The Guardian today features the remarkable story of author Robert Ashton, who launched his new book, Down to Earth, at Springwood earlier this year before joining us for our Naturist visit to Johnsons Zoological Gardens.
Robert’s story is a striking example of how Naturism can help an individual overcome a deeply personal challenge.
For decades, Robert lived with paruresis, commonly known as bladder or shy bladder syndrome. This psychological condition can make it extremely difficult or impossible to urinate unless a person feels completely certain that they have privacy. In severe cases, it can have a profound impact on everyday life, restricting where people can go and how long they can stay away from home.
Robert first spoke to us while researching Down to Earth. When he subsequently joined us for a full day of Naturism to launch his book, something extraordinary happened.
To his complete surprise, his paruresis simply disappeared.
The acceptance, trust and normality of being naked in a Naturist environment seemed to remove the psychological pressure he had experienced for so long. A barrier that had been part of his life for decades suddenly wasn't there.
There is growing evidence of the positive effects that Naturism can have on wellbeing, confidence and body acceptance. Robert's experience is particularly striking because, for him, the change was immediate and profound.
It raises an intriguing question: if Naturism can help overcome one deeply rooted psychological hurdle, what other barriers might it help people challenge?
You can read about Robert’s book and introduction to Naturism in the latest issue of BN Magazine.
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