What is Naturism?

Ethical or philosophical nudism has a long history, with many advocates of the benefits of enjoying nature without clothing. At the turn of the 20th century, organizations emerged to promote social nudity and to establish private campgrounds and resorts for that purpose. Since the 1960s, with the acceptance of public places for clothing-optional recreation, individuals who do not identify themselves as naturists or nudists have been able to casually participate in nude activities. Nude recreation opportunities vary widely around the world, from isolated places known mainly to locals to officially-designated nude beaches and parks.

Once you are among like-minded company (for example, at a naturist  club or on a naturist beach), you will soon find that, although we are  all different, we are all the same too in that very few of us are  perfect. Lumps, bumps, wrinkles and scars are what make us normal human  beings, and naturism is all about body acceptance. Far from feeling  self-conscious, if you join in you will almost certainly forget your hang-ups in no time. In fact, if you’re the only one who’s dressed, you  may feel even more left out. Young, old, fat, thin – it really doesn’t  matter. 

However, if going naked among friends makes you think more about  how you could look and feel healthier, then this too is a good thing –  but it must be for yourself, and not to please others.

You can start with your own home. If you like the idea of going  naked, then (if it’s warm enough) try walking around the house nude and  getting comfortable in your own skin. Get used to looking at yourself in the mirror, even if you’re not happy with your body. It’s your body,  and it’s the only one you’ve got – learn to love it for what it is. 

Once  you feel ready to join others, there are a host of places in Australia, for starters there is our Nudist location map for a comprehensive listing of everywhere in the world. There are beaches all around the Australian coast where naturism is officially sanctioned and plenty of secluded beaches where it isn't. There are also scores of naturist clubs around the country, so there’s bound to be one near you. They will have a range of facilities and activities to enjoy as nature intended, and you should receive a warm welcome, as naturists are a friendly, social bunch in general. The Queensland Naturist Association also organises a range of annual events for you to meet others and get involved in the QLD Naturist scene.

This is very frequently asked question, to which the answer is  usually: it’s very unlikely to happen. Contrary to popular opinion, nudity in its simple state is not sexual, and naturist clubs are not sexualised environments. The diversity of young, old, fat, thin should mean that sex is the last thing on your mind. If you’re nervous or stimulated and it does happen, the best thing to do is to  cover yourself with a towel, roll over on to your front until it subsides, or take a dip in the pool. The worst thing you can do is walk around parading it. This is likely to see you get chucked out of your club.

Be very careful when you get your camera out. Venues might have strict rules on photography, as obviously people may be sensitive about pictures of them naked appearing where they don’t want them. Make sure you know the club’s policy on cameras before you start snapping away.  Make sure you have the express permission of people you are taking  photographs of (if you’re a professional photographer, ask them to sign a  model release form), and try your best not to get anyone else in the  background in the shot. If you’re on a beach, again, exercise caution.  By all means, take photos of you and your friends, but don’t point the camera indiscriminately, and especially not if there are children  around.

Well, here is your opportunity to tell them, and dispel any myths!  They will only think it’s weird and wrong if they are misinformed, and you as a naturist have a great chance to put them right about what the lifestyle really is all about. You could direct them to websites such as this one  which promote a healthy, non-sexual approach to nudity. You really would be helping the movement progress. It is understandable though, that some naturists choose not to tell others  about their lifestyle. We do sadly still live in an age where the mention of nudity sends some people into a fit of the vapours, and people in some child-centred professions such as teaching choose to keep  their naturism secret as it might lead to more trouble than it’s worth.  This is sad, as naturists have nothing whatsoever to hide, and there is  nothing shameful or wrong about nudity. We would always advise openness and honesty wherever possible – because if you are secretive, it looks like you do have something to hide, which is not the right impression.

There is nothing harmful, shameful or embarrassing about the naked human body.