[description: infographic describing eight different varieties of nudist lifestyles]
I came across this image on social media, and it resonated with me. I guess I like how it focuses on the fact that there are many different ways to practice nudism, instead of divisively arguing whether, e.g., home nudists are "real" nudists, or asking whether you're a nudist OR a naturist (as if they're not the same thing). It's a checklist - not a single choice. That said, some of the categories conflict with others, so it's not like you can just collect the whole set. Let's run down the list real quick, and I'll add some of my own comments.
1. Social Nudists - These are the type of nudists who like to go to resorts and hang out with other nudists. Obviously, I count myself as a social nudist. In spite of my generally solitary lifestyle, I do appreciate the opportunities and the sense of community that comes from being part of a group of like minds. Especially within such a fringe minority.
2. Home Nudists - These are often contrasted with social nudists, in the sense that they prefer privacy and are comfortable in their own skin, but not so much in front of other people. While there is some merit to that distinction, it feels weird for me to say that I'm not a home nudist, seeing as I spend so much time at home nude. I just think there's room to be both, instead of it being strictly either/or.
3. Recreational Nudists - I think this category distinguishes itself from other kinds of nudism (especially social) in that it's activity-centered. For some people, being naked itself is the draw. Others might be willing to strip down as long as there's a purpose to it. While I do find nudity to be its own reward, I also love having something to do while I'm naked. Whether it's household chores, sports, outdoor activities - alone or in a group. Nudity is the best uniform.
4. Naturists - A lot is made of the "difference" between nudism and naturism, but it's largely semantic. In some cases, naturism is just a regional variation of the term "nudism". Which is why it's offensive to suggest that naturists are nudists with principles. Many self-labeled "nudists" share those same principles. That said, I could conceive of a type of nudist who just enjoys being naked, without making it a whole philosophy. But that ain't me. I especially like the connection with nature that's implied by the term naturism. While I like nudism within the bounds of civilization and society, being naked in nature takes it to another level.
5. Occasional Nudists - I feel like this option should have been listed earlier, after social and home nudists, because it's kinda disrupting the flow here. Regardless, these are situational nudists, who are not at all dedicated to the lifestyle, but happy to engage in it - when the right opportunity arises. They might not share that dedication to the lifestyle that you or I have, but they really are a special kind of person. Contrasted with the stereotypical textile who suffers from a culturally-instilled gymnophobia, they are open and accepting and even game to dabble in a different worldview! How wonderful is that?
6. Spiritual Nudists - There's definitely some overlap here with the naturist category. I guess you could distinguish them via a secular versus a religious approach. I'm not normally a religious person, but whatever spirituality I experience is definitely related to nudity. Part of that is the rapture one experiences in response to a fine specimen of naked beauty. But it's also about the fundamental truth of our being, and our connection to the universe, which I feel most profoundly when I'm naked in nature.
7. Political Nudists - Not all nudists like to get political. Some fear drawing negative attention to themselves or their lifestyle. Some even accept their underclass status, and prefer to hide away in self-loathing, lashing out against their braver peers who dare to stand up for their own community's civil liberties. I apologize if there's some venom in my voice. I understand that not everyone is in a position to stick their necks out and rock the boat, but I resent the frequency with which these accommodationists accuse those of us who are willing to fight for the right to freedom of dress of being antisocial perverts who just want to expose ourselves to strangers in public. How can they even call themselves nudists if they view the human body from the textiles' perspective - as something ugly and offensive that must be shielded from public view (or worse, something that requires consent, like a sex act)? Especially in this day and age, if you're not political, then you're not doing your civic duty.
8. Family Nudists - I can't say that I'm a family nudist, only because I don't have a family of my own. But if I did, I would be. It's not an easy path to walk in this society, but I couldn't do it any other way. So I have lots of respect for those who are able to navigate the obstacles. Some nudists are understandably cagey about mixing nudism with children, but if you ask me, nudism without children isn't even really nudism. It's just an "adult" activity - like the kind nudists try to distance themselves from. Children, therefore, are the proof of concept. They're what keeps nudism pure and honest.
