Naturist

Naturism and nudism are very similar. Most people do not differentiate between them; however, there is a big difference between naturists and naturalists. Many naturists are also naturalists, but few naturalists are naturists. A naturist naturalist studies and observes nature without wearing clothing. A naturalist naturist observes and studies studies nature with or without clothing, unless it is the other way around.

Nudists generally prefer the company of other nudists and naturists. Textile people are often not as welcomed at nudist resorts. Naturists tend to be more open about their life styles, and do not mind if others prefer to hide their bodies while they do not. Most nudists and naturists do not make any distinction between the terms. Those that love to show their naked bodies to clothed people are considered exhibitionists. Nudists and naturists may be exhibitionists as well. Exhibitionists do not need to be nudists or naturists.

Naturists tend to promote their lifestyle as an healthy alternative, and nudists tend to just run around having fun without clothes on.