The Difference Between Naked and Nude

The Difference Between Naked and Nude
Many brutal, physical wars have been fought over women’s bodies internationally for the sole purpose to humiliate and subjugate. This attack even extends to the political wars in the good ol’ USA. Just ask Donald Trump regarding his swift retort to Ted Cruz’ attack ad which sought to reduce Melania Trump’s nude GQ photo shoot as, “not being First Lady” material. How exactly should a First Lady look? Just ask the French who rule the fashion world.

Robert Graves wrote a playful poem way back in 1957, “The Naked and the Nude,” exploring the difference between the synonyms, naked and nude. The gist of his verses imply while the words naked and nude might be used interchangeably, on a deeper level their meaning is built on image associations which influence perception. He associates “nude” with the elevation that only art can bring – drawing that nude model. Graves also suggests that a nude could be more sly and clever like Salome’s dance of the seven veils. On the other hand “naked” could be associated with vulnerability and openness and so the highest level of personal actuation. Consider the phrase, the “naked truth,” which is unadorned and vulnerable to rejection. In a relationship you might say, “Let’s get naked,” but not, “Let’s get nude.”

Culturally, Kim Kardashian has made the nude/naked selfie commonplace. Her selfie is nude if you think it has been photo-shopped and is posted for marketing/media purposes. On the other hand, if you are a devoted fan, you might consider her selfie to be naked – untouched, baring her butt in full empowerment to sit on her throne.

Whether a woman chooses to be cloaked, naked or nude, she is empowered because she gets to decide. This stands in strong contrast to being objectified and possessed when men impose their restrictions.
Female empowerment appears in all shapes and sizes. This could mean going gray or makeup free, or dressing up in designer clothes, and getting hair and makeup done. When women tap into this liberating perception, then body dysmorphia will become a disease of the past.

How to feel comfortable in your own skin:
  • Know what you uniquely bring to the table; in other words, how you differ from others.
  • Manage your daily stressors because stress steals your joy and your true identity.
  • Speak your mind and avoid self-suppression.
  • Exercise and eat healthy foods to support your identity and unleash good energy.
  • Don’t take yourself too seriously.
  • Take your cue from nature and be natural.

For more information on managing your stress and reclaiming your life read my book, Addicted to Stress: A Woman's 7 Step Program to Reclaim Joy and Spontaneity in Life. To listen to archived radio shows with guest experts visit Turn On Your Inner Light Radio Show









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This content was written by Debbie Mandel. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Debbie Mandel for details.