World Naked Bike Ride, London, UK: Progress rainbow body painted design!
As an introduction, World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR) is most definitely not affiliated officially with the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) community. Many of our culture endorse and support this global effort, but we do so as individuals. There are numerous allied endorsers and or sponsors, but for the most part, the WNBR is an independent international movement of primarily environmental and safety concerns and interests. As the name itself suggests, it is widely popular and supported by the naturist/nudist enthusiasts worldwide.
Our bold and courageous bare practitioner in the above image has decorated his chest with body paint reflecting the Progress flag. This banner depicts the inclusive diversity found within our community and culture worldwide.
Thumbs-up to the WNBR!
The “thumbs-up” approval along with his rainbow designed neckwear is this rider’s salute to the WNBR! The spring and/or summer months, depending on the hemisphere, appear to be the primary time of year for these events to occur. All bike rides are locally generated and operated and there is no central organization to schedule. The majority of registrations and promotions happen online as do sponsorships.
Our man switches his neckwear onto his wrists!
The WNBR is an international clothing optional bike ride with the overwhelming majority of participants riding bicycles but every year with more riding skateboards or inline skates. In 2003, Conrad Schmidt developed the concept of the WNBR after organizing the same for the Artists for Peace/Artists Against War (AFP/AAW). The original WNBR message was against oil dependency and advocating the individuality and power of the human body.
The first WNBR took place in 2004.
Since 2006, the message has simplified and the main focus of the event is cycling advocacy, pedestrian safety and sharing the roadways.
As bare practitioners (same gender loving naturists/nudists) we wholeheartedly embrace, encourage and endorse the following character traits of our community and our culture:
Acceptance: of our body and clothes freedom nature and our sexuality.
Belief: in our inalienable and natural right to determine and to be ourselves.
Confidence: in all of us to be what and who we basically and honestly are without any apology, guilt or shame.
Dedication: in advocating and supporting these principles for everyone, no matter who they are and where they live.
Pride: our shining star!
As bare practitioners we all know that we are entitled to and experience our pride throughout the entire year. Confidence and self-expression are not limited and/or restricted to just the month of June, annually. Pride month is when we, as both a community and a culture, remind the the rest of humanity of who we all are and to celebrate our collective accomplishments and achievements! This is the time of the year for all of us to join together in celebrating, demonstrating, exhibiting, representing, sharing and showing our confidence and pride in being ourselves!
Unknowingly for many but consciously for a few, our pride in ourselves as bare practitioners casts us into the status of role model. Unwittingly, countless numbers of others exploring our community and culture may look upon each one of us as an example – a role model – of a life they find appealing. We may never be aware of this service to others. Simply being who and what we truly are often can and does inspire other.
Back-up plans!
As an accidental as well as an unintentional bare practitioner example, our “option for action” is to continue to live our life. Our nakedness and our sexuality combined have determined us as “unique.” This uniqueness, in turn, awarded us the unsolicited position of role model to anyone observing our community and our culture.
If someone is curious about our lifestyle as same gender loving and as a naturist/nudist, we should all strive to be as welcoming as possible and reply to their questions. It is also beneficial to know someone of our community who is very receptive and has the dedication and the patience to spend with those seeking knowledge of our lives. The vast majority of us can recall our own exploration of the community and what proved helpful and informative for us.
Coming together as a community!
When Alex, my identical twin brother, and I first began exploring the openly nude skinny-dipping riverside site in the city where we grew up, we were the youngest there in a group of primarily university ages and older. As we are both Deaf, no one around seemed bothered by reading our questions and writing their answers. The major problem for all of us seemed to be reading the handwriting! All the guys there were patient and ready to respond. No one appeared to resent our “joining” their beach!
Bottoms-up!
Twin and I always remembered to thank our role models for both their patience and their tolerance. We had already acknowledged our sexuality so the majority of our questions regarded interacting among the same gender loving (gay) nude community. There were two of so, so we were often laughed at as being the groups “class.” Neither of us are able to recall if any of our “tutors” had shared with us their major as being education.
As bare practitioners, we recognize the importance of our service as role-models. In order for future generations of bare practitioners to be happy and succeed, it is our duty to explain and represent our community and culture as best as possible. Our level of comfort in being a role-model often is seen by others as a determination of our dedication to our lifestyle. Nothing could be further from the truth. The personal interaction between role-model and the person we’re mentoring is often the determining factor as to level of comfort.
All of us, as either role-model or as the one being tutored, cooperating together for our common good are making for a better and stronger bare practitioner movement, a community and culture based on confidence and pride!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, June 13, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “World Naked Bike Ride Pride!”
In the USA, which is where yours truly (myself) resides, the annual celebration of GLBTQ+ and Bare Pride Month occurs during the month of June. The Stonewall Inn Riots – which are attributed as the onset of equal rights struggle – happened on the evening of June 28, 1969. This uprising is credited as triggering the global campaign for the recognition and respect for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer + people everywhere.
The header image (above) depicts the Progress Rainbow flag , the relatively new official banner of the GLBTQ+ community and culture, and this flag represents our diverse inclusion of all of us in our fight for equality, respect and unity. We are, after all, humanity!
The USA is located in the Northern Hemisphere where June commences the season of summer, a sacred occasion for us bare practitioners (GLBTQ+ naturists/nudists) and the theme for this posting here on ReNude Pride!
Royal command!
As bare practitioners, our struggle for acceptance and inclusion within the GLBTQ+community and culture continues today. We also strive for the same within our clothes freedom (naturist/nudist) community and culture. Bigotry and prejudice, unfortunately. is a “people” trait that isn’t limited to one certain group of humans.
That is the reason that our confidence and pride is of paramount importance to us all. It is our acceptance, acknowledgement and joy in being simply who and what we essentially are with no feelings of guilt or shame!
Bare beach pair #1
Summertime is traditionally the season for “outdoor fun in the sun.” We bare practitioners both embrace, honour and understand this wholesome philosophy. Sunshine is often considered synonymous with the summer season. Why not get outside in order to appreciate and to enjoy what is rightfully ours? After all, summer is only one brief season of the entire year!
During our celebration of GLBTQ+ and Bare Pride Month, 2022, there’s no cause or excuse for us to keep ourselves inside and away from the sun. As bare practitioners, we’ve spent enough time burdened under excessive layers of clothing. Now is the time we are motivated by delight in our freedom of stripping off our baggage and “hanging out” naturally within our community and culture!
“Our pride in our bare practitioner community and culture is a result of our confidence in striving for what is decent and good, for sacrificing for what is fair and just and in believing that we can make a positive difference.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ June 6, 2022
Bare beach pair #2!
Sunbathing “in the buff” (nude) allows us to showcase our nakedness and our confidence in our bodies as well as in ourselves. It conveys the joy and pleasure that we obtain from being natural with nature and in the rays of the sun!
“Our commitment and dedication to the cause of equality is beyond the limits of ethnicity and/or race. All of us are entitled to freedom and justice no matter who we love.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ June 6, 2022
Bare beach pair #3!
“Acceptance and tolerance enables patience, respect and understanding. These ideals reflect our shared hope for a better future for us all!” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ June 6, 2022
Important reminders:
Sunscreen protection!
Before the season becomes too advanced, please remember to use sunscreen for skin protection every time you’re in the sun!
Sunglasses!
Safeguard your eyes and vision from the UV radiation in the sun’s rays! Wear sunglasses!
********************
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next proudly planned posting entry for here is planned for Friday, June 10, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bare Practitioner Pride!”
Last month, May, 2022, I published regarding the unlucky Friday the 13th myth. In keeping with the focus on June being the month of GLBTQ+ and Bare Pride, we’ll avoid the number 13 here and concentrate on the number three (3)! After all, today is the third (3) full day of Pride Month, 2022!
Fortunately, there is no numeral associated with pride. Our confidence in our community, our culture, our friends and ourselves happens whether we are alone – solo – or in a group of three, thirty or as many as three hundred. There exists no numerical threshold, imagined or real, that must be reached in order for the sensations of accomplishment, achievement, pride and success to be experienced.
Confidence in Ourselves
Self-confidence is an essential aspect of celebrating and remembering our community and our cultural pride. Our comfort in being who we are enables us to overcome any doubts or feelings of embarrassment, guilt, remorse or shame that others seek to impose upon us. In deflecting and ignoring the contempt of others we prove ourselves to be above and beyond intimidation and reproach!
A happy trio!
Happiness in Ourselves
Our smiles visibly demonstrate our contentment in being us: the who (same gender loving) and the what (bare; body and clothes freedom) nature of our lives. In accepting and acknowledging our specialty and uniqueness in this life and in this world, we show our confidence and our pride and help to prepare others for joining us without any fear or hesitation. Our camaraderie reminds others and ourselves that we are not alone.
Forward looking threesome!
Unity Among Ourselves
Despite our numerous concerns, differences, favourites, issues and values, we, as the bare practitioner community and culture stand together – united – in hopeful anticipation of our future. We embrace, rally and support the colours, images representation and spirit of the Progress rainbow flag. We go forth towards our common goals of equality, justice, tolerance and unity for all of us no matter who we love.
Progress rainbow banner!
Our strength is founded on the respect and trust that we share with one another. Our confidence and pride is the combines legacy of our past, the unity of our present and the anticipation of our future!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry proudly planned for here is Monday, June 6, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Sunshine Pride!”
The gentlemen above attempt some genital modesty with the traditional rainbow flag that for many years represented GLBTQ+ pride!
The colors and the symbolism of the traditional rainbow flag. Many complaints were received because the diversity of the GLBTQ+ community wasn’t reflected.
Traditionalrainbow flag with two gay men emblems!
The customary “header” for my Pride month post entry. On the rainbow flag he’s holding are emblems representing two gay men together. I used this image for my initial A Guy Without Boxers site as well as here on ReNude Pride.
Daymin Voss (left) kisses Beaux Banks.
Same gender love (SGL) at the very best! Daymin Voss (left) passionately kissing his fellow SGL actor, Beaux Banks! A foreplay scene from their film: Vice!
Self-explanatory logo!
ReNude Pride observes GLBTQ+ pride month and bare pride month simultaneously. I did the same when publishing A Guy Without Boxers. The Stonewall Inn Riots happened on the night of June 28, 1969.
We can all follow adult SGL film legend Francois Sagat’s example and “strip off” our clothes for the entire month of June. Pride with absolutely nothing to hide!
A nocturnal dive!
While we’re all bare, we can take advantage and skinny-dip dive into the pool! Every effort earns a reward!
“Pride is the confidence, contentment, joy and satisfaction that we feel being the real and true person that we are!” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ June 1, 2022
Compiling pride!
Our confidence and pride extends to ourselves, our community and all of humanity. We are not limited in what we attempt to accomplish. Working together, we achieve our goals!
Our pride: our Progress flag!
Our pride commemorates the challenges we have overcome and the lessons we have learned. It includes the pain we have felt, the lives we have lost and the grief that we have mourned. Our successes and triumphs are celebrated and cherished.
Our pride continues forward! The Progress flag (image above) is our new banner that incorporates our collective past and our hope for the future. It retains a part of our rainbow heritage and elements of our progression into acceptance, diversity, equality, inclusion and respect!
Happy nakedness and pride to everyone, every day of the entire year!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry planned for here is for Friday, June 3, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “World Naked Bike Ride!”
Canada’s current Queen Elizabeth II (left) and Queen Victoria (right)!
In French, an equal language in Canada, the name for this holiday is: Fete de la Reine (Celebration of the Queen)! In all of Canada, this is a public holiday that is observed on the last Monday preceding May 25, annually. Initially in honour of Queen Victoria’s actual birthday (May 24), it is now a tribute to the first monarch of a confederated Canada as well as the official founding of Canada’s sovereignty. This holiday has occurred in Canada since at least 1845, which predates the creation of the confederation.
In addition to giving historical homage to the Queen who granted the Royal Assent (signature) to the British North America Act: the very first step in the inevitable evolution of the British Empire into the Commonwealth of which the current Queen Elizabeth II officially heads.
Posing for Canada!
For a majority of Canadians, Victoria Day serves as the unofficial commencement of the summer season – a long weekend to welcome the return of warmer weather!
Queen Victoria’s Enigma:
Oceanic skinny-dipper!
My spouse, Aaron, is Canadian by birth. His paternal ancestors migrated there through the underground railway before the U.S. Civil War ended the practice of slavery. At his determined insistence, I am offering this thought.
As a nude enthusiast – and advocate – one of the greatest ironies of Queen Victoria’s reign has always been: Did Her Majesty ever skinny-dip (swim naked)? Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837. Prior to inheriting the crown, everyone swam naked. Swim suits didn’t exist before they were commercially designed and produced in the 1850’s. The genders were segregated (if necessary) and people splashed about aquatically naturally (clothes free).
Stereotypically, H. M. Queen Victoria is always considered a very stoic and solemn prude. In reality, was the lady as she is often perceived?
Happy Victoria Day!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Friday, May 27, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Sunglasses: Sunglamour Glory!”
It is the month of May and for those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, our Summer is rapidly approaching. In order to help remind everyone of the realities of living as a bare practitioner, the message is: we all need to act for protection of our skin! There is enough potential for disaster in our lives already. Failure to act to protect ourselves from over-exposure to the sun is a risky procedure that none of us need to make. Our health is fragile as it is!
Annually, usually during the month of May, I post a summation of the steps we should follow in protecting our skin from the sun. We enjoy our body and clothes freedom, a simple notation of the process to ensure continued fun and pleasure during the summer months is an effort towards the health and safety of us all. To all of our bare practitioners residing in the Southern Hemisphere, earmark this post in preparation when “fun-in-the-sun” season returns to you!
In our eagerness to get outside and frolic in the fresh air and warm sun, many of us forget one of the basic rules of outdoor health: we all need to cover up (protect) our skin before we uncover any part of or all of our body. This cover up 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 our sunlight plans may offer. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from sunburn (or worse).
Sunscreen instruction review!
It is strongly recommended that bare practitioners and naturists/nudists earmark this post for the duration of the season. In doing so, it is easily available for reference should the need arise. Our health is a vital concern for each one. Please protect yourself and others around you!
Question and Answer Format:
The “Question and Answer” (Q&A) style has been the format for this post entry here since I began publishing in 2017. Those seeking information appreciate the brevity and the focused subject of each inquiry. This type pf presentation encourages additional research if more information is needed.
New this year is an Addendum: Update section featured as a summary for this post entry.
Sunburn on his back!
What is sunburn?
Sunburn is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and not heat. It is important to remember that 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 infections.
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 below is very general and is offered as a guide to use in selecting the type of sunscreen that is 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 is better to ask now than to be sorry later!
Applying sunscreen!
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 the sun activity is taking place: backyard, ball playing field, park or beach, the product should contain two elements for effective protection. Always look for 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. 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.
Sunbathing!
What is SPF?
The initials SPF refer to “sun protection factor.” This 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 sun 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.
What is the best sunscreen for me?
This depends on many factors, 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 minimum SPF15 is recommended. Persons with fair or lighter skin tones – of all races and ethnicities – 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 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 individuals with sensitive skin, the chemicals in some sunscreens may cause 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 on the skin surface to provide protection.
Reading application instructions!
What is the best way to use sunscreen?
If you’ve used sunscreen before and burned, it was either applied incorrectly or the wrong SPF. For sunscreen to be effective, it must be in sufficient quantity, applied correctly and thoroughly, used prior to sun exposure and reapplied often. 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 out into the sun. Reapply 15 minutes later to ensure that you didn’t miss any part of your body. Once in sunlight, reapply every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring or towel drying.
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone needs skin protection from the rays of the sun. 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, they too will experience sunburn. Bear (and bare) in mind that skin damage and serious complications later are a result of the failure to protect the skin.
Rubbing sunscreen lotion into his skin!
What does the expiration date mean?
Sunscreen usually remains stable and effective for a period of three (3) years. After the expiration date, the contents 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 anal area, armpits, penis, 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 fifteen (15) minutes and then cover with sunscreen – completely.
Summer is a natural season for outdoor freedom and a variety of nudecentric outside activities: aquatics, athletics, barbecues and cookouts, events, festivals and countless socials. It is also the time for quiet solitude such as gardening, hiking, reading a book or a casual stroll down a nature trail. No matter how we choose to spend our leisure time, proper prevention against sunburn 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.
Sunglass protection!
Sunglasses!
A cautious word on sunglasses! It is important to remember sunglasses to prevent harmful UV radiation from damaging the eyes! Even on overcast days, radiation is still available. When purchasing sunglasses, a pair with UV filtering lenses is highly recommended.
Sunscreen application assistance!
Bare Notations: 2022:
If you are a “newbie” (recent arrival) to the bare practitioner world – welcome! If you are a veteran of the body and clothes freedom comity (community and/or culture) – you’re welcome here, too! A new sectional feature here on ReNude Pride’s annual guide to sunscreen protection for us all are these “Bare Notations.” These notations (reminders and/or suggestions) are offered in a nonjudgmental and nonthreatening way to help us all guard and protect the “skin we’re in!” Please feel free to offer your own ideas in the comments area below and remember to have fun and be safe in the sun!
Tan-line: in order to remove all evidence of swimsuit (or other clothing) wearing, generously apply sunscreen all over your entire body – not just the tan-line area. Too many times people only cover the tan-line evidence and neglect the rest of their body. For the best protection, use sunscreen; faithfully and religiously!
Sunglasses: (once again, another subtle reminder) the use of sunglasses is essential in protecting visual health. The shaded lenses guard our eyes from the UV radiation emitted from the sun’s rays. Carefully select a pair that’s comfortable, treated with UV filtration and sturdy. Fresh slices of cucumber may be calming and fine for soothing the eyelids after sun exposure, but they don’t protect against UV damages!
Genitalia: (buttocks and crevice, penis, testicles) are sensitive parts of the body that are usually the least exposed to any sunlight. Carefully and completely cover with sunscreen – and a second thorough application is strongly recommended before sun exposure happens. This ensures full coverage has occurred. Remember the underside of the penis and the backside of testicles. UV radiation is not merely contained to sunlight! Don’t forget the crevice area between the left and right buttock!
Armpits: (underarms) are sensitive parts of the body that are usually a secondary site of minimal sunlight exposure. Armpit hair (underarm fur) – no matter how profuse or sparse – does not eliminate UV penetration. Apply sunscreen the same as you would other areas of the skin. Due to heavy perspiration in the underarms and the human tendency to wipe away heavy amounts of moisture, armpits/underarms may require additional monitoring.
Have a fun and safe summer!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry planned for here is Friday, May 20, 2022, and the proposed topic is “Summer Plans!”
World Naked Gardening Day is Saturday, May 7, 2022!
World Naked Gardening Day is internationally observed on the first Saturday in May, annually. Many countries, regions, provinces, etc., have a local date/day specific to locality in addition to this global event. Consult neighboring gardening, horticultural, naturist and nudist groups or organizations for actual dates and/or celebrations.
The first annual World Naked Gardening Day occurred on September 10, 2005. In 2007, the event date was changed to the first Saturday in May. In 2018, the New Zealand Naturist Federation adopted the last Saturday in October, annually, as World Naked Gardening Day due to the climate of the Southern Hemisphere. In Canada, the first Saturday in May can be especially cold so the alternate day of the first Saturday in June is Naked Canadian Gardening Day.
My spouse, Aaron, and I observe World Naked Gardening Day at our home. We invite over other bare practitioner couples to replant house plants (each couple is asked to bring their own). This year – thus far – will be the first celebration of this “nature activity” in two years due to the coronavirus COVID-19 epidemic and quarantine. As of today, four other couples have confirmed their joining us for this endeavour!
My legal and significant other has entitled our gathering and planting: BTD (bare transplant day)!
We use our condominium’s balcony as our “garden” area and use blankets and sheets to hang on the railing so we don’t offend any neighbors by our blatant and confident nudity. While socializing and planting, our fellow enthusiasts (guests) often offer new gardening advice. This mid-day activity is then followed by a modest weekend brunch.
World Naked Gardening Day!
Quite naturally, bare landscaping (groundskeeping, yardwork) is also an option for World Naked Gardening Day! An ideal way to encourage comfort, health and open clothes freedom (public naturist/nudist lifestyle)! If possible, join us in promoting our natural leisure pleasures!
Happy World Naked Gardening Day!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Sunday, May 8, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “USA: Mother’s Day!”
At midnight tomorrow night, the bells on Greek Orthodox churches (actually, all Orthodox churches) will begin to ring and the congregations will commence to transmit the flame of light from one paschal candle to another while chanting “Kristos anesti” (Christ is risen). The Easter liturgy for 2022 will start; continuing a tradition that began almost 2,000 years ago.
Afterwards, the congregants will exchange the greeting “Kala Pascha” (good Easter)! While sharing best wishes, they will hold red-dyed eggs in the palm of their hand tapping the eggs of others, in the attempt to crack open the shells of every egg they encounter and emerge with their own egg unscathed and intact!
The egg champion!
Everyone then hurries home for the opening of gifts, the devouring of the Easter breakfast and the mad rush to crawl into bed before sunrise! The Easter feast begins at 4:30 p.m., on Sunday afternoon! Of course, all are completely famished by the time that comes to pass!
Of course, the family gathering is sparse for us. Aaron, my spouse, and I will host Twin (Alex) and his partner Dante, and our first cousin, Michael Poladopoulos and his soon-to-be spouse, Ropati. The remainder of our families all reside in Greece so we do the best that we can to ensure that Easter is a memorable event.
All of us are bare practitioners so there is most definitely a hasty drive from St. Sophia’s Cathedral in northwest Washington, D.C., to our condominium in Arlington, Virginia. We’ll all need to remove our church attire – pronto! Aaron and I have a one bedroom unit, therefore, space is limited. Fortunately, clothing concerns are not an issue for any of us! We avoid a grooming disaster by shaving/showering as a couple and not individually.
Lambropsomo – Easter Bread!
Everyone plans on arriving this afternoon (Friday). In making the Lambropsomo (Easter Bread), we use ya-ya’s (paternal grandmother’s) recipe which both Alex and Michael (as well as myself) own. My culinary skills are nonexistent; however, I do posses the handmade wooden rising bowl that belonged to ya-ya’s mother (our great-grandmother). It is an antique. The Lambropsomo is an eighteen hour process so preparation starts tonight. Ropati has no interest in baking so the two of us plan to play backgammon (tavloo) while the remainder work in our kitchen. As my Aaron so aptly determined: “We’ll keep the R’s (Roger and Ropati) out of our space so we can handle (complete) our business (cooking)!” Rest assured, Ropati and I both intend to comply with those wishes!
Easter feast preparation!
I don’t know for certain if Ropati’s kitchen skills are as poor as mine – however, as long as the majority of our guests are content with the food preparation, I am content to accede to their every desire and need! Too many in our tiny kitchen space can only create chaos, confusion and disaster!
Our Easter Sunday plans are to be laid back and relaxed for most of the day. With the bulk of the meal preparation completed in advance, our 4:30 p.m., dinner will be followed by our guests departing for their homes. Aaron and I prefer doing our own clean-up after the meal as our time to “calm” after a condominium full of family for the entire weekend. Monday is a full day at work for the both of us!
Decorated buttocks!
And a very depressing thought: almost all of my fellow professors at university observed Western Easter the week before. Their holiday recovery is very complete! I have yet to go through the motions!
Kala Pascha to everyone!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 25, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “April Appeal: Fantasy!”
A combination of two fun-filled words that afford us with desires and dreams and a variety of memories. In the English language, naked is joined with the word vacation and the result is: nakation! A bare practitioner’s imaginative excursion into paradise! There is no established timeline; a nakation can be one day in duration, one week or an entire month. The nakationer (nude enthusiast on vacation) makes the decisions!
The choices are unlimited and can be as complex or as simple as the amount of free time and the financial resources permit. Uncertain of what’s available? Online is accessible to offer suggestions that satisfy most needs and requirements. Acquaintances and friends can make recommendations and give advice on what to do and what to avoid. Careful thinking and common sense are also valuable tools!
“Man designs fashions. Man makes clothes. Man makes mistakes! The measure of a man isn’t based on the clothes he wears. The true measure of a man is determined bythe clothes he is not wearing. Bare is the perfection of the human body without the mistakes.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~
Nakation relaxation!
For someone who is a newcomer to the body and clothes freedom life, the prospect may seem overpowering. Do not despair! Even with a severely limited financial status, a basic nakation can involve little more than selecting a relatively secluded location, packing food and water (or other beverage) and getting outside to spend a free afternoon in nature. Being natural in nature doesn’t necessarily require time consuming planning and preparation. Reading material (to occupy your time mentally) and ample sunscreen are strongly encouraged for everyone (no matter their ethnicity or race)!
A convenient clothing optional resort involves both money and reservations – especially during the late Spring, Summer and early Autumn times of the year. When making inquiries at the facility, always ask for any policies or restrictions specific to that particular resort. Some destinations actually prohibit same gender loving relationships from even being on the property. It is always a good idea to ask about the clothing optional status of the on-site dining room/restaurant. There are numerous clothing optional establishments that cater especially to the bare practitioner community. At these locations, a person’s sexual identity is rarely a concern or issue.
Nakation comfort: no need to “dress to impress!”
“Bare practitioners are natural inspirations!” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ January 6, 2022
A recent trend that is increasing in popularity are clothing/textile restrictive resorts. These places severely limit the areas and times that clothing may be worn. Some of the more stringent facilities mandate that clothing must be removed in the parking area before entry into the actual property. Be advised to question the specifics regarding these regulations. There is no need to be textile if it isn’t necessary!
Nakation together!
GLBTQ+ Friendly:
As discussed in last Monday’s April Appeal: Social Nudity (click link for connection), there is an ever-growing number of locations and resorts promoting (advertising, marketing) themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) accepting, friendly and welcoming. This attention is partly the result of discrimination endured by bare practitioners in the past and partly the result of an increasing number of bare practitioners specifically seeking such accommodations. The end result is a “win-win” situation for both the same gender loving (SGL) vacationers and the commercial establishments.
When visiting a GLBTQ+ friendly facility we don’t need to be as concerned and discreet about our status. However, as each property has different management and procedures, it is highly advised that guests inquire regarding protocols and meal-time dressing codes. Awareness and knowledge are allies in comfort and relaxation!
Cautionary note:
Regardless of the best intentions and precautions of destination management, facilities that publicly announce their GLBTQ+ acceptance sometimes attract the undesirable. There are some who stereotype our community as particularly vulnerable and weak. These individuals may not be guests on the property but they possibly monitor the entrance and exit of the establishment. It is recommended to take note of the surroundings and constantly practice vigilance.
Sunbathing!
Supplies:
Whether on nakation alone, as a couple or with companions, there are two essentials necessary: condoms and sunscreen. Keep in mind the cost of these items are usually higher at the destination rather than a local shop or store near where you reside. Condoms reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A reminder to all that condoms are strongly urged for everyone involved in PrEP.
Sunscreen generally has a shelf life of at least two years. Check the container for the expiration date before departure! Sunburn on the first day of nakation can ruin the remainder of your “play-time.” Better to be safe than sorry!
Sunglasses? A good idea is to always carry an extra pair with you. Better to see than suffer from too much sunlight!
“Often, in jest or in ridicule, the textile ask of bare practitioners, ‘How’s it hanging?’ Perhaps we should respond with an inquiry of our own: ‘How does it feel, to always hide and conceal?'” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ April 18, 2022
Weather Suggestions:
Perfect weather conditions for a nakation cannot be guaranteed. A suggestion is to carry along a few tools to reduce boredom risks in the event storms appear. A deck of playing cards isn’t bulky and easily fits inside an empty shoe. Another idea is a small (3 x 5 inch or 7.62 x 12.7 cm) memo notebook and a couple of pencils or pens. These can be used for a game of charades, etc. These items aren’t cumbersome nor expensive and offer unpleasant weather options.
A Gentle Reminder Notation:
As I have mentioned throughout this post entry, experiencing a nakation isn’t solely based on the destination and/or the location. The freedom, the joy and the relaxation are major aspects of the nakation opportunity. Equally important and satisfying is the enrichment of our clothes free lives. A successful nakation is the comfort enjoyed from nakedness as determined by the nakationer!
Home alone!
A nakation can be pleasurable and relaxing alone at home. It doesn’t have to involve extensive travel or endless nightmares. Whatever suits the individual is best!
Take care and stay bare!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 22, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Holy Easter/Martyr’s Day!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 