2.7 Million Nudists/Naturists in Canada
In a survey commissioned earlier this year, the Federation of
Canadian Naturists determined that 2.7 million Canadians have a naturist/nudist
mindset because they either visit or are willing to visit clothing-optional
beaches or naturist clubs and resorts.
A further 3.5 million Canadians have naturist tendencies
because they are comfortable with skinny-dipping in mixed company. This gives us
a total of 6.1 million Canadians who have some interest in naturism.
The survey also reveals that while naturists can be found
everywhere, they tend to be more common in urban areas. They are also more
likely to have a higher income.
"We wanted to know how many naturists there were in
Canada," says Stéphane Deschênes, a director in the Federation of
Canadian Naturists.
"Naturism is a state of mind, not a label," Deschênes
explains. He adds that a survey was the only way to count the many Canadians who
only practice naturism in secluded spots or while on vacation.
The survey points out the need for the development of more
naturist recreational areas. There are approximately 50 naturist clubs in Canada
but many Canadians live too far away from them. Currently, only Toronto and
Vancouver have official clothing-optional beaches.
"We hope that this survey will emphasize to governments
that naturism is a popular recreational option that needs to be provided
for," says Deschênes. "We need to start treating naturism for what it
is &endash; a wholesome activity which encourages a healthy mind and
body."
Individuals who want to find out more about naturism in
Canada can either access the FCN website at www.FCN.ca or leave their name and
address on the FCN phone line at (416) 410-NUDE.
As defined by the International Naturist Federation, Naturism
is a way of life in harmony with nature, characterized by the practice of
communal nudity, with the intention of encouraging respect for oneself, respect
for others and for the environment.
The Federation of Canadian Naturists (FCN) and La Fédération
Québécoise de Naturisme (FQN) together constitute the national naturist/nudist
organization in Canada recognized by the International Naturist Federation
(INF). The FCN:
- promotes naturism/nudism to Canadians
- helps naturists/nudists find how and where they may enjoy
the naturist/nudist lifestyle
- represents the interests of Canadian naturist/nudist
individuals, families, clubs, resorts, and organizations.
The International Naturist Federation (INF) represents
naturists in over 30 countries. Founded in August 1953 at the Montalivet
naturist resort in France and based in Belgium, it is dedicated to the
world-wide acceptance of naturist ideals and lifestyle-recreational social
nudism.
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