environment – Page 2 – ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!

X-Factor!

Sand, sun, surf and importantly: no clothes!

Prologue:

X = exposure

Y = sunscreen

Therefore:

X + Y = protection!

X – Y = danger!

Simply: the choice is yours. Please read and act responsibly.

A sunny beach stroll!

Introduction:

Hopefully, the title of today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! has caught your attention and curiosity as to the content. If not, the equation covered in the Prologue was intended to eliminate all and any doubt. The purpose and theme are to remind us of the importance of sunscreen in our health needs and especially our skincare.

This hopefully serves as a serious reminder to all of us of the need to incorporate protection strategies into our nakedness. We are all born body and clothes free. That fact allows us an option in determining how we pursue our lives. The intent of this X-Factor component is to reinforce our healthy, honest and informed choices.

This photo-essay offering concludes with an accessible link to my most recent posting on this topic. If anyone needs detailed information on the concerns of sunscreen, please use the linkage featured prior to the signature below.

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Sunscreen!

For those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, our season of “natural bare living” is in the process of happening now! As our Springtime unfolds, our opportunities for natural revelation increase daily. The need for clothing diminishes at an accelerated rate and the freedom to express our bare practitioner inclinations expands considerably! The necessity for the aid and protection of sunscreen grows beyond imagination.

For persons living in the Southern Hemisphere, even though the season of intense solar exposure is months away, sunscreen protection is always warranted for any sun exposure, regardless of sunray intensity. A secondary purpose of this post entry is to refresh everyone’s memory: sunscreen is essential for our health and well-being all year long, no matter where we live!

Application!

Each sunscreen is available commercially in a variety of containers, formats and styles. It is a topical product specifically designed to protect skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays from the sun can cause premature skin aging, sunburn and skin cancer – including melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. Wearing sunscreen daily is essential in reducing these harmful effects.

The goal of any sunscreen product is to shield the skin from sun exposure and a broad-spectrum formula that helps block UVA and UVB sunrays is basic for all skin types, ethnicities and races.

Reapply as per instructions!

The length of time for the purpose of sunscreen is recommended for each product. Everyone is encouraged to follow the commercial instructions as closely as possible and to individually decide the effectiveness. Variations are based on personal needs and the products overall rating. Not every product is identical. It is highly encouraged to all persons that when purchasing a new type of sunscreen product to apply a little to a small area of the body to test the product and individual reaction to it.

When applying the sunscreen, numerous bare practitioners – Aaron and myself included – recommend a “dual application” process. This involves rubbing the product into the skin and awaiting time for the product to be absorbed and then repeating the process. This reduces the chance of any area of skin being accidentally uncovered and unprotected.

Sunscreen application!

If at all possible, having an acquaintance, family member or a friend helping to spread the protection is advised. Their assistance helps to cover areas difficult to reach if applying alone and also guarantees thorough coverage of the entire body with protection. This cooperation also encourages us to share experiences and problems with others that we otherwise would not be able to exchange.

The growing market of sunscreen products offer many different varieties. This interaction gives us an opportunity to gain experience, knowledge and a sampling of products that we might not have accessibility to or reason to try.

Sunscreen is for everyone!

Despite extensive outreach efforts, there is still a significant number of persons who are of the erroneous mindset that Black people (persons of African descent) do not need to use sunscreen. This misconception is based on the false belief that their melanin-infused skin completely eliminates the need for sunscreen for protection. Yes, darker skin does protect from some UV sunrays, but all persons, regardless of their skin tones, need the protection of sunscreen.

Darker skin tones indeed have a greater genetic protection than fairer skin tones, however, humans have no natural blockage of all ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Everyone has a natural deficiency.

For a more detailed information offering on sunscreen, please visit the post entry linked below:

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, May 23, 2025, and the planned topic is: “Swing Batter!”

April Environmental!

International Earth Day, tomorrow!

Earth Day!

Earth Day is a recent event that has grown both in popularity and scope. It is now a universal observation officially celebrated on April 22, but commemorations are held according to local custom and on appropriate dates. The very first Earth Day occurred on 22 April, 1970. This year, 2025, is the 55th anniversary of this event and the international theme is “Our Power, Our Planet.” The day is dedicated to demonstrating support for environmental protection and encourages global participation in various activities.

The essential truth!

The very first Earth Day events were long overdue. Humanity has spent eternity abusing this planet – our home – without any regard for maintenance and/or replenishment. Finally, people began to recognize the fact that this destructive behavior could not go on forever without serious repercussions. It was time for a change in direction and environmentalists led the way!

From the inception in 1970, Earth Day activities and events focused on the need to demonstrate, educate and inform. In making the people aware of the seriousness of the cause and the benefits of change, a bond has formed that preserves not only our environment but also the excitement of each individual taking simple steps in making a positive difference.

This interactive approach has guaranteed the continued popularity of Earth Day among both the general public and commercial enterprises. Sharing the awareness of progress promotes the concept of the event and the ideal of preservation of our planet, our home!

Trash collection!

Bare practitioners engage in a community inspired project: the removal of discarded trash from a local beach property. This effort benefits not only the beach facility but also the local water source.

Earth Day Beach team!

A job well done and the pride in completion! A cleaner beach for everyone to appreciate and enjoy, thanks to the efforts of these two bare practitioners!

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National Arbor Day, Friday, 25 April, 2025!

Arbor Day is a secular day of observance in which individuals and groups are encouraged to plant trees. The designated National Arbor Day is on Friday, 25 April, 2025. The majority of states in the USA hold their Arbor Day on a variety of days, based on the best tree planting season within their particular area.

In many municipalities, Arbor Day celebrations and events are now held in conjunction with Earth Day activities as the two observances are closely related. In some cases, the tendency is to host two separate festivities in order to remind people of the need to conserve in order to preserve. What is most important is that we realize that the replenishment of our tree growth is of vital importance to us all!

Hugging a tree!

The very first documented Arbor Day happened in Villanueva de la Sierra, Spain, in 1594. It was celebrated city-wide beginning in 1805. In the United States, then-president Theodore Roosevelt in 1907, issued his “Arbor Day Proclamation to the School Children of the United States” announcing the importance of trees and that forestry deserves to be taught in all the U.S. schools.

Initially used as an intentional derogatory description of arborists and environmentalists, the term “tree hugger” rapidly gained the opposite effect. It was adopted by both groups as an honourable distinction.

A municipal Arbor Day happening!

A local municipality hosts an exclusive Arbor Day event. The majority of Arbor Day activities occur regardless of the weather conditions. Rain or sunshine, both are necessary for the growth and health of the planted tree!

April: the first full (complete) month of the Spring season in the Northern Hemisphere. The perfect time to celebrate our natural environment!

Remember Arbor Day whenever you view a tree!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Thursday, April 24, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Armenia: Genocide Remembrance Day!”

Posing Bare #4 and Dilemma!

A bare stare!

A selfie with a complete view of his being bare! The response to the Posing Bare series here on ReNude Pride has been both rewarding and surprising for both Aaron, my spouse, and me! Originally planned as simply a two-post segment for January, 2025, it grew and developed beyond our imaginations! The results energized us both to expand the series; Aaron now is addicted to finding new photographs/prints to add to his collections.

Today’s offering is focused on the “selfie” – self-photography that increases in popularity with personal phone usage – and some issues resulting from selfie posing. Selfies present their own challenges but they do involve “fun” while posing! The fun continues after posing when sharing the images with acquaintances and friends.

A facial selfie!

Today’s offering is focused on the “angle-pose” (our term to describe the pose which includes the face plus enough of the body to show nakedness). Aaron’s selection of the selfie is based on the ever-increasing number of selfie photographers, especially within the bare practitioner community, even though cameras remain “officially” discouraged if not outright banned from the majority of clothing optional facilities and properties.

The prevalence of the cell phone with its camera in our current society is causing many of those stalwart camera opponents within the naturist/nudist world to threaten the growing number of cell phone proponents. This situation isn’t resolving itself amicably. Soon, one of the two groups will demand the wearing of clothes as a just punishment! Seriously, I am being facetious here but who knows?

The differences of opinion between the two groups have not reached the conflict level at this time. However, hostilities can erupt without any warning!

A tongue becomes involved

The facial features obviously enhance and enrich the distinction this type of appearance contributes to both the audience that views the photo as well as the subject/photographer. It adds “personality” to the image that otherwise would possibly be routine. It adds quality of life and allows the viewer to question the thought processes of the selfie creator!

We chose the recommended pose for today because not everyone, even the most enthusiastic and seasoned bare practitioner is entirely comfortable with their male anatomy being publicly featured. The uncertainty of where the pictures will be shared enters into the concern and it is a valid consideration. This particular pose that is featured is popular but one of the most difficult to capture as a selfie.

It is a complexity to achieve the angle and depth to exemplify the nakedness of the subject and the completion of the pose itself. The discretion of the subject increases the appeal of this particular pose while simultaneously delivering the message of being bare without being blatant!

The selfie-style photo within arms reach provides the user with immediate image taking choices, while at the same time it does offer some restrictions. It limits the options available and it also reduces the depth and expansion of the pose. The inclusion of the face along with the image removes the possibility of bare body freedom.

The wearing of glasses in general, sunglasses in particular, presents the possibility of reflections being visible to viewers. Being aware of this may be reasons for abandoning any visual enhancement while creating selfie images.

Lounging!

The use of a tripod or a unipod with a camera device mounted resolves some of the limitation challenges encountered with selfies. The tripod offers options that expand both depth and nakedness being featured in the images. The only caution is the self-timing ability and returning to the intended pose. An often unmentioned advantage is the fact that all unwanted pictures can be deleted!

Tripod advantage: depth and body visibility!

The use of a unipod and/or tripod helps to expand the range of selfie photography and offers options for capture. It also enables the appearance of acquaintances, family and friends in the images. This expands the subjects and allows an increase in the posing possibilities. These improve the messages and the situations the photos convey to viewers.

A note of warning: any support that you provide for your camera also increases the “background” likely to show in any pictures. Keep in mind what may be visible to your viewers!

Posing options!

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The Dilemma!

Disappointment!

My spouse, Aaron, and I were both equally excited about the upgrades that we announced this past Friday here for ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! We were eagerly awaiting the reactions, both bad and good, to the home page! However, since last Friday, it has been disappointment and frustration all the way.

The deletions of some of the secondary pages here was denied. Some of the photo “widgets” were unable to be deleted and a new “header” image was denied.

I have tried for several hours during Saturday to amend and/or to substitute the intended alterations. Nothing seems to work towards our satisfaction.

Therefore, it appears that for at least now, the revised Home page here is what is already visible.

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 18, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Great and Holy Easter, 2025!”

The Warm Calm!

Francois Sagat: Bare beach jogger!

Introduction:

For many of us, a frequently forgotten and overlooked benefit of the summer season is the actual “start” of our day. With comfortable outdoor temperatures, our awakening routine is fairly simple: get out of bed, stretch, and if we have to wear clothes, just slip into a pair of shorts. Eureka! We’re ready to go!

Unfortunately, winter is an entirely different season! After getting out of bed, the clothing process is much more involved. Not just the shorts, but also a shirt or two, underwear (regular or thermal), shoes and socks, warm pants and layers upon layers of of outerwear garments and accessories before we even take one step outside into frigid air temperatures! A major undertaking!

Today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride serves a total of three (3) purposes. First is a visual reminder for all of us that our bare practitioner buddies in the Southern Hemisphere are now officially into their summer season and the freedom that entails. Second is the gentle hint of what is now headed toward the rest of us who live in the “winterized” Northern Hemisphere. Third is a glimpse of what “happy days” (summer) delivers to bare practitioners globally!

Catching his breath!

Francois: fun and fitness!

Today’s scenario features our very own fellow bare practitioner, Algerian-French Francois Sagat, model and SGL adult film star, who has no compunction about appearing body and clothes free no matter what the occasion happens to be. He takes pride in both himself and his work and offers no apologies for being exactly what and who he truly is: both gay and naked!

Today, he is finishing an early morning jog alone and bare along the shore of a local beach. No clothing? No problem as he pauses from his healthy excursion when he happens upon a fellow beach enthusiast who feels the need to be somewhat modest while admiring Francois stretching his body! Perhaps he is contemplating a similar routine, minus his garments?

Sometimes, in our excessively fashion-conscious world, nudity needs to be inspired before it is explored. What better inspiration than enjoying nature naturally? As Francois demonstrates in these images, there is no shame in just being himself: free and natural! A true and valid representation of what is essential to all of us bare practitioners!

Surf and sunshine!

A subtle message?

In the above scenario, the celebrity bare practitioner, Francois Sagat, is depicted completing a bare jog along a beach, almost alone. There is one clothed individual sharing the sand, sun and surf with him. The textile (clothes-wearing) man observes and sits watching Sagat’s recovery from his physical endeavour as well as his obvious being bare. Incidental or intentional?

Among us bare practitioners, there are many who enthusiastically label the visuals as incidental. Francois was merely out for a jog on a relative isolated beach. He took advantage of the situation by exercising while clothes free. Expressing himself naturally in nature. Simply being who he really is when he encountered his textile (clothed) spectator sitting along the shore. An accidental and unplanned meeting.

Without any available resource to cover himself, he just finished his fitness routine as best he could: in his nakedness! He had no other alternative course of action. Poor planning? Most definitely! But then, the best way to learn a lesson is from our mistakes!

Then there are those who are less tolerant of public and/or social nudity. They may view the entire episode as a blatant ploy by Sagat in an attempt to seduce the unsuspecting spectator into the world of body and clothing freedom and beyond (a casual and consensual sexual encounter). Once Francois approaches the individual on the beach, he makes no effort to conceal or cover his being naked.

Instead, he merely flaunts his bareness directly in front of his “audience.” They substitute the surprise meeting with the label of exhibitionism, inferring that Francois using suggestive body language as an enticement to encourage his observer to join him!

Conclusion:

There are countless differences of opinion that the above scenario creates for those of us who are avid bare practitioners and those of a more conservative fashion sense and/or those with a strong opinion on same gender love (SGL). This post entry is to remind us all that there are always those persons who believe/think outside of our personal comfort level.

Post Script: The clothes wearing individual in the above scenario never takes his eyes off of bare practitioner, Francois Sagat. Evidently, he enjoyed not only the encounter but also the view!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, January 17, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Comfortable Routine!”

Exemplary Efforts!

Brief Photo-Essay:

Make Every Moment Count!

Enhancing September’s Summer Nakedness!

A visual offering of ideas and suggestions for spontaneous measures in photography and bare practitioner enrichment while natural in nature! Before the seasonal transition occurs, visually document your comfort with our environment as we celebrate the final days of our summer!

My friend and fellow blogger, Adimu Mawzi, joined together several years ago to commemorate the very last day of the summer of 2014. Aaron, my spouse, was at work on this day so we traveled to Richmond, Virginia, to spend some time riverside at a park near my childhood home.

I’m not adept at photography, so there were some difficulty as we attempted to adjust the automatic lens on my inexpensive camera!

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Attempting to compensate for my extremely weak skills in operating a camera, the below images, I hope, will provide some additional resources to consider in creating memories of enjoying life naturally (without clothing) in our comfortable and warm natural world!

My spouse, Aaron, is my usual source for picture selections. However, upon our return from visiting Mama in Greece, he learned of the sudden death of a long-time co-worker and friend. I am respecting his grief and his need for solitude and am asking the same from all of you.

Pose and print! Be creative and make a memory that will last for you all through the upcoming winter season!

Of course, let’s not overlook our bare practitioner social media model, Dallas “Flashman” Wade, and his penchant for grooming himself! Details and patience!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, September 13, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Friday Footnote: 13!”

Aaron & Roger: 9!

An interracial couple representing us!

Aaron, my spouse, and I live in the Commonwealth of Virginia, USA. Our home is Arlington, Virginia, approximately four miles south of Washington, D.C. The both of us are employed in the city of Washington, which is also this nation’s capital. Since 6 October, 2014, marriage equality has been legal within this state when the U.S. Supreme Court refused to entertain an appeal of the decision of the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals to uphold Bostic vs. Schaefer, a lower court’s decision to overturn a state law banning same gender marriages.

On 1 July, 2024, (this year), a law went into effect that formally and officially repealed the state ban on same gender marriages within the Commonwealth. This repeal was enacted to guarantee that should a future U.S. Supreme Court decide to hear an appeal on marriage equality and reverse the legality of same gender unions (marriages), the now repealed ban could not automatically be reinstated. The need for this protection was partially caused when the current Supreme Court overturned the Roe vs. Wade decision which permitted abortion.

Marriage equality proponents – including the both of us – felt the need for this legislative repeal in order to hinder any future court action to disenfranchise our culture of our long overdue equality. We all need to be aware of all and any possibility of discrimination and restriction, especially considering the instability of politics today. The position of a justice on the Supreme Court is a political decision, determined by the party in power at the time. This action prevents any future enactment of bias and marginalization from being a simple political undertaking by fundamentalists.

A bromantic kiss!

Once marriage equality arrived here in Virginia, Aaron and I were inundated with pressure from both our pairs of parents to pursue a legal ceremony (we had lived together since 2010). Since living together, we had discussed marriage but hadn’t finalized any plans. Once our families became obsessed with the idea and the need, our hesitation rapidly proved futile. Our delay in making arrangements for matrimony was based primarily on religious considerations. Aaron and his family are Roman Catholic and my faith background is Greek Orthodox. Neither of the two churches sanction same gender marriages.

We resolved the situation by having a civil marriage. It was performed on 15 August, 2015, to the delight of parents, family and friends. We were satisfied to relieve the pressure and to finally have the freedom to be ourselves in this world. Even today, our churches fail to recognize the legitimacy and the sanctity of our lives together, however, that is a problem that belongs to the faith and doesn’t really involve us.

The both of us understand that not everyone is fortunate in living is an environment that legally recognizes the marriages of same gender loving persons. There are many that live within families that frown upon or are unsupportive of our relationships. We want to share to all our encouragement of all the challenges faced and wish to all our best. Hopefully, someday soon this world we live in will achieve equality and perfection for all of us.

Together!

This upcoming Thursday, 15 August, 2024, we celebrate our 9th Anniversary! Amazingly, we both appreciate the significance of this date in our lives as every year passes. There are no immediate plans for any special activities for this day. We depart for a visit to Greece the following day in order to spend some time with my mother and my family before settling back into my professional routine of returning to the classroom for the Autumn semester.

Do we recommend marriage? If both partners agree, yes we do!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, August 16, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Flying High!”

July’s Jewels!

It’s already approaching the end of the month of July, 2024. The theoretical “middle-of-summer” when some of us become so familiar with the antics and episodes of the season that we lose focus of the safety factors that we all should employ and enjoy. The jewels presented here today are gentle reminders of protocols we all need in order to remain happy and healthy bare practitioners for the remainder of this summer season and beyond!

!Sunscreen application!

Sunscreen

A lazy, uncaring and “too-busy-to-be-involved” me could simply post the image, caption the picture and then proceed to the next jewel. Yet here I am, thinking of the abbreviated message and so dedicated to ReNude Pride and our family that I add another item to the reminder agenda: a link to my recent sunscreen post: SOS! Click the title to revisit and refresh your memory!

Prepared!

Condoms/Safe Sex

For many, this direct message may seem ancient – a definite “old school” method. However, repeatedly, condoms have proven effective in preventing the sexual spreading of HIV and a host of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Plus, condoms remain an essential element in PrEP protocols. This information is too important to ignore!

Remember!

Skinny-dipping with friend!

This is a matter of life and death! Skinny-dipping alone – especially in unfamiliar natural bodies of water (lakes, oceans, etc.) is potentially hazardous to health and life. The best policy is to always go with at least one friend!

Remember social responsibility!

Bare Doesn’t Give Consent!

Nakedness is most definitely not an invitation nor a willingness for a sexual encounter. Personal consent for intimacy is an absolute necessity! If in doubt, always ask! Confusion and/or uncertainty is never an excuse for rape or sexual assault!

Excessive consumption!

Alcohol and Substances Impair Judgment!

It is important that we all remember that the overuse of both alcohol and/or other addictive substances can and do impair (weaken) our ability to judge (determine). Overindulgence inhibits our responsible behaviours and seriously impacts our affective and effective reactions.

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Remember the July Jewels! Have a happy, healthy and safe remainder of the summer of 2024! The good times are here!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, July 26, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “July Friday Footnote!”

Strip2Dip: Summer, 2024!

Sometimes, the simpler is better! The month of June, annually, already has the distinction of being the official month of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) Pride Month. Our community and culture’s recognized and respected annual occasion to commemorate and to remember the birth of the modern struggle for equality, fairness and justice that began in the early morning hours of 28 June, 1969.

Prior to the celebration of our collective movement against bias and oppression, in the Northern Hemisphere, the month of June already possessed a designation that no one could ignore: the arrival of the Summer Season! As if the seasonal reality wasn’t enough, along with it came the ageless classic: swimming naked (vernacular: skinny-dipping)! The freedom to bare ourselves and to be ourselves – in nature or indoors!

A cautious approach!

Our man above has waited almost an entire year for another summertime to arrive so that he can renew his outdoor favourite: a skinny-dipping adventure in his backyard pool! Bare as nature with the freedom to be the man that he truly is!

Baring himself to skinny-dip!

Dropping his long-legged athletic shorts, our man kicks them aside, making it obvious for all of us that his style preference is “commando” – no underwear! Totally harmonious to the pleasure he derives from skinny-dipping (a proud bare body) in his very own pool! A simple task: SWS (sun, water, skin)! What could be easier to understand?

All that is needed is a source of water and a familiarity with the location. A bare body (clothes freedom) and the confidence and knowledge to overcome the challenge (swimming). Sunscreen for protection is the only “equipment” involved. Sun, water, and comfort with our complete nakedness! Who could possibly ask for anything more?

Skinny-dipping (swimming naked) is perhaps the most ancient of recreational events. Probably first undertaken prior to the necessity of clothing for comfort and/or warmth, humanity, nakedness and water have been compatible since the beginning of time. There is no need for us to ignore the harmony of ourselves – in our “natural” state of being – with our nature environment any longer! Especially now that the season to skinny-dip is now upon us (at least, in the Northern Hemisphere)!

The “first” step into the pool!

The “first” step is generally the most important. It allows us to familiarize ourselves with the temperature of the water in addition to acclimating us as to the depth of the pool. The more that we know, the better equipped we are for adventure, excitement and fun! The time of our summer season is limited, so it is always best to adapt ourselves as quickly as possible. We have an entire winter season to recollect on every moment we enjoy!

One important factor to remember when skinny-dipping is that it is best not undertaken alone. As a safety concern, this is essential when in a body of water, man-made or natural, that is unfamiliar and/or unknown. The man-made pool is here is obviously transparent yet having another person along is advisable, as physical complications can occur anytime and without warning. Our skinny-dipper today is being filmed by his accomplice with his camera. Two is better than one, solo!

A launch with a splash! Happy skinny-dipping!

Splashdown has occurred; another successful launching has happened! Bare practitioner is now underway! Mission control has now been advised that the first full day of summer is now set for fun, pleasure and safety! Everyone is encouraged to join in skinny-dipping as often as possible! Better to do so now than procrastinate and then wonder what happened once the frozen outdoor temperatures return!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: A little variety in my signature image here! Aaron, my spouse suggested this image as compatible with the subject of today’s posting! The next post entry here is planned for Monday, June 24, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “HIV Testing Day!”

SOS!

Friend/lover applying sunscreen!

SOS = Sunscreen On Skin!

Background:

This is my annual post entry here on ReNude Pride to remind everyone (follower and/or visitor) of the healthy and lifesaving capability and importance – and necessity – of sunscreen and the essence of applying it daily. Even though I publish this notification as the summer season approaches in the Northern Hemisphere, I need to reiterate that sunscreen is essential all throughout the year! The UV sunrays are not reduced due to colder/cooler temperatures. The UV sunrays are effective regardless of the season!

My initial posting was repeated, verbatim, for the period of the first several postings here. It was then that I realized that I could offer updates and extra information. I instituted this editing and practice through a section entitled – initially – “update.” I soon realized that this was a faulty habit and now post this announcement that from henceforth, I will revise the information based on the relevant topic agenda. I continue this procedure even today. New topics and details are added throughout each annual post entry.

A sunscreen in a lotion format!

The summer doesn’t officially begin until 21 June, 2024, in the Northern Hemisphere. However, in the USA, this upcoming weekend is a three-day holiday and most people here consider this occasion as the unofficial beginning of the legendary season of “fun in the sun!” No matter which day one prefers for the arrival of summer, there’s no denying the fact that warmer temperatures and longer hours of daylight are here! This means that the textile people are wearing less clothing and those of us who live in the glory of our nakedness are, as usual, basking in our freedom!

The Important Reminder:

In our eagerness to get out and frolic in the fresh air and warm sun, many of us forget one of the essentials elements of our health: We all need to protect our skin before we uncover any part of or all of our body! This protection entails the use of an appropriate sunscreen applied correctly, adequately (sufficient quantity) and, when necessary, reapplied diligently. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from the harmful rays of sunlight, whatever season of the year. Sunscreen should be used all year long not just during the summertime!

A sunburned back!

What is sunburn?

Sunburn is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and not heat. It is important to remember that human skin can and does burn even on overcast or cloudy days, cold winter days and while under a shade (sheltered from direct sunlight). Sunburn damages or destroys the skin, which controls the amount of heat our body retains or releases, hold in fluids (hydration) and protects us from infection.

Reactions to sunburn range from mild irritation to serious pain. Sunburn may cause fevers and nausea (depending on the severity of the burn) and makes the dead skin peel away. Sunburn may lead to serious health complications later in life.

The information published in this post entry is very general and is offered as a guide to use in selecting the type of sunscreen that’s best for personal protection. Keep in mind that every individual is just that, an individual: a unique person. What is applicable for one may not be the same for another. When in doubt, consult a health practitioner. It is better to ask now than to be sorry later!

Application!

What is sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a chemical that, to a certain degree, prevents UV radiation from reaching the skin. While there is no product that totally eliminates UV radiation damage, many variations, when used properly, can and do protect the skin adequately.

What should I look for in a sunscreen?

Regardless of where sun activity is happening: backyard, ball-playing field, park or beach, etc., the product should contain two elements for effective protection. Always use a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that contains chemicals that block both UV-A and UV-B radiation from penetrating the skin surface.

While no product is completely waterproof, select a water-resistant type that is designed for long-lasting wear, especially if swimming or sweating (perspiring). Choose a variation that is both easy to apply and feels good on the skin. There are numerous commercial qualities available: creams, lotions, moisturizers, gels, sprays and solid stick types.

What is SPF?

The initials SPF refer to the sun protection factor. It is the measure of the effectiveness of the sunscreen in absorbing UV radiation. If someone sunburns after about 10 minutes of sun exposure, using a product of SPF15 extends the amount of time before sunburn occurs to approximately 150 minutes or roughly two and a half hours. After this time, it should be reapplied to continue protection.

In terms of percentages, a product of SPF15 blocks 93% of the UV-B rays. One of SPF30 blocks 90%. The difference in protection may not justify the added expense of higher SPF sunscreens, in particular those manufactured in the USA.

USA: SPF Inconsistencies

Most consumers choose a sunscreen product based on it’s sun protection factor (SPF) rating, often selecting those with a higher SPF, convinced they’re getting the protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

In the USA, SPF values are an unreliable measure of a products sunscreen effectiveness. A good and effective sunscreen should provide equal broad-spectrum protection from both UV-A and UV-B rays. Within the USA, the SPF rating reflects only how well a particular product protects from UV-B rays. Broad-spectrum sunscreens are available, but the SPF rating values do not stipulate the difference.

Sunning themselves!

What’s the best sunscreen for me?

This depends on may aspects, including age, skin type, activity, time of day, location (proximity to the Equator) and the UV index. For most skin types, a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum minimum SPF15 is recommended. Men with fair or lighter skin tones (of all ethnicities and races) and low sun tolerance (burn easily) should use a broad-spectrum SPF30. For minimal sun exposure, 90 minutes or less, a moisturizer cream may suffice (with correct SPF level). For extended periods of sun exposure and higher activity engagement, use a longer-lasting product such as a cream, gel or lotion.

Spray (aerosol or pump) are beneficial for hairier parts of the body, including the arms and armpits, back. chest, legs and the pubic region. If a person is acne-prone, choose sunscreens that are oil-free or non-carnodegenic.

For persons with sensitive skin, the chemicals in some sunscreens may cause irritation. Use a product that contains only physical blockers (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). A physical blocker does not penetrate the skin layers as do chemicals. Physical blockers stay on the skin surface to provide protection.

What’s the best way to use sunscreen?

If you’ve used sunscreen before and suffered sunburn, it was either applied incorrectly or the wrong SPF. For sunscreen to be effective, it must be in sufficient quantity, applied correctly and thoroughly, applied prior to sun exposure and reapplied when necessary.

Remember the lips! Use a lip balm with a minimum SPF15.

How much?

One ounce (a full shot glass) per adult body per application (minimally). Apply liberally all over the body, including behind the ears and on the edges of the ear and ear lobes.

When to apply?

At least 30 minutes before going into the sun. Reapply 15 minutes later. The extra application helps to cover body areas that may have been missed the first time. Once in sunlight, reapply every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring or towel drying.

Sunscreen for a friend!

Who should use sunscreen?

Everyone needs skin protection. All ethnicities and races are susceptible to sunburn. Persons with darker skin complexions may have a higher tolerance for sun exposure but at some point, will begin to experience sunburn. Keep in mind that skin damage and serious complications later in life are a result of the failure to protect the skin.

Do persons of African descent need sunscreen?

All persons need to protect themselves from UV-A and UV-B sunrays. A common misconception is that Black people and others with darker skin tones is that their melanin-infused skin completely eliminates the necessity for sunscreen as protection. Yes, darker skin does offer limited additional tolerance but all persons, no matter their skin tone, need to wear sunscreen.

For a long time, all races mistakenly believed that the darker skin needs at least an SPF30complexions of persons of African, Middle Eastern and Indigenous American and Australian heritage were immune from the damaging and harmful rays of the sun. Despite the fact that melanin-infused skin have a higher genetic tolerance than fairer (lighter) skin tones, everyone has a natural deficiency of SPF.

At minimum, skin needs at least an SPF30 broad-spectrum for full protection. from UV-A and UV-B. Black people (on average) have a natural deficit of about SPF17 because melanin naturally provides a SPF13.

Sunglasses!

What about my eyes?

Ultraviolet rays do have an adverse effect on eyes as well as vision. Sunglasses that are able to filter the sun’s rays are available without a prescription. Protect yourself!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, May 24, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Almost Here!”

Erectile-Phobia!

Ithyphallophobia = fear of having a public erection

Background:

Men with ithyphallophobia are concerned and embarrassed by having a public erection. As a child, they may have been teased or made to feel ashamed by it. Caregivers (parents and other responsible adults) may have rebuked them for having one. Culture and religion are also factors in this condition. The term is a combination of three Greek words: ithy – straight, phallo – penis, and phobia – fear.

Erection is identified as a physiological phenomenon in which the penis becomes firmer, engorged and enlarged. Penile erection is the result of a complex interaction of endocrine, neural, psychosocial and vascular factors and it is often associated with sexual arousal and/or sexual attraction, although erections are also spontaneous. The angle, direction and shape of an erection varies considerably.

The Fear of Erections:

Too often and for far too long, the “massive multitude of mankind” (humanity) has assigned, associated and equated bare, naked and nude with evil, sex and sin. This rendering against body and clothes freedom caused the condition of “being natural” – without concealment or covering – as synonymous with evil, sex and sin. A very all-too-common and popular misconception has developed in culture is: remove your clothes, bring on the sin. The sin being sex and the result, the entry of evil.

The result? The endless circle of condemnation and judgment against all bare practitioners and other naturists/nudists for simply being themselves. Why all the hate? Because being bare, naked or nude is not right. It is not natural. It is an abomination. It is a disgrace. It is uncivilized.

Having an erection? It is a perversion!

Spontaneous unplanned)!

Erectile-Phobia:

Allow me to begin here by explaining that I’m almost positive that “erectile-phobia” isn’t an official word in any language known to humanity. Let me end with the observation that perhaps it should be. Despite the background definitions above, erectile–phobia has a very simple meaning: it is the fear of growing an erection (in public) especially when in a social nudist environment. This is a valid nudecentric concern, particularly for bare practitioners.

Erections are a natural male reaction/response to stimulation, imagined or real. It’s perfectly healthy and normal. There’s absolutely no reason to feel any guilt and/or shame. It happens when we are alone or in a group setting. No matter what others try to “preach” or try to instill in our minds, there are those awkward moments when sometimes a man’s penis really does have a “mind of it’s own” and reacts accordingly.

Unfortunately, erectile-phobia inhibits some same gender loving men from participating in bare practitioner activities. They are afraid of being embarrassed publicly if and when they acquire and/or grow an erection while in the company of others. Let me add here that non-same gender loving men also suffer from this same condition/fear, also. It’s not just some “queer fear!”

With the rapid approach of another summer season and the accompanying series of seasonal body and clothes freedom social events and gatherings (barbeques, cookouts, cocktail parties, sports opportunities, aquatics and outdoor outings, etc.), I want to help calm and erase the anxieties that some men may have with public erections. Everyone, bare practitioner or not, deserves the chance to experience the season clothes free!

First, we’ll examine misconceptions and myths surrounding erections, specifically spontaneous (unplanned) public erections. Second, we’ll recommend several ideas and suggestions as to coping should an unintentional penile reaction occur.

A tabletop feature!

Misconceptions and Myths:

Everyone will know that I’m inexperienced with social nudity. This is a false premise. It is true that those “newbie” (newly) nude or unfamiliar with communal nakedness are prone to erections. However, this is not an exclusive condition. Veteran, or experienced social nudists find themselves with an unexpected erection, too. They grow on all of us, some more often than others. Trust me on this, I know as it happens to me, my spouse, our friends. Regardless of the person, erections occur naturally and randomly, they don’t discriminate based on how many times a man is publicly naked.

People will think that I’m an exhibitionist or trolling for sex. First, one of the last places for an exhibitionist is in a social nudist environment. Exhibitionists are excited and thrilled about exposing themselves and seeing people react to their behaviour. In a socially naked situation, they are around scores of people who are all bare. They simply aren’t noticeable in a group of bare practitioners. In this setting, they are practically invisible. Thus, there is no reward (thrill) for them. If they are so bold and foolish as to expose and stimulate themselves in public, they are ignored, shunned and soon escorted off the property.

Second, bare practitioners are aware of erectile spontaneity and simply ignore the condition. In practically all nude gatherings, we’ve all “been there” (have experienced an unplanned erection) and understand the situation completely. It’s really “no big deal!”

A photographer “inspired!”

Everybody there will laugh at me or worse. More than likely, totally untrue for all of the reasons highlighted above. Most experienced naturists/nudists – of both genders – are sympathetic and too polite to place attention to a man with an erection. Unless the guy is acting or behaving in an offensive or provocative way, few, if any, will even give the matter a second thought. There are no “erection control police” to embarrass a man for being normal.

I’ll be humiliated. If an arousal occurs at all, and understand that the key word here is “if,” this maybe true. Remember the discomfort will last only as long as the erection lasts. This is usually just a few minutes, at best. Once it disappears, get on with enjoying the company of others who are there with you. Relax and appreciate the freedom of having fun amongst others, naturally.

Suggested Solutions:

There are some options if (again, “if” not “when”) a penile erection feels happening. These recommendations are a few alternatives that my spouse and I have used when in this predicament. Keep in mind these are personal suggestions and not from any particular or official rule book (I doubt that one even exists)!

If lying on a towel or a chaise on a beach or pool deck, simply roll over onto your stomach until the erection subsides. Common sense, right? Occasionally, a quick dive into the water frequently helps to calm an erection.
If standing, either physically turn away (if possible, without being rude) or focus on maintaining eye contact directly with those around you. Then, concentrate of the conversation and not the erection. Continue to interact as though nothing is amiss. If this is done when you first realize your penis is becoming erect, it usually prevents a full erection from occurring.
If you become excited during a sports game (one-on-one or a team) or a social game (board game, cards or charades) once again, remain focused on the activity and not the reaction of your penis. Becoming more involved often decreases the genital response, especially if movement (action) is possible.
If this takes place during a meal, there is a convenience known as a napkin. Use it to cover your lap while savoring the food and the company. Just knowing that you’re no longer exposed usually causes the penis to relax.
If swimming, continue the aquatic action or submerge under the surface.
If appropriate, use self-deprecating humour. Laughter shared with friends changes the mood and eliminates any tension. Remember the proverbial wisdom: “Laugh and the world laughs with you, cry and you cry alone.”
If all else fails, mentally envision the opposite of the situation. Mentally imagine castration or affliction with an ongoing erectile dysfunction. Those thoughts alone will (hopefully) erase any unexpected natural urge!

Recognizing erectile-phobia for what it is, understanding that it is normal and knowing that others are sympathetic hopefully will eradicate or, at the very least, reduce any concerns or fears about participating in social nudity. Having an “action plan” if an erection happens helps to overcome anxiety and builds confidence. Now, discard those unnecessary clothes and have a bare practitioners summer of natural fun!

Naked hugs!

Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride

Author’s Note: My scholastic year has ended and I have the summer off! I plan to continue posting here but there will be a visual posting for Friday, May 17, 2024. I am having a well-deserved one-day holiday from all obligations! I plan to resume text/visual post entries on Monday, May 20, 2024 and the proposed topic is: “SOS!”