What is Naturism?
“Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature, characterized by the practice of communal nudity, with the intention of encouraging respect for oneself, respect for others and for the environment.” As stated in this definition from the International Naturist Federation, naturism is the practice of nudity in a social setting. Though nudity is the most obvious aspect of naturism, it is part of a much wider context. Naturism promotes wholesomeness and stability of the human body, mind, and spirit. These come most easily to those who shed the psychological and social encumbrance of clothing, to see and respect the human body as created. Naturism also promotes good health through complete contact of the body with the natural elements. It is practiced as much as possible in environments free of the pollution and stress of modern society. It is therefore associated with an enlightened, holistic approach to nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and social interaction.
History
Naturist groups are active around the world, as individual as the places they inhabit. The hardiness of early naturism (no smoking or drinking, vegetarianism, and compulsory calisthenics) gave way to the somewhat freer way of being in the late 20th century. Social naturism first appeared in Canada about 1939. The first Canadian naturists were mostly immigrants from Europe who had gained experience with the naturism that had started there about 1900. Acceptance and interest in naturism has grown considerably. The Federation Of Canadian Naturists (FCN) has contributed much to this interest by being a ready source of information to the media, participating in presentations, holding seminars, and presenting naturism to the public at health fairs. The FCN exists to do all this work as a nationally incorporated, fully autonomous, Canadian non-profit organization, with directors and staff ready to openly discuss all aspects of naturism. The FCN has greatly added to the credibility and public acceptance of naturism and the interest of the media.
Naturism & Families
Naturism is founded on family participation. Children in naturist families learn to appreciate the body as part of their natural environment. They grow up with healthy attitudes and accept the physical nature of both sexes of all ages without fear or shame.
Nude living thus removes barriers to communication between people and fosters appreciation of the environment. It leads to healthier and more humane living: richer, simpler, and enlightened by joy and freedom.
A 2014 survey of Canadians found that 21% of Canadians have engaged in public naturism and 25% are open to the idea.