Thousands across the nation are preparing to discard their garments and walk naked through stately homes and castles to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.
Organisers British Naturism is known for its outlandish events – including breaking the record for most naked people on a rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach in 2019 – and hopes its Naked Heart Walks will have the same shock factor.
The walks which will take place all over the country from Morecambe Bay to West Sussex (find more detail about the event here) and promise not only an adrenaline rush, but also mental and physical health benefits and stress reduction.
Andrew Welch, the national spokesman for British Naturism, said: “Taboos around nudity are eroding, and the health and well-being benefits of going naked are more widely understood, with more and more people wanting to experience these exhilarating feelings for themselves.
“I’m delighted to see the number of our Naked Heart Walks more than double this year and would encourage anyone to come and give it a go, and raise much-needed funds for our charity partner, the British Heart Foundation.”
With the aim of encouraging widespread participation, a new clothing-optional policy has been introduced, ensuring that individuals can embrace their level of comfort and fully experience being one with nature.
Whilst some walkers may begin their journey fully clothed, it is anticipated that many will be compelled to shed their layers along the way – succumbing to the freedom that baring it all provides.
An Ipsos poll, commissioned by British Naturism in 2022, revealed a surprising revelation: nearly 7million Britons proudly identify as naturists or nudists.
And British Naturism say this increasing acceptance and understanding of the health and well-being benefits associated with going naked have sparked a surge in interest for events like the Naked Heart Walks.
By participating in this event, walkers will also contribute to the British Heart Foundation.
Ben Bishop, the BHF Fundraising Manager, admitted: “There are lots of ways you can support the BHF, and this is one of the more unusual, but why not try something new?
“It is an opportunity to free yourself from everyday constraints whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings and stunning locations where these walks are being held.
“Whether you dare to bare or keep your clothes on, you can take part knowing that you will be helping our researchers find the new treatments and cures that can keep families together longer.”
The Naked Heart Walks, held in collaboration with the British Heart Foundation, blend the power of communal support, the beauty of nature, and the liberation of shedding societal norms.
The event promise to be an unforgettable experience, allowing participants to not only raise vital funds for a worthy cause but also embrace a newfound sense of freedom and personal growth.
