Catalogue - Paradis Naturistes

Description

From the 18th century onwards, the word 'naturism' was used to describe new therapeutic practices based on the use of natural elements (water, sun, sea) and plant-based pharmacopoeias. At the turn of the twentieth century, the term became associated with utopian social renewal movements in Germany and Switzerland, which sought to break away from increasing urbanisation and industrialisation and promote a pantheistic philosophy of a return to nature. In France, a number of remarkable practice centres were set up between the wars (the Sparta Club, Physiopolis on the Ile de Platais, Héliopolis on the Ile du Levant, the CHM de Montalivet, Cap d'Agde).

This book provides a context for the emergence of this movement, but also shows how it intersects with our current issues. Faced with the diversity of bodies and environments, naturists were quick to defend ecological and egalitarian values: being together means respecting each other's bodily integrity, sharing experiences and natural environments, and striving for sustainable health. These values are reflected today in the growing enthusiasm for alternative medicine, organic food and the body-positive movement, which fights for the acceptance and appreciation of all body types.