Naturist yoga

Naturist yoga, also sometimes referred to as naked or nagna yoga, ¹or vivastra ²is a practice that combines traditional yoga poses and philosophies with naturism, the social practice of nudity.

Naked yoga is the practice of yoga without clothes. Though not all naked yoga is a naturist yoga. Though naturist yoga is growing in popularity among modern naturists, it isn’t new.

History of naturist yoga

In India the birthplace of yoga, the Sadhus or holy men practice naked yoga as part of their spiritual practice. When Alexander encountered these naked holy men or gymnospophists on his campaign into India, he was inspired to take naked sport and physical activities back to Greece. The Nagna Sadhus of India have engaged in the practice as a part of their spiritual life for centuries. ³

In early 20th century Europe yoga was included in the physical health practices of the Lebensreform or life reform movement from which naturism or Gymnosophy evolved. In the early days of modern naturism in the United States, people like Marguerite Agniel a Broadway actress and dancer, and author 1931 book The Art of the Body: Rhythmic Exercise for Health and Beauty, was among the first to combine yoga and nudism. ⁴ She wrote an article title “The Mental Element in Our Physical Well-Being” for American magazine The Nudist magazine (the original name for Sunshine and Health) in 1938. It depicted nude women practising yoga. ⁵

In the sixties, many among hippies did naked yoga. Naked yoga practice found a presence in wellness venues the Esalen Institute in California Naked yoga was depicted in the 1968 film Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice and The Harrad Experiment. The 1974 documentary Naked Yoga directed by by Paul Corsden was nominated for an Academy award for Best Documentary Short Subject – 1974 by Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. ⁶

Marc Alain Descamps naturist philosopher writer, film maker, yogi and yoga teacher wrote extensively about both naturism and yoga. including a book about the history of yoga in France.

naturism and yoga

Naturism and naked yoga seem to have many common themes and intentions.. The mainstream media often feature stories about naked yoga online. The number of people practicing clothes free, naked or nagna yoga and sharing it online seems to be a growing. Naked yoga challenges pop up on the Instagram social media platform all the time. Despite the some restrictions. Some yoga teachers are starting to provide clothes free yoga classes. Naturists and nudists among others are participating in the opportunity bare and do yoga.

Many who practice naked yoga don’t necessarily consider themselves naturist or nudists. In fact many people who practice clothes free yoga are not naturists. Often these folks are drawn to the body positive practice of naked yoga and the greater body awareness it brings. While the practice of naked yoga has not be universally accepted in the yoga community many who try the experience often report unexpected results.

However, there are many ways that naturism and naked yoga intersect.

A naturist is an individual who embraces the act of being clothes-free, like a nudist except that “Nudism is the act of being naked, while naturism is a lifestyle which at various times embraced nature, environment, respect for others, self-respect, crafts, healthy eating, non-smoking, yoga, physical exercise and pacifism as well as nudity.”
I choose to live this lifestyle and can’t be happier!
Recently I’ve had a photoshoot which displays nudity in the form of art, “The Body is a Temple,” shot by Jasper Johal. (JasperPhoto.com) To me, yoga and naturism is an internal and spiritual practice where you really achieve a better understanding of oneself, and what better way to portray that then by being completely NATURAL?

Core Principles:

A central theme is fostering a positive relationship with one’s body, promoting self-acceptance, and challenging societal norms regarding body image. The absence of clothing aims to remove distractions and encourage a deeper connection with the physical self.
Connection with Nature: Naturism emphasizes a sense of harmony with nature. Practicing yoga in a natural state is seen by proponents as a way to enhance this connection.
Freedom and Liberation:Many practitioners report feeling a sense of liberation and freedom from the constraints of clothing and societal expectations.
Enhanced Body Awareness: Without clothing, practitioners may experience heightened awareness of their body’s movements, sensations, and alignment.

What to Expect in naturist yoga

Emphasis on Non-Sexuality:
It’s crucial to understand that naturist yoga is intended to be a non-sexual practice. Studios and genuine naturist instructors will enforce strict policies to ensure a safe and respectful environment.

Varied Practices:
The style of yoga experienced in naturist yoga may vary greatly. From gentle or restorative to more vigorous flows.
Environment:
Class locations also vary. A class may be held in a dedicated studio, private rented settings, a home, or naturist resorts. Naturist yoga classes can aLeo be found online classes.
Focus on Mindfulness:
Like any yoga practice, mindfulness and breath work are important components of naturist yoga.

Current popularity

Though naked yoga has been practiced for thousands of years in India, the practice of nude or naked yoga has only recently gained broader interest and participation in Western yoga circles. Now ordinary everyday yogis and yoginis can be found doing yoga sans clothing. Yoga challenges are common on Instagram. Many have discovered the many mental as well as physical benefits of nude yoga that layer on the existing benefit of a yoga practice.⁷

Naked (naturist) yoga Continues to rising in popularity. Women & Men of all shapes, sizes, colours, ages and physical abilities are participating in yoga at clothing optional venues and classes. Whether you are new to yoga or a long time yogi – you are give naturist naked yoga a try and learn how to practice naked yoga. All you need is yourself, a bottle of water and a large towel or mat.

Key Considerations:

Finding a Safe Environment:

If you’re interested in trying naturist yoga, it’s essential to find a reputable instructor or studio that prioritizes safety and respect.

Personal Comfort:

Naturist yoga may not be for everyone. It’s essential to consider your own comfort level with nudity.

Naturist yoga is about much more than getting naked

You will get more in touch with your body, you work muscles and joints and may build heat ⁸

TONIGHT! Naked! Select Saturday Evening Yoga at 5PM in NYC. Do something for you this weekend! https://t.co/979Mhr0x0I pic.twitter.com/Knjw1i7lx8

— Naked in Motion® (@nakedinmotion) May 20, 2017