Naturists believe that naturism can help to improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Psychologists in the earliest days of modern naturism suggested mental health benefits from naturism. Body image and self esteem are aspects of mental health and well-being that seem most greatly and easily impacted by naturist practice. 1Naked and Unashamed: Investigations and Applications of the Effects of Naturist Activities on Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Life Satisfaction
“The naturists have been saying this for some time. However, despite a lot of positive claims, little to no empirical research has investigated whether naturist activity (rather than attitude or beliefs) actually makes us happier or, just as importantly, why it makes us happier.” Dr. Keon West
Some in non-naturist society also recognize the health benefits of spending nude time indoors and outdoors. 2The health benefits of being naked: How stripping down is good for you
Naturism as mental health
Ways that naturism may support mental health:
- Increased self-acceptance: Naturism can help people to accept their bodies and to feel more comfortable in their own skin. This can lead to a decrease in anxiety and depression.
- Reduced stress: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels. Naturism allows people to connect with nature in a more intimate way, which can further reduce stress levels.
- Improved social relationships: Naturism can help people to connect with others who share their values and interests. This can lead to the development of stronger social relationships, which can provide support and a sense of belonging.
- Increased self-esteem: Naturism can help people to feel more confident and positive about themselves. This can lead to a decrease in anxiety and depression.
Research
There is some research that supports the claims that naturism can improve mental health. Noted psychologists have studied naturism and its psychological benefits. Self actualization psychologist Abraham Maslow posited that nudism could be seen as a a form of therapy.3Eupsychian Management: A Journal by Abraham Harold Maslow (1965-06-24) Psychologist Lawrence Casler also studied nudisms social and mental health benefits.
“In short the most interesting thing about nudism seems to be not that it exists but that so little has been done to learn what it has to teach” Lawrence Casler PhD.
Psychologist Paul Bindrim explored mental health treatment through nude psychotherapy based on some of Maslow’s initial findings.4JOURNAL OF THE HISTORY OF THE BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES :BARING THE SOUL: PAUL BINDRIM, ABRAHAM MASLOW AND ‘NUDE PSYCHOTHERAPY Mainstream society in most places has not moved towards acceptance of social nudity as practiced in naturism.
More recent studies also support the idea that the practice of naturism is good for mental health and well being. For example, a study published in the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease found that naturists reported lower levels of stress and anxiety than non-naturists. The study also found that naturists were more likely to report feeling happy and content with their lives.
Another study, published in the journal Body Image, found that naturists had a more positive body image than non-naturists. The study also found that naturists were more likely to be satisfied with their relationships and to feel connected to nature and to other people.
One study, published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, found that naturists reported lower levels of stress and anxiety than non-naturists. The study also found that naturists had higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction.
These studies suggest that naturism can be a beneficial lifestyle for mental health. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these findings.
External resources
The new rise of naturism: Why we’re better off in the buff
Naturism and Mental Health: David’s Story
Does Naturism help your mental health?
These studies suggest that naturism can be a beneficial lifestyle for mental health. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these findings. Also note naturism is not a substitute for professional mental health care, it is a good companion.
References
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- 4JOURNAL OF THE HISTORY OF THE BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES :BARING THE SOUL: PAUL BINDRIM, ABRAHAM MASLOW AND ‘NUDE PSYCHOTHERAPY