Naturism, often called nudism, has as many definitions as there are naturists. The International Naturist Federation, which represents millions of naturists around the worldfrican Naturist describes it as:
"A way of life in harmony with nature characterised by the practice of communal nudity, with the intention of encouraging self-respect, respect for others and for the environment."

Harmony Nature Farm invites naturists to enjoy the wildlife, the mountain views, the birdlife and the peace and harmony of our beautiful surroundings. You will meet like-minded people who regularly spend weekends and holidays at Harmony, mostly to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Who are naturists?
Anyone can be a naturist. Your background, age, shape and colour are irrelevant when it comes to enjoying the freedom of naturism, which is why it attracts people from all walks of life. Naturists practice social nudity, aimed at encouraging self respect, respect for others and the environment. We only enjoy clothes-free activities in the right environment, among like-minded naturists, when it is warm enough.

Where do naturists go?
In the past 30 years, social nudity has become ever more acceptable and naturists in South Africa have a growing number of resorts which cater for nude recreation. Although nudist bathing is commonly acknowledged at parts of the South African seaside like Sandy Bay, Cape Town and Umhlanga Rocks, Durban , there are plenty of other inland venues where you can enjoy naturism all year round.

There are 4 naturist clubs, which have their own swimming pool, braai facilities and other recreational facilities for members. At all of the naturist resorts, you can camp or rent a chalet.
Possibly the most popular choice for naturist leisure is during the holiday season, hundreds of South Africans - including hundreds of coastal people - visit Harmony Nature Farm.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What preparations should I make before visiting a naturist club?
Generally none at all, apart from those you would normally make to go anywhere. It doesn't take much to make yourself presentable in a naturist environment.

Are children likely to be shocked by their first sight of a naturist club?
No. Children take to nudity like ducks to water. Cases of children being upset by the sight of nude people are extremely rare. As people grow up, they are taught by social convention that nudity is wrong or shocking. You are not born with an aversion to human bodies: before the Victorian period society was far more tolerant of the bare body and we seem to be moving steadily back in that direction. There's nothing inherently wrong with nudity.

Is it advisable for people with less-than-perfect figures to join a naturist club?
Yes - that's the whole point. Every body is different, but naturists will like you just as you are. It isn't in the least important what your body is like because people accept you in your entirety. That's all there is to you!

I don't think my wife and I would have the courage to strip off our clothes in what is, in effect, public. How would we get over our inhibitions?
If you visit a naturist resort, the wearing of a T-shirt will enable the first time naturist to get used to the feeling of total freedom without actually having to go in the buff. The wearing of a T-shirt will also give you the necessary protection against the sun or when weather conditions get a little colder. But in most cases you will quickly feel the relaxed atmosphere and see how comfortable nude people are with one another.

Do men ever become aroused during their first visit?
This is an age-old question among people who have not experienced naturism. Nudity in naturism resorts is not sexually stimulating, and being naked in a social environment for the first time will give you plenty else to think about. If this is your worry, try it - you'll be OK.

What will people say when they find I'm a naturist?
They won't unless you choose to tell them. Other naturists are, of course, fully understanding and would want to protect your enjoyment of naturism rather than jeopardise it. People are usually interested in the subject, and naturism is something to be proud of.

When I told my friend I was visiting a naturist club, he was shocked and hinted that I would be mixing with undesirables. Is that right?
Naturists cover the complete range - singles, partners, married couples . . . Most clubs are family orientated, and usually you will see parents with children from babies upwards with their grandparents. There is nothing to offend even the most sensitive soul, and your friend is speaking without knowledge and has assumed wrongly that nudity must mean amorality. You only need to visit a resort, beach or naturist B&B to see what sort of people naturists are, and the pursuits we enjoy. Your friend couldn't be further from the truth.

Can I expect any real health benefits from naturism?
Yes, if you go to a naturist place you can get fit just enjoying the facilities: swimming and all the other games and sports. It's much more enjoyable than a gym as it doesn't feel like an effort or a chore. You will also benefit from the general air of relaxation and freedom from stress.

I remember seeing photographs featuring nudists braaing boerewors. Isn't it dangerous to do certain things without the protection of clothes?
Yes, it is, which is why the sensible naturist dresses when doing certain jobs, or in cold weather, and is aware of the dangers of sunburn.

I love skinny-dipping at home. Why should I do this with strangers?
You get an all-over tan and can go swimming in the nude. Try it: naturism is great fun, interesting, a bit different and makes you feel good about yourself and other people.
"Strangers are only friends who you have not yet met".