WE can all hold our hands up and say we have ventured through the comfort of our own homes stark-naked at least once.

But I wonder how many hands would remain up if it was in public, surrounded by a bunch of strangers?

Naturism is a lifestyle I never thought I would try.

Yet, there I was, taking part in the National British Naturism Naked Walk and Skinny Dip event on Sunday to raise important funds for the British Heart Foundation.

Naturism is a form of non-sexual social nudity which is practised by nearly nine million people across the UK - though it is a lifestyle that is not often accepted in many places.

When I told my friends and family about the event, they told me I was crazy.

I must admit. I felt I was too. 

Well, imagine how you may feel if that was reversed and you were the naked one (as well) in a room full of strangers.

I was terrified as I pulled up to WatersEdge in Bishampton, which was where the event took place. 

The day consisted of a walk, a dip in the lake, and light refreshments while you soaked up the scenery.

They are activities I often loved to do with clothes on but the naked aspect of the day had me second-guessing the whole trip.

When I walked into Watersedge, I wasn't met with naked bodies but smiling faces and handshakes which instantly took the edge off.

The undressing part - which was actually the worst bit - had me really fearful and I think people could sense that from me. 

Everyone took the time to tell me stories about their day, and soon enough, I forgot they were naked, let alone myself.

This made all the other activities just as enjoyable as they would be with clothes on, but I felt more connected to nature than before.

I did not feel lonely, uncomfortable or awkward once throughout the day.

The biggest game changer for me was not being seen sexually despite being stark naked. 

I find it is so easy to have your body sexualised when wearing clothes, let alone when you are naked.

But this experience helped me reclaim my body in a way I never thought it would.

As a result, I left Watersedge with more confidence and a better sense of who I was as a person—one who was not just a body.

Naturism was a lifestyle I never thought I would try but I am so glad I did.