The article explores the biophilic benefits of incorporating water into the home environment, particularly through warm showers. It highlights how such experiences engage the senses, promote wellbeing, and create a meditative state. Suggestions for enhancing bathroom aesthetics include using cohesive materials, soft lighting, plants, and mirrors to foster a calming, nature-inspired atmosphere.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
The biophilic use of water in the home
When you take a bath or a shower, do you stay in the water just long enough to get clean, or do you enjoy a long, warm soak? If the latter, do you do it wearing clothes? Of course not. The pleasure comes from the full immersion of the body and receiving all of the messages sent by your skin to your brain that confirms all is well.
I have previously written about the benefits of incorporating non-rhythmic stimuli into the built environment as a biophilic design intervention. In both the home and the workplace, we can use such stimuli to add an extra dimension to our sensory experiences, which ought to improve our wellbeing and comfort.
In the home, one of the simplest, and most potent, things you can do to create a biophilic experience is to take a nice, warm shower.
A warm shower can be more than a utilitarian act of hygiene – it is a deeply pleasurable, biophilic experience. It engages so many of our senses: sound, touch, smell (if your shower gel is nice) and warmth in ways that can be both soothing and invigorating. This offers a good blend of physical and psychological benefits. One reason for this pleasure lies in the non-rhythmic sensory experience it provides, which is an important element of biophilia and our innate need to connect with nature.
Unlike the predictable, repetitive stimuli we often encounter in daily life, such as the hum of a computer or the ticking of a clock, the sensation of water cascading over the skin is irregular and varied. This non-rhythmic stimulation captures our attention without overwhelming us. The gentle, unpredictable patterns of water droplets hitting the bare skin can almost induce a meditative state, allowing the mind to unwind and release stress and provide a mental escape.
The skin, as our largest sense organ, plays a central role in this experience. As warm water flows over the whole, naked body, it stimulates countless nerve endings embedded in the skin, sending signals to the brain that trigger the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like endorphins and serotonin. The warmth of the water also promotes vasodilation, improving blood circulation and creating a comforting, enveloping sensation. This tactile stimulation is deeply grounding and fosters a sense of physical and emotional well-being. Furthermore, the contrast between the warmth of the water and the cooler air outside the shower can heighten sensory awareness, making the experience even more vivid and enjoyable. These elements could be thought of as a multisensory ritual that not only cleanses the body but also rejuvenates the mind. A warm shower is a profoundly pleasurable, restorative and essentially biophilic act – cleansing both mind and body.
Changing a utilitarian space into a biophilic, aletheic experience
We have “domesticated” water into chrome taps and plastic trays, but an aletheic wet room can restore water to its elemental state. It is no-longer just a shower; it’s an encounter with a spring.
Unfortunately, in most homes (certainly in the UK), our bathrooms are rather small and utilitarian. However, that does not mean that we can’t make them a little more biophilic and a lot more calming. They are spaces where we interact with our surroundings completely. We are naked. Our entire bodies are exposed to, and enveloped in, the space. We should make the effort to make ourselves as comfortable as possible.
Here are a few ideas.
Colours and textures
Materials
To make a small space feel larger, use continuity to try and blur the boundary between the floor and walls. This can be achieved by not using different different materials. For example, by using dark-coloured, large-format slate or stone-effect porcelain tiles on both the floor and walls, you create a receding effect, making walls feel further away.
Integrate a variety of textures on the floor. Non-slip surfaces are essential, but a pathway made up of smaller tiles – perhaps resembling stones or gravel can add some extra tactile interest for the bare feet, as well as visual interest.
Lighting
Harsh lighting is unflattering and can give the impression of being under some sort of interrogation. Apart from having some functional bright light near a mirror, then subtle, warm lighting would give the impression of being in a shady woodland space rather than an operating theatre.
Greenery
Wet rooms are ideal spaces for greenery, especially those species with their natural origins in the tropical rainforest. High humidity and relatively low lighting conditions will be ideal for a range of plants, including some ferns and small palms.
Tropical climbing / trailing species can be placed on high shelves, or trained to climb up a frame or moss pole to add some vertical interest and increase the impression of being in a forest.
Small orchids (such as a Phalaenopsis spp.) may also do well in these conditions and provide pinpoints of exotic colour.
As well as live plants, features such as preserved moss panels are ideal. Mounted on a wall, they are maintenance free, use no floor space and can cope with the high humidity found in bathrooms.
Mirrors
Large mirrors are not only functional, but can also be used to make a space appear larger. Placing a mirror opposite a greenery-filled corner or wall cabinet effectively double the botanical density of the room without taking up floor space.
Tinted or “antiqued” mirrors offer the spatial expansion of a mirror but with a softer, more moody reflection that can feel more like a deep pool of water than a sharp, self-critical surface.
What about an outdoor shower?
If you have the space, a suitably private corner in your garden and – ideally- warm weather, then an outdoor shower is a perfect way of enjoying the benefits of both the non-rhythmic sensations of water on the skin as well as being out in the fresh air, listening to birdsong and seeing and feeling the beauty of plants.
An outdoor shower can be as simple as a hosepipe fitted with a suitable nozzle, or as complex as a fully plumbed-in fixture. Obviously, you must ensure that building regulations and water regulations are followed if required.
Modern office buildings often feature wellness rooms intended for employees to decompress, yet these spaces are frequently underutilised due to poor design, discomfort, and stigma. Effective wellness rooms require thoughtful sensory considerations, including privacy, space, lighting, and decor, fostering a culture of wellbeing rather than mere compliance.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
Ticking a box, or doing some good?
Many modern office buildings incorporate ‘wellness’ rooms – places where office workers can go and decompress for a little while if stressed, overwhelmed or just in need of a few minutes of freedom from an annoying colleague or frustrating boss.
These spaces are often quite small, sited away from the main office space and often never used. They allow HR departments to claim that they take employee wellbeing seriously and might even result in a tick in box on wellbeing rating checklist or a favourable comment on Glassdoor, LinkedIn or a job board.
There are many reasons why they are hardly ever used.
They can be hard to find
They might be uncomfortable or poorly designed
They might double up as places for prayer, which might make some people worry about breaking a taboo by using them for other purposes, or worry about when the room might not be available
Their use might carry a stigma.
It is the last point that really needs addressing
If someone is absent from their desk and their manager asks where they are, going to the wellness room can be seen as sign of weakness.
Or laziness.
When wellness rooms are nicknamed ‘Crying Rooms’, which I have come across, then it is clear that there is something wrong with the culture of the organization. When the privacy of a wellness room actually makes you more noticeable – because you are not where you are expected to be – then it isn’t really a private space.
So, what is the solution?
The most obvious solution is to ensure that the workplace is civilized. This means creating a corporate culture based on great leadership, trust and autonomy. Good corporate culture has the single biggest influence on psychological comfort and wellbeing.
However, even in organizations with great culture, there may be situations when one might need to retreat to a space like a wellness room to decompress, recover from overwhelm, physically relax or to meditate for a few minutes.
So, how can we ensure that such spaces actually foster wellbeing rather than just pay lip service to the concept?
It’s all about the senses
I have written before that biophilia is not just an airy-fairy concept, but is rooted in our evolutionary history. When we have a coherent sensory experience, we feel physically and psychologically more comfortable.
A wellness room needs to be able to satisfy as many, or as few, sensory needs as the user desires. These include:
Privacy
Your use of a wellness room should be absolutely private (with some caveats: for some people, the sound of a heavy door closing and locking can evoke memories of trauma).
You should not have to advertise your use of a space like this, whether by booking a time slot, seeking permission from a manager or even walking past a group of colleagues sitting near its location.
Furthermore, it must be completely enclosed and prevent any views in from inside the building. Solid doors and walls are essential, and the only windows should be to the outside world. Any windows to the outside should be clear. Some views can be relaxing and being able to focus on distant objects might relieve eye strain as well, but they must be capable of being obscured to prevent the user being seen if that is what is wanted.
Light, translucent materials, such as voile curtains would allow light in, whilst maintaining privacy. Their graceful, floaty form also provides some textural and visual interest.
Space
Wellness rooms are often small. They may have been converted from spaces such as small meeting rooms, a small private office or even a storeroom. This is understandable – floorspace can be very expensive, and must be productive. However, happy, healthy workers perform better and are likely to have greater job satisfaction. This means an investment in proper wellness rooms can make sense.
The space needs to be large enough to allow activities such as light exercise (such as yoga or other low impact activities), and also not be claustrophobic. The idea is to allow relaxation and decompression.
Some people may wish to lie down, so a clear floor area would be a good idea. There also needs to be space for a comfortable chair, or even a small sofa and maybe some other small items of furniture to give the room a lived-in feel.
Ceiling height should also be considered. Too low and you risk feeling cramped, or might not be able to stretch upwards. Too high, and it might lose the feeling of intimacy and cosiness that some might be seeking.
A wellness room with a floor area of approximately 3m X 4m would provide enough space to carry out light exercise, such as stretches or yoga, without being so big that it would compromise the feeling of shelter and cosiness.
Lighting
Light should be indirect and controllable – in terms of both brightness and quality. Lighting that includes far red / near infrared wavelengths are thought to have therapeutic benefits, and slightly warmer tones can be calming.
Placing luminaires so that they wash the walls and ceiling with light, rather than having a point source, will be more relaxing. The use of artificial skylights could also be considered.
Decorative lighting might also be considered. Whilst real flames would not be appropriate, simulated flames from LED candles, for example, can provide some non-rhythmic visual interest. Similarly, the placement of objects and foliage in front of light sources might cast some interesting shadows.
Sounds
Noise from outside should be prevented as far as is practicable, and noise generated from within the wellness room should not be audible outside. This has as much to do with privacy as annoyance and distractions.
Features such as soft furnishings, moss panels and even foliage plants can be effective at reducing noise levels.
Sound can be added to the space. They can be used creatively to mask outside noises or even simulate natural sounds such as water, wind in the trees or birdsong. There are many synthetic biophilic sounds available to play through a smart speaker or even download onto a smart phone. One of my favourites is Noises Online, which has 30 individual sounds that can be combined.
Smells
Ambient scenting systems are ideal to create subtle scent experiences. These are programmable and have a wide range of fragrances are available. However, care must be taken to ensure that the intensity of the scent is low – especially if the room is not used often and there are few air changes.
Reed diffusers are a cut-price way of filling a space with scent, but if the room is infrequently used, then the effect may be too intense, and cannot be ‘switched off’.
Neutral naturalistic fragrances are ideal. Bear in mind that some people are more sensitive to scents than others, so it must be possible to have a scent-free environment if possible.
Temperature control
This is likely to be quite difficult to manage – it depends on how the building’s environmental controls are operated and whether room-level control is possible. Radiant heat from underfloor heating is likely to be very comfortable for users of a wellness room – far better than warm air being blown around the space, which may result in uncomfortable draughts.
Having said that, sometimes gentle airflow, which mimics natural environments, can bring another non-rhythmic element into the space. A ceiling fan – which is controllable by the user – would be sensible addition to the space.
Textures
Textures offer both visible and tactile interest. A textured rug, made from fibres such as sisal or jute, can stimulate the touch sensors in bare feet, and features such as a moss panel, tree bark or even a small soapstone ornament can feel good in the hands. Having some tactile ornaments to handle, as well as surfaces, to touch can be very enriching.
Furniture and accessories
A wellness room should not be cluttered, and floor space should be kept clear, but it must feel like home. Well chosen furniture and accessories might include:
A sofa or couch, possibly in a chaise longue style, to enable the user to sit or lie down
A small table, where the user can place a drink. This could also be where some LED candles could be placed
A large, soft, textured rug in the centre of the floor. Natural fibres, such as jute or sisal look very naturalistic and also have a nice texture
Shelves or a wall-mounted cabinet where ornaments or books can be placed. This can also be where items such as towels or exercise mats can be stored or where bottled water can be kept
Somewhere to hang clothes, place shoes and store bags out of the way
The nature connection
A selection of well-chosen interior plants would be essential. Plants that tolerate low light levels and intermittent lighting would be ideal. They should have a variety of forms, textures and shades of green.
A panel of preserved moss on one wall would also be ideal. These require little maintenance and have excellent acoustic and tactile benefits.
Indoor greenery, in all its forms, is my particular area of expertise, so get in touch for advice on this and for recommendations for a detailed specification and maintenance plan.
Opportunities for full sensory immersion
For many people, being able to immerse the whole body in the environment is very relaxing and encourages mindfulness. Some people enjoy taking gentle exercise, such as yoga, when nude. Meditation when you are free from the distractions of clothing can be very restorative.
Some people simply enjoy nudity and being free from feeling tight or uncomfortable clothing or just want to help regulate their temperature. When the skin is exposed and bare feet can touch the floor, then our senses send coherent messages to our brain, and our largest sense organ is the skin.
Facilitating nudity in a wellness room, as well as gentle exercise, means providing somewhere to hang clothes as well as providing items such as towels (which every naturist knows is an essential), or ensuring that users of the room know that they should bring their own.
… and how to reduce sensory overload
For some people, especially some autistic people, sensory overload can be debilitating. The ability to access and make use of a quiet, calm, low-stimulus environment can be very helpful
This means that control of the environment is essential. Being able to switch certain features on or off, or being able to do particular activities to suit individual needs is very important.
Provision for neurodiversity
The recently published design guidance: PAS 6463:2022 Design for the mind – Neurodiversity and the built environment provides excellent information for designers on how to create spaces that are accessible for individuals who may not be neurotypical.
Chapter 14: Safety, recovery and quiet spaces of the guide is especially relevant in the context of this article as it directly addresses the sensory environment.
The key takeaway is to give the user of the space as much control over it as possible, but where that is not possible, to design with hypersensitivity in mind – where spaces are as calming and quiet. It says…
Where only one quiet and restorative space or room is provided, it should be designed as a flexible environment with a variety of design options that are customizable to the individual’s sensory needs.
Each design aspect should have both low and high stimuli options to accommodate both hypersensitive and hyposensitive needs. In mainstream environments where only one space is provided, it should be designed as a low stimuli quiet space with higher stimuli optional additions by choice.
If multiple spaces are available, several spaces of various levels of stimuli should be taken into account.
When creating sensory or quiet spaces, the context of how the spaces are designed and the potential needs of the users should influence the design choices. If a facility is highly stimulating and busy, more than one space should be provided – quantity, quality and location should be taken into account.
Would you like help in designing an effective wellness room? Get in touch here
Urban dwellers often cannot have real fires due to regulations and modern housing designs. Despite their inefficiency and dangers, flames evoke a primal allure, contributing to biophilic design by providing non-rhythmic sensory stimulation that enhances comfort and reduces stress.
One of the most popular videos on Netflix last winter was of an open fire. Logs alight with bright flames dancing and the sound of the wood crackling and popping as the wood burns. Similar videos can be found on You Tube and many other platforms, and they gain millions of views.
For many people, especially those living in urban settings, live fires aren’t possible. Smoke control regulations for good air quality makes lighting a fire unlawful in many circumstances (and can exacerbate poor air quality, especially in the winter). More modern homes, as well as flats and other high-density housing won’t have fire places, so a even if a real fire was desirable, it isn’t going to be possible.
Modern heating systems are much better at distributing warmth around the home, and are probably a lot cheaper than buying in a load of seasoned logs, so flames seem rather redundant.
Yet, we humans seem to have a primeval urge to be drawn to flames. It could be videos, or even the flame effects that you can find on electric fires, or our desire to light candles (or even switch on LED flames in fake candles) to create an atmosphere when a light bulb is far more efficient.
Objectively, flames in the home are a terrible idea. They are polluting, inefficient, labour-intensive and can be expensive. If left unattended, they can also be dangerous. A radiator and a light bulb are much easier to live with. So why do we like flames?
Biophilic design is used to make us feel comfortable in the artificial environments of our modern, unnatural homes and workplaces. Reconnecting ourselves with the sensory stimuli that enabled our species to survive in our wild, natural environment means that we can reduce stress and live happier, healthier and more productive lives. One of the elements of biophilic design that is often left out of our buildings is non-rhythmic sensory stimulation.
Non-rhythmic sensory stimulation can manifest itself in many ways, such as:
the sound of water in streams or rainfall,
birdsong,
the dynamic use of shadows that move across a space over the period of a day,
It can also be found in the movements of flames, the curling of smoke and the irregular popping and crackling of wood – it can be a mesmerising and relaxing experience.
Used safely, flames add more than just light and heat – they create an atmosphere of cosy security.
In this post, I discus the complexities of body image and self-acceptance, highlighting the importance of appreciating one’s body for its functionality rather than aesthetics. The article emphasizes practicing self-compassion and creating mindful spaces to foster self-acceptance. Communal naturism is presented as a means to enhance body appreciation and reduce societal judgment, promoting overall well-being.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
“That’s not a good look”
I’m a generally happy, optimistic person. I have been very lucky in my life with a reasonably successful career, few health issues (so far), a happy family life and I am relatively financially secure. Objectively, I have little to worry about. And, most of the time, I muddle along happily in my little bubble of privilege.
Sometimes, though, I catch myself out. I see myself in a mirror and I think to myself “that’s not a good look”. This triggers an emotional response that makes me value myself differently – and not positively.
This is especially the case when I see myself naked.
Those accidental views in the mirror can nibble at my self esteem, and then I start doubting myself.
I won’t detail my self-perceived flaws beyond saying that I am a man in late middle age carrying several more kilogrammes than is probably good for me. My body is far from the idealised physique illustrated in the media.
Body acceptance is a tricky subject to address. Many people have hang ups about their appearance and there are no easy solutions. Even with the reassurance of loved ones and intimate partners, poor body self image can chip away at your confidence.
An aletheic perspective
The truth is that bodies age, change shape, and possess infinite variation. A true, honest look means accepting the body as it is in this moment, not as it once was, or as society dictates it should be. This view frames the body’s worth as intrinsic, derived from its capacity for experience and function, rather than an arbitrary aesthetic standard.
Aletheia (the Greek word for “unconcealment” or “truth”) establishes a philosophical foundation that moves beyond simple emotional positivity and toward a deeper, humanist appreciation of the body’s reality. The goal is to shift from the cultural habit of self-surveillance (judging the body against an ideal) to self-witnessing (accepting the body as an honest expression of life).
Shifting perspective
The human body is an incredibly sophisticated tool that allows one to experience the world and engage in your passions. For me, that includes gardening, walking in the countryside, cooking and enjoying food and wine (which may explain some of the parts of my body I’m least happy about). My body gives me the ability to enjoy my hobbies and pursue my professional interests and earn a living.
Practice functional appreciation: focus on the body’s abilities, not its aesthetics
When I look in the mirror, I now try to acknowledge the parts I find disappointing. I then immediately pivot to appreciating what my body does for me. I recognise the strength in my legs, the dexterity in my hands for work and hobbies and the ability of my digestive system to enjoy a good meal.
Instead of thinking “I see a pot belly”, I should try to acknowledge that “my core is the structure that allows me to spend hours walking in countryside or working in the garden, planting and weeding”. My body has carried me through six decades of life and work and should continue to do so.
This isn’t actually as easy as it looks when written down, but it is worth having a go.
Incorporate self-compassion
This is the opposite of self-criticism. It involves treating yourself with the kindness you would offer a good friend.
Have a mindful moment. The next time you feel that negative judgment looking in the mirror, pause and place a hand on the area you are criticising.
Acknowledge the feeling. Say to yourself that “this is a moment of discomfort. I am unhappy with how I look right now.”
Then offer kindness, as you would to a friend. Ask yourself “what do I need right now?” It is not usually more criticism, but acceptance. You might say “this is just one part of a whole, valuable human being. It is fine to look this way.”
Age acceptance: acknowledge the body as a living, ageing system
As we age, our bodies change. Try to view wrinkles, scars, and changes in size not as decay, but as growth rings or a patina of weathering patterns. A proof of your endurance and a historical record. Your body, from the day you were born to now, is a living document of experience.
Body part neutrality: unconcealment and treating all body parts equally
When you look at an area you dislike, name it neutrally, like describing a stone or a tree in a landscape. For instance, you see a finger, a knee, your feet or your belly. The parts are simply facts of the form, not a hierarchy of worth.
Mirrors redefined: use a mirror as a tool for truth, not judgment
The idea is to look for details, not defects – a slight turn of the muscle, the unique pattern of hair, the way the skin folds – and describe them factually, without assigning value.
How to create a biophilic, aletheic, mindfulness space
The aim is to create a space that embodies the unconcealed truth of the space to encourage greater self-acceptance.
The materials and environment should emphasize that the body is part of the environment, not a detached observer of it. There is beauty in its truth and functionality.
Biophilic design is all about creating physical and psychological comfort through the feeling of being connected to nature and the natural environment and for gaining the benefits of a coherent, harmonious space.
Key biophilic elements
Materials of truth
Use raw, minimally processed, or imperfect materials, such as exposed grain wood, unpolished stone, and materials that show their age (patina) as non-judgmental observers. They are imperfect, honest, and enduring, and they reflect those same qualities back onto the self, which reflect the body’s own truth.
Living greenery
Include numerous, vibrant living plants or features such as moss panels. Their natural cycle of growth, imperfection, and decay serves as a constant, non-judgmental metaphor for your own physical state.
Light and shadow
Employ diffused, natural lighting rather than harsh, direct light that emphasizes flaws. Diffused, natural light is ideal because it reduces visual surveillance, preventing the eye from fixing on harsh details and instead encouraging the holistic perception of the body as a natural, three-dimensional form. Soft shadows give depth and truth to the body’s shape. To avoid the flat, unforgiving quality of overhead indoor lighting, think about window light (perhaps with a voile curtain to soften and diffuse the light – and to provide some privacy) or lower level lamps on tables or shelves.
The mirror question: strategic inclusion
My negative reaction to a mirror might have led to its removal – that might have been an obvious reaction. However, mirrors are useful. So, when creating an aletheic space, the mirror can be included and used to re-train the mind.
Use a Covered Mirror
The mirror could be covered with an attractive fabric or a sliding panel, only to be unveiled as part of an intentional aletheic practice. This removes the risk of accidental, subconscious self-surveillance and forces a purposeful view of the whole body.
Non-Critical Viewing
When you unveil it, commit to a non-evaluative gaze for a set time (e.g., 60 seconds). Do not let your mind use judgemental words such as “good,” “bad,” “better,” or “disappointing.” Just observe shape, colour, texture, and light, as if viewing a sculpture or an unfamiliar landscape.
Indoors or outdoors?
This depends on your own circumstances and also the weather. If you have a secluded outdoor space, such as a balcony or terrace that you can adapt, then this sort of self reflection can be amplified. The exposure to the sky, fresh air and dappled sunlight diffused through foliage and the use of outdoor mirrors are effective. Such a space helps to make you feel part of the environment and your senses are brought to life.
From private critique to communal acceptance
I have written before about my being a naturist. This often means going to places where I am naked amongst a group of other naked people, whether at a club or on a naturist beach.
These are places where the whole body is on show – with all of its flaws and features that you find yourself doubting when in private.
The anonymity of a crowd
You are visible to many other people, most of whom you probably don’t know. However, those places are always free of judgement, and they are places where – despite being completely exposed – you can be completely anonymous. When everyone is naked, your own appearance no-longer seems to matter. For me, my anxieties about my body seem to vanish.
I’m not about to suggest that everyone with any sort of anxiety about their bodily self image should immediately head towards their nearest naturist beach – that could provoke all sorts of fears that might be too challenging as a first step. However, it is an option to consider, and there is peer reviewed research that supports its benefits.
Research in this area, largely led by UK-based psychologist Dr Keon West and his colleagues at Goldsmiths, University of London. The research strongly supports the claims that communal naturism has significant positive effects on body image and psychological wellbeing.
Communal naturism: a way to appreciation
The majority of empirical research focuses on the practice of communal nudity (social naturism) and consistently finds it leads to substantial psychological benefits.
Key Findings and Mechanisms:
Increased body appreciation. Studies consistently show that participants who engage in naturist activities report a more positive body image and greater body appreciation than non-participants, and this effect is often immediate and significant following an event.
Reduced Social Physique Anxiety (SPA). This is identified as the key psychological mechanism for the improvement. SPA is the anxiety resulting from the prospect or presence of the interpersonal evaluation of one’s physique. Being nude in a non-sexual, safe social setting normalizes the non-idealised human body, which reduces the fear of judgment (Social Physique Anxiety). This reduction, in turn, allows for greater self-acceptance. In essence, by seeing a diversity of natural, non-media-idealised bodies, the individual’s mind has less basis to fear their own body being judged.
Boosted self-esteem and life satisfaction. Increased participation in naturist activities is a significant predictor of greater life satisfaction, with this relationship being mediated by improvements in body image and higher self-esteem.
But what about solo naturism?
While the benefits of communal nudity are well-established, the research specifically on the effect of solo nudity at home, or self-image when alone is less abundant. Most of the available research focuses on activities done in the company of others. The practice of solo aletheic nudity (non-judgmental viewing of the self) may be an application of the lessons learned from communal settings, but its standalone effects have not been tracked in these large-scale studies.
However, there is an implicit link. The group setting shows the body is not subject to judgment, which provides the mental evidence needed for the solo practice to succeed. The improvement in body appreciation found in the studies is essentially an internal, solo shift in self-perception. That can certainly be triggered by the communal experience, but may also be possible in a solo setting when there is a purposeful goal to to shift the internal dialogue, which is exactly what these aletheic practices aim to do.
My personal experience of solo naturism in a natural setting is that I immediately feel a sense of calm. I see myself as part of that environment, not just an observer of it.
It seems as if we can confidently state that empirical research strongly validates the philosophy of naturism. It proves to be an effective, non-commercial intervention for improving body image, self-esteem, and general life satisfaction. The challenge for the individual (the aletheic practice) is to successfully carry the non-judgmental, accepting environment of the communal setting back into one’s own mind and private space.
A final thought
I am not measured by a physical ideal. I am valued by my character and my actions. My body is merely an honest record – it tells the truth of my life so far.
Some of Keon West’s research that you might find interesting
Study
Key Finding
Citation
“Naked and Unashamed” (West, 2018)
Found that greater participation in naturist activities predicted greater life satisfaction, mediated by more positive body image and higher self-esteem. This was the first research to test a specific model of naturism’s psychological effects.
This was the first randomised controlled trial of communal naked activity. It found that participants in the naked condition reported more body appreciation, and that this effect was specifically mediated by reductions in social physique Anxiety (SPA).
A small-scale study found that a four-day, nudity-based intervention led to substantial improvements in body image, self-esteem, and life satisfaction that persisted for at least one month after the intervention, even among participants who were not previously naturists.
In this article I explore the idea of aletheia, or truth revealing, through vulnerability in nature. It emphasizes the liberating yet challenging experience of being completely exposed to, and immersed in nature whilst also being safe. Suggestions on how to foster this connection at home are offered as well as ideas about wild swimming and accessing and creating secluded areas for contemplation.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
Be a part of nature, not just an observer of it
The concept of aletheia is all about the process of unconcealment in order to realise a truth about ourselves and our place in the environment.
By baring all and removing that which separates us from nature we can then truly become part of nature. It is both liberating and challenging to be so exposed. Liberating in the sense of total freedom from artifice and judgement but challenging as you recognise your vulnerability as an individual – just one of over eight billion people – in the vastness of nature.
That heightened sense of vulnerability can be enlightening and thought-provoking, and maybe even a bit thrilling (much like getting on a roller coaster for the first time). Sometimes, however, the fear of exposure and judgement can override the positive sense of self knowledge. This is why a sense of safety and trust is vital.
If you know that you are safe and that you won’t be interrupted, then baring all – literally and figuratively – in a natural, or naturalistic, environment can bring clarity to your thoughts and a sense of peace and calm.
I touched on this experience in an earlier post. Now, I will discuss some of the ways by which you can practically experience safe vulnerability.
Raw immersion in nature
There are times and places when being alone in a natural place can be awe-inspiring. Sometimes, just the vastness of a landscape means that it is possible to be away from any distraction from technology or any interruption from another person. It is possible to overlook a landscape and be aware of any ‘threat’ long before it becomes obvious. That sense of being alone and uncovered in the grandeur of nature allows one to appreciate the truth about our place in the environment.
As well as being immersed in a landscape, immersion in a more literal sense is also worth investigating. Wild swimming has become an increasingly popular activity, and naked wild swimming allows a truly deep connection with the environment and a total sensory experience (although you should always be with someone else, for safety reasons).
Sometimes, nature can be more intimate and sheltering. A woodland clearing or a secluded spot on a river bank can provide refuge and shelter and be ideal places to have an aletheic experience.
Often, natural places are busy. After all, getting into nature is good for us and a popular activity. This can make being alone with your thoughts in nature more difficult – especially when you wish to experience it in a raw, unconcealed state.
If you are lucky enough to have access to private land, with permission, then your opportunities are greater. The chances of being disturbed are lessened and you can immerse yourself in the environment on your own terms.
Many naturist clubs and associations have areas of wilderness or woodland on their land. My local venue has over 20 hectares of land, and a large part of that is woodland. That is a place where I can find a spot to stop, think and experience benefits such as forest bathing.
Sometimes, just knowing when a place is likely to be quiet will give you the opportunity that you need. Experiencing the majesty of nature in moonlight can be a profound experience, as can getting to a beach early in the morning to experience the crash of waves onto the shore when no-one else is there.
Creating a safe space closer to home
Getting out into nature to experience aletheia is not always easy, especially if you live in an urban area or if transport is not readily available. It is possible to create spaces in and around the home where the feelings associated with safe vulnerability can be achieved.
If you have a garden – even a small one overlooked by neighbours – a secluded nook can be created easily and at a low cost. The careful placement of plants and structures such as a trellis and pergola can provide the safety of privacy whilst still being permeable and open to the elements. Balconies and courtyards can also be planted and screened to increase privacy whilst also bringing nature closer to the home.
Indoor spaces also provide opportunities for connection to nature in a way that provides safe vulnerability. It is possible to create a simple aletheic space for a very low cost that provides both an immersion in a naturalistic environment with the security of being in one’s own home. It doesn’t even have to be a dedicated room. You can set up a corner in a larger room
The use of screening plants near doors or windows, sheer voile curtains over large windows and large houseplants create the aesthetics and textures. Adding natural scents and a nature-based soundscape from a smart speaker can help to create a holistic sensory experience and really bring a sense of the outdoors into the home.
The keys to safe vulnerability
Aletheia is the experience of revealing truth about ourselves and our environment through stripping away artifice and the unnecessary. It is about authenticity. Sometimes, however, we have to simulate an environment in order to experience the fleeting sense of vulnerability – the butterflies in the stomach – that can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves.
In the environments where we live and work, this might require some forethought. Privacy might be an issue, or the risk of distractions from people or – more likely – our phones.
These can all be overcome, often with little cost attached. The keys are understanding how to use places and time to their best effect.
Contact me for advice about your own space and how to create an aletheic environment?
… or how an intersection between Greek and Danish philosophies might improve our wellbeing
In this post, I explore the interactions between Greek concept of aletheia and Danish idea of hygge as tools for enhancing wellbeing during winter, looking at how creating a cosy environment fosters introspection, authentic connections, and a deep appreciation for sensory experiences.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
We are past the autumn equinox and, even though the weather remains warm(ish), thoughts turn to winter.
I don’t much like winter. I miss the sunshine and it makes me feel gloomy. I do wonder whether I might experience a mild form of seasonal affective disorder.
A few years ago, the Danish concept of hygge was popularised. The idea of cosy contentment and hunkering down in a warm room with flames, blankets and subdued lighting can be comforting and a good way to get through the cold, dark months.
Aletheia, a Greek concept, is about a process of revelation. It is not about finding an unchanging truth, but rather about uncovering something that was previously hidden or obscured.
In the context of a cold, dark winter, this could mean a few different things
Uncovering inner truths
The introspective nature of winter, with its shorter days and more time spent indoors, naturally encourages quiet reflection. Hygge, with an emphasis on warmth, soft lighting, and stillness, creates the ideal physical environment for this kind of ‘un-forgetting’. If you consciously create a comfortable, safe space, you are better able to let go of distractions and consider deeper thoughts and feelings that might be buried beneath the busyness of the other seasons.
The truth of a moment
Hygge is fundamentally about being in the moment. This could be as simple as experiencing the warmth of a fire, the taste of a hot drink or the comfort of a blanket. This is a form of aletheia. The truth being uncovered is not a grand philosophical statement, but the simple, profound reality of a specific sensory experience. The cold weather outside serves as a stark contrast that highlights and uncovers the preciousness of the warmth and comfort inside.
Uncovering our nature through human connection
Hygge often involves shared experiences with friends and family. Intimate gatherings around a table or fireplace might lead to people having more open and honest conversations. In this context, aletheia is the uncovering of mutual understanding and the deepening of relationships. The shared experience of being together in a cosy, protected space can allow for a more authentic form of connection to emerge.
Aletheia, biophilia and hygge
I have a professional interest in biophilic design, so this intersection is very more compelling to explore. The choices you can make in creating a hygge-inspired space, such as the materials, the lighting, the arrangement of plants, are not just about aesthetics. They are a deliberate process of uncovering the potential for a space to be a sanctuary. The truth you are revealing is that a human-made environment can be a profound source of well-being and connection to nature, even when the natural world outside is dormant or unwelcoming.
So, where are the intersections and what do they look like?
I think very visually. I like diagrams and I often imagine and describe things as shapes and colours. So, I tried to create a Venn diagram of the relationship between aletheia, hygge and biophilia.
Introspection and self-reflection. Confronting inner thoughts, understanding one’s character, intentions.
Authenticity. Stripping away artifice, being genuine with self and others.
Clarity and insight. Gaining deeper understanding, seeing what’s essential.
Presence. Being fully aware of the current moment and its realities.
Revelation of nature’s cycles. Understanding life, dormancy, resilience.
Truth of human connection. Deepening relationships through shared vulnerability.
Biophilia (love of life and connections with nature)
Sensory coherence. Engaging all senses with natural stimuli (sight, sound, smell, touch).
Natural light and views. Maximizing natural light, connecting to external landscapes.
Natural materials and textures. Incorporating wood, stone, water features.
Plants and greenery. Indoor plants, conservatories, gardens.
Patterns and forms in nature. Fractals, organic shapes, natural rhythms.
Sense of place. Environments that evoke natural settings and processes.
Hygge (cosy contentment and wellbeing)
Warmth and comfort. Soft blankets, cushions, fires, gentle heating.
Atmosphere and ambiance. Soft, layered lighting (candles, lamps), quiet sounds.
Presence and mindfulness. Appreciating simple pleasures, being in the moment.
Social connections. Shared experiences with loved ones, community.
Safety and security. Creating a sanctuary, a protected space.
Simplicity and decluttering. Focusing on what is useful for comfort, without it being distracting.
What happens in the middle?
When you get to the middle of the Venn diagram and look at Aletheia X Biophilia X Hygge, what do we find?
Holistic wellbeing
The combination creates an environment that supports physical comfort, mental clarity, emotional authenticity, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Mindful nature immersion
By creating cosy, nature-rich meditative spaces, you can encourage deep, present-moment reflection and the uncovering of personal and universal truths.
Winter sanctuary for revelation
To get a more complete connection with nature, try and adapt spaces such as a conservatory to offer warmth, natural beauty, and a safe, freeing environment for introspection and genuine connection during the dormant winter months.
Naturism as an extension of hygge
While hygge often focuses on being cosy and wrapped up, nudity presents a compelling alternative perspective. It is a way to achieve a feeling of comfort and contentment by embracing vulnerability and freedom.
Comfort in one’s own skin
Hygge is about creating a space where you feel completely comfortable. For a naturist, this includes being comfortable in one’s own skin. A warm, comfortably-lit living room with natural textures provides the perfect environment for this. To experience a sense of comfort that is not dependent on external layers of clothing, a form of naked hygge.
Simplicity and presence
Both hygge and naturism champion simplicity. Hygge focuses on the simple pleasures of life, and naturism removes the complication and consumerism associated with fashion. This shared emphasis on simplicity makes it easier to be present in the moment and appreciate the authentic truth of an experience.
Naturism as an aletheic experience
When you are in your sanctuary you are not on show. The people you are with (if not enjoying solitude) are those that you are close to and who you choose to be with. Being naked in a biophilic, hygge space allows for the ultimate un-forgetting of societal artifice, fostering body acceptance and a direct, authentic sensory connection to a nature-inspired sanctuary.
Nudity is a powerful, practical extension of both aletheia and hygge. It is a way to achieve the desired state of comfort and wellbeing, not just a lifestyle choice.
The key connection is that naturism is fundamentally about truth and authenticity. Uncovering the body strips away the layers of clothing that can serve as both physical and social barriers.
Uncovering truth
In the context of aletheia, naturism is a profound act of truth telling. It challenges the societal norm that our bodies should be hidden, uncovering a more authentic self-image.
Truth of self
Unclothed, you confront the truth of your own body, without the adornments and artifice of fashion. This can lead to a deeper sense of self-acceptance and body positivity.
Truth of connection
In a social setting, naturism removes a major psychological barrier. Without the social cues and judgments that clothing can impose, people can interact on a more fundamental, human level. This can “uncover” a truer, more egalitarian form of human connection.
Truth of nature
I am not at all religious, nor even spiritual. However, as both a humanist and a biologist, I appreciate the organic and natural world and I am always very conscious that we are an integral part of nature, not just a bystander.
Naturism is a direct way to dissolve the boundary between the person and the natural environment. Being outside in a garden or a natural space without clothing – even for the briefest of time in winter – can create a profound sense of integration and belonging, a physical expression of biophilia. A few minutes of enveloping your body in fresh, crisp air reveals the simple truth that you are a part of nature, not separate from it.
When you combine aletheia, hygge, biophilia and naturism in your home, you are not just creating a cosy space. You are building a sanctuary that actively promotes self-acceptance, authentic connection and a deeper, more truthful relationship with both your body and the natural world.
Moving from the philosophical to the practical – how to create an aletheic hygge space in the home
The living room is the perfect place to start, as it is often the heart of the home and a space for both solitary contemplation and shared connection. Combining aletheia and hygge in a living room means creating an environment that is not just cosy, but also revealing of natural truth and human well-being.
Here are some practical ideas for your living room, broken down into key design principles:
The aletheia of light
Winter can be a time of darkness, but light is a key element of both hygge and aletheia. The truth of the outside world is found in the limited natural light, and aletheia indoors is about a conscious revelation of light in your space.
Let’s start by making the most of what natural light is available. It might be limited, so try and squeeze as much benefit out of it as possible.
Position furniture to take advantage of any natural light coming through windows and use mirrors opposite windows to reflect and amplify the light you do have. This is a subtle yet powerful biophilic principle. Even on a grey day, you are consciously acknowledging and maximizing the natural world outside.
Make use of technology. Smart lighting can be a real boon at this time of year. Intensity and colour temperature can be adjusted, and even automated, to complement the changing conditions outside and if you get it right, the connection between indoors and out can become almost seamless. This not only looks better (as the tone of the light from natural and artificial sources can be matched), but it might reduce eye strain too.
Placing lamps behind objects, such as furniture, so that it washes the wall or ceiling with light rather than being directed into the room can also be calming and is also more naturalistic.
Next, especially in the evenings, consider layered lighting. Instead of using, harsh overhead lighting, use multiple sources, such as table lamps, with warmer toned bulbs. Think about adding a floor lamp near your favourite armchair, a table lamp on a side table, and even a cluster of candles (including the very realistic LED flame versions) on the mantlepiece or a coffee table. The soft, shifting glow of candles is an excellent way to create a warm, calm atmosphere.
The biophilic truth of texture and materials
Our connection to the natural world is fundamental, and biophilic design is all about recreating some of those links in the artificial environments of buildings. This can be expressed through the materials that are used.
Tactile textiles are a good place to start. Layering is key for both visual warmth and physical comfort and for breaking up the harsh shapes created by straight lines and sharp corners.
A chunky knitted woollen throw draped over the sofa, a pile of textured cushions, and a deep pile wool rug would both look and feel warm. Natural colours will add a biophilic touch as well. These textures encourage you to physically engage with the space and feel the comfort. The feelings are definitely amplified and more sensual when naked.
Natural materials that tell a story of their origins are a good way of reconnecting with nature during the cold, damp months of the year. Wooden furniture, a wicker basket for blankets, or a stone or ceramic vase all bring a sense of the outdoors in. The ‘truth’ revealed here is that these elements are not just decorative – they are part of a larger, living system. You might even consider collecting some winter elements from outside, such as logs for the fireplace or a simple arrangement of pinecones and evergreen branches.
Horticultural aletheia: bringing life indoors
In winter, when the garden is dormant, the truth of nature’s persistence can be revealed indoors. Houseplants grouped together can create a mini-ecosystem. Wall mounted planters or moss panels can bring vegetation to eye level. Choose plants that are tolerant of low light levels, and consider a variety of textures and sizes to create a naturalistic look.
As well as house plants, consider some seasonal botanical displays. Cut winter branches, dried grasses, pine cones, seed pods or even a small basket of nuts are all worth considering. The beauty of these elements is in their stripped-back, honest form. They remind us that even in stillness, there is a quiet, powerful life force.
The human truth: hearth and sanctuary
Finally, the living room should be a sanctuary for the human experience. Hygge is about creating a space for this, and aletheia is about the profound truths that can emerge within it. So, it makes sense to be comfortable.
Create a cosy nook with a comfortable armchair and a small table for a book and space for a hot drink or a glass of wine. It’s a place designed for introspection and quiet contemplation, where you can be alone with your thoughts.
If you have a fireplace, it’s the natural heart of the room – a literal hearth. If not, you can create a similar focal point with a well-curated bookshelf, a gallery wall of art, or a collection of cherished objects. These elements tell the truth of your identity and your journey, making the space uniquely your own and a place for genuine self-reflection.
By combining these elements, your living room becomes more than just a place to escape the cold. It becomes a space where the sensory comforts of hygge facilitate the deeper process of aletheia, uncovering the truths of nature, beauty, and your own inner world.
Need some advice?
Get in touch for advice on creating a snug, biophilic and aletheic nook in your home to get through winter.
Reflections on the ups and downs I experienced post-pandemic, and how meditation has helped my mental health. Through personal insights, I discuss finding peaceful spots for meditation, both outdoors and indoors, and suggest creating calming environments with natural elements. The potential benefits of nude meditation and the role of wellness spaces are also highlighted.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
A period of change
The last few years have had their ups and downs for me, and for many others as we emerged into our post-pandemic world of seemingly ever more uncertainty. New ways of working and the stresses of a high cost of living have taken their toll on mental health.
Now, I am not a therapist, and I don’t pretend to be able to offer advice, but I can say that taking fifteen to thirty minutes out of my day for meditation has done me the power of good.
I started with guided meditations (and there are some good sources available online), but now I tend to guide myself. The key is to really notice how you feel, and that includes how your body feels in relation to the space you are in.
It is possible to meditate almost anywhere, although quiet places are best. When distractions are minimized, and the place where you are meditating is calm, I think the process becomes more effective.
Connecting with nature
Connecting with nature makes a positive difference, as that reduces stress before you even start. Just being in a natural environment has been shown to reduce stress and improve wellbeing – even if only for as little as ten minutes a day. Find a quiet spot, notice how you feel and take time.
Having a literal connection with the Earth and the air can make the experience more profound. If you have access to a place where you can undress and experience nature in your most natural state, then you may uncover more than just your skin. For me, and I can speak only for myself, a state of nudity in nature when meditating reveals not only a connection with nature, but a realisation of our own place in nature.
Of course, finding such a place to go may be difficult. Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of being naked in a potentially public place (and in some countries, that may also be illegal, although thankfully not in the UK). So, what are the alternatives?
If you are lucky, you may have a quiet, secluded garden. Being able to step through your back door into your own private space is a luxury, but one that need not be expensive. Some simple screening with plants and the placement of items such as water features or a sculpture can help create a naturalistic feel and still allow a deep connection with nature. A patio or terrace can be put to good use too.
Indoor spaces
Meditation should be comfortable and sometimes that means having to avoid bad weather. This is where the principles of biophilic design can be used to create indoor spaces that evoke a sense of being in nature, even when actually being in nature is not practical.
This means using a combination of elements including using natural materials, plants, natural colour schemes and textures. The most important thing is to be free from distractions and to feel comfortable.
Meditation is all about noticing how you feel. When it works well, you get into a state of calm, relaxation and mental clarity. Having that interrupted by noise or sudden changes in light or temperature can spoil things.
In the home, a living room or bedroom can be ideal. So, how could you set about creating an aletheic space for meditation?
Here are some general principles.
Mindful decluttering
Regardless of the room’s primary function, the most crucial step is to keep the space free from unnecessary distractions and clutter, so if possible, keep non-essential items stored away and out of sight when not in use.
Natural materials and colours
A palette of subtle, natural colours like warm whites, greens and earthy tones can be relaxing. Use materials such as reclaimed wood for furniture, linen for soft furnishings, and wool or jute for rugs. This creates a calming, organic feel that connects you with nature.
Layered lighting
Instead of a single harsh overhead light, use multiple sources. Consider a floor lamp with a linen shade for soft, diffused light, and maybe a small, warm-toned lamp on a side table. This allows you to create a gentle ambiance for meditation that differs from the room’s everyday use.
A designated zone
Use a large rug to define the meditation zone. Use furniture, such a s a coffee table, which can be easily moved to the side when you want to meditate.
Plants
Incorporate a few large, statement houseplants in nice pots. Their large leaves will not only add a touch of nature but can also serve to create a sense of seclusion and privacy when you sit near them. Moss panels on the walls can also add some biophilic elements – they are tactile, green and also have good acoustic properties.
The bedroom as a meditative space
A bedroom is naturally a more private space, making it an intuitive choice for a meditation sanctuary. If floor space is limited, the bed itself can be used. the most important thing is to be able to focus on your feelings without distraction. Natural linen bedding in neutral colours would be ideal.
Adapting the Space for nude meditation
Your space should support your meditation practice without feeling forced or exposed, so try to position your meditation spot in a way that provides privacy. Remember, though, that the aletheic concept is also about uncovering something about your own nature in your environment. That slight sense of exposure or vulnerability can be quite revealing, so while protecting your own privacy, don’t lock yourself in.
The careful placement of plants can provide a sense of seclusion and privacy while allowing light to permeate the space through the foliage.
Using foliage near windows and light sources can also create wonderful shadows, which can be used to create areas of partial concealment and intimacy, allowing you to feel both exposed to the environment and protected within it.
Spas and wellness spaces
Many health clubs, spas and other wellness spaces provide space for meditation. These days, even some workplaces provide wellness rooms (although they are often not used as in some organizations, their use can be viewed as a sign of weakness, which many people do not want to risk).
I think that there is an opportunity for health spas, hotels and other wellness spaces – beyond existing naturist clubs – to offer space for nude meditation. Not everyone that would use such spaces would consider themselves naturists or be members of a naturist club or society, but may very well wish to take advantage of a space where they could disrobe and make a complete, unconcealed connection with nature.
This is also an opportunity for naturist venues to widen their offer and open some of their spaces up for focused activities such as solo nude mediation. This could make it easier for some people to consider aspects of naked wellness without having to jump into the full gamut of more traditional naturist activities.
Interested in an aletheic space for your home or naturist club?
Get in touch to book a consultation and let’s design a calming, authentic environment together.
Humans traditionally recognize five senses, but we actually possess many more. These senses work together to interpret the environment, essential for survival. Modern urban settings can overwhelm our senses, leading to stress. Biophilic design aims to restore sensory balance by incorporating nature, enhancing comfort and overall well-being, much like the harmony of an orchestra.
Introducing the sense orchestra
Consider vision. What do we actually sense with our eyes?
We use our eyes to see shapes, estimate distances, perceive colour, determine brightness, work out which way is up, detect movement, tell us about the direction we are facing, or moving towards, and estimate speed. Changes in brightness and daylength tell us about passing of time and the change of the seasons.
Our eyes are very much our primary sense, but what we see makes more sense if it is confirmed by what we hear, smell, touch and taste.
Our stereophonic hearing helps us to know where we are in relation to the source of the noise. Is it to our left or right, or even behind us? Is it moving towards us or away? And other tiny organs in our ears work in harmony with our eyes to tell us which way is up and how fast we are moving and turning.
Our eyes, nose and mouth working together are critical for telling us whether something is safe to eat, and our tongue is more than just a collection of taste buds – it is full of sensors that inform us about textures and temperatures.
We have sense organs inside our body. They tell us if we have indigestion or when we have an infection, or have sustained damage. Understanding and interpreting our internal senses is called interoception – a new word for me.
Our biggest sense organ is, of course, our skin. It tells us so much about our environment. We detect temperature, texture, hardness, malleability, size, shape and the quality of materials. The hairs on our skin can respond to changes in static electricity and there is no doubt that touch can generate the most intense pleasure.
Composing the piece
Human senses work together to help us to understand our environment, or rather the environment that we spent well over 90% of our existence (maybe as much 99% if you include our immediate hominid ancestors).
Our senses evolved to allow us to survive in a particular environment: open savannah. This environment is characterized by open vistas, undulating terrain, scattered and clustered vegetation and plenty of water. It was quite warm, although there were some seasonal variations. In our ancestral, natural environment, our senses told us about opportunities and threats. However, they need to work in harmony to give us the full picture.
The modern, urban environment is quite a long way from those open plains. Buildings mean that sounds echo around so the direction we hear from is not the same as where we see the source. We bombard some of our senses whilst simultaneously dull others. After all, we cover most of our largest sense organ, most of the time, and deprive ourselves of gaining vital information about our environment.
These confusing, discordant inputs cause stress. We have to make a lot of mental effort to understand what is going on.
Melody and harmony
The practice of biophilic design – bringing a sense of nature into our built environment – is a step towards correcting this sensory discord. It often focuses on the visual sense by incorporating natural views, plants, and natural light, and it is becoming increasingly commonplace in modern design.
However, an aletheic environment brings a new level of comfort and restoration by going even further. The idea is to provide complete, harmonious sensory stimulation that restores the connection our ancestors once had. While it may not be possible in every space (office naturism is probably a step too far for most), we can create restorative environments in our places of leisure and living that allow us to experience this deep reconnection.
The orchestral score
The metaphor with music is a good one. By thoughtfully designing spaces that appeal to all of our senses in an unfiltered way, we can go beyond simply adding plants. We can compose a full symphony, where every input works together to create an experience that is far more than the sum of its parts.
Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, enhances well-being by immersing oneself in nature, reducing stress and anxiety while boosting mood and cognitive function. Usually practiced clothed, nudity may deepen the connection to nature. Ultimately, the goal is to connect with the natural world, promoting joy, peace, and personal renewal.
Note: This post explores the psychological and wellbeing benefits of naturism within natural and biophilic environments. It contains illustrations depicting nudity and the human form.
Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in a forest environment, aiming to improve overall wellbeing. This therapeutic activity has gained significant traction worldwide, with scientific studies increasingly validating its numerous benefits.
While the concept of connecting with nature is universally appealing, there is a growing movement to carry out this activity naked as a way to amplify the restorative powers of forest bathing.
Restoration and relaxation
The allure of forest bathing lies in its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that spending time in nature lowers cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The forest environment, rich in phytoncides – volatile organic compounds emitted by trees – has been linked to boosting the immune system and improving mood. Recent research has also shown how trees radiate beneficial near infrared radiation as well.
Furthermore, the soft, earthy hues, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the melodious bird songs create a serene atmosphere that promotes relaxation and mental clarity.
Moreover, forest bathing has also been shown to enhance cognitive function. Research suggests that spending time in nature can improve attention, memory, and creativity. The absence of digital distractions and the opportunity to engage with the natural world offer a much-needed respite from the constant stimulation of modern life. Studies have also indicated that forest bathing can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve sleep quality.
While these benefits are undeniable, there is also a compelling argument for incorporating naturism into the forest bathing experience.
Complete immersion
Nudity, often associated with vulnerability and authenticity, can deepen the connection with nature. By shedding societal constructs and physical barriers, individuals can fully immerse themselves in the forest environment, allowing their senses to be heightened. The absence of clothing can reveal a sense of freedom and liberation, promoting a deeper state of relaxation.
Furthermore, naturism facilitates a more intimate connection with one’s body. By accepting and embracing one’s physical form in a natural setting, individuals can develop a healthier body image and self-esteem. The experience of being naked in nature – the ultimate act of aletheia, or truth-revealing – allows the body’s true unity with the environment to be revealed, breaking down the artificial boundaries between humans and the environment.
The idea of nude forest bathing may be confronting for some. Cultural norms and personal comfort levels vary greatly, so the decision to embrace naturism is entirely personal. Forest bathing is certainly beneficial with clothing, but my personal experience suggests that it can be much better without. The core principle is to find a way to connect with nature in a way that promotes well-being.
It is wise to choose a secluded and private forest location and it might be a good idea to join an organized group if you are a novice or a bit nervous about the idea.
Forest bathing can be a powerful tool for enhancing physical and mental health. By immersing oneself, totally, in the natural world, individuals can experience a range of benefits, from stress reduction to improved cognitive function. The absence of clothing maximizes the absorption of beneficial far red and near-infrared wavelengths (radiated by trees and sunlight) across the body’s largest organ (the skin).
While clothing is not a barrier for enjoying the forest environment and the benefits of forest bathing, naturism offers a unique opportunity to deepen the connection with nature and oneself. Ultimately, the most important aspect is to find a way to connect with the natural world in a way that brings joy, peace, and renewal.
And for those who are open to exploring naturism, forest bathing could be the perfect gateway. Short, gradual exposure to nudity in nature, maybe in private, will help build comfort and confidence.
Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide information and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your lifestyle or engaging in any new activities.
An aletheic environment is a space intentionally designed for unconcealment – stripping away the artificial to create an authentic, unfiltered connection between people and the natural world.
Aletheia is a Greek term for truth or unconcealedness. It is pronounced al-er-thee-ah
In philosophy, Aletheia is one of the primary Greek words for truth. However, its meaning is distinct from a simple fact or statement. It refers to a state of being revealed or unconcealed. Truth, in this sense, is not something you make or construct, but rather something that exists and is brought into the open or un-hidden.
An aletheic space is intentionally unconcealed, authentic, and revealing.
It is a place that strips away the artificial and the inessential to reveal a deeper truth – both about the natural world and about ourselves.
This could mean a space that is designed to help its users reconnect with their natural place in nature. It could also be a place for or being in, or taking part in activities, that can reveal more about our own nature.
Unfiltered connection
Aletheic spaces are where the barriers between the occupant and the natural environment are minimised or eliminated. They are spaces where all of our senses are stimulated to uncover the whole truth about where we are and what we are doing.
For an activity, it could simply be a natural environment where a true connection between the person and their surroundings can be unconcealed. It might be something as simple as taking exercise in nature rather than a gym, meditation in a garden or the practice of forest bathing.
For a building, this could involve incorporating elements of biophilic design. This is where a sense of nature is brought into the built environment by incorporating views of nature, plants and living walls that make the boundaries between inside and outside disappear, soundscapes and scents, or materials in their raw, honest form like exposed wood or stone.
Honesty in design
An aletheic space would be authentic. It would not rely on superficial decoration to appear natural, but would be created with materials that are true to their function and with a design that connects people with nature and and environment.
Most importantly, an aletheic space would be a place where the occupant themselves feels free to be “uncovered” and authentic. It would be a space with an atmosphere of safety, trust, and liberation. A space to become unconcealed and where one’s natural, naked, state is celebrated, allowing for the deepest possible connection to the environment. A space where you stop being an observer of nature and become a part of it.
