This last Saturday I attended my very first naked yoga session. This was run by Naked in Motion in Boston who have been running monthly sessions here after starting in New York.

I have to confess that I was a little nervous before-hand, not so much about the nudity aspect but more about being an out of shape, oldish, yoga newbie. Once we got started and I got a little into the rhythm of the class my fears of falling flat on my face dissipated and I started enjoying it some. That’s not to say I was an exemplary yogi, but at least I didn’t fall over.

When we were disrobing, it did occur to me that in the past I would have been highly self conscious, but having taken on a more naturist lifestyle I found that being naked with a bunch of other people didn’t bring up any fears of being compared to, or what they might think. It was just a bunch of people in a yoga class who happened to be nude. It was a great feeling to be that relaxed about it.

The class was led by Willow, who periodically teaches in Boston but is primarily based in New York, I found her to be a good instructor allowing everyone of different levels to go at their own pace. Afterwards we shared some fruits that Willow had brought to the class and the few newcomers asked if the turnout was typical for Boston - this particular class was all male with about 15 attendees. She replied that, due to the typical gender imbalance with most naturist activities that “yes there is often more males than females and although there are often a few females that attend that on occasion you’ll get an all male class”.

Willow also indicated that they are hoping to have an alternate venue where they can offer weekday classes and if they do I would certainly consider going regularly. As it stands, being on the weekend means that I have to schedule them in when I can. But I’m certainly looking forward to going again and can only encourage others to come along. Hopefully we can also make some headway with the gender imbalance as well.