By Nathan Powers

Nudists (or “naturists” as some prefer to be referred to), have been the brunt of many a joke for many years. However, the truth of the matter is that living a nudist lifestyle may actually be far better for you, physically, ecologically and economically.

That dirty word – “Laundry”: Let’s start with the obvious. Nudists tend to wear as little clothing as possible, usually nothing at all, as often as possible or whenever conditions allow. Most live in climates that are tropical enough to maximize this opportunity. Wearing less clothing means washing less clothing and washing the clothing that they own less frequently, requiring the repair and replacement of clothing less often. They also tend to have less of a wardrobe, requiring less storage space. So here, we are seeing a saving in money spent on laundry detergents, gas and electricity to operate a washer and dryer, replacement clothing and repair costs, home closet or storage space. We also see less chlorine, phosphates, ozone and carbon dioxide pumped into the environment as well as a reduction in health issues related to exposure to the chemicals needed for properly washing clothing. (Chlorine bleach is one of the deadliest chemicals we can expose ourselves to).

Cooling Down: Since for practicality reasons, most nudists live in either tropical or subtropical regions, many homes and businesses in those regions have some form of air conditioning. Nudists can save money and as in the case of laundry, the environment, by being able to turn up the thermostat a few degrees and allowing the natural cooling system provided in our bodies to do it’s job. Also, if things get a little too hot, it is very easy to simply jump in a cool shower or hose off for a second or two with having to take the time to get undress and redressed. Besides, who wants to throw those sweaty clothing back on right after a shower.

Health Costs: There are other bonuses as well. It has recently been found that exposure to natural sunlight is far healthier to the human body than attempting to hide from the sun altogether. Regulated exposure to natural sunlight lets the body naturally produce all of the Vitamin “D” it needs to ward off a host of deadly and debilitating diseases, cancers and conditions, including MS, ALS, osteoporosis, breast, ovarian, prostate and brain cancers. (source) Even more recent reports indicate that almost all sunscreens are completely ineffective in reducing the deadliest forms of cancer, melanoma (source). Several reports indicate that the ingredients used to manufacture sunscreens are actually more harmful that the cancers they purport to prevent. However, by balancing the ratio of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, combined with an adequate amount of Vitamin “D”, incidence of melanoma has shown to be reduced by around 40% (source). It is therefore better to gradually expose the body to the sun, slowly building up our body’s own natural sunscreen, melanin, being careful not to get sunburned in the process.

The bottom line is that nudists can save a ton of money by not buying sunscreen, simply exposing themselves to natural sunlight in appropriate amounts; there by creating Vitamin “D” for free and by simply eating a diet that balances omega 3 acids. This can be done through supplement or through adding fish, flax or kiwi fruit to their diets. The real savings come from not having to pay medical bills for treatments for all of the conditions.

Stuff: Nudism is often referred to as the “Great Equalizer”. When people are naked around other people, it is difficult to tell if a person is the president of a bank, or a school janitor. Consequently, nudists tend to be far less “class-conscious”. Nudists are typically less likely to want to keep up with the Joneses, realizing that not only do clothes not really make the man, but neither do homes, cars, boats etc.

More Health – Less Stress – More Money: Studies have also found that children raised in nudist homes tend to be more socially developed (and often more intelligent) than those raised in “textile” families. Nudists generally feel that they have nothing to hide. That attitude permeates the rest of their psyche as well, so they tend to be less stressed out and more sure of themselves. We have probably all heard about the health problems produced by living under stress. Nudists save money by not having to treat as many stress related disorders. (source – pdf format) Also, by being more self confident, and supposedly better educated, they are more likely to get better jobs, making more money.

Society: Those same group of studies indicated that children raised in nudist homes are less inclined to become burdens to society. They are less likely to become involved in early sexual or drug experimentation or to commit crimes against society. This is partially because they are not as materially oriented and because they are already familiar with the looks and workings of the opposite sex. In general, nudity allows them to be more open and honest in their family life, which is expressed in how they relate to others in general. Nudists save money by not having to bail their children out of jail, take them to the doctors to treat sexually transmitted diseases or help them raise unwanted grandchildren (as frequently). If all families raised their children with the same attitudes as nudists, we would all be able to save money by having to pay less in taxes to support fewer children of unwanted pregnancies, drug addicts, juvenile delinquents, vandalism, etc.

SOUCRE: Saving Advice

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Is it possible to find love with someone who is a nudist when you are not? Although you may have a different opinion about whether or not to wear a swimsuit to the beach, you can meet your nudist (or sometimes referred to as “naturist”) date halfway. Instead of looking at the situation from a one-sided perspective (you may think that being naked is embarrassing whereas your date thinks its great), open your mind and embrace your differences. Regardless of whether he or she is a full-time or part-time nudist you can find common ground to cultivate a healthy dating relationship.

Steps

1. Do your homework. Before you form an opinion about nudism or naturism, do some research to find out more about the lifestyle. For most nudists, being naked in a public (or even private) place has no sexual connotations, but practice the lifestyle because it helps them to feel free and one with nature. Special clubs, beaches and even conventions are dedicated to naturism, where entire families convene and celebrate being human and embracing nature.
   
2. Determine how you feel about the topic. Your nudist date may have his or her personal opinion as to why the nudist lifestyle seems right, but you need to determine how you feel about the topic.
   
   • You have no opinion whatsoever. Since your date can’t be naked 24/7 and probably commutes to work, interacts with people on a daily basis and lives in modern society, you may not have any specific opinion about his or her nudism because you are not exposed to it (or have limited exposure). In some cases, you may be able to date a nudist without having to be part of the lifestyle and keep dates to public places and traditional social gatherings--what the nudist does on his or her own time is fine with you.
     
   • You are uncomfortable with nudism. Especially if you are uncomfortable with your own nakedness, you may be uneasy with your date’s nudism. Determine if you are uncomfortable around your date all the time or if the feelings of unrest arrive when he or she wants to be naked (while you are not).
     
   • You are curious about the lifestyle. Perhaps you don't want to join the revolution, but perhaps you are intrigued by naturism. You may want to do your own in-depth research and then, when you feel as if your date feels comfortable, ask questions.
     
   
   
3. Have a frank discussion about any hang ups. If this relationship is going to move beyond a few dates you are going to have to ask questions and lay your feelings out on the table.
   
   • Choose an opportune situation to have the discussion such as over dinner or coffee. Select a time when he or she is not naked so you can focus on the topic instead of the fact he or she has disrobed.
     
   • Determine when a discussion is important. If you have only been a few dates and like the other person, see which aspects of naturism you can work through on your own. You don’t want to embark upon a serious discussion about what concerns you early on and upset or freak the other person out.
     
   • Get the root of the real problem. Before you embark upon your concerns determine which aspects of nudism bothers you most. Is it that your date likes to practice nudism in inappropriate times and places or are you uncomfortable that he or she is a nudist in general. If you are uncomfortable with nudism in general, the problem may have something more to do with your personal opinions and experiences versus what the other person is doing.
     
   
   
4. Decide which aspects you can live with. If you really like the other person and want to continue dating him or her, you’ll need to determine if you can deal with his or her naturism. In many cases you can work out when and where he or she practices nudism.
   
   • Establish times when nudism is off limits. If you aren’t a fan of naturism, but feel as if this is the kind of relationship you are comfortable pursing, lay down some ground rules so that everyone is comfortable. For example, if he or she likes to be naked at home but you are uncomfortable, make a rule that nudism is only o.k. when you aren’t around.
     
   • Identify situations where you are o.k. with naturism. Situations include nude beaches, clubs or in private places--set clear rules about when your date should feel comfortable getting naked.
     
   • Decide to be undecided. If this is your first experience with someone who is a nudist, try to remain open-minded and willing to embrace your date’s interest. That doesn’t mean that you have to become a nudist, however as your feelings develop for the other person, understand that you may feel more comfortable with naturism and may eventually see it as a healthy lifestyle.
     
   
   

Tips

• Explore different options of the nudist culture such as topless only or going to family friendly beaches or locales.
  
• Remind your nudist date to liberally apply sunscreen to every exposed area of the body. A nasty sunburn in certain areas of the body may create a hiccup in your love life.
  
• Understand that being a nudist does not make the other person perverted or sexually creepy. Do some research to understand the thinking behind the movement.
  
• Consider trying it if you are curious about the lifestyle.
  

Warnings

• If you are completely uncomfortable with dating a nudist be honest and discontinue dating the person.
  

Sources and Citations

• http://www.examiner.com/nudist-culture-in-newark/how-to-find-a-naturist-date
  
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturism
  
• http://usanudist.com/
  

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Date a Nudist when You Are Not One. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

If it's just a comment, ignoring them is always an option. If they ask a question, ignoring them is still an option. However, being polite usually helps and some barefooters have gotten into some interesting conversations. Maybe you can even make a few converts!

The responses (in italics) get nastier or weirder the farther down the list they are. It depends on your mood at the time. (Some of the responses can be used in response to more than one comment.)

Hey – did someone steal your shoes?

Of course not … but if it's any consolation, you're not the first person to ask. Actually, you're not even the 100th. This question seems to be the universal calling card for smart-alecks trying to be hilarious. Next question.

So why do you do it? The short reason is, it's pretty fun. There's something inherently joyful about running around shoeless; it's like pushing a magic 'boost' button to amplify the childlike pleasure of running by a magnitude of 100. Some people do it after a history of injuries with shoes, and others try it to give the muscles of their feet and lower legs a unique workout – but for most of us, it's all about the joy.

But doesn't it hurt?

Yes … and no. Barefoot running takes a LOT of getting used to, and you have to start in very small doses. When you first begin, you'll feel every little crack and pebble in the road, and 99% of them will be uncomfortable. Even after a year, there are definitely some surfaces I try to avoid at all costs – gravel fire roads and chip and seal asphalt come to mind – because they just hurt too much. After a while, your feet grow resilient to a variety of surfaces, from asphalt to concrete to grass and groomed trails, but there's always an additional caution factor that barefoot runners exercise.

Aren't you afraid of broken glass?

This is far and away the most common 'You're gonna shoot your eye out!' warning barefoot runners hear. Certainly we're concerned about broken glass, as well as rusty nails or pieces of scrap metal – but those hazards aren't nearly as common as some people imagine, and you'd be amazed at how effective your eyes are at spotting trouble spots on the road before you get there.

Do you get blisters?

Yes … and no. New barefoot runners will certainly develop a few blisters when they get started; they're your body's built-in warning system to ensure that you progress gradually to prevent long-term injury. Experienced barefoot runners eventually become more resistant to blisters – the soles of your feet become a bit leathery – but even so, we'll often get blisters if we run a lot farther or faster than usual.

Don't your feet get cold?

In some conditions, sure. It's much harder to be a barefoot runner in the winter than in the summer. A handful of hardcore folks run barefoot in snow or freezing temperatures, but the vast majority of us spend the cold seasons in various types of minimalist footwear – no heel, no cushion – like Vibram FiveFingers, Soft Star moccasins, or other styles from other manufacturers. Thankfully, minimalist options are growing like crazy, and it's not very hard to find some basic foot coverings to get you through the winter. But when you're fortunate enough to live on the Monterey Peninsula, the climate is amenable to barefoot running almost year-round, so you've got plenty of opportunities to give it a try!

You're barefoot!

You're not!
You're observant!
You're right!
Thanks for the tip.
No shit, Sherlock.
Why aren't you wearing shoes?
Don't like 'em.
They make my feet sweat/stink.
My feet like the fresh air.
My feet were hot.
One less thing to do in the morning.
Why aren't you wearing gloves [hat]?
To annoy people like you.
Why do you care?
I'm allergic to them
I'm not wearing a tie either.
I'm off-duty.
I'm opposed to wasting petrochemicals/leather.
I'm performing a scientific foot-toughening experiment.
If I don't keep in contact with the ground, I build up a static charge.
My feet were jealous of my hands.
I'll give you three-thousand guesses.
They are a conspiracy by multi-national plastic and leather merchants.
I knew I had forgotten something!
Why are you barefoot?
I like the way it feels.
It's much more comfortable.
I think it looks cool.
I want to toughen my feet.
It's good for my feet.
Because feet are beautiful.
It gives me this wonderful feeling of freedom.
I want keep in touch with the earth.
Because I'm not wearing shoes [duh!].
Try and work it out.
Because I m not concerned with your contempt.
Dunno.
Because you don't pay my salary.
I'm in a time-warp from the '60s.

Where are your shoes?

At home [where they belong].
I don't know. [Have you seen them?]
Somewhere else.
What do you mean? These are God's Reeboks.
On vacation.
Don't have any.
My what?
What are shoes?
Up there. [Said while pointing up.]
Aliens took them.

Aren't your feet cold?

Not unduly.
No...My feet are COOL!
Obviously not.
Aren't your feet hot
Nice shoes.
Thanks.
Very comfortable too.
Do you like them? My parents made them for me.

The answer to how to go topfree on the beach during your summer holiday may appear obvious but there is alot more to consider than simply baring all the moment you arrive on the beach (guys out there please bear this in mind, pun intended). For some women this may be the norm but for others it might be something that has always been in the back of your mind and never quite had the confidence to go for it. Well, however you feel about it, here is how anyone can go topfree on the beach this summer.

1. – Check your destination. Depending on which beach, in which country, you are at this summer will determine whether or not you actually can go topfree on the beach. For some countries this will be an extremely arrestable offence and will most certainly ruin your holiday.

2. – Don’t compare yourself. We have all seen those toned, super tanned women who walk tall down the beach without a care in the world wearing nothing but a bright pink thong bikini. If were weren’t all too scared to be seen within 5 metres of this creature we would have asked here how she managed that enviable figure. Reality is, most of us will not ever look like that so go and get that cocktail and enjoy the sun.

3. – Consider who you are on the beach with. If it’s with your partner of your friends, go for it. If it’s with your teenage children, consider their feelings first. The teenage years really can be hard enough.

4. – Be discreet. By this I mean, get yourself settled and discreetly get them out. Wipping off your top with a ‘woohoo’ the moment you step foot on the sand isn’t really necessary.

5. – Try not to blush when someone speaks to you. So easier said than done especially for us Brits!

6. – Reapply the sunscreen often. For assets that perhaps are not exposed to sunlight often they need that extra bit of tender love and care or you shall be suffering the painful consequences for the rest of your holiday.

7. – Explain clearly to your partner that it is for tanning purposes only and is not, as he may believe, foreplay.

8. – “I don’t like the idea of men looking at you” Don’t let this stop you, simply ask if he looks a women who are topfree on the beach and when he says no tell him he, therefore, has nothing to worry about.

9. – If you need a few glasses of wine in order to strip off it may be best to leave it for this year. A little bit of dutch courage goes along way but you do run the risk of becoming a little too confident.

10. – Lastly, enjoy yourself. Going topfree on the beach not meant to be stressful. If it’s not for you, you still going to look gorgeous whatever you are wearing.

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit


In 2001, two sisters hiked the Appalachian Trail. Barefoot![1] But surprisingly, barefoot hikers aren't necessarily thrill-seekers. They're better described as sensation-seekers, with some comparing it to the foot's equivalent of wine tasting.[2] With practice and attentiveness, your feet can adapt to the great outdoors, and anyone can experience a hike in a whole new way. Here is a suggested approach for the beginning barefoot hiker.

Steps

1. Spend some time in your front or back yard barefoot. Try a variety of surfaces. Take your time, look around and flex your toes gratefully. If you have some local streets, parks or nature centers that are appropriate (not too much traffic or litter) you can extend your pre-conditioning to those areas.
   
2. Try to interpret the new sensations as just that: new sensations. At first, the unfamiliar textures overwhelm the tactile senses. The first ten minutes or so for a beginning barefooter can be the most difficult. You will be in a process of adjustment. Most find that after this time (sometimes just as they were about to give up), the going became considerably easier.
   
3. Always step straight down. Never allow your bare feet to kick, shuffle, or drag along the ground. It is lateral movement that produces the great majority of risk of cutting from any sharp surfaces.
   
4. Always watch the path ahead. Stop if you want to take a good look at something off the path. When your bare feet are in motion, focus most often on the part of the path two to three paces in front. This practice will become very important when you hike on stony or uneven terrain. You should definitely start on your first day of barefoot hiking even if you are on the mildest of trails.
   
   • Being a matter of sensory coordination, much like catching a ball, this is a skill that develops mostly on a subconscious level, but you can consciously help it along along by contemplating the fact that you are learning to coordinate two of your senses: the sight of your eyes and the newly discovered tactile sensitivity of your bare soles.
     
5. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet and not on your heels. Within comfortable limits, try to keep more weight on the forward part of your foot, for a longer time during the course of each step, than might previously been your habit.
   
   • The ball of the foot is supple and yielding, yet tough and resilient. It is the part where most of the weight of the body (in motion) should be borne. Notice how broad this part of the foot is and how much larger an area it presents to the ground than the heel. Feel how flexible it is, how the toes and metatarsals can move up and down independently to mold to the contour of the earth. This is what allows the ball to absorb shock so much better than the heel.
     
6. Develop habits of awareness. You must never forget you are going barefoot so always devote a part of your attention to your bare soles. Be careful and deliberate as you rotate and maneuver your feet around obstacles. You should be ready to retract a step if you don't like the feeling of what you are stepping on.
   
   • Occasionally, you will step on something pointy even though you looked carefully before placing your foot. If it's too late to retract a step, quickly shift the weight onto other parts of your foot (heel --> ball, and so on). As you become more conditioned, this will be less of a problem since your soles will be thicker and the (now stronger and more agile) muscles and tendons of your feet will be more adapted to rapid re-configuration.
     
7. Select a short trail with a variety of surfaces for your first barefoot hike. If there is a gravel lead-in, consider the end of the gravel as the beginning of the hike. Later, short to medium sections of gravel will be just another texture to you. When you have finished your first day, your feet may seem sore. One of the best things about barefoot hiking is the vibrant, tough and resilient feeling that comes into the feet over the next one or two days as this soreness dissipates.
   
8. Continue short hikes about once or twice a week. You'll find that you'll be able to go further and on rougher trails as time passes. "Mileage" will vary, but typically by following the above regimen, you should be able to do four or five miles on easy to medium trails within a month or so. If you take the time to find small-grade gravel paths in local city parks and work out on them, the toughening process can be accelerated considerably.
   

Video

Two people make it to the summit of Mt. Whitney barefoot. Mt. Whitney is the highest summit in the contiguous United States with an elevation of 14,505 feet (4,421 m).[3]

Tips

• If you are still unsure about barefoot hiking, look into a pair of "FiveFingers" as made by the Vibram company. These will allow you to feel much of the terrain under your feet, and offer protection from the worst of what you're walking on.
  
• It's a good idea to take along a friend who is either an experienced barefoot hiker or is willing to try along with you. If that's impossible, then go alone and take this introduction along as your companion. Until you have developed confidence in your bare feet, delay accompanying otherwise shod groups as a lone barefooter.
  
• Bring a pair of thongs (flip flops or jandals) to cross small sections of trail which are very painful.
  
• On your first few jaunts, you will spend more time than usual examining the ground in front of you for hazards. This is natural (you will also notice some things you had never seen before), but over time you will find that you need to look down less often and that on many surfaces a periodic glance will suffice. As your feet thicken and strengthen, with confidence and technique building, the tension and alarm you may have felt earlier will dissipate.
  
• Did you ever get too much wax (or some water) in your ear for a while, and then when you got it out, the world seemed really LOUD. Perhaps, when you first take your shoes off, the ground is too "loud." It's like listening to a lot of uncomfortable noise. After a while, your body adjusts and you begin to "hear the music."
  
• If you work your way up to long-distance barefoot hiking, it's a good idea to wash your feet at the end of each hiking day, massage them, and treat them with a strong salve. You can make the salve yourself: gently heat equal parts olive oil and beeswax in a glass bowl in the oven. When the beeswax melts, stir it into the olive oil. Pour the salve into small tins or jars and allow it cool. You can apply the salve when you get to camp, then wear socks and camp shoes for the evening, or you can put it on just before you go to bed. This will keep the soles of your feet from developing painful cracks, when the thick leather-like skin gets too dry. This is a good trick for people who hike long-distance in sandals, too.
  
• Trekking poles (used correctly) are very helpful for barefoot hiking. You can instantly take weight off a foot that has landed on something sharp or painful, or push harmful things away from your feet as you walk. For regular hikers frustrated by the slower pace of barefoot hiking, poles may offer a compromise pace that is only slightly slower than "motoring" down a trail in shoes.
  

Warnings

• Please consult a qualified medical professional before attempting barefoot hiking. Certain conditions (like diabetes and peripheral neuropathy) may cause small lesions to heal more slowly or not heal at all. This type of activity might not be recommended under these circumstances.
  
• Know how to avoid nettles, thistles, and any plants which will make your feet sting or itch.
  
• It is not advisable to go barefoot on farms, in tropical countries, or in shared camp or hostel showers, because of the risk of tetanus and parasitical infections.
  
• Beware of scorpions, snakes, ants and other potentially dangerous animals that may sting or bite. A sting or bite in your foot will most certainly take all the fun out of hiking barefoot for you and, possibly, your entire group.
  

Related wikiHows

• How to Prepare for Hiking the Appalachian Trail
  
• How to Walk Silently
  
• How to Be Prepared for a Hike
  
• How to Tone the Butt With Walking
  
• How to Get Stronger Feet for Ballet
  
• How to Start Barefoot Running
  
• How to Start Camping
  

Sources and Citations

• East Bay Barefoot Hikers - Original source, shared with permission.
  
• "The Barefoot Hiker" by Richard Frazine. Ten Speed Press. ISBN 0-89815-525-8. Some of the material in this article was adapted from this book.
  

1. ↑ http://www.barefoothikers.org/barefoot-sisters.html
2. ↑ http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/22/travel/escapes/22hike.html?8dpc
3. ↑ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Whitney

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Start Barefoot Hiking. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit


Shoes are supposed to protect our feet and improve performance, but evidence suggests that running barefoot uses 4% less energy than running with shoes on, and that people who run barefoot are less likely to get running-related injuries.[1] Also, many running champions have won races and broken records barefoot: Abebe Bikila, Bruce Tulloh, Charlie "Doc" Robbins, Zola Budd, etc.[2]
If you're interested in making the transition to running barefoot, you may think it's just a matter of taking off your shoes. In reality, you may have picked up habits that aren't effective with barefoot running. This article will give some techniques that will help you to do it properly.

Steps

1. Start with thirty minutes of barefoot activity a day for 3-4 weeks.[3] This will give your feet a chance to develop thicker skin for running at higher speeds and for longer times. Start by just walking, then jogging, then running, but limit the activity to thirty minutes a day at first. If you transition too quickly, you may develop plantar fasciitis.[4]
   
   • Walk for a few minutes to allow your feet to get familiar with the surface. Tarmac and concrete roads work well. Grass - unless finely manicured - does not work well as the surface can be uneven with clumps and roots.
     
   • Bounce on your feet like a boxer. Repeat 3 times. This will relax your metatarsals and calves.
     
   • Exercising your ankles and feet will help with the transition as well. See How to Strengthen Your Ankles
     
2. Make minimalist running shoes if it's cold outside, or you're concerned about your feet getting cut, but really it is best if you don't have to use these minimalist shoes. They are basically reinforced socks and you'll lose many of the sensations of barefoot running. You can also purchase minimalist running shoes that look much like gloves for your feet. They're not the same as ultralight running shoes, which have arch support and a padded heel.[5]
   
3. Watch ahead, but don't look down. One of the most common doubts people have about barefoot running is "What about stepping on sharp stuff?" and the most common answer is "Use your eyes. That's what they're for."
   
   • Scan the ground ahead of you for any sharp objects that you should avoid, but don't look down at the ground right in front of your feet. Not only is that bad form, but it doesn't give you enough time to smoothly avoid stepping on something.
     
   • Even if you're wearing minimalist running shoes, you should still be aware of where your feet are going. Don't zone out like you do when wearing shoes. Practice mindfulness.
     
4. Pay attention to your form.
   
   • Keep the head, neck and back straight. No slouching. Lift the chest and allow the shoulders to relax.
     
   • Keep your head high and keep looking forward. Relax your eye gaze to the horizon line. If you can't relax your eyegaze, then pick something in the distance to focus on and keep looking at it.
     
   • Bend your knees a bit. You should feel your weight come off of your heels. Bend the knees about 4-5 degrees, and lean forward 4-5 degrees. Keep the knees bent as much as you can. This will minimize the possibility of landing heel first.
     
   • Push your hips forward gently. You should lead with your hips, not your head or shoulders.
     
   • Counterbalance. Keep your hips rotating with your legs, and your shoulders in the opposite direction.
     
   • Keep your feet under your center of balance. No wobbling side to side.
     
5. Take shorter strides. When people wear shoes with thick heels, they tend to lengthen their strides and land on their heels. When you're barefoot, however, you'll probably find yourself naturally taking smaller strides, and landing on the outside middle or ball of your foot. This allows your foot to absorb shock better.[4]
   
6. Lift your feet more quickly, and earlier than regular running. You should be lifting your back foot before the front foot completely lands.
   
7. Don't stop abruptly, the way most do when they are wearing shoes. To stop, straighten the lean and straighten the knees and you will naturally come to a stop.
   

Video

A look at the difference between a runner's gait while wearing a traditional running shoe, and a 'Vibram Five Fingers' shoe.

Tips

• When there is a lot of broken glass on the ground, slow down and switch from watching out for shards to watching out for clear spots where you can safely touch down.
  
• Lawns or sandy beaches are good places to start practicing. Tarmac is a little harder on the feet, followed by gravel, and then pebbles.
  
• Deep or soft sand is great for a tougher workout.
  
• After running, your calves will need a bit of a massage as they get a workout. There should be no bruises or abrasions on your soles. If you have any abrasions, lean a little more, bend the knees a little more.
  
• Always stay hydrated when doing any exercise.
  
• Consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
  

Warnings

• Be very careful when choosing where to run barefoot. Do not choose any areas that you don't know well. Watch for sharp objects. It is preferable to run on tracks - indoor or outdoor - where the risk of injury to your feet is minimized.
  
• Avoid pebbled surfaces - it's easy to injure yourself even if you're already well practiced
  

Things You'll Need

• A safe place to run
  
• Water to stay hydrated
  

Related wikiHows

• How to Start Barefoot Hiking
  
• How to Make Cool Weather Minimalist Running Shoes
  
• How to Run
  

Sources and Citations

1. ↑ http://sportsci.org/jour/0103/mw.htm
2. ↑ http://www.runnersworld.com/article/1,7124,s6-240-319--6728-0,00.html
3. ↑ Robbins S, Gouw G, McClaran J, Waked E (1993). Protective sensation of the plantar aspect of the foot. Foot and Ankle 14, 347-352
4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2009/07/barefoot/
5. ↑ http://www.popsci.com/entertainment-amp-gaming/article/2009-05/running-barefoot

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Start Barefoot Running. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

If you ever have wanted to start going barefoot but don't know how to start here is a guide to get you started.

Steps

1. Figure out the reason why you want to go barefoot. Is it healthier feet, more natural feet, or just the feeling of freedom.
   
2. Start slowly, the best way to start is to just go barefoot at home to get your feet used to being open and free.
   
3. Start walking on smooth texture concrete, this will help you get your feet a little bit calloused.
   
4. Start walking on rougher surfaces such as asphalt but try not to do this during the summer day. It gets very hot.
   
5. Start challenging yourself a little more just by walking over some gravel for a very short time.
   
6. Start going on good length walks over rough surfaces will callous your feet to a whole new level.
   
7. Go everywhere barefoot, some store will not let you in but most will accept it, and check with your employer to see if it is okay to go barefoot during the workday.
   

Tips

• Just go slow, your biggest enemy is your own enthusiasm.
  
• Enjoy the feeling.
  
• Take peoples comments as compliments or just ignore them.
  
• Try to get more people to go barefoot so they can also enjoy going barefoot.
  

Warnings

• Look for broken glass when walking at first since this may cut your foot
  
• Watch out for needles, some needles may be infected with HIV or AIDs
  

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Start Going Barefoot. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

Naturism is built on respect - for fellow naturists, for non- naturists, and for the environment. Naturists have a few simple rules of etiquette; read them, and remember that the respect is mutual:

1 Naturists are not, generally, masochists, so if it is too cold to be naked naturists wear clothes. Conversely, if it is warm enough to be naked, many/most naturists will want to be so, whether indoors or out - though there are many people who enjoy swimming and sun-bathing naked but prefer to be clothed at other times or for other activities. It's a matter of personal choice.

2 The practice at most naturist locations for total nudity to be the norm throughout the day and wherever possible. Sometimes for some naturist locations, it is expected that naturists are clothed in the evenings/night in the public areas, restaurants, bars or club houses. On the other hand, it is expected that no bathing costumes are worn in the pools if there is one.

3 The normal naturist etiquette is ALWAYS to have a towel to sit on, not necessarily to cover up with. This is for reasons of hygiene and, frankly, consideration of friends' or the naturist location's chairs and seats - protecting others from suntan oils, sweat etc.

4 Do not go out of established nude areas. To wander nude into a clothed beach or parking area will offend many.

5 The normal naturist etiquette is not to indulge in any overtly sexual behaviour in a public place - no different from textile etiquette. In the unlikely event of becoming sexually aroused, a naturist would be expected to turn away or cover up to avoid embarrassing anyone, including himself.

6 Photography is only permissible in a naturist resort if the explicit permission of people appearing in the photographs and who could be recognisable is obtained by the photographer - most naturists, like everyone else, like to preserve their privacy and to decide for themselves whether and where any photographs of them or their families appear.

7 Speak up for standards. If a person seems unaware of proper naturist etiquette, explain politely and plainly.

8 There is no need to worry that you may unwittingly break the rules - observing what others do, or asking their advice, will put you on the right tracks - and remember, naturist communities are generally very friendly and, unless you behave outrageously, you will quickly be accepted into the community. Just relax!

9 When you arrive at a naturist location, you should make yourself comfortable. Start removing all your clothing at once, but make sure you're comfortable and that you appear comfortable. Then relax and enjoy the experience - don't be tense and edgy.

10 Last but not least "Be Yourself", your first visit is a special one and maybe your first step and we want you to remember it! Once you are comfortably nude and enjoying yourself, it's easy to be friendly and approachable. Do not just sit off in a corner by yourself - walk around, chat, get to know people. If people do not want to talk to you, you will know, but a lot of naturists are very friendly and enjoy meeting new people. Go for it!

Step 1: Don't call them nudists
Don’t call them nudists. The politically correct term is “naturist.”

Step 2: Don't stare at people's private parts
Don’t stare at people’s private parts. Here’s a good rule of thumb: If it would be unseemly to gape at that body part when it’s fully clothed, it’s downright rude to gawk at it undressed.

Step 3: Ask permission before taking photographs
Always ask permission before snapping a photo or video — they’re naturists, not zoo animals. And no one wants to worry that their jelly rolls are going to be on YouTube

Step 4: Be wary of using binoculars
The same goes for binoculars, which are only appropriate if you’re discovering new lands, looking at birds, or enjoying an opera.

Step 5: Restrict nudity to the beach
Restrict nudity to the beach. When you’re in the parking lot, for example, have some clothes on.

Step 6: Cover chairs with a towel
Carry a towel wherever you go so you can put it down on beach loungers, bar stools, restaurant chairs, and so on.

Step 7: Make everyone feel comfortable
Make everyone feel comfortable, even those who are only willing to go so far as being “top-free," as the naturists like to call it. Naturists, after all, are all about acceptance.

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
Modeling nude for an artist or art class is much more complicated than it may seem. In addition to the obvious requirements of being able hold still and being willing to appear undressed in front of others, there are many other requirements for successfully fulfilling the role.

Steps

Becoming a Nude Model

1. Find places to work: Contact your local art school or college to see if they are hiring art models. You can start with the art department, but ask if there is someone in particular assigned to hire models for all classes. Sometimes each instructor hires their own models. If you want to pose for a photographer, also look on any one of a number of websites that link models to photographers. Free online classified advertising websites also often post ads for nude models. This is the first step because it may in fact be difficult to find work in a tight economy. Interestingly, male models are in especially short supply in some geographic areas.
2. If required by the institution, prepare a resume. Include any previous modeling experience, performances, art schooling, acting, dance, yoga, or other activity you have done which would benefit an artist model.
3. Ask the person hiring if there are any rules or guidelines that models must follow. Discuss payment or hourly sitting rates, which can vary greatly but generally are between $15 and $25 for drawing. Fees for a photographer will generally be higher. Also discuss average length of poses, how many breaks, and does the artist or group use one pose or many different, varied poses.

Preparation

1. Plan for the session by thinking about poses:
   • Length - Poses for figure drawing generally fall into three categories: gestures which are less than three minutes, short poses which are three to 20 minutes, and long poses which are done for as long as necessary in 20 minute intervals with a short break in between. The latter is generally the norm for painting and sculpture; drawing classes will require a number of shorter poses. Any class may begin with a few gestures as a "warm-up".
   • Be Expressive - draw on any personal experience to think of poses that are interesting or inspiring. Any physical activity may be a source of good poses. Many models draw on the poses done in classical works of art, but these should only supply ideas, not be copied.
2. Put together a "modeling bag" including the following:
   • a warm robe (or cool, depending on the season)
   • a towel or other cloth to sit on
   • optional jockstrap or thong(for men)
   • slippers/sandals (art rooms have floors covered with charcoal, and perhaps a lost push-pin or tack)
   • a date book and pen for booking future sessions
   • a timer - it's hard to look at a watch for many/most poses
   • drinking water
   • a lunch, or snacks if required
3. Before you leave for your session, shower and apply lotion so that you won't offend the artist with your body odor and will have nice smooth skin. Lotion also soothes dry skin which could otherwise cause you to scratch an itch while posing. Wear minimal jewelry unless otherwise requested.

Begin the Session

1. Upon arrival, you will be expected to change (remove all of your clothing). A private change room will likely be provided or there may be a folding screen behind which you can change.
2. Step up onto the model's area and place your wrist watch where you will be able to view it or set your timer after consulting with the artist how long the session will last. Remove your slippers and place them neatly to one side.
3. Remove your robe. If you do not have a towel, it is hygienic and highly recommended that you place your robe beneath your bottom for sitting poses. Some artists even enjoy drawing the additional "drapery".
4. Follow the artist's direction. Keep your body and eyes very still. It is useful to fix your gaze on one spot; do not make eye contact with any artist. Relax into the pose, but not so much that you move from your original position. You may be asked to time your own poses or the artist may tell you when you're finished.

Afterwards

1. When you are finished with your session, get dressed. Between sessions, put on your robe to keep your body warm. Don't walk around naked.
2. Have your date book and pen handy when you come out of the change room in case the artist would like to work with you again. It's also a good idea to have business cards to hand out to artists if you are doing modeling as your main job.

Video

Tips

• There is a chance that someone may request a photograph to use as a reference for completing a work outside of class. This would be up to you and require an additional payment (usually 2-3 times the standard art model rates).

Warnings

• Private sessions will be higher-paying; but bring the slight risk of sexual harassment or worse. Take as much care as you think necessary.
• When responding to an advertisement, whether on the Internet or otherwise, find out as much as possible before accepting the job.
• Cell phone cameras have emerged as another problem. Institutions may have rules against them but models must be vigilant.

Related wikiHows

• How to Hire a Painter
• How to Get Into Male Modeling

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Be a Nude Art Model. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.