Naturism and Nudism are sometimes used interchangeably, however some feel that nudism is simply the preference for being nude whereas naturism is more. Many people calling themselves naturists feel that  naturism embraces a philosophy whereby being nude connects oneself to nature by allowing the body to feel air currents, grass beneath the feel and the touching of the natural world against ones skin. Some even equate this with being one with nature, or being a part of nature rather than separating oneself from nature by being clothed in synthetic or man made coverings, and by being outdoors rather than indoors.

Naturism does not generally refer to those who are only nude indoors, nor do naturist in general restrict nudity to only being among family or friends. Naturists more likely are those who are capable of being nude in open areas such as parks, beeches, and other public areas. Nudity in public areas entails being exposed not only to nature, but other persons of like mind, simply because nudity in a public area involves a socialising due to the fact it is restricted to few private and public areas set aside for such use. Some naturist go so far as being vegan or vegetarians, and often feel akin to nature and therefore protective of it. Many nudists and naturists still follow older naturist philosophies that the body should treated with respect, and therefore drugs and alcohol are not to be used, while many other have no such restrictions on alcohol.

For some Naturism can also be an extension of their own personal faith. Many Pagans, as well as Christians and others feel that being nude and outdoors allows them to be connect not only to creation or nature, but to the Creator or God. For some being nude is of a spiritual nature and they not only seek to be nude, but feel a strong need to be nude as frequently as is feasible within the modern world. Being nude for social events is fine for these people, however they need more. They need to connect to nature, creation, and God, by finding safe secure places to be nude outdoors.

Many Pagans have religious ceremonies while nude outdoors, they often do so in groups of friends and acquaintances of the same beliefs. Some even lie down on large stones or other natural landscape nude, in order to "ground" or "earth" themselves in which they feel as though they either discharge negative energies or absorb positive energies from the Earth below them, and therefore are in closer harmony with such energies. Doing such allows them to feel a closer connection to "God and Goddess". Pagans often refer to being nude outdoors as "Skyclad".

Conclusion: A wide spectrum exists as to what a person can mean by Naturism or being a Naturist. As show above it is either simply nudism, or more philosophical in nature, and/or can even have religious implications to others. Generally however it is excepted as being nude and natural, and attempting to be more a part of nature, or feeling closer to it.