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Respect culture is, I believe, a widely overlooked approach to presenting naturism and nudism to others. What I mean by “respect culture” is leaning into an overabundance of respect for personal boundaries, bodily autonomy, human diversity, and humanity. (1/11)
I don’t mean to say that naturists or nudists are just generally disrespectful by any means... though I don’t think it’s the pinnacle of respect to tell stories of answering your door nude to accept a delivery or going nude in public spaces where nudity is not the norm. (2/11)
What I mean is that where we could be a light in the world is by showing respect. For example, understanding the complicated relationship that many people, ourselves included, have with our own bodies and respecting that not everyone has the same comfort with nudity. (3/11)
Simply saying, “get naked and leave your worries behind,” is a really nice sentiment, but a lot of folks simply are not prepared to do that. It’s not that easy. Showing kindness and patience towards that journey, however, is an act of respect. (4/11)
Likewise, showing an appreciation and active support for folks from diverse cultural, racial, or social backgrounds is an act of respect, as opposed to just sort of being comfortable with homogeneity and unequal access. (5/11)
This extends outward. Look at the way much of nudist and naturist social media accounts interact, for example. Many exist as vehicles to spread images of nudity for nudity’s sake, but the provenance of those images is questionable. (6/11)
Whereas many accounts post images of nudity indiscriminately, paying little attention to whether the person or people pictured want their image spread around the internet, a respectful approach would rely on consensually sources content, allowing creators to opt in or out. (7/11)
Sharing someone’s nude photo without their permission is not respectful of that person’s bodily autonomy or privacy, even if they don’t care. It sends a message that nudity for nudity’s sake is more important than consent and respect. (8/11)
And... *sigh*... I don’t really want to delve into all the issues with those anti-LGBTQ nudists and naturists out there, or the ones flying confederate flags, or those who make disparaging and sexual comments or actions towards women in this community. (9/11)
But those are serious issues as well. Failing to create a safe space for the most vulnerable is also a failure to show respect. (10/11)
So, that’s the thread. Lean into an overabundance of respect, extend patience and understanding around bodily acceptance and the journey towards self-love. Respect boundaries, bodies, and backgrounds. 
(11/11)
(11/11)
