What is a naturist?

Good question! Even within the naturist/nudist community there are many different definitions. Many nudists use the term naturist interchangably with nudist.

Although many nudists may also be naturists, many naturists are not nudists.

The WANR defines nudists as individuals who live a lifestyle which follows a philosophy of being nude whenever practical. Social nudism is usually practiced in private homes and at "landed clubs" which are often referred to as nudist resorts (a marketing upgrade of the old term "nudist colony").

Naturists on the other hand, are people who generally have not bought into this higher degree of regular nudity, but who prefer the enjoyment of nude recreation as an occasional event. This is usually done individually or with a few others, and not with a larger social group.

Father & daughter enjoy a Southern California stream.

Naturist's activities are also usually enjoyed in the openness of the natural outdoors, and includes such places as ocean, river and lake beaches, meadows, hiking trails, etc.

Over simplified, nudism is a lifestyle usually practiced within a controlled environment; while naturism involves occasional nude recreation in the exhilarating freedom of the open outdoors.

Those who practice social nudity have seen that it serves to enhance self-acceptance and self-esteem.

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