Before children, I would often accompany my husband on his work trips. It was perfect because I had time to explore on my own while he was working, and then I could either accompany him to a work dinner or go out on our own if there was a free night.
One day, while we were in the Netherlands, he surprised me with a massage and a day pass for a spa. Massages and spas are right up my alley, so I was excited. During the massage, the masseuse told me about the wonderful indoor and outdoor areas and pools I would have access to afterward. I told her I had my bathing suit with me and how much I loved the water.
She was quick to inform me that I would not need a bathing suit; in fact, bathing suits were not allowed. Come again?!
In true European fashion, this particular day at the spa was just for women and was a designated nude day. You were not allowed in the locker rooms, shower rooms, or pools while wearing clothing.
I hesitated for maybe a minute and then thought, why not? I am always up for getting outside of my comfort zone.
The amenities were beautiful and clean, and the pools were calling my name. I cautiously entered the spa area and immediately felt a level of comfort I hadn’t expected. Soft music played, and women of all shapes and sizes enjoyed the showers, the pools, and the atmosphere. I didn’t know a soul, which I think actually put me more at ease. I didn’t even hear anyone speaking English, which allowed me to retreat even more into my own little bubble of anonymity.
The next few hours were relaxing, liberating, and eye-opening.
This was a gathering of women of all ages in all their glory, baring it all without a care in the world. I felt no judgment, no comparison, just a safe space to be present in our own bodies – not hiding, not adjusting our straps, and not worrying about how we looked.
As women, we have been through a lot. Some of us have had children, dieted, over-exercised, and likely tried some crazy things to try to reach an impossible beauty standard.
We often forget to place value on how our body actually feels, how we can grow actual life, get stronger with age, and wear our scars like badges of honor.
So this summer, when it’s time to pull on your bathing suit and jump into the water with your kids, just do it. You may not have had your own naked spa experience with some European strangers, but take it from me.
