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Powderham Castle - what an afternoon!

Over 100 fundraisers walked the grounds of the Earl Of Devon's country seat, Powderham Castle near Exeter on Saturday, as part of the BN/BHF naked heart walk series. 
The weather was as stunning as the location and despite there being a music festival in another part of the estate, naked walkers toured the grounds, enjoying parkland, formal gardens and superb views of the Exe from the Belvedere. Afternoon tea (the proper type with three-tier plates) was served to naked diners in the castle.
We were delighted to welcome many for whom this was their first social nude experience - feedback suggests it won't be their last... We'll bring you a full report in due course and the total of the amount of money raised for British Heart Foundation.
Members can find a selection of images from the event in the gallery (log in required) but everyone can sign up for the remainder of the naked heart walks!
 
Photo: Tim Linter

Swims, Swims and More Swims – and don’t forget the Naked Heart Walks!

I had a little Great British Skinny Dip this week at the Lancashire Sun Club’s ladies-only event, and while I was floating gently around the pool, I realised I hadn’t checked the GBSD calendar for some time. I’ve now done so and am happy to report that there are some new events listed. Including another women-only, clothing-optional swim! It’s heartening to see the growing number of these events because it’s so important that we make Naturism a comfortable, fun space for women as well as men.
The new additions that caught my eye are:
June 4: Earls Colne, North Essex (at a BN member’s home, with large grounds)
June 4: The Naturist Foundation at Brockenhurst, Kent
 
June 10: Peterborough Lido, Bishop's Rd Peterborough - other dates in July and August too
June 10: Ladies Only Swim, South Forest Leisure Centre, Edwinstowe
 
July 22: South Yorkshire Naturists at Bramcote, Notts
 
July 30: Marbury Park swimming pool, Northwich
 
September 3: Beach day at Portstewart Strand, Northern Ireland
 
For more information on these and all the other fabulous GBSD events, head to greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk.
 
And while we’re talking about big, public outreach events with a charity angle, here’s a reminder of the Naked Heart Walks you can look forward to!
20 May (this weekend!), Powderham Castle, Devon 
11 June Cross Morecambe Bay 
17 June Leonardslee Gardens
1 July Himalayan Garden 
15 July Fonthill Estate 
23 July WatersEdge
23 July, RSPB Rainham Marshes
As you know, these Naked Heart Walks are held to raise money for our charity partner the British Heart Foundation - and to get us out in the fresh air! Read more about them here Naked Heart Walks.

Sunfolk Crowdfunding - a reminder and a thank you

Thanks to everyone who has made a contribution to our crowdfunding campaign for a hot tub and sauna at British Naturism: Sunfolk - there was a big increase in donations after our last reminder! We're nearly 30% of the way to our target!
Find out more about the campaign, including how you can contribute, here. It ends on 30th May, so don't delay. Help us to help everyone to get the best for Naturism. There are unique rewards available.
And information about British Naturism: Sunfolk here

Wanted: Women for new Edwinstowe clothing-optional swim!

'The health benefits of Naturism are well known, so what’s preventing women from experiencing them?' asks BN member Emma Farrell. 'For the uninitiated, the prospect of appearing in public without clothes can be extremely daunting. How can we make it less intimidating?'
Whether it’s the walk from the changing room to the pool, removing the towel and getting into the pool, or just the thought of being in the pool sans swimwear, overcoming these hurdles gradually feels easier than going straight from no experience of social nudity to suddenly being completely naked in front of strangers.
To encourage more women to enjoy Naturism, Emma is hosting a new Great British Skinny Dip – a Ladies- Only Clothing-Optional swim at South Forest Leisure Centre, Nottinghamshire on 10 June! She says: “Seasoned naturists are equally welcome, but if through doing this we can let some first-timers experience the liberation of being clothes-free, and the contentment of being a step closer to achieving self-acceptance, I consider this will have been a huge success.
If you’re even marginally tempted, book now. If you attend and aren’t quite ready to dive in, it won’t be an issue. But if you do choose to take part, I don’t think you’ll ever look back.”
Read more about the swim and book here!
 
Photo: Mark Bass

Did you see the news?

We’re all constantly bombarded by emails these days. It can be a chore wading through tens – if not hundreds – of messages to find the important ones. But wade we must if we want to stay up-to-date with this organisation’s many interesting and exciting activities.
I’m talking about the ezine here! You may think it’s just another message that drops into your mailbox every Friday morning – but you’d be wrong. It’s the best – and fastest - way to keep abreast of what’s happening across BN and the wider Naturist world. Sure, you can read the news articles on the website, but for many of us time-challenged BNers, the ezine offers a short, concise round-up of everything you need to know that week. It’s all there in one place, attractively packaged with lovely pictures and adverts for fantastic Naturist holidays!
For those of you who have never signed up for the free ezine – and those who may have unsubscribed at some stage – there’s no time like the present to get onboard. With summer coming, and BN events mushrooming, you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips to ensure fabulous nudie adventures!
Sign up on this page - you don't have to be a BN member...
 
Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

The Forum Live - Women in Focus

Next week's The Forum Live (22 May) will be hosted by BN's Women in Naturism coordinator, Helen Berriman. It will be an opportunity to hear from women and share your opinions on our campaign to introduce more women to Naturism.
Join the session on the night from the BN shop
 
In the meantime, here's Helen's article from the latest BN Magazine - arriving on your doorstep in early June!
Naturism means something different to each of us. For me it’s about freeing myself from body dysmorphia and from societal conditioning of what Naturism is. For others, it’s friendship and community, or wellbeing and philosophy.  Whatever it means to you, people always agree that Naturism is good for them.
Like many others, I had been conditioned into believing that nudity equated to sex and no amount of comments from my husband that it couldn’t be further from the truth as far are Naturism was concerned was going to convince me otherwise. It wasn't until I had experienced social nudity for myself that I had my ‘Eureka’ moment.  Almost instantly, I knew my husband was right (unusually).  For the first time, I wasn’t being objectified.  I was naked, around strangers, and I felt completely safe.  No-one could care less about how I looked, the scars I wore or the apron of excess skin I carry from yo-yo dieting.  I wanted to take this new understanding of Naturism and body freedom and share it with the world.  I wanted other people to experience this feeling of liberation and contentment and that is why I joined British Naturism’s campaigning team, to encourage people, particularly Women, to discover many of the benefits I had.
It is said that once women have tried Naturism for the first time, they become very passionate about it.  It’s true that I and many other women are examples of this and are shouting from the rooftops about it.  It’s not so easy for some women to give it a go; society, fashion, media and beauty standards have done a good number on us. The female form has been sexualised and we have learned to compare ourselves to what is being shown in fashion and media, beating ourselves up for not meeting those standards.  But, these standards are not REAL.  What you see in the glossy mags and on social media is not REAL.  Photoshopping apps and filters are disguising the reality.  The truth is, everyday women are REAL.  Women like you and me.  And we need to celebrate this.
The Women in Focus series was designed to do just that.  A platform within British Naturism, where women across the community share their views on Naturism and nudity.  The idea is to demonstrate a sense of community, diversity and relatability.  No two stories are the same and there is a chance you will see someone like you, someone you can relate to whether on a physical or mental basis.  We need women like YOU to contribute too.  Everyone has a story and an opinion so why not have your say?  Let us build this community and empower each other.
I understand that not everyone is going to be willing to share their stories and that’s fine too.  There are many other ways to get involved with the WIN campaign.  Perhaps you could join the Women in Naturism Facebook group? It’s a private group run by women, for women and provides a man free space.  (It’s nice to have that.) We share ideas, events, thoughts, chats and whatever else we want to talk about.
There’s plenty of events and activities taking place across the UK where women are under-represented. Could you be an ambassador to encourage other women?  Maybe walking is your thing and you could lead a ladies-only hike?  With all the Naked Heart walks taking place across the UK, could you help represent women by showing up and being a ‘buddy’, or bring some friends?  It’s a great way to get together and raise some money for the British Heart Foundation at the same time. From heart walks to skinny dips, naked hikes to naked dining events, any contribution from you is most welcome.  Perhaps you have an idea of an event you’d like to see happening?  Let’s talk, let’s make it happen!
Women in Naturism already know how liberating it is.  Join me in telling other women so they too can free themselves from body hang ups and fear, and make lasting friendships.
In a nutshell, what I'm looking for is to expand the team of women willing to support and contribute to the Women in Naturism campaign.  To grow and develop our community, to make a safe place for women to celebrate their true selves.  Together, we can make a difference.
Please get in touch and I’ll see you at an event soon.
 
Much Love
 
Helen Berriman
Women in Naturism co-ordinator, British Naturism
 
bn.org.uk/campaigning/womens-stories/focus
facebook.com/groups/womeninNaturism
bn.org.uk/campaigning/womeninNaturism/
twitter.com/HelenBerriman17

The Gathering – New year, new location!

To anyone wondering whether The Gathering would happen this year: Wonder no more!
After a long struggle through pandemic and hotel closures, the SANER team have now succeeded in securing a new home for the Gathering for its 10th birthday.  This year the wildly popular event heads to the historic City of Stirling, with its magnificent castle (pictured), around 30 minutes north of Glasgow, to the King Robert Hotel, which is next to the Battle of Bannockburn battlefield, a lovely modern hotel.
The three-night break (30 October - 2 November) includes dinner, bed and breakfast, nightly live entertainment and daily activities and with date like that, a Halloween theme is likely. As well the opportunity to explore this historic city.  
Book now so that you don’t miss this highlight of the Naturist year!
It's going to be a busy year in the north - check out the SANER region calendar and find information on a variety of events, swims and sports, including:
River Forth Boat trip on Sat 15th July
Farne Islands Boat Trip on Sat 29th July
A visit to the quirky Jupiter Artland garden near Edinburgh on 6th August
We're also pleased to support Dunfermiline Carnegie Rotary's Noody Dook on Saturday 27th May at Aberdour
 
Photo by chris robert on Unsplash

British Naturism: Sunfolk - development update

As many members will be aware, a team of volunteers and professionals have been working hard over the last three years to develop and implement a masterplan for the Sunfolk site acquired by BN in 2020.
After numerous surveys, site meetings, technical drawings, and negotiations with the local planning authority, the hard work paid off in February when we were finally able to start work on the first phase of the development masterplan.
When BN acquired Sunfolk, it already enjoyed many great features as a legacy of the dedication and investments made in the site by generations of Naturists who have cared for the site since its foundation in 1931. It enjoys a convenient location with plenty of south-facing lawn space as well as wooded areas, and an excellent swimming pool.
However, it was also clear that other areas could benefit from redevelopment and improvement. The masterplan focuses on retaining everything that is great about the site, whilst improving some areas to provide the access and facilities our future visitors will rightly expect to ensure that the site thrives in its second century of operation.
There are two phases of work, both of which the Sunfolk redevelopment team hope to complete before the site reopens for the 2024 season.
In phase one, the clubhouse will be renovated and extended to include a new sun room, kitchen, meeting room and toilets, surrounded by a new decked area with outdoor seating, and improved access to make it easier for all visitors to enjoy the clubhouse and pool area.
New sunbathing lawns will also be created by removing worn out sports courts, the car parking area will be extended and improved, and a new hot tub and sauna will be installed between the clubhouse and the pool.
In phase two, glamping pods will be installed to provide another option for overnight visitors. We also hope to add an archive building, accommodation for our volunteer wardens, and outdoor play and fitness equipment for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Since work started on site in February, we have some great progress – despite some unusually wet spring months. Old storage buildings and the worn-out sports courts have been removed from site, and the existing clubhouse has been stripped back to its frame. The new clubhouse extension has also started to emerge from the ground with foundations and much of the timber frame already in place.
Redeveloping the site is a complex and long-term project which has unfortunately meant closing the site for the whole of the 2023 season. This wasn’t an easy decision to make, but allows our local building contractor Lucian to work through the (hopefully) fine summer months and complete both phases of work before the site re-opens to guests next year.
Careful financial management by successive BN leadership teams have created financial reserves which mean that we are able to fund most of the redevelopment work directly. Our reserves have also been supplemented by development loans that a small number of members have kindly chosen to make, through tied funds received from The Sun Folk Society as part of the acquisition of Sunfolk, and from the Singles Outdoor Club.
However, more funding will be required to ensure that we can complete the project as planned. We are enormously grateful to everyone who donated to the recent crowdfunding campaign, and are planning further fundraising activity over the next few months for those who would like (and are able) to make a financial contribution to secure the future success of British Naturism: Sunfolk
There will also be plenty of options for members to show their support for the redevelopment project in other ways. One of the benefits of closing the site for an extended period is that it provides an opportunity to establish new sunbathing lawns ready for use in 2024, and to repair some of the damage to the existing lawns that has inevitably happened during the redevelopment of the clubhouse. We’ll be looking for volunteers to help with this work through the summer and autumn, as well as during the run-up to site re-opening in 2024
If you’d like to find out more about the redevelopment project, why not check out the Members Area where you’ll find links to detailed project updates, pictures of the site redevelopment, and details of how you can get involved with supporting the project through fundraising or volunteering your time on site.    
British Naturism: Sunfolk

Blackpool Rocks - this time in November!

Alton Towers may be off the cards, but that won’t stop us from partying down! Booking is now open for Blackpool Rocks! - the first-ever BN event during the city’s world-famous Illuminations. The two- or three-night bash takes place November 17-20 at The President Hotel.
What’s on the agenda? Loads of great music from the party bands, a Get Up and Glow UV party,  a cocktail-making class and much more! Plus there’s the city itself to explore. Your break includes dinner, bed and breakfast, with full English breakfast and a daily roast as part of the dinner selection. The event is open only to BN members over 18.
Ready to book? Everything you need to know is here
 
Photo by Mark mc neill on Unsplash

Alton Towers - The end of an era

Following many discussions with our contacts at the Alton Towers Resort we are sad to report that last year's event turns out to have been our last.
Since the time that Alton Towers’ owners Merlin Entertainments was taken over by private equity firms, there has been a complete re-evaluation of all areas of their business. The change that affects our booking is that the Splash Landings waterpark is no longer available for private hire as it must be available for guests in all the resort's three hotels and woodland lodges, as well as remaining open to local people. I am told ours is not the only group booking affected.
We looked at every possibility to try and make something work, including after-hours waterpark sessions and even taking over the whole venue, but the layout of the hotels and available space meant that something that balanced being commercially worthwhile for BN and value for money for our guests was not achievable.
The advent of the BN Alton Towers weekend - an invitation from the UK’s biggest and best-known theme park for a nude weekend - marked a landmark in the history of BN and Naturism in the UK, also having a positive effect on the perception of our community. We took our first tentative steps there in 2006 and are delighted to have been able to enjoy all those years since. The event has grown in quality and popularity throughout and we will be sad to see it go.
On a more positive note we have been able to secure a new venue for The Gathering in Stirling for October and we are be hosting Blackpool Rocks! A one-off illuminations party weekender over what would have been the Alton Towers November dates.

The Forum Live - interviewing Domaine de Bélézy

Next Monday, 15 May, it will be my pleasure to talk to Debby Boeynaems from one of France's most popular Naturist holiday resorts, Domain de Bélézy and find out all about the campsite and what holidaymakers can expect.
Belezy is in the heart of Provence and at the foot of the Mont Ventoux and Lubéron, in an exceptional setting with 25 hectares of grounds surrounding an 18th century Provençal Mas.
It is a Naturist village devoted to respectful and family-oriented Naturism. Self-respect and respect of other people and the environment are values that have been upheld for over 50 years. 
At the heart of Bélézy, two swimming pools and the newly constructed waterplayground offer cool, relaxing and fun nude swimming. From the swimming pool area, you can enjoy a panoramic view on Mont Ventoux.


Join the session on the night from the BN shop
 
Photo: Belezy/Celine Hamelin

Think of the children! Experiencing family nudity in childhood nurtures mental wellbeing into adulthood

A striking new study by Professor Keon West reveals that, starting from an early age, spending time naked has positive effects on our mental health that stay with us throughout our lives.
The British Naturism poll conducted by Ipsos in 2022 showed that nudity among adults is both popular and widely accepted.  Over a third of adults have participated in nude recreation such as skinny dipping or sunbathing without a costume and over a fifth have spent time naked in the company of non-family members or partners in the last year alone.  Studies have shown that spending just 45 minutes in a nude social setting increases appreciation for one’s own body and reduces social anxiety, while adult participation in clothes-free activities over a number of years increases long-term positive body image, self-esteem and life satisfaction.
Despite this widespread enthusiasm for adult nudity, some people fear that simple nudity might be harmful to children.  Without evidence to the contrary, there can be a natural instinct to attempt to shield our children from perceived harm.  However, this fear-based approach can now be challenged by new research.
Funded by British Naturism and the International Naturist Federation, Professor West of Goldsmiths, University of London has investigated how nudity within the family during childhood affects mental health both at the time and in later life.  The studies published on behalf of the National Children’s Bureau in the psychology journal, Children & Society, comprise two, large-sample size analyses. Participants were recruited through a platform used for a wide range of psychological studies, thus avoiding pre-existing bias in selection of those surveyed.
In the first study, self-esteem and mental wellbeing of adults were compared with their recalled experiences of nudity during childhood.  The sample included equal numbers of men and women, and the average age was 30 years old.  Additional questions covered other topics to mask the purpose of the survey and avoid respondents giving answers they thought they were supposed to.  The study finds that participation in nude activities and a positive family attitude towards nudity during childhood predicted an improvement in body image and self-esteem.  Through the effects on body image and self-esteem, regular nudity during childhood also led to an overall improvement in mental health as an adult.
The second study confirmed that nudity is harmless, even during the childhood years.  Children of 7-17 years old (average age 15) were surveyed for their self-esteem and mental wellbeing, while their mothers were independently surveyed for the frequency with which the child encountered nudity and the attitudes to nudity within the family.  The children only knew that they were completing a survey about their views and were unaware of the questions being answered by their parents, thus ensuring that answers were not distorted by embarrassment.  The study reveals that concerns about negative effects of nudity on the wellbeing of children are misplaced.  No negative impact of nudity on mental wellbeing among the children was detected, indeed, there are indications of a possible positive effect on body image.
Together, these studies reveal some crucial findings:
1)    Adults who grew up in families with a positive attitude to nudity have better body image, better self-esteem, and better overall mental health.
2)    There were indications that children living in a family environment where nudity is commonplace may have a better body image.
3)    There was no evidence of an association between nudity in childhood and negative outcomes.
These findings matter.  Society is suffering a mental health crisis where 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem every year and incidents of self-harming have tripled over a 15-year period.  Poor body image is one of the major contributing factors, especially among young people.  Kane, 20, tells us:
“Mental health and body image are always going to be inextricably linked and will influence each other.  I have faced problems with my body image due a variety of reasons, most namely dysphoria and my body not feeling like my own.  When my mental health started to decline, I developed an eating disorder and began self-harming in an attempt to feel ownership over my body.  This of course did not help my body image/ self-esteem, and that in turn did not help my mental health, leading to a downwards cycle where both declined.”
Naturism is not an instant solution to all mental health issues, but the new study shows us that a healthy approach to nudity during our childhood provides a measurable step in the right direction.  The study challenges those with negative assumptions about Naturism to reconsider their views and that isolating children from nudity may be against the child’s best interests.  As Professor West eloquently summarises:
“Given the consistent and growing body of evidence that participation in Naturism leads to
positive outcomes, we should consider the potential harm caused by denying certain people
(including younger people) access to these activities.”
Mark Bass
President of British Naturism

Keon West (2023) Think of the children!: Relationships between nudity-related experiences in childhood, body image, self-esteem and adjustment, Children & Society, https://doi.org/10.1111/chso.12743
 

Sunfolk crowdfunding - making progress

Thanks to everyone who has made a contribution to our crowdfunding campaign for a hot tub and sauna at British Naturism: Sunfolk - we're over 10% of the way to our target already!
Find out more about the campaign, including how you can contribute, here. It ends on 30th May, so don't delay. Help us to help everyone to get the best for Naturism. There are unique rewards available.
And information about British Naturism: Sunfolk here

Reminder to sign up - Naked Heart Walk at Powderham Castle - 20 May!

We've been selling tickets like hot cakes - and can't wait to meet you all for the BN/BHF Naked Heart Walk at Powderham Castle near Exeter on Saturday 20th May.
The owner of the venue is just as excited as we are. Charlie Courtenay, The Earl of Devon, said: “We are proud to play host to the British Naturism Naked Heart Walk at Powderham in aid of the British Heart Foundation. The ancient shaded paths and tracks of the Georgian Woodland Garden provide a secluded and yet spectacular route in support of this worthy cause. It is a particular pleasure to welcome such a diverse group of participants and to provide them with a safe space to strengthen hearts and get closer to nature.”
What are Naked Heart Walks?
This year, thousands of people across the UK will strip off their clothes and stroll around the grounds of gorgeous gardens, stately homes and castles to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF). 
They’ll be taking part in British Naturism’s Naked Heart Walks, experiencing the exhilaration of being nude in the great outdoors, boosting their mental and physical health, reducing their stress - and having a lot of fun.
To make the decision to participate in a Naked Heart Walk even easier, 2023’s walks will be clothing-optional, though we’re sure some clothed walkers will be stripped off by the end.
Find details of all Naked Heart Walks
An Ipsos poll commissioned by British Naturism in 2022, revealed (pun intended) that almost 7 million Britons describe themselves as ‘Naturists’ or ‘Nudists’.
Andrew Welch, National spokesman for British Naturism, said:
“Taboos around nudity are eroding and the health and well-being benefits of going naked are more widely understood, with more and more people wanting to get the exhilarating feelings for themselves. I’m delighted to see the number of our Naked Heart Walks more than double this year and would encourage anyone to come and give it a go - and raise much needed funds for our charity partner, British Heart Foundation.
Ben Bishop, BHF Fundraising Manager, said: 
“There are lots of ways you can support the BHF and this is one of the more unusual, but why not try something new? It is an opportunity to free yourself from everyday constraints while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and stunning locations where these walks are being held. Whether you dare to bare or keep your clothes on you can take part knowing that you will be helping our researchers find the new treatments and cures that can keep families together longer.”
We have people willing to be interviewed/photographed and stock photos for media use.
 
Media attendance at the walks is possible, with advance notice.
Contacts and links
British Naturism:
Andrew Welch andrew.welch@bn.org.uk; 07774 955138
nakedheartwalk.org.uk 
bn.org.uk
British Heart Foundation:
Will Slater slaterw@bhf.org.uk 07818 510 100
bhf.org.uk
 

Ladies spa day at Lancashire Sun

Lancashire Sun Club, near Rufford, are pleased to announce a Ladies Spa Day which includes a Great British Skinny Dip.
Guests will enjoy the use of the swimming pool hot tub, sauna and extensive lawns for sunbathing with sunbeds provided. Massage can also be booked in advance. 
There will be free tea and coffee all day - and sandwiches and cake available at 3.30 pm for a small extra charge
Admission is just £12 for the day starting at 1pm till late. Please note that bookings must be made in advance, for planning purposes.
The club would particularly welcome ladies new to Naturism - this could be the perfect opportunity to give it a try!
Find more info and all the details here - including a drone video of the club!

The Forum Live Debate: We Know What You’re Doing This Summer

This coming Monday (8th May), Coronation day, we thought we would use the Forum Live session for a light-hearted discussion about our individual plans for the year ahead.  With the weather now improving, many of us will have Naturist plans over the summer and hearing those may inspire people looking for options to try something new.  We can also brainstorm ideas that we are not planning, but might like trying that, in turn, might lead to new opportunities in the future.
This session will be more chatty than many of our debates, and feels a good way to wrap up a chilled bank holiday weekend. 
See you there. You can join the session on the night over in the BN shop
 
Photo by Derick McKinney on Unsplash

You are not alone - preparing for your first Naturist event

The proven effects of social nudity on mental health stem partly from the freedom found by shedding our clothes, but also from the sense of friendship found in the Naturist community.
As we move towards the summer season there are many opportunities to attend events and activities, practise Naturism with the wider community, and find new friends. However, we know that attending a first event can be a daunting prospect for many and it is often lamented that a crowd can be the loneliest place in the world if you don’t manage to connect with people.
At a Forum Live session last year we asked members to share their top tips on how to make friends and be part of an event and this is what they came up with:
 
If you have never attended a Naturist event before, uncertainty about etiquette such as “do I require a towel”, “how do people greet each other”, or “are there discussion topics to avoid” can make you very anxious. These things are frequently discussed in the BN members’ area/forum on the website and it is worth looking for some of those threads in advance, so you are confident that you are not going to get caught out.  
Similarly, not knowing what will be happening can make you anxious. Most events will have a programme of activities. You don’t need to learn it as things are announced at the time but looking over it in advance will give you confidence.  
Naturists are very sociable, but if you always sit in the same place, the number of people you encounter is limited. Plan to change your seat at different sessions, you will make many more connections.  
Sit in the middle of the room; if you sit in the corner, people may think you don’t want to be disturbed and leave you alone!  
Attend the whole event. It is tempting to think of just going for a short while to see how it goes, but once an event is up and running it is much harder to integrate. You will have a much better experience by committing to the whole event.  
Check the schedule for opportunities for newcomers. Some events will have a Meet and Greet or a gathering point for newcomers, which provide great opportunities to connect with others in the same situation.  
Most events will have a forum thread in the build-up. Put a post on that thread - saying hello and that you’re new will make connections in advance and let people know that you would appreciate some interaction once there. You won’t be the only person going on your own and hoping to make friends; signalling that in advance breaks the ice.  
Hopefully these tips will help you to make friends and have a great time. We will see you there soon!
  

2023 Swim Gala Goes….Swimmingly!

Another year, another trip to the British Naturism Swim Gala! While my partner Dave competed and mingled with other swimmers,  I spent the evening cheering him on and having some interesting chats. 
This was our second gala, and it was every bit as welcoming and fun as last year’s. The pool area was full of naked people of all ages – single people, couples and families. There was the same enthusiasm for the racers, the same loud clapping and cheering for those who came last. 
This year saw some organisational changes. While the 2022 gala was well-organised, this year everything ran “like clockwork so there was no waiting around,” said BN President Mark Bass.  And that’s with having to manage a crowd of 97 people, larger than last year! 
Another great change was the new participation medals. According to Event Manager Mark Walsh, they’re made in the UK from sustainable oak and are carbon neutral. “This was important to me as the gala is about the have-a-go heroes, people challenging themselves and just having fun. This medal rewards everyone, not just the winners.”
BN Sports Officer Ian Munt was “kept on my toes all evening with the timing.” There were some close races and “we definitely had a competition going on.”
And the swimmers weren’t the only heroes! “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the Events Team and other volunteers,” said Bass of the 18-strong team.
Bass praised “the balance that has been reached in the gala. People can compete and get their times, but the emphasis is on participation and having fun.”  Sports is a core part of Naturism, and it’s great news that so many people took part and are now eligible for Naturist Team GB at the international Gala later this year, Walsh added.
P.S.: Dave won two golds!
 

Naked, Alone and Racing to Get Home

It is probably a reflection of the current mood of the country, looking for a brighter future, that has led to the recent proliferation of everyday nudity on our televisions.  On Channel 4, “Naked, Alone and Racing To Get Home” presents a physical, survival challenge where teams without food or clothing compete to race across the countryside, while “Naked Education” considers health and body image issues that we all face.
“Naked, Alone and Racing To Get Home” presents physical endurance in an entertainment format while carrying some serious underlying messages about teamwork and mental strength.  One question we are receiving quite commonly at British Naturism is from people asking whether they are allowed to be naked in the countryside in the UK.  Some of the allusions in the show to the risk of being arrested suggests not, but the show is entertainment, and implying risk makes better programming.  “Naked, with a production team and waiting around to complete a mic check” would not have sold nearly as well!  The existence of the series shows nudity to be lawful as I’m sure it is self-evident that Channel 4 would not have offered cash incentives for people to break the law and then broadcast it, any more than they would sit and film somebody die of hypothermia as a result of the channel’s actions.
The reality is that we have the freedom to be naked as long as we are not adversely affecting others.  We all have a body so criminalising humanity would make no sense at all.  There is a common misconception that we must be dressed outdoors, but British Naturism’s work with the College of Policing among other bodies makes it clear that we don’t, as long as we are not trying to cause upset.  The show reveals that, despite the sensationalist voice overs and nerves of the contestants, the participants’ encounters with the public were entirely positive, and that the worries are mostly in our own minds.  It is even more encouraging to hear how the contestants talk about the freedom of being naked in the wilderness.  Even though the challenge is more extreme that recreational walking due to the lack of food, the teams still feel the elation of reconnecting with nature.
Their experience is very similar to that of the many naked hiking groups in the UK.  When the weather is not too cool, you will find naked hikes most weekends and throughout the week across the UK.  Some organised walks are listed in our events calendar, many more are planned and discussed in the walking section of our members’ forum.

BN announces new Clubs Officer

It gives me great pleasure to announce the appointment of Nick Mayhew-Smith to the EC as Clubs Officer.
Nick was one of the authors of Bare Beaches and Bare Britain and has written many articles about Naturism for both Naturist and non-Naturist periodicals over many years.  He is a keen historian who knows the legacy of Naturism and British Naturism, a feature that is very valuable in the Clubs Officer role.  Nick designed the first British Naturism website and is the person behind the “Nothing’s Better” slogan.  He is a forum regular, and all forum users will be aware of the depth of thought that goes into his posting.  He is a keen advocate of community building, a skill that has been evident in all of his contributions to the organisation thus far and will be crucial in the new role.  By profession Nick is a journalist and academic, meaning that his longstanding passion for Naturism is matched by professional experience.
Nick is a committed and recognised member of the White House Club in Surrey, one of the thriving clubs that form the bedrock of UK Naturism.  However, Nick is also a champion of free-range Naturism including hiking and skinny dipping in both the UK and abroad.  This blend of views is rare and likely to be invaluable as he knows the challenges that clubs need to handle to be safe and viable, but also knows the value of looking outward and avoiding isolationism.
Clubs Officer is an EC role that was created as recently as 2021, when it was considered that engagement and support of clubs was essential to the ongoing success of UK Naturism.  Historically, British Naturism (formerly CCBN) was an association of clubs and although membership has evolved over the decades to emphasise the importance of individual, clubs remain a cornerstone of the organisation.  Many of our members are also members of clubs and clubs provide a particularly safe space for those timid about trying Naturism. They have a tremendous amount of resource, both in terms of physical assets and expertise of members.  They also present challenges, as their autonomy means that British Naturism does not control their decision making.  This is a good thing as it means that decisions about Naturism do not rest with the EC alone and protect the concept of Naturism being a community where all our views matter.  The challenges before Nick are to achieve positive integration across clubs so the clubs thrive, and individual members get the opportunities they seek.  This is no small task, but we are confident in Nick’s ability to tackle it.
I’m sure Nick will share his own thoughts in due course, but for now, let us welcome him.

The Forum Live debate - A Strategic Approach to Arranging Small, Local Gatherings

Although British Naturism as an organisation does a lot of work to promote Naturism and organises many events centrally or through the Regions, every member has the opportunity to create their own activity.  Many members are motivated to organise small gatherings; a question is how do we make best use of those as a community and how do individuals avoid risk when doing so?
In March we used The Forum Live Debate to identify both benefits and risks associated with member-led gatherings.  We concluded that because this is such an important topic, we wouldn’t rush to create one or two action points in that session, and instead use a follow-up session to consider the list and actions that individuals could take to achieve the best outcome.

On Monday 24th April, at 19:30 we will have part two of that discussion and try to identify some action points.  This session is open to all members, whether you want to share thoughts or just listen, and can be accessed through the British Naturism Shop

So that people can start to think about the topic, the lists of the identified opportunities and risks have been posted on the forum for consideration (log in required)

Not a Member? You're missing out!

There's loads of reasons to be a member of BN and here's a reminder of the benefits you get for less than £4.50 a month! 
Check out goodtimes.bn.org.uk for an overview of all our work and then make the great decision to come and join us! 
Easy access to information, advice, downloads and useful guides that will help you to practice Naturism Four issues of our full colour, information-packed magazine with news and views from the UK and overseas, delivered to your door and available to download and read online Access to the BN Members’ Online Community Free entry to many online events and access to discount packages for others 25% off the ticket price of live events - some also exclusive to members 15% off all prices in the BN Shop The BN Holiday advice service A photo ID/membership card – proven to be useful in establishing your credentials with Authority figures, if ever your Naturist activities are challenged. It is also an International Naturist Federation (INF) card – essential for access to some overseas Naturist places, and discounts in others Be part of a vibrant community with and connect with like-minded people Knowing that you are helping to support the practise of Naturism, and the work of British Naturism, so that it continues to thrive  

A Naked Walk in Copenhagen

Torben Larsen, chairman of Danish Naturist federation, Danske Naturister (and BN member) is looking for people to join his project. He says:
Realising that former attempts to normalise public nudity here have failed, I plan an event for the coming summer (July or August) - a naked walk through the main street of Copenhagen. The difference between this walk and events like the World Naked Bike Ride is that the walk serves nudity itself, not pollution or climate changes. The walk requires about 20 participants, and some portable signs informing the spectators about the purpose of the walk, which is not to provoke for the sake of it, but to campaign for the right to practice natural, non-sexual nudity in public.
Would any members of BN find the cause important and the walk tempting? I would love to hear from you on tal@naturister.dk. If we manage to recruit a considerable amount of participants from UK, we might consider organising mutual transportation offering some kind of discount on the travelling expenses.
Thanks Torben - we look forward to hearing how you get on!
 
Picture by Ava Coploff from Unsplash
 

Trouble in Tallahassee

John Little writes...
Tallahassee is the state capital of Florida and its student population of over 70,000, makes it officially a “college town “. When the head of Tallahassee Classical School resigned, Tallahassee made the headlines all over the World.
As a “Hillsdale College curriculum school”, it is required to teach Renaissance art in the sixth grade. It would be difficult to do the subject justice without reference to Michelangelo, one of the Renaissance's greatest artists, and his famous statue of David.
But when the time came, three parents made complaints to the school, one of them claiming that the school had been showing their child pornographic images. Fearful of litigation and on advice from the school's employment lawyer, the Chair of the school board called the Principal, Hope Carrasquilla, into his office and told her to either resign or be sacked.
Reading a rather full account in the Washington Post, it seems there is also a significant political angle to the story. However, by far the majority of the parents at the school were as shocked by the resignation news as most people around the World. They complained about the lack of communication from the school and frequent teacher turnover.
Talking about her resignation, Carrasquilla said she was not given a reason but believed the lesson on the Michelangelo statue played a role in what happened. This was later confirmed by Chair of the board, Barney Bishop, who told reporters that he had given Carrasquilla an ultimatum following complaints from three parents who believed the material on “David” was “controversial” and not age-appropriate for their children.
The school board has now introduced a rule that requires parents to be notified two weeks in advance of any proposed subject that is “potentially controversial,” Parents will be able to review the planned curriculum and the photos that go with it, and a reminder notice will go out one week in advance.
Bishop said he does not think “David” is controversial, noting that he studied Renaissance art in Italy 50 years ago. He added that while 97 percent of the parents had no problem with the art class, he emphasised that parents’ rights and concerns on what their children are being taught trump whatever he thinks about the lesson.
There have been arguments nationwide about what children should be taught about race, racism, gender and sexual orientation and the rights of transgender students as well as the appropriateness of books available in school libraries and classrooms. 25 states have passed 64 laws about what children should learn and do at school and Florida has passed more than its share.
As Kent Brockman from the Simpsons asked, “Is it a masterpiece or just some guy with his pants down?”
Edwin Kilby, BN's International Director, added:
Many people, not just Naturists, will be astonished at the apparent sexualisation of a piece of classical art, widely seen as one of Michelangelo’s greatest works, simply because the subject is naked.  
 
And, according to a report in Associated Press, the museum in Florence that houses the David statue invited parents and students from the Florida school to come and see it for themselves.  Florence Mayor Dario Nardella also tweeted an invitation for the principal to visit so he can personally honour her. Confusing art with pornography was “ridiculous,” Nardella said.
 
Cecilie Hollberg, director of the Galleria dell’Accademia, where David resides, expressed astonishment at the controversy.
“To think that David could be pornographic means truly not understanding the contents of the Bible, not understanding Western culture and not understanding Renaissance art,” Hollberg said in a telephone interview.
 

Photo by Alex Ghizila on Unsplash
 

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