How Important is Being Skyclad?

The requirement of being skyclad for rituals is one of the major objections I have with Traditional Wicca. For those who don't know, this means being naked during rituals. Granted that there is some benefit to performing rituals nude, but these benefits can be achieved through other methods. Why bother with other methods is this one works? For several reasons, the foremost being that public nudity is frowned upon in most communities.

Now, I know that there are communities of nudists throughout many countries. I won't make the standard arguments that their children are harmed by it. I know nudist's children are as well adjusted any any other groups. I also know there is nothing inherently wrong with nudity.

Unfortunately, the rest of the nation doesn't share my opinion. Those nudist colonies charge a lot to become a member, and police themselves to prevent serious problems from developing. Most have high and thick walls separating them from the rest of our nation. My concern is, what about the rest of us? What of us normal, middle class folks who can't afford the price of these colonies?

We are reduced to three choices:

1. Do our rituals outdoors, but clothed
2. Do our rituals nude, but indoors
3. Do rituals outdoors and nude and take our chances

I personally have never felt the need to be skyclad during rituals. I feel no particular shame about (semi-)public nudity, but I do not feel it is necessary. I have performed rituals indoors and outdoors, both clothed and nude. I have never felt any real difference between comfortably clothed and nude, althouigh being uncomfortably or inappropriately clothed does create issues.

I do feel that everyone should take time to commune with nature on a regular basis. It does not need to be during rituals. Taking the time to feel the energy of the trees and plant near you is enough. Remember that pagnaism is about getting closer to nature, not about how and where you celebrate the fact.

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