Naked yoga is the simplest escape in the world. All you need is your body, some time and a mat. When done in a class with an instructor, it can be a rejuvenating and validating experience that helps participants enjoy and appreciate their own body as it exists in sync among the bodies of others.
Around the world, there are a surprising number of studios that host naked or clothing-optional sessions for men on a regular basis. We picked seven that stood out.
When attending a naked yoga session, always remember that, no matter how gay-oriented the marketing might seem to you, many participants don’t necessarily identify as gay or even bi. These are judgement-free zones, where other people’s bodies and ways of moving in the world should be respected and celebrated. Also remember that, unless otherwise stated, many of these workshops and classes listed here are non-sexual in nature. “Sensual” is not a euphemism for “sexual.” That said, some organizers do provide an opportunity for participants to socialize before or after the session.
London, U.K.
Yoganu–Naked Yoga for Men (London, U.K.). Organized by Andy Butterfield, who has practiced tantra yoga for 16 years and taught for almost nine, this is one of several body-focused events he offers for gay and bi men in London and Brighton. “Together, we cultivate an attitude of loving kindness, gratitude and wonder as we flow through a soulful and meaningful movement practice,” says the website. Butterfield also co-hosts retreats for gay and bi men that focus on rest, relaxation, connection and rejuvenation.
Perth, Australia
Men’s Naked Yoga Perth (Perth, Western Australia). Originally from Washington, D.C., Eric Schwarz moved to Australia a few years ago and hosts empowering classes that “cultivate body positivity and dismantle shame around being naked (in a non-sexual context).” Schwarz also offers group and private classes, meditation, coaching, retreats and Thai massage.
Melbourne, Australia
Gay Men’s Yoga (Collingwood, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia). This private studio has been offering small-group (maximum eight men) sessions since 2001. The style is “raja” where attendees “explore and practice postures which will squeeze and massage our internal glands so you can get rid of the toxins and build-ups of stale blood and hormones that build up in and around the glands themselves.” Some classes are naked, some in underwear. Following some classes, attendees have an opportunity to go out for a bite or drink afterward.
Vancouver, Canada
Men in Touch (Vancouver, British Columbia). With a focus on the sensual and channelling erotic energy, Men in Touch was founded in 1987 to explore what it means to share real intimacy with other men. “Erotic energy has great power and potential for guiding us through healing and transformation,” states the website. Workshops and retreats vary by season.
Washington, D.C., USA
Born Naked Yoga (Washington, D.C.). Dan Carter offers multiple weekly classes in-person and online, creating a space for non-sexual nudity. Carter also hosts naked yoga retreats for men in Fire Island Pines, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Springs and Puerto Vallarta. “Under the guidance of Dan Carter since 2017 DC Naked Yoga is the largest and most social nude yoga group in the district,” states the website.
Malaga, Spain
The Bearded Naked Yogi (Malaga, Spain). Born in the U.K., but based in Malaga, Matt “The Bearded Naked Yogi” teaches hatha yoga online and in-person, as well as hosting retreats for men, including a week-long clothing-free sailing cruise. “Matt is passionate that the practice of yoga should not be complicated—he sees yoga as a complete practice of simplicity, honesty and self-understanding,” states the website.
West Hollywood, USA
Naked Warrior Yoga (West Hollywood, California). Yoga, meditation, breathing and sensual movement are just some of the naked sessions offered online and at their Santa Monica Boulevard location with a variety of instructors. They also host more ambitious retreats, including a five-night experience this spring in Gran Canaria, Spain.
