Jillian Page, http://jillianpage.com/2013/06/18/nudismnaturism-widespread-discrimination/

QUOTES 11/21/2016

“. . . for me it is . . .  more comfortable driving nude. . . if I am going anywhere more than a mile or so away, I will be driving there nude.” – TotalTanJim, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=8077&idt=77839&page=2

“In 2011, scientists managed to sequence the precise moment in time when head lice evolved into body lice: it was 170,000 years ago, and they reckon that must have been the first time in history that humans regularly wore clothing of any kind, as the lice needed a safe environment to encourage them to evolve.” – JR Thorpe, http://www.bustle.com/articles/172288-7-strange-beliefs-about-nudity-in-western-history?platform=hootsuite

“Textilism is a philosophical and religious stance in that many people believe that covering the body is in some way morally necessary or dictated by religious requirements.  This is obviously true for Catholic nuns and hijab-wearing Muslims, but it is also true more generally.  Many religious people will agree that while mere nudity justified by necessity was not necessarily a sin, intentional immodesty was certainly against God’s will.  In the religious context nudity is often very much closely associated with sexuality, so prohibitions on nudity are justified by those religions’ strong anti-sex positions.  Textilism is a political stance in that many people believe that governments have a right or obligation to regulate the amount and kind of clothing used to cover the body.  Any attempt to formally reduce the legal constraints on nudity will almost certainly be met with political opposition.  Any attempt to walk down the street nude will likely result in an encounter with the police.  It is a social stance in that most people, regardless of explicit political or philosophical beliefs on the topic, will agree that it is appropriate or necessary to use social or peer pressure to compel all persons to cover their body with clothing.  In other words, nudity is a taboo because it has ‘always’ been a taboo and the taboo is enforced for no other reason than the social indoctrination that it ought to be enforced.” - https://medium.com/@reformnaturism/what-do-you-call-the-opposite-of-nudism-537375d41db7#.vh5dbarpm

“I do love being nude in public as it gives me the opportunity to be confronted by onlookers, and to answer questions.” – VicJane, https://twitter.com/DicJane_/status/741792697007013889

“. . . there is a group of women in New York City that is currently putting on performances of Shakespeare’s The Tempest in Central Park.  And they do it while completely naked.  The cast members, who are part of The Outdoor Co-ed Topless Pulp Fiction Appreciation Society, decided to put on the show to highlight the restrictions that civilization puts on people’s bodies.  While Prospero and Miranda, who have been exiled on a Caribbean Island for 12 years, start the show fully nude the more civilized characters who are washed ashore start out wearing costumes before discarding them as the show goes on. . . Nobody who hears you’re performing Shakespeare could possibly question that what you’re doing is in the service of art. . . And if you have a problem with it, why are you against art?” - http://www.chicksontheright.com/all-female-acting-troupe-performs-shakespeare-while-naked/

QUOTES 11/20/2016

“’Why do we wear bras in the first place... because it's socially unacceptable not to?’  Well, bras have been around for less than 100 years!  During the Renaissance corsets were worn not to hide, but to expose the breast.  Before then, all the way back to Adam and Eve, there was nothing simply put, nothing.  Interestingly, there seems to be direct correlation between the popularity of bras and the rise of capitalism.  Yes, bras are fashionable, aren't they?  The bra industry is worth £500m annually and women are relentlessly exposed to advertising campaigns.” – Mavis Davis, http://socalnaturist.org/articles/bras_healthy.html

“The naked body serves as a political canvas to express a message.” — Gisela Perez de Ancha, http://clothesfreelife.com/2016/03/23/wow-a-political-canvas-to-express-a-message-topless-protests-in-mexico-and-peru/

“Being a nudist can help you return to your childhood self, to remember the person you were before you cared about putting your clothes on and ran around naked and happy.  It's a very liberating feeling.  Nudism can help you return to that pure and un-self-conscious version of yourself and can help you feel happy and free in a friendly environment.  Think of how complicated our lives have become.  Having to choose clothes, jewelry, footwear, and so many other items only makes it harder to be our natural selves.” - http://m.wikihow.com/Practice-Nudism?utm_content=buffer641e7&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer

“The most important items for a day [free]hike from the lady’s perspective (non girly girl) would be a wee wad of tissue, water, sunscreen, a lightweight long sleeve shirt, sunglasses, comfortable back pack, snacks, and a hat.  Maybe bug spray depending on locale.  For Spartan hikes less than four hours that reduces to hat and sunglasses.  For a Girly girl... Well there wouldn't be any hike unless there was a gift shop involved and an elevator.” – Kayaker, http://freerangenaturism.com/forum/index.php?topic=683.msg3758#msg3758

“I live near a wide open expanse of desert that is crisscrossed with ATV trails.  Some are well used, but most are nearly forgotten.  I absolutely LOVE those nearly forgotten trails!  I went out this morning and had a nice mile or so hike down a few of them without a care in the world.  I didn’t even have a cover-up with me.  I was able to leave all my clothes in the car, except shoes as they are a necessity amongst the cacti, and just enjoyed the warm sun and cool breeze on my skin. . . happy naked trails everyone!” – Nude2this, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=226&idt=27284&vpage=1

Shangri La Friday

Yesterday (11/18/2016) Amy and I drove to Shangri La.  I worked on the trails and she sunned.  Then we both swam for a while.  Later we ate dinner at the Shanghai Club with a couple we’d met from St. George.  They joined us for karaoke and dancing.  It's so nice to dance nude with Amy; she feels so nice and soft and the cuddling is great!  It was a fun naked day.

QUOTES 11/19/2016

“If a school makes a rule that skirts must not be more than three inches above the knee then the pupils adjust their behavior.  In the eyes of the school adults a skirt more than three inches above the knee indicates a daring trollop and two inches above the knee a chaste paragon of virtue.  Change the rule to knee length and the other measurements follow suit.  The psychology is self-adjusting and the rules ultimately futile and counter-productive. . .the end result of the skirt lengthening spiral is the burqa.” - http://www.bn.org.uk/community/ccs_files/campaigns/ChildrenDeserveBetter_2016.pdf

“Lost in thought, I surrender myself to a feeling of blissful peace and contentment, as the warm afternoon rays of the September sun beat down on my exposed skin. . . . Horrified?  All I can say is don’t knock it before you’ve tried it.  Because no one is more surprised than me to find it feels pretty darn good. . . but I have joined a secret society of people who like to ease the stress of modern-day living by enjoying the freedom of swimming naked in beautiful, scenic places.” – Sara Lawrence, http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2200074/Wimbledon-Common-Skinny-dipping-Britains-cheekiest-new-craze.html

“Hiking while nude allows you to feel the breeze and the sun on your body.  Your body will regulate its own temperature and many people find that hiking naked is far superior to hiking while clothed.” – Jordan Blum, http://youngnaturistsamerica.com/nudists-and-the-nudist-lifestyle-defined-by-yna/

“Clothes Optional 2012” (Video) - https://vimeo.com/44806075

“It should be normal to see nude people on a hot day.  Expected even.  Why?  Because it’s comfortable and healthy.  Clothing keeps us from dealing with the heat or regulating our body temperature the ways we should.  It’s also the main reason for body odor.  Trapped sweat helps odor causing bacteria to breed.  It also helps spread dangerous bacteria.  Sweat is meant to help wash away those bacteria making it easier for the skin to stay healthy. . . Staying clean and allowing our bodies to regulate properly means we are healthier and more vibrant than people who have compromised themselves with clothing.” - http://thenakedtao.tumblr.com/post/130947798407/cloptzone-madeinthenude-board-shorts-get

QUOTES 11/18/2016

“I find [carnuding] . . . more comfortable.  When I was younger I suppose there was a modicum of that ‘feeling of getting caught’ that has worn off I just like to be nude and carry over into driving. . . I do find that most people don't notice.  They only see what they expect to see on the highway.  I've been enjoying the recent warm weather and driving quite often nude on my trips around town.  Driving naked just makes driving more enjoyable.” - Awesam, https://www.truenudists.com/groups/view.php?action=viewthread&id=8077&idt=77839&page=3

“Interview with Nicky Hoffman from The Naturist Society” (Video) - https://vimeo.com/89065489

“Our neighbors know that I am a nudist and they do not mind it, even though they themselves do not practice it.  I respect them and they respect me.  I always promote nudism and reinsure people that it is not a sexual thing, but a life style I enjoy and have practiced all my life.” – Randy Fitzgerald, https://www.facebook.com/groups/PromotingNudism/

“Swimming nude is natural.  No other animal clothes itself out of shame.  Other animals may clothe themselves with leaves or grass for protection or warmth, but never out of shame.  Shame is a human concept.  Objectification and sexualization are also human concepts.  We nudists believe that the human body is not inherently sexual or lewd.  We abhor the objectification of people.  We strive to look past the physical and get to know the true person.” - http://heartlandnaturists.tumblr.com/post/147212534869/swimming-nude-is-natural-no-other-animal-clothes

“If your birthday-suit the most comfortable outfit you own?  If you sleep naked, walk around the house naked in the morning, stay naked as long as possible after your morning shower, and are ready to strip down as soon as you get home from work, you may be a nudist.  Nudists are comfortable in their own skin and like the feeling of being free, especially when they’re at home and no one is around.” – Amanda Collins, http://www.truenudists.com/blog/nudism-for-me/

The Season Ends

The last two days (11/16-17/2016) I finished working on the Mingus Freehiking Trail for this season; can’t wait till spring!  Tuesday the weather was beautiful, but it was a little cloudy and cooler on Wednesday, and it looks like it will continue colder from now on, so I guess nude work on the trail is done for the season.  I brought all of my tools out.  I visited the trail at least 16 times over the last couple of months, including several freehikes with Amy (my wife), and one freehike with the local Naturist Arizona group (NAZ).  Being nude in nature is such an enjoyment to me, and this trail is ideal since it is so seldom used.  I never saw anyone on it.  The trail was overgrown when I started, and now extends more than a mile up the canyon.  It is moderately easy.  It now has a potential campsite and a picnic area.  Here are a few final photos:

QUOTES 11/16/2016

“. . . a restaurant is a really great place for the provision, evangelism and promotion of proper naturism. . . your attendance is completely voluntary, there is a good reason for being there (dinner!), the management are entirely complicit because that's the way they want to run their restaurant, there is no possibility of the narrow minded public accidentally seeing and, being a privately owned restaurant, it's not something that needs permission of the law, police, council, etc.“ – John. http://freerangenaturism.com/forum/index.php?topic=801.0;topicseen

“Having a shower in the garden.  Once you take a shower outdoors you'll feel claustrophobic in a shower stall.” – Ron Krugjohann, https://twitter.com/ronkrugjohann/status/733354914869575680

“The human body gets censored.  Genitals, female breasts, and even rear ends get censored. . . It has led us to believe that such body parts censored are obscene for us.  But every body part makes us human. . . Why does nudity have to be censored?” - https://rfgjga1992.wordpress.com/2016/04/28/lets-do-all-this-to-promote-nudism/

“I’m tired of the knee-jerk reaction when ‘church-folks’ find out a member is a naturist.  Even if they say they can accept that member’s choice, the next thing that member hears is, ‘We can’t let you occupy any office within the church,’ as if that member will strip off and run naked through a service. . . [They were] deeply involved in their church and that church then deprived them of their ability to serve. . . that’s next to criminal.” – Tom Pine, Newdsletter, vol. 17, #5, May 2016

“. . . my dilemma, how do I go about telling my friends [that I am a naturist]? . . . Some that I have known for over 20 years, in fact we are more like family than friends, they are the brothers and sisters I never had as a child. . . even though I know some of them will understand, I am still afraid of being alienated as the weird one.  What I mean is being singled out as strange, and having all contact broken, even though they have been there through thick and thin with me. . . or do I even have to tell my friends? . . . my quandary is, how hard things can be to tell someone something you've kept quiet for years.” – Jeff Northcott, https://naturistcommunity.com/articles/32/telling-family-friends

Working Nude Day

It was a beautiful day to work on the Mingus Freehiking Trail (11/14/2016).  The temperature was a little warmer and more comfortable.  Nude felt wonderful.  As always, I abandoned my clothes at the beginning of the trail since this seldom used area can be explored without a clothing net.  I removed some large rocks from the trail and raked a few areas.  I took my time, took some photos, and enjoyed the feel of air and sun on my body.  Later that afternoon, Amy and I spent some time on our land.  I organized the toolbox, and then freehiked the Nature and Mediation Trail while she got some sun.  Cherish each day, especially if you can be nude in nature.  Life is short so each time is precious.

            

     

QUOTES 11/15/2016

“Got my first freehike of the year on the last week on January.  Since I live in the northern Rocky Mountains, I count this as something of an accomplishment.  The valley had been suffering a temperature inversion since right after Christmas.  With temperatures in the low teens (Fahrenheit) I drove out of town up toward an area of sandstone and scattered trees and shrubs-about 1500 feet higher than town.  I was hoping to pass out of the cold, heavier air, and, sure enough, I watched the outdoor thermometer in my vehicle rise quickly to the upper 20's.  OK, that is not exactly tropical, and I left the truck in full winter attire.  Once I got passed the open area near the highway and into the slick rock, the reflected sun off the rocks immediately warmed me.  Before long, I was down to boots, socks, sunglasses, and hat and I was able to comfortably climb all over the rocks for over an hour.  It was pure, natural bliss, hopping from rock to rock, avoiding snow banks when possible.  Next time, however, I must remember to bring gaiters because there were places where knee deep snow could not be avoided.  A little protection on the lower legs would have been nice. . . I am off to a good start!” – Mike

“Naturism is the celebration of living without the hindrance and inconvenience of clothing.” – Rupa, https://twitter.com/Rupa2105/status/762474325869940736

“To me naturism is about a life where I am nature, trying to live in accordance with that fact.  Nudity brings me closer to that ideal.  But being a naturist, also means being an environmentalist.  I have to protect the environment to protect the nature of which I am part.  To protect the nature is therefore also self-protection. . . that implies that I have to choose between clothing to keep warm, or to heat up my house more than necessary.  Using clothes then becomes energy savings, and in a world where wasting energy also is an environmental threat, true naturism shall imply clothing.  Nudity is not a goal in itself, but a means to experience being interconnected and whole.  I then gladly sacrifice nudity if that conflicts with the environment, and enjoy nudity when it is in harmony with the environment.” - http://thoughtsonnaturism.tumblr.com/post/132533225410/naturist-and-environmentalist?is_related_post=1

“Wearing clothes again after the experience [at Nudefest] has been the most difficult thing I have to do because I can see how restrictive textiles are and apart from anything clothes really itch…skin doesn’t.” - https://naturisminsociety.wordpress.com/2016/07/11/a-nude-first-at-nude-fest/

“On June 11, naturists and nudists from the Los Angeles area and beyond participated in the local installment of World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR), the annual event held every June in over 100 cities across the globe. . . An estimated 450 riders gathered near Chinatown . . . Several motorcycle police officers led the parade and a trailing cruiser flashed its lights to alert drivers to stay back and give the bicyclists room to spread out across traffic lanes during the 18-mile route. . . Riders were met along the way by many pedestrian onlookers, who all seemed surprised then happy to see us.  Cell phones came out everywhere to record the mile-long procession of naked people.  Several onlookers were seen suddenly dropping their pants or lifting their tops in solidarity with the riders.  Near the end of the ride, the cyclists encountered an estimated 9,000 people at the world famous Mexican marketplace at El Pueblo / Olvera Street park where they were hosting their annual Tacolandia food competition event.  The Cyclists were definitely amused as the foodies turned almost simultaneously while whipping out their cell phones to record the naked people riding by.” – Gary Mussell, http://youngnaturistsamerica.com/world-naked-bike-ride-los-angeles-2016-scna-review/

QUOTES 11/13/2016

“Africa’s Naked Tribe” (video) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6_vq44Ig_Y

“I love any garden activity when I am nude.  I live on a rural block but still have neighbors and a busy road to contend with.  I can work in most of the backyard nude and wear minimal covering when doing the front.  But I must admit that sometimes I have been enjoying mowing the lawn naked and forgot about the lack of clothes and moved out front only to be sprung by a passing vehicle.  I have had some queer looks and a few comments, but no malice from neighbors up the road who have seen me.” – Ausmanvic, https://www.truenudists.com/forum/viewthread.php?id=19080&page=2

“My first time [nude] is the same as most, I began at home when I was about fifteen years old.  I was raised in a very typical American subdivision in Long Island, NY.  I am the youngest of three, the summers morning was perfect for a quick run.  I followed my daily route which took me down a fire trail next to the railroad tracks.  In a secluded area the urge was very strong so I took off my shorts and tank top the cool morning air felt so wonderful against my skin; I thought it helped me run faster.  I became very comfortable with myself in a short period of time.  Running naked down a wooded dirt road was exciting and very intoxicating.  Sadly, the trail was coming to an end I began to see buildings and cars.  My brief moment of being nude had come to an end.  When I got back to my house everybody else had left for work so I stripped down and stayed nude for the remainder of the day.  Since then anytime I can get to a nude beach or a nudist camp, I go when I can, but nothing will match those first moments back that summer so long ago.” – HRB, Virginia, http://aanr.com/first-time-nudist-experience&page=45

“I never really liked dancing, until we started going to nude dances at the different resorts we go to.  Now my wife has to drag me off the dance floor!” - Majandc, https://www.truenudists.com/forum/viewthread.php?id=31955&page=5

“I had never considered walking about the city topfree.  I usually sneak around to be clothes free outside. . . Gingerbread had been researching topfreedom diligently for quite some time and learned that it was legal for women to be topfree in Washington, DC.  In fact, she had successfully taken walks in the city without arrest. . . I, too, could enjoy that right here in my city.  So, I was very excited to join her. . . ‘But WHY am I nervous?’ . . . This year I have been to a number of clothing optional places. . . Then it dawned on me: all of those places were far away behind gates, trees and covered windows.  This walk would be my first time expressing any aspect of my clothes free life in the midst of the rest of society, and I had no idea how people might react. . .We jumped into the truck and took off to Rock Creek Park for our stroll.  There were plenty of people out running and cycling, families playing and enjoying the day. . . A light breeze stroked my cheeks, and the sun warmed my skin. . . I took a pause, removed my shirt and stuffed it in my bag.  Gingerbread removed her shirt too and there we were topfree.  As the fresh air washed over me, I felt relief and that connection with the environment that I had missed dearly.  It made a difference feeling like I had a right to be there, bare-chested, in the presence of everyone else.  Individuals, couples and families passed us, sometimes greeting with a cheerful hello, sometimes saying nothing at all.  One gentleman taking his afternoon run passed us by and gave a quick thumbs up.  We even encountered a group playing volleyball near a rest spot.  Everyone saw us, but they simply carried on with their game.  It surprised me that not a single person said anything lewd or rude to us.  We were simply walking and conversing topfree, and people treated us like they would anyone else.”  [See video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb1qgdsqHT0] – Hontouni, https://breastsarehealthy.wordpress.com/2015/12/19/free-to-be-free-hontouni-hearts-first-topfree-walk-in-the-city/