In the present day European co-ed spas it is not bathing suit optional, there is no option – birthday suits only. Towels are allowed but the candor that is shown may shock the average American, it all hangs out in more ways then one. The purpose, once again, is to prevent bacteria filled clothing from entering the area. Get in, get naked, get showered, and get started. To the Europeans this is mundane and oh so natural.
Fast forward to our resent trip to a famous Miami Beach Spa & Health Center. Please keep in mind that there are gender specific spas at this upscale oasis. No need to look sideways and cover up or is there? The United States was founded on Puritanical beliefs but are we going forward? The report is in and the answer is no!
Unfortunately, the chic woman’s spa was filled with bathing suits and shame. A woman with an older teenage daughter, completely clad in swimwear, encouraged her daughter with a nip and tuck to immediately grab and wrap up will exiting the whirlpool. Really? These body issues, which surely have been emphasized since birth; along with trending social norms IS what is teaching overt, misplaced modesty. One might ask what shape and size of said mother and child but that is exactly my point – it does not matter.
Speaking again of puritanical beliefs the report back from the men’s spa was a bit more bizarre. Man over 40, bare all but, those under 40 attired in beachwear. How did that happen? Men don’t care do they? Please explain this new phenomenon.
The only assessment that I personally can come to is blaming media and the entertainment industry’s perpetuated views of perfection and judgment. How wacked out is it when even the fake breasts are covered up and not touted? (Yes, I saw that too.) While in the sauna sweating profusely I laid down naked, towel under me. A woman came in at seemed to hesitate for a moment, then sat down, thought for another moment and finally took off her towel and laid on it. A few moments later the swaddled mom and daughter meekly entered and briskly exited. Judge not, that ye be not judged.
Living Wherever We Are 