December 2023
On this magical and festive season, we'd like to extend the warmest greetings and wishes to each and every one of you. May this Holiday bring forth an abundance of love, laughter, and countless memories to share with those near and dear to your hearts.
As we gather around our decorated homes, sip on cozy hot cocoa, and revel in the holiday spirit, let us also celebrate the unparalleled bond and unity within our AANR West family. In these times of togetherness, we are reminded that it is the people around us that make life's journey truly meaningful and rich beyond measure.
This holiday, we hope that you and your loved ones are embraced by the warmth and joy of the season, just as our AANR West community embraces the values of camaraderie, inclusivity, and positivity.
May your holidays be filled with laughter, the making of lasting memories, and a wealth of happiness shared with family and friends. Let the spirit of the season reflect the true essence of celebrating life and cherishing our connections.
We can't wait to embark on exciting new adventures in the coming year and continue fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and celebrated.
From all of us at AANR West, we wish you a Happy Holiday, a Fantastic New Year, and an unforgettable holiday season bursting with joy, love, and all things wonderful.
The Secret Garden
Tucked away from a small village, there was an enchanted garden known only to a few people. The garden was full of life, with different types of colorful flowers and tall trees that provided shade. Hana, a lively young girl who spent her days exploring, discovered this hidden sanctuary one sunny afternoon. It was a beautiful summer day, and Hana was feeling adventurous. As she walked through the garden, she couldn't help but notice the soft grass beneath her feet. She was intrigued by the idea of feeling even closer to nature. So, she decided to remove her clothes and explore the garden in her natural state.
The feeling of the soft grass and flowers against her skin was exhilarating, and Hana found herself feeling more alive than ever before. The warm sun on her skin and the gentle breeze blowing through the trees made her feel free and unencumbered. It was in this secret haven that Hana found a sense of freedom that only naturism could provide.
As she continued to explore the garden, Hana discovered new hidden paths and secret corners that she had never seen before. She spent hours wandering through the garden, taking in all of its beauty and splendor. At one point, she stumbled upon a small pond, surrounded by tall grasses and wildflowers. The water was crystal clear, and she could see small fish swimming beneath the surface. She decided to take a dip and feel the cool water against her skin.
After a long day of exploring and enjoying the garden, Hana emerged feeling rejuvenated and at peace. She knew that she had found a special place that she would return to time and time again. From that day on, she made it a point to visit the enchanted garden whenever she could, always feeling a sense of freedom and connection to nature whenever she was there.
Quote
“Something anti-climatic happens when socially nude. Since nothing is left to the imagination, the body loses its power of seduction and the novelty of seeing nudity fizzles out rather quickly.” — Excuse My Nudeness: But happiness isn’t always found where you’re led to believe."
Vongani Nkuna
AANR West Clubs, Parks, & Resorts
Arroyo del Sol Clothing Optional B&B Destination Club Altadena, CA
Buff-A-Teers Travel Club Tucson, AZ
Canyon State Naturists Travel Club Phoenix, AZ
Clothes Free International Online Club Oakhurst, CA
Clothing Optional Home Network Travel Club Phoenix, AZ
Front Range Naturists Travel Club Boulder, CO
Glen Eden Sun Club Destination Club Corona, CA
Hawaiian Naturist Park Destination Club PĀHOA, HI
Laguna del Sol Destination Club Wilton, CA
Las Vegas Bares Travel Club Las Vegas NV
Las Vegas Naturists Travel Club Las Vegas NV
Le Club Travel Club San Diego, CA
Lupin Lodge Destination Club Los Gatos, Ca
Mohave Sun Club Travel Club Lake Havasu, City AZ
Mira Vista Resort Destination Club Tucson, AZ
Mountain Air Ranch Destination Club Indian Hills, CO
Northern California Exposure Travel Club Sacramento, CA
Olive Dell Ranch Destination Club Colton, CA
Olympian Club Travel Club Riverside, CA
Pacificans Travel Club Corona CA
Roadrunner Naturists Travel Club Albuquerque, NM
Sequoians Destination Club Castro Valley, CA
Shangri La Ranch Destination Club New River, AZ
Southern California Naturist Association Travel Club Calabasas, CA
Southern Utah Naturist Society Travel Club St. George, UT
Sun Tree Travel Club Travel Club Las Cruces, NM
Swim Free Hawaii Boat Charter Destination Club Hawaii, HI
Wasatch Naturists Travel Club South Salt Lake City, UT
December, the festive month of giving, offers numerous opportunities to show generosity. It's a time when people exchange gifts to celebrate the holidays, dedicate their time to volunteer for a noble cause (don't forget International Volunteer Day!), or contribute financially to make tax-deductible donations before the year ends. Let's explore some important observances that should not escape our attention during this season of giving.
December is an important month that encompasses various month-long observances. One of these observances is HIV/AIDS Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS and promote education and prevention strategies. Another significant observance is Universal Human Rights Month, which focuses on promoting and protecting the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals globally. These observances serve as reminders for us to come together, support one another, and make a positive difference in our society.
Here are some of the day-long observances in December:
- December 1st is World AIDS Day, an internationally recognized day dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing global fight against the stigma associated with this disease and commemorates the lives of those who have tragically succumbed to HIV/AIDS. It is a day to unite as a global community, to show solidarity with people living with HIV/AIDS, and to reaffirm our commitment to eradicating this epidemic. By shining a spotlight on the impact of HIV/AIDS, World AIDS Day aims to inspire compassion, empathy, and action, encouraging individuals and communities to take steps towards prevention, education, and support for those affected by this devastating virus.
- The United Nations General Assembly created the following observances:
-December 3rd is recognized as the International Day for People with Disabilities, a significant occasion that aims to raise awareness about the rights and dignity of individuals living with disabilities. This day serves as a platform to advocate for equal opportunities, inclusivity, and the importance of respecting the diverse abilities of all individuals.
-December 5th, International Volunteer Day is a global observance to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of volunteers worldwide. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of volunteerism and to advocate for increased support from governments and organizations. By honoring and recognizing the selfless efforts of volunteers, this day aims to inspire more individuals to get involved in volunteer work, thereby creating a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
-On December 10th, we celebrate International Human Rights Day, an important occasion that commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This declaration serves as a cornerstone in the protection and promotion of human rights worldwide. It was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948, and since then, it has played a vital role in shaping international law and ensuring the fundamental rights and freedoms of every individual.
Here are some of the Religious and Cultural observances in December:
-Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that is celebrated for eight days. It begins at sunset on December 7th and ends at sunset on December 15th. During this time, Jewish families come together to light the Hanukkah menorah, a special candelabrum with eight branches, and celebrate the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days in the ancient temple. Traditional Hanukkah foods, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), are also enjoyed during this festive holiday. It is a time of joy, togetherness, and reflection for the Jewish community.
-The Yule Solstice, celebrated by Pagans on December 21st, marks the winter solstice, which is the shortest day and longest night of the year. During this time, Pagans gather to honor the rebirth of the sun and the return of longer days. They engage in various rituals and traditions that involve lighting candles, decorating trees, and exchanging gifts. The Yule Solstice is a significant event in Pagan culture and symbolizes hope, renewal, and the cycle of life.
-Christmas, a Christian holiday, is celebrated on December 25th each year. It is a time for Christians to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and is widely observed around the world. During this festive season, people engage in various traditions and customs including attending church services, exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, and enjoying special meals with loved ones.
-Kwanzaa week, which celebrates African culture, is observed from December 26th to January 1st. During this week, people come together to honor their heritage and participate in various activities that promote the principles of Kwanzaa, such as unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. It is a time of reflection, remembrance, and renewal, where individuals and communities reaffirm their commitment to the values and traditions that are central to African culture.
-Boxing Day is a public holiday celebrated in the Commonwealth Nations on December 26th. It is a day that follows Christmas Day and is traditionally associated with giving gifts to the less fortunate and engaging in various charitable activities. Additionally, it is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy each other's company. Many people also take advantage of the sales and discounts offered by retailers on Boxing Day, making it a popular day for shopping. Overall, Boxing Day holds great significance in the cultural and social fabric of Commonwealth Nations, as it embodies the spirit of generosity, community, and camaraderie.
-New Year's Eve, also known as International New Year's Eve, is celebrated on December 31st. It is a time when people around the world come together to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. It is a festive occasion filled with joy, excitement, and anticipation. From dazzling fireworks displays to glamorous parties, there are various ways to celebrate this special night. People often gather with their loved ones, friends, and family to share a meal, exchange gifts, and reflect on the past year's accomplishments and challenges. As the clock strikes midnight, the sky lights up with colorful fireworks, symbolizing a fresh start and new beginnings. It is a time for making resolutions, setting goals, and embracing hope for the future. New Year's Eve is a truly global celebration that transcends borders and cultures, uniting people in the shared experience of bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new.
Maybe you will be celebrating some of these with friends, family, and loved ones. Please check out your local AANR clubs to join in on any activities.
The Therapeutic Aspects of Naturism for Women
The dawning age of body positivity is teeming with potential and the strides taken by individuals worldwide to ensure a future that promotes self-love and acceptance are commendable. While body positivity may intuitively seem like an intrinsic trait, several socio-cultural trends influence it, with naturism being one of the leading proponents. Naturism, over centuries, has offered a lens to explore and understand our bodies, advocating for acceptance and love; but how does it cater specifically to women, you may ask? This blog post delves into the therapeutic aspects of naturism for women and its potential to nurture body positivity and personal growth.
Naturism: An Overarching Concept
To understand the therapeutic aspects of naturism for women, we must first understand naturism itself. As defined by the International Naturist Federation, naturism is characterized by "self-respect, respect for others, and care for the environment." Often, people confuse naturism and nudity and, while they are linked, naturism goes far beyond mere exposure. It is rooted in sincere respect for oneself and others, promoting non-sexual nudity in a natural setting.
Unlearning Social Constructs
Understanding the therapeutic aspects of naturism requires acknowledging the negative impact society's expectations of 'perfection' have on women. These unrealistic ideals often trigger intense pressure, leading to self-deprecation and dissatisfaction with one's body image. Naturism encourages women to liberate themselves from these restrictive views and unlearn these harmful societal constructs. When practiced in a supportive, non-judgmental environment, this philosophy helps circumnavigate the societal pressure to conform and teaches women to normalize bodies, in all their diverse forms.
Embracing Body Positivity
One of the most beautiful aspects of naturism is how it celebrates the human body and conditions us to develop a healthy relationship with it. When women shed their clothes, they also shed the societal definitions of 'beauty.' They learn to replace self-criticism with admiration for their bodies. Naturism encourages women to perceive their bodies as more than just visual aesthetics and to value them for their strength, resilience, and functionality.
Encouraging Authenticity
Naturism promotes authenticity that acts as a bulwark against societal standards. With clothing often seen as a means of representation, losing these barriers can be deeply liberating, facilitating self-acceptance and self-confidence. This inherent authenticity nurtures psychological well-being as women can be their unfiltered, unadulterated selves without worrying about societal judgment or standards.
Nurturing Body Acceptance
Another therapeutic aspect is how naturism redefines one's perception of their body. Women, especially, often struggle with body acceptance. Naturism can offer a paradise of learning to love oneself - to appreciate every freckle, scar, stretch mark, and wrinkle. Through naturism, women don't just tolerate their bodies; they learn to cherish them, proving therapeutic and cathartic.
Fostering Community and Camaraderie
The naturist philosophy is more than just personal; it is inherently communal, which serves another therapeutic aspect. It can bring women together, forming bonds of shared experiences, acceptance, and understanding. Being part of such a nurturing community can induce a sense of belongingness that serves as a significant contributor to one's overall well-being.
Promoting Mental Health
The advantages of naturism are not limited to physical aspects alone. They extend to mental health too. Exposure to sunlight and nature, key elements in naturism, have been scientifically linked with improved mood and reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. The act of spending time naked around nature encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness, thereby promoting mental calm and peace.
Mitigating Menopausal Challenges
Another lesser-discussed aspect is naturism's benefits for menopausal women. During menopause, when a woman's body undergoes many changes, naturism can help in fostering acceptance and positivity towards these changes. It can help ease the distress often associated with menopause and provide a sense of relief by encouraging acceptance of one's evolving body.
Respect and Equality
Finally, one of the most powerful therapeutic aspects of naturism is that it promotes respect and equality. In a naturist setting, everyone is equal, and there are no status symbols. Women are viewed as equal participants, and there isn't any objectification or sexualization, which can be therapeutic and liberating.
Naturism accords therapeutic advantages to women far beyond just body positivity. It opens the door to a healthier, respectful relationship with oneself and others and fosters an environment conducive to mental well-being. While naturism might not be everyone's cup of tea, it does provide an alternate path, an avenue to redefine societal norms, and the potential to promote a healthier self-image. It thus stands as a testament to the continually developing narratives around discussions of body positivity and mental health. The experiences of countless women around the globe provide more than enough evidence of the beauties naturism holds, waiting to be discovered, and embraced.
