strike a pose

Sure, Nude Yoga Can Be Sort of Erotic. But That’s Not Why I Love It

So this nude yoga trend the Associated Press just discovered? I’ve done this. Have you? It’s a very bizarre but freeing experience. The first two or three times I went, the only thing I could think about — and stop right here if you’re easily grossed out — was whether my ass was clean. Because whether you’re doing awkward chair or triangle, your butt hole is often on full display. And yes that is part of the draw, the chance to see other men completely naked, and sweating, and spreading themselves. (While the classes I attended aren’t strictly gay, no women ever showed up.)

I never considered myself the most self-conscious person, but I would always say that to myself and others thinking, “Sure, I’ll hit the beach in a Speedo, whatever.” The idea of feeling self-conscious is completely reinvented when you’re downward dogging your bare body in front of ten mostly attractive men, and an instructor who might as well be Jude Law and Hugh Jackman’s love child, I swear to god. His picture on the brochure for the class is half the reason I signed up.

I won’t bore you with the typical yogi pronouncements about how spiritual and therapeutic yoga can be. But it’s good fun and quite relaxing. That said, it took me probably about a full month before I was completely free of any hesitation in stripping down — and performing headstands with my balls flopping all over the place. And while I haven’t been to a nude yoga class in a couple months, reading about other people’s experiences with it made me miss it. I think there’s a class tomorrow afternoon. I’m going to call and see if there are any openings.

Don't forget to share:

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated