It’s not uncommon online to encounter debates about the non sexual nature of naturism. Naturists are often are demeaned and labeled as prudes when they insist on separating the naturist way of life and public sexual behavior. For a naturist, a positive approach to sexuality intertwines with core values of body acceptance, naturalness, respect and freedom. We’ve found some instances of positive expressions of naturist sexuality in film and television. Before we give our examples let’s explore why this is important.
Embracing the Body as Natural and Beautiful:
Naturism promotes a deep sense of comfort and acceptance of the human body in its natural state. This can translate directly into a positive view of one’s own sexuality and the sexuality of others. Without the societal pressures of constant concealment and judgment of the naked form, individuals may develop a healthier and more integrated relationship with their physical selves, including their sexual selves. This may lead to greater self-acceptance and confidence, which are often foundational for a positive sexual experience.
Sexuality as a Natural Expression:
Naturism emphasizes a natural way of being in life and a connection to the natural environment. Sexuality can be viewed as a fundamental and healthy aspect of human nature, much like eating, sleeping, or socializing. This perspective can serve to destigmatize sexual thoughts, allowing for a more healthy engagement with one’s own sexuality. It can place sexual expression in the appropriate context, with consenting partners. As seen in Blind Sex.
Open Communication and Respect:
While the open and accepting atmosphere found within many naturist communities may foster more honest and direct communication about bodies and sexuality. This does not happen at the cost of creating unsafe spaces for participation in community. Respect for individual safety and consent is paramount in that environment, ensuring that all sexual interactions are appropriate, positive and mutually agreed upon.
Sensory Awareness and Connection:
Being unencumbered by clothing can heighten sensory awareness. The feeling of skin against skin, the warmth of the sun, the touch of the breeze – these experiences can contribute to a greater appreciation of the physical body and its capacity for pleasure. For naturists, sexuality can become more deeply connected to these natural sensations and the intimacy of shared physical presence. It doesn’t however give the freedom to behave in a way that is harmful to others in the naturist community.
Challenging Societal Norms and Shame:
Naturism inherently challenges many of the restrictive and often shame-based societal norms surrounding the body. By choosing to live comfortably in their natural state, naturists can actively dismantle internalized negative messages about their bodies and ultimately their sexuality. This can lead to a more positive and joyful experience of sexual intimacy.
Potential Challenges and Considerations:
It’s important to acknowledge that in a naturist context, navigating sexuality requires ongoing communication, respect, and awareness of boundaries. It is crucial to maintain a culture of consent and consideration for individual safety levels. Just as in any other social context, education about healthy sexuality, consent, and respectful interactions remains vital.
In Summary:
A positive approach to sexuality for a naturist is often characterized by a deep acceptance of the body, a view of sexuality as natural and healthy, open communication, heightened sensory awareness, and separating sexual behavior from public social nudity. By embracing their natural state, naturists can cultivate a more integrated, confident, and joyful relationship with their own sexuality and with others, always prioritizing respect for others and consent.
With all that said here are some examples of positive expressions of naturist sexuality we have found in film and television.
- De Patrick
- Blind Sex
- Barefoot to the Neck
- Coming Up – Season 1 Episode 1 – Naked
- Nude – Season 1 – Episode 8
What do you think? Bare your thought in the comments.
