What is Naked Yoga? Discover this unique practice that focuses on body positivity, self-acceptance, and deepening the mind-body connection. Learn its benefits and how to get started.
Naked Yoga or Vivastra yoga is done without clothes. It is very old. It is mentioned in the 7th-10th century Bhagavata Purana and Strabo. Nudity is more popular today in Western societies, where it is more accepted.
This type of yoga, called “nudist yoga” or “naturist yoga,” is practiced without clothes on. It seeks to help you feel more connected to your body. Its other goal is to increase self-acceptance and freedom.
Key Takeaways
- Naked yoga has ancient roots, with references in ancient Hindu texts and historical accounts.
- The practice has gained popularity in recent decades, particularly in Western countries with more acceptance of social nudity.
- Naked yoga classes are now offered in various cities, catering to both single-gender and mixed-gender groups.
- Practising naked yoga can promote body positivity, self-acceptance, and a deeper connection with oneself and nature.
- Attending a naked yoga class requires mental and emotional preparation, setting boundaries, and respecting the space and comfort of others.
Ancient Origins of Naked Yoga
Naked yoga has a long history. It is mentioned in ancient Hindu and Greek historians.
Mentions in Ancient Hindu Texts
The Bhagavata Purana, written between the 7th and 10th centuries, recommends not wearing clothes. This shows that naked yoga has been a part of Indian traditions for centuries.
Accounts by Greek Historians
Strabo, in the 4th century BC, wrote about Indian yogis practicing naked yoga. They “performed various postures – standing, sitting or lying naked – without moving.” This shows the antiquity of the practice.
Yogis practice naked, standing, sitting, or lying down without moving.”
Naked yoga has an ancient history in Hindu and Greek traditions. It is still practiced today to connect with one’s body and soul.
Spiritual Nudity and Ascetic Traditions
The practice of spiritual nudity is an age-old one, especially in Dharmic religions. Known for their role in the Kumbh Mela, Naga sadhus embraces nudity as a spiritual practice of renunciation.
The late 19th century saw movements such as Lebensreform and Gymnosophia in the West. They touted nudity as a cure for modern and natural problems. By the 1950s, nudist magazines began associating yoga with nudity, fitness, and health.
The goal of naked yoga is to create a safe space for self-improvement and self-connection. Still, most ascetics in yoga remained naked. People like the Digambara Jains kept women away from certain practices.
Ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley saw nudity as important in spiritual practices. It showed the power of vulnerability for unity and clarity. The Han Dynasty saw Taoists’ view of sexuality as spiritual, accepting nudity in spiritual terms.
Nudity was a symbol of power, fertility, and purity in ancient Greece. Politicians, athletes, and gods were often depicted nude. Saints also practiced ascetic poverty by renouncing material goods for spiritual connection.
Texts such as the Bhagavata Purana and the writings of Strabo mention the practice of nude meditation. It increases self-acceptance, and body positivity, and reduces stress, and self-love. It helps you connect more confidently with your body and the surrounding environment.
Meditating naked improves the mind-body connection. It aids personal growth, reduces anxiety and improves sleep. This approach is useful for meditation because it increases mindfulness, consciousness and self-awareness in a free and accepting space.
what is naked yoga: The Rise of Modern Naked Yoga
Nude yoga became more popular in the early 20th century. Groups that practiced nudity, austerity and meditation were called “gymnosophy.” Blanche de Vries incorporated yoga into oriental dance. In 1914, she opened a yoga school for women in New York.
In 1931, Marguerite Agniel discussed nude women doing yoga in her book “The Art of the Body.” This shows how yoga and nudity are related.
Early 20th Century Pioneers
These pioneers developed modern naked yoga. Naked yoga is very popular today because it allows people to connect with their bodies and feel free. It is a way to gain self-acceptance and empowerment.
How Naked Yoga Evolved explains how the emergence of modern naked yoga intersects with the early 20th century naked yoga pioneers and late 20th century naked yoga.
These pioneers developed modern naked yoga. Naked yoga is very popular today because it allows people to connect with their bodies and feel free. It is a way to gain self-acceptance and empowerment.
How Naked Yoga Evolved explains how the emergence of modern naked yoga intersects with the early 20th century naked yoga pioneers and late 20th century naked yoga.
Naked Yoga in the 21st Century
The 21st century has brought a wave of self-discovery and empowerment. Naked yoga, which was previously taboo, is more popular today. We look at two major discussions: male-only and mixed-gender groups
Male-only Groups
Aaron Starr began teaching nude yoga to men only in New York in 2001. His system incorporates contact yoga, Ashtanga and Kundalini. This led to the formation of similar groups around the world, especially in the LGBTQ+ community.
These classes offer a safe space for men to explore their bodies and spirituality without fear.
Mixed-Gender Classes
By the 2010s, nude yoga classes opened up to all genders. In the US and the UK, places like Naked Yoga London welcome everyone. Students from different backgrounds and identities come together to embrace their bodies and find peace.
The return of nude sex in the 21st century is a difficult one. Some see it as a way to break down social barriers and promote self-acceptance. Others are concerned about sexualisation and proper teacher training. But the shift towards openness and a desire to connect with our wellbeing is visible in both men-only and mixed-gender classes.
“Naked yoga gives us a chance to connect with our true self and remove layers of social conditioning. It is a transformative experience that can lead to deeper self-acceptance and spiritual growth.”
– Cindee Rifkin, Naked Yoga Instructor
Conclusion
Naked yoga involves a mix of traditional yoga postures and nudity. It is very old and has been around since ancient times. The practice is mentioned in Hindu texts and has also been observed by ancient Greek historians.
It is popular in Western societies today. It helps people experience their bodies freely and also helps overcome body image issues.
Initially, naked yoga was only practiced by men. Now it has classes for both men and women. It offers a rare opportunity for physical and spiritual growth.
Recent statistics show that the number of naked yoga classes has grown significantly. Many people feel more connected to their bodies and more accepting of themselves. They find these classes liberating.
People who practice naked yoga mention the importance of compromise and respect. They also want a private, quiet space to practice. Naked yoga is about being vulnerable and real.
It encourages acceptance of our bodies and spiritual growth. Many people have noticed improvements in their confidence, flexibility and view of themselves.
FAQ
What is naked yoga?
Vivastra Yoga or Naked Yoga is done without clothes. It is very old. It is mentioned in Strabo and Bhagavata Purana.
When did naked yoga first appear?
Naked yoga dates back to ancient times. It is mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana. In the fourth century BC, Onesicritus, a friend of Alexander the Great, wrote about it.
How is spiritual nudity connected to naked yoga?
Spiritual nudity is common in some religions. It is practiced by Digambara Jains and Aghori sadhus. Naga sadhus also practices spiritual practice by being naked.
How did naked yoga gain popularity in the 20th century?
In the early 20th century groups practiced meditation and nudity. In 1914, Blanche de Vries opened a yoga school for women in New York. In 1938 Marguerite Agniel wrote about naked women practicing yoga.
How has naked yoga evolved in the 21st century?
Aaron Star has taught men-only naked yoga in New York since 2001. Tantra includes Ashtanga, Kundalini and Contact Yoga. This has led to men-only naked yoga groups around the world, often linked to the gay community. In 2011, naked yoga classes for all genders began, such as Naked Yoga in London.
