Do I have to be nude at your events?

No, you may show up clothed and just enjoy visiting with us for the event.  After the event, if you still need additional time to get the nerve to be undressed at our next event, ask us.  We 'may' allow this for special circumstances at our next event.  Or if you're spouse is not willing to go nude, you can attend as long as one of you is nude.  Other exceptions are allowed such as when women are going through their time of the month, the weather is a bit chilly, etc.  Once you are a regular nudist in our group, you'll know when it's acceptable.

Will I feel self-conscious?

Most first-timers adjust to social nudity in a matter of minutes and discover it’s not nearly as big a deal as they thought it would be. Some feel self-conscious before they undress since they’re likely to be the only ones not nude.

Is there a fee to attend?

No, most of our events are free to all group members.  The host of a party or get together may ask for donations if they are providing the majority of the food & or drinks and we sometimes collect donations for charities such as Breast Cancer Awareness.  All proceeds from fund raising will be made in the name of the GJ Naturist group.

What actually goes on at a nudist function?  I've read some comments that it's a cover up for a swinger party or a bunch of strange people getting together for something sexual?

Well, the same thing that goes on at most parties, conversation, laughing, cooking burgers and dogs and other normal party activities.  The ONLY difference is that we are all nude.  This is NOT anything perverted, sexual, kinky, etc and has absolutely nothing to do with swinging.  It is very wholesome, family oriented event and some families will bring their children, just like any other party.  We invite you to come by and visit with us during an event like this.  Just mingle and visit with us for 15 minutes and you'll see we are just ordinary people doing things in the nude, and that is all. 

Can I meet you guys at a clothed function, like a meet & greet?

Yes, we occasionally host meet and greets at pizza places or other venues.  Contact us if you'd prefer to meet this way.

Can I bring my children?

Yes, but they must be monitored closely as at any other function.  Children are natural nudist and take to it quickly, but they are not required to be nude.  You can explain to them that it will be their choice, and most kids shuck the swimsuits or clothes real quick.

Is there any danger to children at your events?

Not, it is probably one of the safest group functions you can attend with your children, outside of family functions.  We are very concerned about the safety of children at events like this.  And studies have shown that children exposed to nudists are most often better adjusted than those who are taught that seeing naked bodies is taboo or shameful.  Children are very curious, but when attending a function that is family oriented they get used to the nudity very quickly and usually join in the activities without their clothes.  Yes, they'll look and probably stare for a little while, but it passes quickly once they realize everyone is acting normal.  And once they are allowed to do this you may find they can't wait to do things in the nude again as they discover the amazing freedom of playing without clothes.

Will my picture be taken or my privacy compromised?

Nudist groups such as ours understand that privacy is paramount to our members and their families. There is never any requirement to be publicly identified or consent to having one’s picture taken as a condition of membership.  Your picture will only be taken with the your permission.  And, no one is allowed to take photos at nudists functions without the permission of the person hosting the event so photos are rarely taken.

In increasing numbers, however, our members are telling neighbors and friends about their favorite way to relax. They find it’s an idea that’s just too great to keep for themselves!  And most people really don't care if you are a nudist or not.  Sure, it may raise a few eybrows, but most will think you are brave for doing something they may wish they could do also.

 Are singles welcome?

Yes, but we may have to limit the amount of singles at some events so that there is a good ratio of men to women.  Men seem to be more comfortable being nude as a single than women, so we encourage more couples to keep a decent ratio of men to women so that the women still feel comfortable and not out numbered.

What kind of people can I expect at your party?

All kinds, just like in the clothed world.  We have people from all walks of life, jobs, races, body types, etc.  Some are self employed, law enforcement, teachers, parents, preachers, etc.  We are just everyday people who have given up our body shame and enjoy the incredible freedom of being naked in a social setting.

I don't really have the body to be nude, so I don't think I'll attend any functions or parties -

If you feel this way, then it's all the more reason to try nudism.  Nudist come in all shapes and sizes, just like the general public.  Most are overweight, some by a lot, some are to thin, but nudists don't judge each other by their body type.  We judge each other on our personalities and how you act, not on how you look.  I mean hey, if we want to be accepted with all our body faults, we have to learn to accept others.  Learning to accept your own body, just the way it is, is much easier when you are a nudist.  Body acceptance is a wonderful thing and can do great things for your self esteem, we promise.
 

What if I’m ready but my spouse (partner, or friend) isn’t?
This is common. Typically, women are more wary than men of clothing-optional venues. But everyone, male and female, has "body issues." For some, the idea of being seen nude—and seeing others nude—is filled with psychological tension. A spouse, friend or partner can help reduce the tension, but only if caution and sensitivity are exercised. Remember, every naturist had a "first time." Many who were most reluctant initially are now avid naturists. And remember, too, that there is a line between encouragement and coercion. Don’t cross it if you want to introduce someone to naturism.

How can I make my spouse / significant other more comfortable about trying it? It helps to understand that we are a family oriented group of ordinary people. Few people of either sex at are “perfect 10s” or look like size-2 actresses. You may find the pages on the AANR (American Association for Nude Receration) website about AANR Family Values and nudism From A Women’s Perspective useful resources.

Why do people choose nude recreation?

Nude recreation embraces the joy of living and experiencing nature in the most natural way possible. To relax and be nude is to let yourself be totally free. Although we enjoy clothing-free activities in appropriate settings, we also choose to wear clothes when practical. Nudists respect each other's individuality. Our own self-esteem is enhanced by our ability to accept ourselves as we really are. We find it easy to accept others regardless of physical size, shape, or body condition. Moreover, social class distinctions, often indicated by clothing, disappear.

Relaxation, stress relief, positive body image, and increasing self-esteem are just a few of the reasons people choose the nudist lifestyle.

What are the benefits of nude recreation?

Self-esteem is enhanced in the nudist world, where body acceptance is the norm. Conversation seems to come easier. Many report the “time warp” phenomenon. A one day respite spent clothes-free seems to relax people more than an entire weekend elsewhere. Without clothes, stress seems to melt away.

Is nude recreation an accepted mainstream activity?

The answer to this question is a resounding YES!

As reported in USA TODAY, The Yankelovich National Travel Monitor is one of the most respected polls in the travel industry. The 2006 edition of that poll found that 15% of adult Americans would consider a resort that offers a nude recreation experience or a clothing-optional beach experience either extremely or a very desirable part of a vacation.

In the January 17, 2003 edition of The Wall St. Journal, a front page story in the Marketplace section noted that nude recreation in North America has grown to a $400 million industry. The article explained that clothes-free offerings run the gamut from upscale venues with plush townhouses and room service to rustic rural retreats, to cruises on some of the world’s most popular cruise lines.

The Roper Organization has reported that some 54 million Americans have skinny-dipped in mixed company. For people who want to recapture the freedom and innocence of that experience, AANR clubs offer relaxing, down to earth, casual environments. Members may also participate in AANR World Adventures nudist vacations and cruises.

What about nudism and religion?

Nudists find nothing inconsistent between nude recreation and their convictions. You’ll find all faiths---and people of no faith---represented at nudist resorts. Some clubs hold non-denominational services on Sundays. Most nudists of faith find that enjoying the great outdoors in their natural state draws them closer to their Creator.

Do males get visibly excited?

This is actually pretty rare. Nudist clubs are far less sexually charged than places where bikinis, thongs, or other provocative clothing, are worn. And most new nudists are very nervous their first time which has the effect of shrinking things so it's seldom a problem.  On the rare occasion where this occurs, simply don a towel, turn over, or take a quick dip in the pool.  Most nudists understand that erections are a natural thing and sometimes just happen and are not offended by it.  But it's still common courtesy to make it less noticeable until it passes.