Nude vs Erotic?

[lustforlife]

I would like others opinions on this subject. I myself feel that it is natural to be naked, but one cannot deny that the humanity is a very sexual and it is also natural to be a sexual being. Nudity is not necessarily sexy, but it can be. How do other people feel about this?

When I was in Europe, the culture seemed less ?hung up? about sex and nudity in general.

[lustforlife]

I would like others opinions on this subject. I myself feel that it is natural to be naked, but one cannot deny that the humanity is a very sexual and it is also natural to be a sexual being. Nudity is not necessarily sexy, but it can be. How do other people feel about this?

When I was in Europe, the culture seemed less ?hung up? about sex and nudity in general.

[Bob S.]

Sexuality is a part of being a human being. And one can be erotic wearing clothes just as much as they can be erotic being naked. It all has to do with the environment, the situation, and the actions and mindset of the person in question and the onlooker.

Nudity is not always sexual. People sleep naked and take showers naked. That does not equate to sexuality. It can when the right "ingredients" are added.

Bob S.

[nudeM]

One can be nude, without being erotic. Being in a textile environment, even wearing the right clothing, one can also be erotic. It's how you view the individual and what the surroundings are at the time. Being nude in a social environment at a beach, nudist resort or an occaisional outing, being erotic, to me, doesn't exist. In another scenario, being nude on a romantic getaway, explicit nude activities, parties, then the nude body could very well be viewed as being erotic.

It's just the situation that is occuring at the time, that differentiates nudity verses erotic.

[gamblefish]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by nudeM:
One can be nude, without being erotic. Being in a textile environment, even wearing the right clothing, one can also be erotic. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>However one can never be erotic in polyester.

I think a lot of "erotic" is in the mind. I have noticed nudist websites that declare something like "If you are looking for pornography, you won't find it here...", but I would bet that a lot of people (not nudists) that look at nudist pics find them erotic. If not, then why do I read about gawkers at nude beaches? Some are there just to get their jollies. Like nudeM said, it's all in the mind.

I have just recently started social nuding. The majority of the people I have met are very nice people. But a few there just give me the creeps. Anyone else have this experience?

Yes, I agree that it's all in the individual's mind. You have gawkers because seeing naked people excites them. Personally, I find a good looking woman in the right clothes or swimsuit to be very erotic. To me nude isn't erotic.

We had a man visiting at a nudist club who sat near the other men and played with himself. Apparently, it was the men and not the women that excited him. Two different times when I turned over to bake another part of my body, he quickly let go of himself like he'd dropped a hot potato, and I knew what he'd been doing.

[gamblefish]

Was anything done about it Jon-Marc?

I'm not sure , Gamblefish. I do know I never saw him there again, and I was there a lot since I was a member. He wore a funny-looking black wig. It was so cheap looking that it was obviously a wig. He let go of himself so fast that I couldn't be absolutely sure I saw what I thought I did, but the more I thought about it the more sure I was as to what he was doing.

There was one time that I went out to the pool area at the same nudist club and sat down. One of the female members who knew me came up to me and said that another lady wanted to report ME for playing with myself. It turned out that I had sat down in the same chair that another man had been in while playing with himself. When she saw me she assumed I was the same man. The other female member told her that it wasn't me--that it was a different man. I nearly got reported for doing something I didn't do because of mistaken identiy. Apparently, the woman wasn't looking at the man's face since she mistook me for him, or maybe there was enough resemblance that she couldn't tell the difference. Everyone's supposed to have a twin somewhere in the world. I've been told a number of times that "I saw a man who looked just like you". /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Vin]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by lustforlife:
I would like others opinions on this subject. I myself feel that it is natural to be naked, but one cannot deny that the humanity is a very sexual and it is also natural to be a sexual being. Nudity is not necessarily sexy, but it can be. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I agree very much with other posters that eroticism is in the eye of the beholder. According to my Psych of Human Sexuality course in college, most of our sexuality as humans is a product of the mind.

Honestly, I also think clothing tends to be much more erotic than simple nudity. Even "conservative" garments tend to emphasize body form in a way designed to be attractive.

I was given a piece of advice on this topic once: You ARE human, so BE human. Sexuality is a part of that whether nude or clothed. Just like having hair or being a good cook, it's neither good nor bad, it simply IS.

[shãybare]

Being sexual is part of being human but some think that means that gives them the right to act on their sexual thoughts anytime or anywhere they want. Being human also means we should have the ability to exercise good judgement.

[MaxUK]

In my view there is, and always be a connection with nudity and sex. People who claim there is such a thing as 'non sexual nudity' are kidding themselves.

When someone is nude, the sexual organs and area around them (pubic zone) are visible - fact. I find it very hard to believe that someone who would ordinarily class themselves as 'sexual' in some situations (ie. when lovemaking using the sexual organs for sex) can completely turn off this aspect of their life experience when in a 'naturist' environment and call this particular incidence of genital exposure as being 'non-sexual'.

The sexual part of genital exposure may be dulled, turned off, ignored, accepted but not important (call it what you will) in a naturist environment - but to say it is 'NON-sexual' is, I would say, to be betraying your innermost urges and feelings.

I say to naturists out there - please, just be honest about the whole thing. Nudity is bound to have a closer connection with sex that textile-ism (ie. you can't have sex when wearing clothes, you can while naked) but you are mature/enlightened/wise enough to accept that each has its own place, its own time and its own emotions.

Max

[Rik]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by MaxUK:
....People who claim there is such a thing as 'non sexual nudity' are kidding themselves.

When someone is nude, the sexual organs and area around them (pubic zone) are visible - fact. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Max,

It's certainly true that some people cannot separate nudity and sex and you seem to be one of them. But look at it this way - surely the primary purpose of the genitals is urination not sex. Unless you're some sort of super stud I suspect that even you use your penis for peeing significantly more often than you use it for sex. So why call it a sex organ? Why? Be honest - you're obsessed with sex aren't you? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>...you can't have sex when wearing clothes... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>LOL. Hey, I can even do it with my shoes on! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Rik

[nudeM]

Gamblefish and others have also explained that even gawkers can get turned on by viewing the naked body, even if the nudity is in a socially related atmosphere. While this may be true, there are even gawkers who like to gawk at clothed individuals, and get turned on as well. These are the "sickies" that we need to rid ourselves from. There are a lot of sick people out there and we must keep our guards up at all times.

Jon Marc: About that man who was "playing" with himself, did anybody say anything to either him or the staff, like the two ladies you later mentioned in the same post? Seems likely, since, as you mentioned, he no longer hangs around. Simple gawking isn't really welcomed, but we have accepted the notion, that they will be tolerated, within reason, but if the gawker is caught "playing" with him/herself, then, these are the ones who need to be reported, especially if the gawking is taking place where there are children around.

It was also mentioned about the people who get turned on by viewing the naked body over the internet. Maybe, these are the same gawkers who hang around the nude beaches and resorts. We'll never know. While wearing clothes, maybe you could flash the gawker and embarrass him, but if you're nude, what do you flash?

nudeM,

It's quite possible that someone did say something to the man or a staff member, but I wouldn't know. It was the only time I saw him. I suspect he wore the wig to disguise himself.

[Bob S.]

Like Jon-Marc, I also had a very disturbing experience. The thing is that even upon meeting him, I got a seriously negative vibe from this guy. While normally, I would be happy to chat with someone friendly, I just felt uncomfortable with him. And unfortunately, my first impression was dead-on. He seemed to follow me around the park and ultimately, asked me for sexual favors. I talked to the office about him, but I could not recall his name. I think I had enough info, however. I don't know what came of the situation as that happened to be my last visit to the park (until tomorrow).

And surprise Max, I'm going to disagree with you. But I will agree with you that there is a connection between nudity and sex, but there's also a connection between nudity and urnating, nudity and showering, nudity and pagan worship, nudity and baptisms, etc.

Thepart where we disagree is semantics. You see nudity us as "mature/enlightened/wise enough to accept that each has its own place, its own time and its own emotions." but not non-sexual. We say that our ability to do that creates environmnets where non-sexual nudity is possible.

"Nudity is bound to have a closer connection with sex that textile-ism"

So why do prostitutes doll themselves up for "work?" I think there is a closer connection with sexuality and trying to turn someone on with clothes than with nakedness. I would like to see that in a study, who a group of people finds more sexy, clothed people or naked people.

Bob S.

[unkat27]

I think the problem with gawkers is that they are sexually neglected and ignorant. The chances are more likely that they came from a home where the very idea of nudity and sex was a forbidden subject, as it is with many conservative catholic families. Because of their ignorance of the subjects, they have failed to make intelligent contacts with people who were from more enlightened families. I myself am somewhat of a voyeur, and I like to look at a beautiful human body when I can, but I'm no gawker and I realize that one must make intelligent communication with anyone before they can fully appreciate their beauty. Erotic
thoughts about someone are dead-ends without their consent, and close communication is necessary for a truly erotic connection.
Gawkers need to escape their ignorant hang-ups and misconceptions. If, on the other hand, they simply get some thrill out of gawking and playing with themselves, they need to find some place set aside for their kind, like a strip-joint with dark corners. Unkat27

[Gary Naturist]

Re MaxUK's comment, I posted a couple of carefully designed surveys on this site a while ago to investigate whether there is a sexual element in nudists' practice of nudism.

In the first survey, two-thirds of the 125 respondents indicated that they have some type of sexual reaction from nudist activities, either secondary or major.

In the second survey (about 80 respondents), those who have some sexual reaction indicated that it ranges from feeling more receptive to sex to full arousal. For about 10 percent of the total respondents, nudist activities are a major sexual turnon.

Sexual reactions happen either at the time, or later on when recalling the nudist activities. Some use memories of their nudist activities as a means of arousal, either with or without a partner, later on.

As sexual display or activity is rarely tolerated in a nudist or clothing-optional setting, nudists sublimate their physical responses and engage only in non-sexual activities in these settings. So we don't see evidence of sexual reactions.

From these surveys, it is my view that, for the majority of nudists who responded, part of the enjoyment of nudism and nudist activities is the sexual buzz (minor or major) that they get.

This is not to say that all nudists have sexual feelings associated with nudism. Some people clearly do not. However, when the nudist establishment says that "nudism is not about sex", I think that they are mistaken. A better statement would be that "nudism is not primarily about sex".

Note: The surveys mentioned are not scientifically credible and are, at best, respresentative of the people who participate in Clothesfree forums.

Gary

[Ginge of Oz]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Gary Naturist:
Re MaxUK's comment, I posted a couple of carefully designed surveys on this site a while ago to investigate whether there is a sexual element in nudists' practice of nudism.

In the first survey, two-thirds of the 125 respondents indicated that they have some type of sexual reaction from nudist activities, either secondary or major.

In the second survey (about 80 respondents), those who have some sexual reaction indicated that it ranges from feeling more receptive to sex to full arousal. For about 10 percent of the total respondents, nudist activities are a major sexual turnon.

Sexual reactions happen either at the time, or later on when recalling the nudist activities. Some use memories of their nudist activities as a means of arousal, either with or without a partner, later on.

As sexual display or activity is rarely tolerated in a nudist or clothing-optional setting, nudists sublimate their physical responses and engage only in non-sexual activities in these settings. So we don't see evidence of sexual reactions.

From these surveys, it is my view that, for the majority of nudists who responded, part of the enjoyment of nudism and nudist activities is the sexual buzz (minor or major) that they get.

This is not to say that all nudists have sexual feelings associated with nudism. Some people clearly do not. However, when the nudist establishment says that "nudism is not about sex", I think that they are mistaken. A better statement would be that "nudism is not primarily about sex".

Note: The surveys mentioned are not scientifically credible and are, at best, respresentative of the people who participate in Clothesfree forums.

Gary <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I agree 100% with what you have said, Gary!

"Nudism is not primarily about sex" is about the most succinct and correct assessment I have yet heard of the lifestyle we prefer. What is interesting, of course, is that sex and various sexual activities are a part of all lifestyles, because they are a part of being human. With or without our clothes, we are sexual beings.

I love to sleep nude, but that's more about comfort than sex (unless of course my wife is nude too and we're both "in the mood")! Are there any guys like me out there who haven't got up out of bed in the morning with a major erection? Sexual reactions like this are a part of our normal body chemistry. As for showering, bathing and so on, usually those activities are non-sexual and always nude, but do them with your partner and they may well become sexual!

Everyone, nudist or otherwise, will have sexual reactions to certain situations. How many people do you know that have never been "turned on" by the sight of a person, clothed or nude, who appealed to them?

I have long thought that the European nudists have had the right idea about sexuality and nudism. Why worry about erections, for example? All males will have them at least a few times each day (unless they are candidates for major heart trouble and the vascular system isn't working well). The reasons can be anything from a small sexual thought to things like the heat of the sun, running and other activities. Get a group of half a dozen guys together nude at any time, and at least one will have a semi-erect penis. Get them to lie on their backs in the sun, go for a run together or play some strenuous sport, or give them a similar number of nude ladies to interact with, and I'd be very surprised if they aren't all semi-erect at least. European nudists would view this as normal, and allow them to display what is a natural reaction. In some countries, though, they would be made to cover up the erection. This view, unfortunately, is given credence by those nudists who view nudity as being totally divorced from sex.

Interestingly, while I love to be nude, my wife and children are not nudists. My wife gets annoyed if I get around the house nude, and do ordinary stuff like household chores nude. Why? Because for her, nudity equals sex! "If he's nude, he must want sex", is basically what she is thinking. No amount of explanation about non-sexual nudity will convince her otherwise. I think that this underlines the problem. Many non-nudists view nudity as sexual. Many nudists view nudity as non-sexual. The truth is that nudity, like humanity, is somewhere between!

Let's all strive for tolerance and acceptance, and avoid the "us and them" attitudes!

[Angel]

Ginge:

Well said, and thanks for pointing out (again!) that erections are normal & natural bodily functions that may or may not have anything to do with sexual stimulation. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

I wonder if it's that nude people are more likely to feel sexually responsive due to being nude, or if they're more likely to feel *less inhibited* due to being nude?

For me, I think it's more the lowering of inhibitions that leads to feeling more comfortable and at ease, which leads to a more intimate interaction (not necessarily sexual!) with those around me.

[Fresh Air]

I would propose that nudity has nothing to do with sexuality. Sexuality is more dependent on the attraction between two humans. Think of tribes in South America or Africa where nudity is common. In North America, we have just attached being nude with sex and sexuality.

Of course, revealing ones own nude form can be a way of showing trust and innitiating intimacy. But this too is not directly tied to actual nudity. If so, would it not work for any persona, male or female? I can't quite put a finger on it, but there is more than just displaying ones nudity. It could just be done in so many non-sexual ways and not elicit the same response.

In regards to MaxUK's comments. Not to be gross, but if the sex organs alone are the vector of sexuality, would it be sexual if they were chopped of and presented apart from the body? Would a dead body even be sexual? (I've disected enough to know otherwise). There is something more than the body that manifests our sexuality. It is the person, who we are inside of our bodies. Actions in life display sexuality more than the clothed or unclothed body alone. But again, we are programmable to an extent and if one has programmed themselves to associate nudity alone with sex and sexuality, then we can not deny that there would be an association.

[Fresh Air]

In response to Gary Naturists surveys, thay make a valid point. However, those who regularly visit textile beaches might have answered identically about their own experiences in a clothed environment. Maybe it could be taken a step further. I know in my college days I very much enjoyed sitting in classes full of beautiful women. Everyone was clothed, yet the "sexual buzz" was always present. Does the sexuality of it really come from nudity? Or are we sexual beings in any situation?

[Fresh Air]

In regards to Jon-Marc and other's experiences with blatant sexuality. I've had my own situations to deal with. Guys playing with themselves while they watched me (not dropping the hot potatoe). Guys follwing me. Undiscrete sexual encounters (hetero and homo). Once two guys even followed me when I went exploring in a narrow canyon. I found out on my way out, where one proceeded to start playing with himself and made me go off the direct pathway to get around him. Not the safest of environments...

I'm not the biggest fan of mixing sexuality with nudism. But for some it seems impossible see the two as separate entities. While it is easy to get angry or hate these people, you gotta feel a little sorry for them aswell. What a miserable life it would be. Instead of seeing me, they just see my body, therefore destroying any chance to ever know the person I am. The same is true in social environment too. Like a club. A guy or girl propositioning me for sex usually ruined any chance of developing an aquaintance.

I wish there was some way of preventing the poor taste of sexual displays, because this is not what the nudist environment is about or what is leagal/acceptable even on a moral level.

I am sorry for myself and those that have experienced the unpleasentness. However, for me, they are only a small percentage compared to the positive experience that the environment can bring.

Overall, in comparison to the total number of people at nudist venues, the perverts who openly display inapropriate sexual behavior are very few. If they're reported there could be fewer still.

While I may not report some guy fondling himself who stops when someone sees him, I would report one who continued doing this after being seen. The man I saw didn't exactly have an erection, but it was obvious he was slightly aroused while fondling himself and looking at me and some other men who were sunning ourselves.

While I get pleasure and enjoyment out of being nude either alone or with others, nudity alone gives me no sexual pleasure. I certainly don't sit around fondling myself while staring at other people--male or female. I'm ADDICTED to being nude. I'm miserable when I can't be nude, because, for me, it's the natural way to be.

[Gary Naturist]

Ginge of Oz said: Are there any guys like me out there who haven't got up out of bed in the morning with a major erection? Sexual reactions like this are a part of our normal body chemistry.

Re morning erections, there is an expert on sleep deprivation named Janes Maas (do a google search for "Maas" and "sleep"). He says that:
* We experience REM sleep 4 or 5 times per night.
* We dream only during REM sleep.
* We are almost paralyzed from the neck down during REM sleep (else we would physically act out our dreams)
* We remember dreams only if we wake up during, or within 30 seconds after completing a period of REM sleep.
* Erections are a side effect of REM sleep and don't have anything to do with a full bladder.
* Women have engorgement-type responses that are equivalent to men's erections as a side effect of REM sleep.

This explanation of morning erections is more intuitive than the full bladder one. We don't get similar erections when we have a full bladder during waking hours.

Gary

Gary

[Fresh Air]

I think morning erections also have to do with blood pressure. In the morning (compared to during the night) blood pressure rises in relation to waking and in anticipation to activity. This is why heart attacks are most common in the mornings...but may also be an explaination of morning erections.

I don't sleep on the beach, though. So, that sort of thing hasn't been a problem for me /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Bob S.]

I also like Gary's conclusion that "nudism is not primarily about sex." I will agree with that. There are people on both sides where it is non-sexual vs very sexual. But personally, I think that most people (nudists) see it as a non-issue.

And if I may repeat myself, Oz, I don't see necessarily see nudity as sexual or non-sexual. It is not completely separated from sexuality as we are sexual beings, but I see behaviours and situations as sexual or non-sexual.

A date between a man and a woman at a fancy restaurant can be considered potentially sexual. Bieng at a nude beach with your mother is not sexual. Being in bed with your wife can be sexual. Being in your bed with your wife and kids is not sexul. It's all about the situation that decided if something is sexual, not the clothing or lack thereof.

Bob S.

[lustforlife]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Bob S.:
I also like Gary's conclusion that "nudism is not primarily about sex." I will agree with that. There are people on both sides where it is non-sexual vs very sexual. But personally, I think that most people (nudists) see it as a non-issue.

And if I may repeat myself, Oz, I don't see necessarily see nudity as sexual or non-sexual. It is not completely separated from sexuality as we are sexual beings, but I see behaviours and situations as sexual or non-sexual.

A date between a man and a woman at a fancy restaurant can be considered potentially sexual. Bieng at a nude beach with your mother is not sexual. Being in bed with your wife can be sexual. Being in your bed with your wife and kids is not sexul. It's all about the situation that decided if something is sexual, not the clothing or lack thereof.

Bob S. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I opened up a can of worms. Bob S. I respect your opinion. I don?t have an argument against it.

[TXK NUDE]

Okay, three cents from me...

1. Anyone who saw ME naked would NOT think it sexual. Only my wife would find my 450 lbs frame beautiful, but that is more about love than sexual attraction. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

2. Nudity is NOT sexual. My son is naked in our home, and neither I nor my wife are arousd by his nudity...neither is he aroused by our nudity. Anyone who is aroused by a two year old is SICK! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

3. Unequivically, any man who sports an erection in front of my wife or my children WILL get a punch in the nose! Your natural action will most certainly leaad to my natural RE-action! One man has already sported an erection to my wife, and I should have punched him then, becuase later he attempted to have sex with her against her will! If I ever see him again in a private place, he'll be sporting a shiner, and NOT between his legs! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

[nudeM]

TXKNUDE: It's obvious that the individual you mentioned about having an erection was making sexual advances towards your wife. Indeed, I would have done the same thing, but would you have "punched" him if his erection was an "innocent" one, and was just conversing with the two of you? I have had this happen to me, and the individual did not even blink an eye, we just carried on our conversation as usual. Eventually, it went away, but the fact is, it does happen at the most inappropriate of times. Thanks

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by TXK NUDE:


2. Nudity is NOT sexual. My son is naked in our home, and neither I nor my wife are arousd by his nudity...neither is he aroused by our nudity. Anyone who is aroused by a two year old is SICK! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Nudity is sometimes sexual and sometimes not sexual. It depends on the time, place, who is present, etc.

[florida-david]

personally i think morning erections are the result of a bladder that is full and needs to be emptied. it usually works for me this way.

as for the man sporting an erection during normal conversations, there have been numerous threads on natural erections, i hope everyone's re-action is not to punch someone with an erection. feel free to punch away if the erection-man proceeds with sexual advances, but let's not beat each other up over innocent natural reactions!!!

[Bob S.]

Morning erections: as far as I know, they are caused by increased blood flow during REM sleep, as was already postualted. Having to use the restroom in the AM is coincidal as it could have been 6-8 hours since the last time you went.

Texarkana,

1. People can find different body shapes as sexy. There may be someone who enjoys overweight men.

2. I have been assuming in this thread that all talk about nudity vs. sexuality has been about adults only, not child nudity.

3. I respect you for defending your lady. Just remember that all actions have a reaction and your reaction could lead to police actions. And why punch him in the nose? I say let him really "feel" it, if you know where I mean.

Bob S.

[nudeM]

Bab S.: Punching a guy in the nose is far to lenient for a person who made an unwanted sexual advance towards your wife. The punishment, in my mind, would be far more serious and much more drastic. It's obvious that this erection was totally sexually induced which was not an innocent one.

Florida-David: I think, as being adults, we know the difference of innocent erections, as opposed to sexually induced ones. It's the people who go around sporting one like a **** -of-the-walk (no pun intended), that need to be addressed. If you read my thread, you will see that I had an erection that just "popped" up when talking to an individual at a beach. We both caried on with our conversation, as if it never happened. Eventually, it did go away.

[fred950]

Another point Max-UK seems to miss is a person major sex organ is NOT between a persons leg...It's between one's EARS.

[Ginge of Oz]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Bob S.:
I also like Gary's conclusion that "nudism is not primarily about sex." I will agree with that. There are people on both sides where it is non-sexual vs very sexual. But personally, I think that most people (nudists) see it as a non-issue.

And if I may repeat myself, Oz, I don't see necessarily see nudity as sexual or non-sexual. It is not completely separated from sexuality as we are sexual beings, but I see behaviours and situations as sexual or non-sexual.

A date between a man and a woman at a fancy restaurant can be considered potentially sexual. Bieng at a nude beach with your mother is not sexual. Being in bed with your wife can be sexual. Being in your bed with your wife and kids is not sexul. It's all about the situation that decided if something is sexual, not the clothing or lack thereof.

Bob S. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>You are right, Bob. It is the situation, rather than the clothing or lack thereof, that is either sexual or not. What is often a problem where non-nudists are concerned, is that they usually tend to equate nudity with sex. There is nothing much I can think of which is less sexual than doing housework or gardening, but if I do these things nude, both my wife and at least one of my neighbours would be likely to call what I'm doing sexual behaviour. That's precisely because they have learned the message of Western society which screams "nudity = sex". As some others on this forum have correctly pointed out, if we look at native societies where nudity is the norm, they never see the nudity itself as sexual, and nudity never offends. I've always loved the example of the culture of the Trobriand Islanders in Melanesia to the north of Australia. They are never offended by nudity or sex, and in fact encourage their adolescents to have sexual encounters. If you really want to offend them, simply eat in front of them. Their culture demands that eating be done only when facing away from others. If this sounds strange, then the comparison with our culture's strange view of nudity as offensive and overtly sexual is valid. It is the cultural mores which produces the standard response from members of a society, and such things are learned.

I'm not an anthropologist, but I do love anthropology...almost as much as I love being nude!

[Ginge of Oz]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Angel:
Ginge:

Well said, and thanks for pointing out (again!) that erections are normal & natural bodily functions that may or may not have anything to do with sexual stimulation. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

I wonder if it's that nude people are more likely to feel sexually responsive due to being nude, or if they're more likely to feel *less inhibited* due to being nude?

For me, I think it's more the lowering of inhibitions that leads to feeling more comfortable and at ease, which leads to a more intimate interaction (not necessarily sexual!) with those around me. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Thank you for your comments, Angel!

I know that it is true that inhibitions are certainly lowered when a person is nude. The sort of "power games" that clothing allows just aren't possible, and you can just be as you are. I love being nude when I can (without offending anyone else), but would really love to be able to be nude whenever and wherever I like. I understand your own "soapbox" about top-freedom, because women certainly should be able to bare their breasts if they are more comfortable that way. Indeed, why shouldn't we all be able to drop our bottoms as well as our tops?

While on the subject of inhibitions, I have a highly inhibited wife who has difficulties with open nudity. As a woman who enjoys the freedom of nudity, could you think of anything that might help me help her to lower her inhibitions, and appreciate that she really won't have to worry about her weight, the size of her breasts, and so on? What she often says, Angel, are things like "You won't make me into a nudist". It's difficult to explain the way that nudity allows you to drop inhibitions to someone who is so inhibited that they won't try open nudity.

I thank you again for your wise words!

[TXK NUDE]

Yes...erections are natural, but so is menstruating, urinating, and defecating, but NONE are appropriate in public arena...even nude ones!

IT has nothing to do with naturalness, but appropriateness.

[Angel]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by TXK NUDE:
Yes...erections are natural, but so is menstruating, urinating, and defecating, but NONE are appropriate in public arena...even nude ones!

IT has nothing to do with naturalness, but appropriateness. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>IMNSHO, there's a world of difference between performing excretory functions publicly (which does not, BTW, include menstruation!) and body tissue doing the job it's designed to do.

ALL of us here have erectile tissue that engorges sporadically throughout the day, due to temperature change, or pressure change (i.e. laying on one's stomach for a while, then rolling over), or wind resistance, or arousal, or sometimes for no apparent reason at all.

It's funny how no one requires women to cover their erectile tissue with a towel when it engorges, or expects them to leave the situation until they're "under control", but so many expect it of men.

Sexual misbehaviour is one thing, simple engorgement without misbehaviour is another.

My 2 cents, YMMV! /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

(P.S. Ginge, responded to your post by PM to avoid hijacking the thread!)

[Ginge of Oz]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Angel:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by TXK NUDE:
Yes...erections are natural, but so is menstruating, urinating, and defecating, but NONE are appropriate in public arena...even nude ones!

IT has nothing to do with naturalness, but appropriateness. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>IMNSHO, there's a world of difference between performing excretory functions publicly (which does not, BTW, include menstruation!) and body tissue doing the job it's designed to do.

ALL of us here have erectile tissue that engorges sporadically throughout the day, due to temperature change, or pressure change (i.e. laying on one's stomach for a while, then rolling over), or wind resistance, or arousal, or sometimes for no apparent reason at all.

It's funny how no one requires women to cover their erectile tissue with a towel when it engorges, or expects them to leave the situation until they're "under control", but so many expect it of men.

Sexual misbehaviour is one thing, simple engorgement without misbehaviour is another.

My 2 cents, YMMV! /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

(P.S. Ginge, responded to your post by PM to avoid hijacking the thread!) <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Well said, Angel! Thank you again!

[TXK NUDE]

Look, if you get an erection "innocently", then DON'T SPORT IT AROUND! Be considerate, and cover it with a towel, go for a swim, or deal with it privately in some other manner. Please? Let this and all other "erection/penis size" threads die out! Nearly all private resorts have rules for this kind of behavior, TNS and AANR list this behavior as unacceptable in all nude forums, so WHY do we keep beating this dead horse?

IMHO, this the VERY REASON why textiles still think that nudists are sexual perverts! And it IS the reason why the police and legal organization view nudity with a child, or pictures of nude children to be illegal, because YOU CAN'T BE NAKED WITHOUT GETTING AN ERECTION!

Dear God, people IF WE CAN'T SEPARATE NUDITY AND SEX, then how do we ever expect them too? As long as we keep thinking that walking around with a woody is okay, innocent or not, we purpetuate the clothed-minded myth that nudist beaches and resorts are havens for wife-swappers and child molesters! I don't know about you, BUT I AM NOT ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE!

I understand first-time jitters, and I even understand the wind-effect on the male anatomy, but I also know that just because you get one doesn't mean that you need to show it off to others, mostly because we DON'T WANT TO SEE IT! If you can't control yourself, then you need PROFESSIONAL HELP. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Let it die. Just let it die.

(All CAPS areas are for emphasis only--not yelling)

[nudeM]

TXK NUDE: I, along with you, am troubled by the many threads about erections and penis size. They (erections) happen, and penis size has absolutely nothing to do with being a nudist. We all have the same equipment, and to think that some have more than others has nothing about being a nudist or not. I will not respond to any more comments in this thread, as I do not believe this is a legitimate thread pertaining to nudism. Some males are more "endowed" than others, but when participating in the nudist atmosphere, we are all one, short or small. Having an erection or not, this is another subject that has been beaten to death. Com'on Moderators, please steer the new members as to where to find the answers, before they post the "same old questions" and get the "same old answers". Thanks a lot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

[Angel]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by TXK NUDE:
And it IS the reason why the police and legal organization view nudity with a child, or pictures of nude children to be illegal, because YOU CAN'T BE NAKED WITHOUT GETTING AN ERECTION!
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I don't think it's that you can't be *naked* without getting an erection ... I think it's that you can't be *breathing* without getting an erection (rigor mortis aside!). /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

The only point is that *erections* are normal, natural occurences, whether clothed or not. If nudists are "normal" people who just happen to be naked, than you should expect "normal" bodily processes to occur.

No, it's really *not* a nudism=eroticism question.

And I imagine the reason this question keeps coming up with each new batch of newbies is that it's important, and it's one of the things we all go through wondering about, and it's a question we all ask (publicly or privately) while trying to work up the nerve to take our nudism out of the closet.

Forum searches don't always work, and slapping down newbie questions with "look it up, already asked and answered!" isn't going to be the best way to foster goodwill on the forum. This particular forum is specifically for newbies to ask newbie questions - sure, it's going to be a bit repetitive sometimes. No big deal. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

My 2 cents, YMMV!

[Gary Naturist]

Ginge, you said: I know that it is true that inhibitions are certainly lowered when a person is nude.

I'm trying to think of examples to illustrate your point, but I'm coming up empty.

I think that lowered inhibitions may be the CAUSE of someone getting nude (e.g. after a fair bit of beer at Spring Break in Florida or Texas).

Can you give some examples to support your point of view?

Gary

[Hoosier Mic]

Unfortunately, there are many reasons why people attend nude social events or areas. Most of us here enjoy being naked outside and being with people socially. Others look at nude social events as:

1. An opportunity to be an exhibitionist.
2. An opportunity to see others naked.
3. An opportunity to attract others for sex.

Unfortunately to many people associate social/family naturism with the so called swinging life-style. To our detriment this includes the media, who can not seperate the two activities. I wonder how many reporters who bash naturists regularly use a hot tub au naturale with their friends?

Hoosier Mic

[Angel]

Gary and Ginge, I think you're both right.

It requires a lowering of inhibitions to get naked in the first place, whether that's through alcohol use, overcoming the social stigma and childhood brainwashing, or some other method.

But once you've become comfortable nude, and are in the company of other nude people (even strangers), I think inhibitions about *other* things are lowered too - that we're able to be more open with each other in the effort to get to know each other more quickly and intimately than a group of textiles unknown to each other might be.

Note: by "intimately", I mean more *closely and honestly*, not sexually. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[StanO]

I have always been facinated with nudism but afraid to act on it. Besides being self-conscious of the way my body looked, there was always the fear of getting an erection. Last summer I took my first step and went to a nude beach. I was amazed that it wasn't erotic, it was liberating.

[florida-david]

stanO - congrat's on your first visit and on joining our little web family of over 4,000. i hope you continue to enjoy naturism/nudism and post often here.

enjoy....

[StanO]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by florida-david:
stanO - congrat's on your first visit and on joining our little web family of over 4,000. i hope you continue to enjoy naturism/nudism and post often here.

enjoy.... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Thanks. Here in the Boston area it's hard to do.

[MaxUK]

Rik,

It's certainly true that some people cannot separate nudity and sex and you seem to be one of them.

Go back and read my post Rik - I said there is an undeniable connection between nudity and sex, thus meaning that claims of 'NON sexual nudity' are, frankly, very hard to believe. If there is a definite connection, how can anyone claim that nudity is completely devoid of the sexual element, unless the person in question is completely non sexual in all aspects of their lives (you?!!)

However, this does not mean that I sit on a nudist beach in a state of sexual ecstacy the whole time!! I can just be honest about how I feel about nudity - yes, there is a connection, the same way there is a connection on a textile beach or a nightclub! The link is there but it's behaviour that defines how people deal with it - and if anyone feels threatened or not.

It seems that to you nudity and sex are as different as football and knitting, and only one is connected in any way with sexual feelings. Fine, but I still don't believe you!!

Max

[Rik]

Hi Max,

I went back and re-read your post as suggested - it was so long ago I'd forgotten who said what. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Your opening line was "In my view there is, and always be a connection with nudity and sex." but your ensuing arguments, such as "yes, there is a connection, the same way there is a connection on a textile beach or a nightclub!", suggest that you could connect sex to just about any social situation. In that respect I agree with you as humans are sexual creatures but I suspect that really what you mean is that sexual awareness is heightened by nudity. Again I wouldn't disagree that many people feel that way but the reason they feel that way is, in my view, that for them nudity is a novelty and they cannot help but view nudity other than from the constraints of their cultural upbringing.

You've said yourself that you are an occasional nudist so it doesn't surprise me that you feel the way you do but if you spend any length of time in a nudist environment then those cultural constraints tend to diminish to the point where you see nudity as nudity and not as a sexual invitation. At least this has been my experience.

So I don't think I really disagree with you in practical terms but perhaps I would tend to view the connection between nudity and sex as a cultural issue rather than a human issue. Of course you might argue that out 'humanness' is a product of our culture but I would take issue with that for I think that it is our 'behaviour' and our thought processes which are the product of our culture rather than our inherent human qualities.

I hope that makes some sense and I apologize to all those who don't like reading long posts - but I guess you've already skipped this one so perhaps my apology is wasted. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Rik

BTW I like sex in the nude but it's the sex which drives the nudity not the other way around.

[Stuffed Tiger]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Rik:

...snip...I would tend to view the connection between nudity and sex as a cultural issue rather than a human issue.
...snip... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I agree with Rik and would like to add two points:

(1) Appreciation of the natural human body is no less interesting, awe inspiring, and important to a life worth living than taking the time to watch sunsets, stars, snow capped mountains, wild animals, birds and smelling the roses. I agree with Angel that we can become closer as humans and more open in this way; I have had the same experience hiking in Haleakala Crater, the Grand Canyon and the Blue Ridge Mountains. These are all healthy and relaxing experiences and decidedly not sexual. It has taken me a long time to discover nudism because I did not realize that. I would hate for someone to turn away from nudism because we obscure the difference between a liberating natural experience and the impact of that experience on our sexuality.

(2) When we are healthy and relaxed, we are more inclined to wholesome sexual activity. It was proved many years ago by a medical researcher that the male erection is a result of relaxation and not tension. When a male is tense, he *must* escape in wholesome or unwholesome ways in order to have sex. Nudism is one wholesome way back to normal.

It is not surprising, then, that a person in our fast paced society might feel a lot more human in a nudist setting, might have more natural wholesome thoughts, might appreciate people more for themselves as their entire person rather than for their costume and body parts, and might feel more relaxed. That could help any number of people enjoy better, healthier, life affirming sex; I see nothing wrong with that.

This is entirely different from the quick-fix everyday turn-ons supplied by the commercial sex industry, including ordinary movies, ads and TV shows that sell sex, and fashions that sell sex. In comparison to nudism, these are unnatural, unwholesome and even degrading on occasion. I'm not saying these everyday turn-ons can't be fun or that people shouldn't enjoy them or that they don't have their place. I'm just saying we need to keep them in perspective. I have seen too many people unbalanced by them and accept them as reality because they have no other point of reference.

Nudism/naturism is one way back, and I would hate to see it confused or put in the same category in anyone's mind as the unnatural, manipulative, commercial turn-ons.

[Bob S.]

Max, let's look at the differing cultural meanings of nudity:

If you were in the Victorian ages, you would be saying that there is a definite connection between a woman showing her bare knees and sex.

If you were in Taliban Afghanistan. you would be saying that there is a definite connection between a woman showing her face and sex.

In a "primative tribe," you would be saying that there is a definite connection between not wearing a lip ring and sex, or having no loin belt and sex.

Nudity can mean different things to different cultures. A bikini in Pakistan would be considered nudity. Heck, back in the early part of the century, bathing suits were head to toe costumes.

Yes, we are a sexual species, but we are also a thinking species. We can disassociate ourselves from sexuality when we want to. If we follow your logic, there is an undeniable connection between living and sex. Does that mean there is no such thing as non-sexual living? We breathe during sex as well. Non-sexual breathing doesn't exist either?

If we connect sex to everything we are just because it is an innate part of our being, then there is nothing in our lives is not connected with sex, including responding to messages on message board sites.

Bob S.

[Doug H]

You make a very important point, that the manner and degree of significance that humans put on something is heavily influence by his background and other cultural factors as well as his own values and preconceptions. This said, humans can, if inclined, learn to overcome any preconceptions to form their own associations between what they observe and what emotions and/or opinions they have about it. Therefore, to a human, what is sexual and not sexual is, literally, whatever he thinks it is.

Doug H.

[MaxUK]

Hi Rik and Bob,

Thanks for posting and what you said really set me thinking about what I REALLY do think about nudism and sex. I figured out that I tend to agree with your ***ertion that as I am only an occasional nudist then I do ***ociate nudity with heightening the awareness of sex - something that probably doesn't happen if you are more used to it, more blase' even, about the whole thing.

And Bob's point was food for thought too - that if I claim that there is no such thing as non-sexual nudity, then I 'per se' ought to claim that there is no such thing as non sexual anything (including posting on this board!) I don't have that view so it made me think about what I do think about the matter of non-sexual nudity.

Hmmm - I don't agree with some of the things you guys post, but in this case, you have certainly set me thinking. And thanks - it's good to get another perspective and start questioning what you do believe.

Looks like I'll need to alter my views a little - and get out there 'au natrel' far more!! Difficult though...

And a question - do you think that there is a 'gradual enlightening' if I can put it like that, that all naturists go through; initially accepting and enjoying but finding the 'connection with sex' issue dulls over time to virtually nothing??

Max

[Rik]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by MaxUK:
I figured out that I tend to agree with your ***ertion that as I am only an occasional nudist then I do ***ociate nudity with heightening the awareness of sex <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>The INA bleep machine is working overtime again! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Looks like I'll need to alter my views a little - and get out there 'au natrel' far more!! Difficult though... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Difficult to believe today (it's a dull wet day here in the UK) but summer's just around the corner so go for it!!
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>And a question - do you think that there is a 'gradual enlightening' if I can put it like that, that all naturists go through; initially accepting and enjoying but finding the 'connection with sex' issue dulls over time to virtually nothing?? <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>For me I can sometimes sense a sexual connotation when I'm fully clothed but it seems to disappear when I'm around naked people.

Rik

[nudist_in_Tn]

Yes I do enjoy being nude as often as possible but believe me there is nothing erotic about my nude body. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Bob S.]

How appropraite that the forum computer seems to have a connection between sex and our writing. I guess there's an ***ociation after all. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

And Max, I would say that as you experience more and more nudist nudity, that the preconceived feelings that you had with them slowly begin to go away as those feeligs are not upheld. The same way that if you held some prejudicial attitudes toward Muslims. And then a friendly Muslim family moved in next door to you. Suddenly, you were confronted with your prejudicial attitudes and slowly started to realize that this family was totally different than how you perceived them to be. In fact, you start to like them and trust them and befriend them. Suddenly, those prejudicial thoughts are pushed back until they disappear.

And just for your information Max. I never made the direct connection between nudity and sex.

Bob S.

[tarsus]

if i may, my three cents /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
some of this was posted a while back.
gamblefish some of my best days were in polyester,
[no nude discos].
as jon-marcs expreinece shows there are a lot of people who come to nude resorts for perverted purposes,and with the cameras in use today we must always keep one eye open.i never take pics
at resorts.
and yes you can have sex with clothes on!
and the link between sex and nudity? like so much in our culture was created, its not natural.
we have created lust to replace love, maybe its wearing clothes and not nudity that as done this?
cannot think of play[?] were a man fell in love with a woman never having seen anything but an uncovered hand,everything is what people perceive
it to be.

[MaxUK]

Bob,

And just for your information Max. I never made the direct connection between nudity and sex.

I'm not sure what you are saying here Bob - did I say you had made a connection or something a while back??

Anyway, your example of the Muslim family is fine but too simplistic, at least for me it is, and I would suspect for most other sensible people.

You seem to be saying that people could have a rigid view that muslims, all muslims, are all terrorist madmen - who is likely to hold this view?? I certainly don't - I'd say that the vast majority know that it's only a small minority of Muslims who can be classed as vehemently holding anti-western values and attitudes. Therefore it would come as no surprise that the new family were pleasant.

Not sure what you were trying to illustrate with the point - that predjudice is often challenged through facing up to it and discovering that the opposite is true?? Well, yes, I'd agree that can happen sometimes, just don't know when I assumed the status as someone who is predjudiced against naturists!! I thought the opposite is fairly clear.

Max

[Chocolate]

Okay...I think I'm way more "low-brow" than the rest of you so my statements are not going to be full of statistics or psychologically based facts or sound like I'm some enlightened person. Here's my opinion: I think most naturist are "hyper-sensitive" when someone recognizes or acknowlwdges their nudity. Which is completely understandable. For most naturist, it is a "freeing"..."natural"..."un-inhibited"..."bonding" and relaxing situation type situation. You come together so you can be naked, without it being a "Sexual situation". Awesome...I understand and respect that. Howvwr, there are people like myself, who don't necesarrily find this amazing RUSH when naked. I can get naked without as second thought and be completely comfortable. But it's just something that I do only because some friends might initiate it (which is why I'm on this wensite...trying to understand why friends I have regard it with such life altering/changing/enlightening regard. And I can look at somebody without much shock or sexual thoughts at all when they're naked. You're naked...big whoop.

However, the best way I know how to describe my feelings are that, we are clothed the majority of the time. And for most of us being naked is reserved for a more intimate or private situation (bathing or even private time at home,...whatever). So when you become naked in public, it's ridiculous, in my opinion, for people to pretend like, "Oh I never even noticed that person has genitals!", or "I didn't even realize that person had an appealing body until they put their clothes back on." I understand the concept of "getting past all that". and just getting used to being in those situations. But to me when you're naked...You're NAKED. And to be upset at someone who takes notice is just not fair. To me that's not being "human". I agree witht he statements that "we should BE human". But I think a good rule is for people who don't do it all the time, but are like me, will do just for fun with friends, to use the same social etiquette that we would if we were clothed...I definitely feel more "uninhibited" when naked. I feel more "attractive". And though not horny "if someone initiated a sexual situation, I'd probably be more prone to go with the flow more so than i would if I was clothed. I guess...because I'm NAKED.

However, I do recognize that sharing my naked self is so much more...and is all the things, for me at least, that i mentioned earlier. So basically I'm saying, when I'm on the nude beach, am I looking around at the beautiful bodies>...Absolutely. Are some of them arousing?...Absolutely. Will I become a drooling horndog and stare people down and make them feel uncomfortabl?...Heeeck no. NEVER. I wouldn't even get an erection. Will I open myself up to what an awesome experience it is to be naked and being naked around other people?..Absolutely.

I just think i recognize both aspects of the experience for me. I just don't appreciate it when anyone makes mention of people who recognize the more "sensual" or "stimulating" aspect of naturalism as being "sick" or "freakish". That's just so unfair in my opinion. If someone gawks at you, or doesn't interact with you as a person rather than a piece of meat, than YES that's wrong and that's disrespecting YOUR choice to gather in a way that was not meant to be for that. But don't freak out or make yourself out to be so much more "enlightened" and be-little someone who acknowledges that the experience has erotic aspects for them. Anyway...that's just my opinion...

[David77]

<font color = "D2691E"> Chocolate,</font>
Thank you for a very interesting, more realistic post. Please write more sometime in the future.

[luvnaturism]

I agree. Chocolate's post is mature and realistic. To that I would add that sexuality is such a fundamental part of human life that it's never really "out of play" as far as our minds and emotions go.

However, it's also true that full nudity is far less arousing than swimsuits that are specifically designed to be provocative. For me, at least, it's also true that the more actual experience I gain in being nude with others the less affecting the situation is. At first it felt hugely liberating. Now it mainly feels relaxing.

This is why my reaction to posts from people who write that they always get aroused in a naturist situation is that they need to be nude more around others, so that they'll get used to it. Either that, or they have some sexual issue that's being acted out inappropriately.

Taking the clothes off doesn't make anyone blind, so I do see and appreciate the entire bodies of those around me. There are a very few "10s" whose beauty affects me much the same way that I respond to a lovely work of art. The vast majority of us have wrinkles, blemishes, and either more weight than we would wish for ourselves or less. Everyone is beautiful in their own way, and every body has its own interesting features. No one needs to be ashamed to be seen without clothing. /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Bob S.]

Max, I was not saying anything about Muslims. I just chose them as opposed to some other category of peoples. And I believe that if someone sees enough of nudist nudity, they will eventually let go of their prejudices, even if they themselves would not want to participate.

Chocolate, I agree with your view of nudist nudity. I, too, do not have the rush that you described. For me, the main reason I go to a nudist park is because it is just about the only place where I can go where I can go naked anywhere and not get into trouble. It is also nice to meet others who share a common interest as well. If someone wants to gawk at me, they have my permission as long as they do so covertly. But seriously, I couldn't imagine anyone who would want to gawk at me! In my opinion, nudity is just another option in the wardrobe.

And hey, I am from VA Beach! Glad to meet someone else from the area!

luvnaturism, I'm sure that your idea of a 10 is different than my 10. We all have different ideas of who is beautiful. In fact, sometimes the "flaws" are what make someone a 10.

Bob S.

[theoldman]

Just to lighten up the discussion:

It has been said that the best birth control over age 50 is nudity.

[Kailua]

I think Oz was honest so as an aspiring nudist (that's another story), I have another concern. I notice during my "research" that all the guys have no erection (either partial or full). I wonder if all the nudity causes a desensitization effect. Personally I like my erections but would feel wierd sporting a woodie in public. Any input? Thanks.

[Rik]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Kailua:
... I wonder if all the nudity causes a desensitization effect. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>No it doesn't. You have to realise that for most people naturism is not a sexual activity but for those who are not naturists there often seems to be an underlying assumption that there there is a strong sexual element to it.

The best "research" you can do is to get out there and try it for yourself.

Rik

[Naturist Mark]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Kailua:
I think Oz was honest so as an aspiring nudist (that's another story), I have another concern. I notice during my "research" that all the guys have no erection (either partial or full). I wonder if all the nudity causes a desensitization effect. Personally I like my erections but would feel wierd sporting a woodie in public. Any input? Thanks. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>That's right Kailua, real nudists NEVER get erections. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

OK, maybe I'm only speaking for myself, but:

The truth is that the practice of social nudity does rewire you brain pretty quickly. The mental connection between nudity and sexuality is artificial and doesn't last very long.

However there is no desensitation- sexual arousal still produces erections - as do other stimuli, its just that mere social nudity is no longer one of them.

-Mark

Naturistmark1 ....Great summary of the subject for the newbies /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif