An online journal celebrating the joys of living bare with pride! This site usually publishes every Monday and Friday. I may be irreverent but I am no way irrelevant! My preferred personal pronouns are he, him, his.
Looking closely at the above image, and behind the skinny-dipping (about to swim naked) man, notice the photographer taking his picture. Who can blame him for wishing to capture the image of a bold bare practitioner about to awaken the desire of everyone in the pool by being the first to strip off his swimsuit (under his heel) and enjoy nature naturally and totally? Why wait another moment before being comfortable and naked?
Skinny-dipping is a colloquial American slang term that simply means “swimming naked or nude.” It became a slang name for aquatic activity about the time of the World War II engagements that brought many men from all parts of the USA together into the armed services. For years before that, the designation existed almost exclusively in the deep southern part of the country.
The benefit to all of us during the transitional seasons of the year (Autumn, Spring) is that regardless of where we live, the Northern Hemisphere or the Southern Hemisphere, the majority of us are able to skinny-dip outdoors without suffering temperature extremes. A universal (global) period to enjoy nature as intended – clothes free!
Oceanic skinny-dipping!
The popularity of skinny-dipping throughout the world is the fact that the use of or the wearing of swimsuits is a relatively new practice. For many centuries, there existed no swimming attire and most cultures swam completely naked although separate times and locations were designated for the different genders. Therefore, skinny-dipping was considered relatively convenient and normal despite puritanical heritages and the otherwise labelling of nakedness as indecent and lewd. The sun and the surf are evidently too powerful for the artificial judgments of society!
Natural resource for skinny-dippers!
The time for comfort and relaxation while surrounded by nature and sunshine is upon us all! As we enjoy these idyllic days, there’s no better way to show our appreciation and gratitude than to celebrate being ourselves both aquatically and naturally! Unfortunately, the weather doesn’t always grant us this gracious gift eternally, so it is our responsibility to take advantage of every opportunity and life free and happy!
A gentle reminder!
Skinny-dipping his buttocks!
Graphic depiction of a skinny-dipper!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, May 29, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Precious Memories!” This is a repost from the blog of our blogging brother and friend, Rohan, the Nubian-Ikigai!
The purpose of this post entry is to educate, encourage and remind us all on the benefits and health values of sunscreen. This post is published here annually and is constantly updated to offer new alternatives, ideas, suggestions etc. Please use the “comments” application for any concerns. Thank you!
If anyone has specific questions, consult your local health care provider or their assistant. Some solutions or resolutions may be available online. Otherwise, check with your local pharmacist or health agency.
Tyson Kobe: skinny-dipping pool exit!
Introduction:
Allow me to explain the title. I am in no way encouraging anyone to actually put on any article of clothing! That is simply not in my nature as a dedicated bare practitioner. What I am referring to by the title here is to remind us all – myself included – of the vital importance of the use of sunscreen whenever we go outdoors. No matter the length of time in either the direct or indirect sunlight; sunscreen is essential in the preservation of a healthy and protective skin covering!
While we’re reviewing the topic, another piece of information that is often overlooked. Sunscreen is equally important in the wintertime as it is during the summer! The UV rays from the sun are definitely not a seasonal spectacle. Unlike our nakedness, the UV rays do not hibernate!
During the colder seasons of the year, no matter which hemisphere one resides, the sun’s rays are reflected and intensified by the snow and ice. The use of sunscreen remains necessary on all exposed areas of the skin. Failure to do so may cause severe consequences.
Beach visitation!
In the Northern Hemisphere, the 2023 Summer season does not officially begin until June 21, annually. This also happens to be the absolute longest day of sunlight within this particular hemisphere. Due to the excessive amount of daylight on this date, in some countries, especially in continental Europe, it is also observed as Naked Hiking Day. The logic for this activitybeing the longer the natural daylight lasts, the greater the length of time for hiking clothes free! Now that we have noted Europe’s special designation, the USA claims it deserves equality.
In 2023, in the USA, the Memorial Day holiday (a three-day weekend) falls on May 29. This is the day on which the USA honours all the war dead. This holiday is also considered – at least in the USA and Puerto Rico – as the unofficial start of the summer season.
Confused? I am, too! That’s the reason why here on ReNude Pride we follow the official commencement of the 2023 summer: June 21!
Sunscreen spray!
Justification:
For many persons, the summertime is synonymous as the legendary season of “fun-in-the-sun!” No matter which date one prefers for the arrival, there’s no denying the fact that warmer outdoor temperatures and longer periods of daylight are here. This means that the textile (clothed) folks are wearing less and that we bare practitioners are, as usual, nude. If we’re able to survive the winter naked, why expect anything differently from us during the summer?
It stands to reason that most (if not all) of us, bare or otherwise, are outside more than we were a month ago. While we are outdoors, we’re all exposing more of our skin to the sun’s rays. This baring of ourselves in all of this sunshine is a welcome change and relief from the barren dullness of winter and the colder temperatures.
In our eagerness to get out and frolic in the fresh air and warmer weather, many of us forget one of the basic rules of outside freedom and health: skin protection! We all need to cover up (protect) our skin before we uncover any part or all of our body. This protection entails the use of an appropriate sunscreen applied correctly, adequately (sufficient quantity) and, when necessary, reapplied diligently.
Using sunscreen allows most of us to make the most of whatever opportunities our summer plans may offer. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from sunburn and other conditions of sun ray excess or worse.
Sunburn!
Sunburn:
Sunburn is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and not heat. It is important to remember that multiple layers of the skin can burn even on overcast or cloudy days, cold winter days and while under shade (shelter from direct sunlight). Sunburn damages or destroys the skin, which controls the amount of heat our body retains or releases, holds 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.
Sunscreen product!
Sunscreen information:
The information below 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 or may not be the same for another. When in doubt, consult a health practitioner. It’s better to ask questions now than to suffer later! Please remember that everyone may or may not be allergic to certain ingredients contained within sunscreen.
What is sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a chemical that, to a certain degree, prevents UV (ultraviolet) radiation in sunrays 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 the sun activity is taking place, backyard, ball-playing field, park or beach, etc., the product should contain two elements for effective protection. Always look for a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that contains chemicals that block or prevent 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. Choose a variation that is both easy to apply and feels good on the skin. There are numerous commercial brands available: creams, lotions, moisturizers, gels, sprays and solid stick types.
What is SPF?
The initials SPF refer to the phrase: sun protection factor. It is the measure of the effectiveness of the sunscreen in absorbing UV-B 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 150 minutes or 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 97% of radiation and one of SPF50 blocks 99%. The difference in protection may not justify the added expense of higher SPF sunscreens.
Sunscreen application!
What is the best sunscreen for me?
This depends on many factors, including age, skin type, racial identity, gender, activity, time of day, location (proximity to the equator) and the UV index. For most skin types, a sunscreen with a minimum SPF15 is recommended. Mem with fair or lighter skin tones (of all races) and low sun tolerance (burn easily) should use a 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 hairy parts of the body, including the arms, the 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 sunscreen variants may cause skin irritation. Use a product that contains only physical blockers (zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide). A physical blocker does not penetrate the skin layers as do chemicals. Physical blockers stay only on the skin surface to provide protection.
Applying sunscreen to his partner’s back!
What’s the best way to use sunscreen?
If you’ve used sunscreen before and received a sunburn, it was either a) applied incorrectly, b) the wrong SPF, c) a very cheap deviant, d) insufficient amount of sunscreen, or e) expired product. Before purchasing a sunscreen product, check the expiration date. Verify the SPF level with your particular needs. Make certain that the instructions for the use of the selected variety of sunscreen are with the product.
For sunscreen to be effective, it must be in sufficient quantity, applied correctly and thoroughly applied prior to sun exposure. Reapply sunscreen as instructed following the recommended timeline.
Remember the lips! Use a lip balm with a minimum SPF15!
How much?
One ounce (the equivalent of a full shot glass) per adult per application is the minimally recommended dosage for the average person. Apply liberally all over the body, including behind the ears, on the ears both edges and ear lobes. Everyone should remember to apply sunscreen in the armpits and behind the knees.
When to apply?
Sunscreen should be placed on the body – entirely – at least 30 minutes before going into the sun. Reapply approximately 15 minutes later. The extra initial application helps to ensure that all exposed body areas have been covered, including those that may have been missed the first time. Once in the sunlight, either directly or indirectly, repeat the application process according to the instructions or at least every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring and/or towel drying.
Helping his partner cover his body with sunscreen!
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone needs skin protection. All races and ethnicities are susceptible to sunburn. Men with darker skin complexions may have a higher tolerance for sun exposure but at some point, will begin to experience sunburn. Bear and bare in mind that skin damage and serious, sometimes fatal, complications later are a result of the failure to protect the skin.
Do darker-skinned people need sunscreen?
Within the Black-toned and Brown-toned skin communities, it’s a common misconception that their melanin-infused (darker skin tone) skin completely eliminates the necessity for sunscreen as protection. Yes, darker skin does protect from some UV rays, but all persons, regardless of their skin tone, need to wear sunscreen.
For a long time, all races believed that the darker complexions of persons of African and Middle Eastern ancestry/descent were fully protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Despite the fact that darker skin tones have greater genetic protection than fairer/lighter skin tones, everyone has a natural deficiency.
At minimum, human skin needs at least an SPF30 for full protection from UV rays. Black people, on average, have at least a deficit of about SPF17 because their only offers a protection level of SPF13.
What does the expiration date mean?
Sunscreen usually remains effective and stable for a period of three years. After the expiration date, the contents (ingredients) will begin to decompose and will not offer the intended protection. Always check the expiration date before application. Discard any product that is past the expiration date!
For the bare practitioner/naturist/nudist:
Apply sunscreen to the entire body. This includes the anus, armpits, penis and testicles (both front and back). Follow the reapplication guidelines every couple of hours. Body areas that may not receive direct sunlight absorb UV-A and UV-B radiation indirectly.
Manscaping (body hair removal), no matter the method used, creates sensitive areas on the skin surface. First apply a gentle body lotion, wait 15 minutes and then cover with sunscreen.
Sunglasses!
Eyes:
It is extremely important to wear sunglasses to prevent harmful UV radiation from damaging the eyes. Select a pair (and a spare) with UV filtering lenses.
Summary:
Summer is a naturist/nudist paradise for a variety of nudecentric outdoor activities: aquatics, athletics, barbecues and cookouts, events, festivals and socials. It is also a time for quiet solitude such as gardening, hiking, reading a book outside or a casual stroll along a nature trail. No matter how we choose to spend our leisure time, proper prevention against sunburn and other skin damage ensures all of us freedom from concerns over sun exposure. One less worry as we go about our business of having fun in the sun!
In adhering to the above practices, protocols and our own common sense, we’ll all be able to look back in the autumn and know a good time was had by all!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, May 26, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Skinny-Dip Duo!”
” We face automobile traffic with our naked bodies as the best way of defending our dignity and exposing the unique dangers faced by cyclists and pedestrians as well as the negative consequences we all face due to dependence on oil and other forms of nonrenewable energy.” ~ World Naked Bike Ride Mission Statement ~
Body message!
There is no official date for the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR). Each ride, wherever it occurs, is considered an individual event and is sponsored and happens accordingly. The mission and message are the same for all the rides. The dress code motto for the WNBR is: “bare as you dare.”
The WNBR utilizes nudity as a tool to focus on cycling and the folly of oil dependency. It is believed that nudity represents human vulnerability.
Although nudity is a integral part of the event and its concept, the policy is not necessarily exclusively naked. It is understood that some persons as well as cultures have issues with public nudity. Therefore, participation in WNBR isn’t restricted by any clothing concern. Participants are all welcome, nude or clothed (textile).
WNBR with his Rainbow flower garland!
Similarly, the event is considered a bike ride but isn’t limited to just bicycles. Skateboarding, online skating, unicycling, are encourages in addition to bicycles. Jogging, running and walking is also allowed. Participants are known to transport themselves using their own wheelchairs, either manually or powered. The WNBR strives to be inclusive for all persons with differing abilities.
The ideals espoused by WNBR are to raise awareness of bicycling safety and rights, as well as those of pedestrians, raise awareness of ending dependence on fossil-fuels, to offer attention to our natural ecosystems. A secondary essence in recent years has been awareness of naturism and nudism.
WNBR participant!
There is no recommended date or time for WNBR. The global audience allows each organizing group to determine the best season and time of the year for each event. This results in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres the ability to host events when the weather is best for the local participants. The specific details for hosting WNBR events vary from location to location in addition to national boundaries.
One of the major advantages of the WNBR is that because it happens throughout the world, not only does it occur all during the entire year, it also caters to the weather conditions within both of the hemispheres. This enables more participation, awareness and encourages fund-raising activities. Each event is responsible for generating the cost of providing services.
WNBR, London, UK!
For additional information on the World Naked Bike Ride, visit their website:
World Naked Gardening Day (WNGD) is a fun event celebrated on the first Saturday of May, annually. In 2023, it occurs on tomorrow, 6 May. Gardeners from all over the world get together – at least, in spirit, – to attend to their flowers and plants wearing no clothes or shoes, although hats and sunglasses are permitted!
World Naked Gardening Day (WNGD) is a recent occasion it was first observed in September, 2005, and the same month in 2006. In 2007, the official date was determined to be the first Saturday in May and has remained so since. Due to the differences in the climate globally, some countries hold their own date for the event, such as Canada (June, every year) and New Zealand (October).
Indoor gardening!
Prior to the coronavirus COVID-19 quarantine and restrictions, my spouse, Aaron, and I hosted a World Naked Gardening Day indoor plant re-potting event in our condominium. We invite several other bare practitioner couples to participate and offer them a luncheon. The guests would arrive, we’d all strip out of our clothing and collectively re-pot our indoor plants from one pot into another one, slightly larger. The actual repotting would happen on our small balcony. We’d attach bedsheets to the balcony railing so as not to discomfort neighbors and to allow us our nude freedom.
Aaron and I plan to hang these bedsheets today, the day before WNGD. This enables our curious neighbors to already notice the feature and to become acquainted with it in place. It also helps to insure our privacy from voyeurs! To assure us from any breezes causing a flapping of the sheets, we have extra-large safety pins to keep the sheet layers intact.
The coronavirus quarantine suspended our World Naked Gardening Day (WNGD) festivities for 2020, 2021 and 2022. This year will be our first hosting of our WNGD tradition and we have made certain our guests are as enthusiastic about the resumption of the activity, just as Aaron and I both are! Adhering to recent practices, the number of guests we’ve invited for WNGD, 2023, is considerably reduced. We simply don’t have the space inside our condominium to allow everyone a comfortable distance apart. In addition, we need to be respectful of our neighbors and their concerns.
World Naked Gardening Day celebration!
Aaron and I are careful to make certain that the safety and health of our fellow gardeners is a primary issue. Hopefully, we can eliminate any transmission of any variant, known or unknown, of the infectious coronavirus. We are providing disposable facial masks and hand sanitizer for all guests. We also have disposable gloves available.
My spouse, as our WNGD chef, has always concocted delicious brunch delights for our consumption. In keeping with safety guidelines, this year we’re offering baked goods only and fresh fruit. Aaron is disappointed his culinary abilities aren’t being utilized but he understands the need for caution. A repeat massive mandatory quarantine is not on anyone’s “wish list!”
The routine for the actual gardening aspect this year basically is the same as in previous times. The focus is on repotting an indoor plant for personal use. As urban residents, a pot and a plant is our only option as a naked gardener. Our shared circumstances enable us to grow a body and clothes freedom community!
We offer what we are able for all to enjoy! Happy World Naked Gardening Day!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Saturday, May 6, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Commonwealth Coronation Day!”
No matter what the time of year, a good snack appeals to most of us! And there is no better place to search for one than our refrigerator! A nutritious and tasty treat offers us energy to parade our bare buttocks all day long!
Lounging away!
During the “transition seasons,” the Autumn and the Spring, many of us find the need to lounge and to conserve energies for the major seasons, Summer and Winter. There’s nothing wrong with allowing our bottoms to prepare for being up!
Bottoms-Up! Natural lounging!
Those of us who live near the Equator have the distinct ability to chill and relax in the bottoms-up! tradition practically all year long!
Benefits of group tanning!
An advantage of unseasonably warm weather is the freedom to go outside and absorb the sunshine and the comfortable temperatures – all while working on tanning our skin!
Floral highlights!
The growth of flowers allows us to adorn and decorate ourselves in a festive manner while being completely bottoms-up!
Fitness!
Early in the season is a great time to use exercise to tone-up our appearance when we appear bottoms-up!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, May 1, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “May Day!”
The month of April, annually, is the first full month once Spring arrives. In keeping with the promise of the rebirth and renewal of our natural habitat, there are two events in April that afford us all the chance to join with others in renewing our local world.
Arbor Day is observed nationally on April 28, 2023. Arbor Day is most often celebrated by a public tree planting according to municipal custom and needs. As growth patterns vary from state to state, individual communities frequently host the local events without national fanfare. Arbor Day enables preservation of one of our most vital national resources: trees!
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Seashore clean-up!
Earth Day: April 22, 2023!
Earth Day was first observed on April 22, 1970. The event seeks to raise the level of environmental awareness globally and it is thus far, successful. It focuses on the various adaptations and innovations that not only improve our quality of life but also impact our physical surroundings – earth and nature – in a positive and productive manner.
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Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 10, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “April Appeal!”
Wait a minute! The topic for today is: “April Showers!” As in precipitation from the clouds above. Not skinny-dipping in an indoor pool! Please! Stay focused!
Confusion!
Luckily, the title for today’s posting here on ReNude Pride is both inaccurate and misleading. Weather-wise, rain showers aren’t limited or restricted to just this month alone. They happen frequently – all year long. During the winter months, they appear as snow showers if not blizzards! Thankfully, they are highly unlikely now that Spring is here!
Hygiene-wise, my spouse, Aaron, and I shower daily – all year long. Cleanliness is important to the both of us, personally as well as professionally. As we are both dedicated bare practitioners, our preference is without clothing (whenever possible). Therefore, our natural (unclothed) appearance is a priority!
April shower!
So, a follow-up question is this: How did the phrase “April showers” originate? I’m sorry to admit that I have absolutely no theory to offer. However, I do have some images I’ve collected over the years that clearly show that bare practitioners do indeed make plans to protect themselves from rain-showers, no matter in what month they occur.
Which lead us into another group of questions: If we’re bare practitioners, don’t we skinny-dip? Why then do we need protection from a shower? Another valid question that I really don’t have a plausible answer. Perhaps it does have a relationship as to the availability of cotton towels for everyone?
May I borrow your towel?
I readily confess that neither Aaron nor I own raingear designed “nothing to hide.” However, we each have rainbow flag inspired umbrellas. After all, patriotism is important! Bare practitioners are a very loyal and proud community!
Bare transparency!
Perhaps there is some creditability in the childhood rhyme: April showers bring May flowers!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 3, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “ReNude Pride: Personified!”
Daylight Savings Time (DST) returns to the USA on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at 2:00 a.m., local time!
At 2:00 a.m., advance your timepieces exactly 1 full hour ahead!
The purpose of the time change is to theoretically add one hour of natural daylight each and everyday until the time changes back in November. During the Great War – World War I – this measure was adopted in order to increase the production of war supplies to ensure victory.
There is a growing movement to make the time change a permanent fixture in our daily lives. Until that becomes real, we need to endure the time changes as they occur.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, March 13, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Spring Resolutions, 2023!”
African-Americans constitute almost 13% of the population in the USA yet they represent almost 50% of all categories in HIV/AIDS related statistics reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 1999, alarmed over the effects of HIV/AIDS on the Black American community, the CDC, U.S. Public Health Service, representatives of organizations serving African-Americans and persons of faith met to address concerns over rising infection rates. One of the results of these meetings was the decision to observe February 7, annually, as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD). The first NBHAAD was conducted on February 7, 2000.
Working together to preserve our future!
NBHAAD mandates four (4) key components present for a successful awareness campaign. Each component is designed to build individual and community strengths in combatting HIV/AIDS. The four elements are as follows:
Get educated: know the facts about transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS.
Get involved: learn about opportunities available in community prevention efforts.
Get tested: know your status and encourage/empower others to do the same.
Get treatment: to receive proper healthcare and support needed to successfully live with HIV.
KNOWLEDGE = POWER!
Get tested in order to know your status.
Get active! `~ Get involved! ~ Take control!
Testing!
Basic Facts: HIV/AIDS:
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.
AIDS is a result of HIV infection.
HIV is not spread by everyday, casual contact. HIV is transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk.
Only a doctor can diagnose AIDS.
Remember: It is not who we are but rather what we do that puts us at risk for HIV infection!
Analysis proves that people learn and retain knowledge most effectively from people they perceive as most like themselves. NBHAAD is an African-American based organization to provide direction, guidance and implementation to the Black American population specifically. It represents a resource that is accessible, authentic and dependable.
Kory Mitchell: The “Magic Johnson” of the Gay Porn Industry!
Legendary openly gay film star, Kory Mitchell, (sometimes known as “Kory Kong”) born in Germany of African-American and German parents, became an HIV+ gay porn industry advocate and educator of HIV/AIDS prevention skills. He was quickly identified as the “Magic Johnson of Gay Pornography!” On the very first NBHAAD, Kory and Magic appeared together throughout the day to encourage involvement with NBHAAD and the options available to living and thriving as HIV+.
Kory Mitchell: tattoos!
No matter his career in gay pornography, after Kory became established professionally, he had “blessed” tattooed on his back shoulder and a cross tattooed onto his abdomen. The purpose was to remind his fans of his Christian faith. Shortly after his diagnosis as HIV+, he had the word “hope” tattooed onto his neck. Instead of the letter “o,” he had a red AIDS awareness ribbon used.
U = U!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 10, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “S’Naked!”
The wearing of a facial mask reduces the transmission of germs both to and from the person wearing the protection.
All Northern Hemisphere residents are aware that the influenza season is now underway. Not only are questions now posed as to the effectiveness of the current flu immunizations; serious doubts are constantly expressed. Additionally, concerns and fears are arising due to the unknown numbers of variants to the recent coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. A report of the global precautions implemented almost three years ago are critical to a disaster of a repeat outbreak on the economic, social, political and countless other sustaining systems worldwide.
China, our world’s mega-entity continues to remain vulnerable to the initial coronavirus COVID-19 . Another major eruption could prove catastrophic for us all, no matter where we live. Continued diligence and monitoring is essential for the well-being of humanity (and this means us all)!
There are some facts we should all know about disease transmission (spread) that can help us prevent extra discomfort and misery, or worse, in our daily lives. First, there are four criteria that need to be met in order for diseases to be transferred.
Germs
No difference whether bacterial or viral, a pathogen (germ) must be present.
Susceptible
The person needs to be vulnerable (receptive) to the infection. A strong immune system and/or vaccination reduces the reception to a disease. Sometimes, a recent bout with the disease creates antibodies that immediately fight off any new infection.
Quantity
In order to become sick, the pathogens need to be in enough amount (quantity) for the infection to occur.
Entry
There needs to be an opening or point of entry for the germs to infect the body. These can be minor skin abrasions, an open sore, an oral cavity, etc.
If any of these four conditions are not present or met, disease transmission (spread) does not happen!
There are some often overlooked possibilities that all of us encounter in our everyday lives that expose us to all types of nasty microbes that can make us sick. Below are some cesspools of germs just waiting to enter our bodies.
Kitchen sponges and dishrags: According to some, these contain more germs than those found in a toilet bowl. Worse, strains of the drug-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) – also known as “flesh eating bacteria” – have been found in not only commercial eateries but in household kitchens as well. Sanitize (wash) the sponge every time you use your dishwasher or microwave it after dampening it. Throw the dishrag into the washing machine.
Kitchen sinks, toothbrush holders and countertops: Clean these regularly. For sinks and countertops, a tablespoon of bleach in a quart (liter) of water once or twice a week is sufficient. Clean the toothbrush holder weekly in the dishwasher or wash with soapy dishwashing detergent.
Public electronic “touch spots”: Keep personal size hand sanitizer available and use immediately after contact. Wash hands with hot water and soap as soon as possible after contact (in addition to hand sanitizer).
Bathroom faucets, TV remotes, refrigerator handles, doorknobs, etc.: Cold and influenza viruses can live up to 24 hours on these surfaces, perhaps even longer. Regularly clean with a disinfectant disposable wipe or bleach and water.
Shared items: writing utensils, tools, grooming items, etc.: Avoid multiple person use as much as possible. Use disposable gloves, a new pair for each item shared. Throw away immediately after use.
Spatial reserve/social distances: Avoid congestion and keep a safe space all around you when out in public. Maintain a respectful distance from others when waiting in lines to enter or to exit.
Fortify your immune system: One of the most effective ways is diet. Also, orange juice (Vitamin C) helps to keep the immune system operating efficiently.
Frequent handwashing: Wash with hot water and soap as often as possible every day and throughout the year.
It is vital for every one of us to recall the recent practices and routines concerning health to ensure our immune system’s optimal efficiency. We all need to keep our local health services aware of any deviations or inconsistencies in our own health as well as that of those we hold dear and love.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, January 20, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Hot!”
ReNude Pride 