I've been skinny dipping for years. The first time was when I was in my teens and I've enjoyed it ever since. I see nothing wrong with it as it is only swimming without a costume, what can be more natural? Swimming naked is really the only way to swim and once you are in the water nobody can tell that you're naked anyway. I find that all of my senses seem sharper when I'm in the water. I notice small differences in the temperature of the water, I smell different scents in the air. I see things in my surroundings, even slight movements of grass blowing in a breeze, and I hear even the faintest of insect noises and the movement of the water as they land on its surface. Everything seems so focused.

I believe that skinny dipping is good for the mind and the soul. It is also a great experience to share. It certainly breaks the ice with new friends, and can help to bond old friends too. I've swam naked with same sex and mixed sex groups and felt no sexual pressure from either side. There is sometimes an initial embarrassment if someone has never seen you naked before or if they are undressing in front of you for the first time, but once you make that first splash all tension disappears. The water covers you, it protects your modesty, yet you share it with others, and no clothing separates you. It's a bit like being in bed together, though you may be covered by the same sheet you are naked and vulnerable underneath. Maybe it is the vulnerability of exposure that hightens and stimulates your senses but as you become one with the water you also make a connection with all those who share the water with you.

Afterwards you feel like you have shared a special experience, one which you will be able to talk about and remember around the campfire later. In the water you became one and something of that link remains in your heart.