My First WNBR Experience
In the bustling heart of London, amidst the symphony of urban life, there exists a tradition both striking and unconventional—the World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR). It is here that I, with a spirit tinged with adventure, found myself poised to embark on a journey that would challenge the norms and celebrate the human form in its most natural state. The WNBR is more than just a ride; it’s a statement, a movement that advocates for environmental consciousness, body positivity, and the sheer joy of feeling unencumbered and free.
As a first-time participant, I approached the event with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. The thought of baring it all, of joining a throng of like-minded individuals as we pedaled through the historic streets of London, was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. The city, with its rich tapestry of history and culture, was about to witness a spectacle that juxtaposed vulnerability with empowerment, the personal with the communal.
The ride was not merely a physical endeavor but an emotional and spiritual one as well. It was a declaration of personal freedom, a collective embrace of our shared humanity, and a poignant reminder of our responsibility to the planet we call home. As I stood there, on the cusp of this unique experience, I knew that the memories forged today would be indelibly etched in my mind, a testament to the day I rode through London, unshackled and bold, a part of something much greater than myself.
Amidst the throngs of participants gathered at the starting point, I found myself scanning for a spot that felt right—an intimate corner within the public mosaic where I could transition from the clothed commuter to the bare biker. The energy around me was a mix of excitement and nonchalance, as people of all walks of life prepared for the ride. I settled on a small space by a tree, its leafy branches offering a semblance of privacy in the open square.
The act of undressing in such a setting was surreal. I was acutely aware of the eyes that might glance my way, yet there was an unspoken agreement of respect and solidarity that permeated the crowd. People were careful not to stare, their gazes passing over without lingering, acknowledging the vulnerability of the moment without imposing upon it. It was an exercise in the delicate balance between being seen and not observed, a collective understanding that we were all here for the same reasons—to shed our layers, both physical and metaphorical, and to embrace the freedom of the experience.
As I removed my clothes, the fabric peeling away to reveal the skin beneath, I felt a rush of liberation mixed with a twinge of self-consciousness.
In the calm of my chosen spot, the gentle rustle of leaves above me, I began to disrobe, each layer falling away like leaves in autumn, revealing the commitment etched upon my skin. My choice to live ethically was mirrored in the very texture of my body. I was smooth, all lasered out, except for the natural frame of hair upon my head and the expressive arches of my eyebrows. This deliberate decision to remove my body hair permanently was not just for convenience or aesthetics, but a deeper alignment with my minimalist values. My skin, now perpetually smooth, was a canvas that required no further intervention, a testament to the idea of making choices that last.
This was not a renunciation of my human nature, but rather an embrace of the ability to shape our own existence. The hair on my head flowed freely, a reminder that while I made choices about my body, I still reveled in the natural beauty that we are all born into.
As I stood there, exposed to the world yet feeling no vulnerability, I was a living embodiment of my ethos. The absence of body hair underscored my commitment to a life that was both ethical and intentional. It was a choice that spoke of efficiency, reducing my daily impact on the planet in yet another small but significant way.
Around me, many participants had chosen to adorn themselves with body paint, a vibrant artistry of colours and patterns that told stories and conveyed messages. The option was there for me too—a chance to cloak my bareness in a shroud of artistry. But I chose to lay it all bare, to stand in defiance of convention, and to show that I had nothing to hide.
My skin, unmarked and unadorned, was my statement. It was the ultimate transparency, a symbol of an open heart and an open mind. In this act, I was not only embracing my own truth but also inviting others to look beyond the surface, to see that what we often conceal need not be hidden. I was challenging norms and expectations, asserting that the natural state of our bodies is not something to be ashamed of or to cover up, but to be celebrated and accepted.
This choice was my silent protest against a world that often values artifice over authenticity. It was a call to others to question what we hide and why we hide it—whether it’s our physical selves or the truths about how our actions impact the environment and the creatures with whom we share this planet. By choosing not to cover myself in paint, I was choosing to be seen fully, to engage with the world in the most honest way I knew how.
In the end, my bare skin was my armor, and my choice was my weapon—a gentle but firm declaration that I would not be swayed by the currents of conformity. I hoped that in my own vulnerability, I could inspire bravery in others—the bravery to live a life aligned with one’s values, the bravery to make decisions that honor our planet, and the bravery to stand, literally and figuratively, in the raw truth of who we are.
In the accompanying photographs from my different rides, you’ll notice that I’ve carefully positioned flowers/stars to complement the scene. This artistic choice serves a dual purpose: it allows the image to reach a wider audience, ensuring that the message of sustainability and intentional living is accessible to all, while also preserving the integrity of the platform on which it is shared. It is not a means to obscure the images, but rather a thoughtful consideration to engage viewers without compromising the community standards that govern public spaces.
If you are in need of motivation for next WNBR around practicalities and want to join my cycling group or just want to have a chat, drop me a message. We all start somewhere…
As I absorbed the liberating sensation of the breeze against my skin, I caught sight of Maya approaching. Her presence was a gentle ripple in the fabric of the moment, not an obstruction but a harmonious addition to the narrative unfolding around us. Maya, with her own locks cascading freely and her eyebrows framing keen eyes, carried the same air of intentionality that I felt within myself.
She approached with a knowing smile, her eyes briefly sweeping over me in a silent nod of solidarity. Maya had always been more than just a friend; she was a kindred spirit on this journey towards an ethical and sustainable lifestyle. Her choices often mirrored mine, and her support had been a cornerstone in my resolve to live true to my principles.
“Ready to make a statement?” she asked, her voice a soft hum amid the sounds of the gathering crowd.
I nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude for her companionship. Maya had been there when I first considered laser hair removal, understanding that it was more than vanity—it was a step towards reducing my personal consumption and waste. She had cheered me on, knowing that every action, no matter how small, contributed to the larger cause we both championed.
As we prepared to join the event, Maya by my side, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. Here we were, two friends, united not just in our bareness but in our shared vision of what the world could be. Maya’s presence was a reminder that the choices we make, from the food we eat to the clothes we wear—or don’t wear—ripple outwards, influencing others and shaping the future.
Together, we stepped into the flow of participants, a moving tapestry of conviction and courage. Our smooth skin was more than a personal preference; it was a statement, a conversation starter about the kind of world we wanted to inhabit. With Maya beside me, every pedal stroke was a testament to our friendship and to the power of collective action in the face of societal and environmental challenges.
As I joined the throng of participants, each with their own story and their own reasons for being there, I pedaled forward with a heart full of purpose, knowing that every aspect of my being, from the hair on my head to the choices under my skin, was a celebration of the ethical way of living I had embraced.
But it was quickly swept away by the cheers and words of encouragement from fellow riders. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and support, a shared bravery that made the act of undressing less about exposure and more about empowerment.
Standing there, unclothed and yet unashamed, I took a deep breath and allowed myself to fully feel the moment—the cool air on my skin, the warmth of the sun, and the collective heartbeat of the crowd. I was no longer just Lissy; I was part of a moving canvas, a celebration of human expression in one of the world’s greatest cities.
With a final glance around, I stepped away from my secluded spot, my bare feet against the pavement, and mounted my bicycle. The vulnerability of undressing had transformed into a sense of strength and purpose. As we set off, the city’s iconic landmarks beckoning us forward, I knew that this was the start of an unforgettable journey, a chapter of my life where I fully embraced the beauty of being truly present and alive.
My First WNBR Experience Navigating through the heart of London, the historical and modern landmarks serving as silent observers, I felt an overwhelming sense of unity and purpose. The streets, usually teeming with the hustle and bustle of daily life, now echoed with the whirring of bicycle wheels and the soft murmur of countless participants. Tower Bridge loomed majestically ahead, its iconic structure a symbol of endurance and strength, mirroring the resolve within each of us. “This city, with its blend of the old and the new, reflects so much of what we’re here to celebrate,” I thought, the grandeur of the surroundings amplifying the significance of our cause.
Navigating through the heart of London, the historical and modern landmarks serving as silent observers, I felt an overwhelming sense of unity and purpose. The streets, usually teeming with the hustle and bustle of daily life, now echoed with the whirring of bicycle wheels and the soft murmur of countless participants. Tower Bridge loomed majestically ahead, its iconic structure a symbol of endurance and strength, mirroring the resolve within each of us. “This city, with its blend of the old and the new, reflects so much of what we’re here to celebrate,” I thought, the grandeur of the surroundings amplifying the significance of our cause.
“Why did I choose to do this?” The question resonated within me, each pedal stroke a reaffirmation of my decision. Beside me, Maya, ever the beacon of clarity, smiled with the wisdom of a seasoned rider. “For the thrill, for the statement, and for the pure joy of breaking free from conventions, remember?”
As we cycled past the imposing facade of the Tower of London, its historical walls a testament to centuries of stories, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to the past, to the countless narratives that had unfolded within this city. The juxtaposition of riding in our most vulnerable state against the backdrop of such enduring monuments was not lost on me. “It’s like we’re weaving our own thread into the fabric of this city’s rich tapestry,” I mused, the sense of history and the present moment intermingling in a poignant symphony.
The route took us through the lush greenery of Hyde Park, a verdant escape in the heart of the metropolis. The Serpentine River glimmered softly in the fading light, its peaceful flow a gentle contrast to the energetic pulse of the ride. “Even in the midst of this bustling city, nature finds its space, reminding us of the balance we strive to achieve,” I remarked, the serene beauty of the park a soothing balm to the exhilarating intensity of our ride.
Maya’s gaze followed the gentle sway of the trees, her expression one of deep contemplation. “Sometimes,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper, “the most profound truths are found in the silent communion between our souls and the world around us.”
Our journey was more than a mere physical traversal of London’s streets; it was a voyage through layers of history, culture, and human connection. Each landmark we passed, from the majestic Houses of Parliament to the iconic silhouette of the London Eye, added depth and context to our narrative, intertwining our individual stories with the timeless saga of the city.
“The world,” I realized, “is a grand, ongoing story, and today, in this ride, we are not just participants but storytellers, contributing our own chapter to the ever-evolving narrative of this magnificent city.”
And so, the ride continued, an endless exploration of the nuanced tapestry of existence, each pedal stroke a declaration of our presence in the ever-unfolding story of life and the timeless streets of London.
As the ride progressed, the setting sun cast a soft, golden hue over London’s iconic skyline, transforming familiar landmarks into silhouettes of stories and dreams. The majestic Big Ben stood sentinel, its chimes echoing through the streets, a reminder of the city’s enduring pulse. “Every tick of the clock,” I thought, “marks not just the passage of time, but the unfolding of countless lives and stories, each intertwined with the heart of this historic city.”
“Why did I choose to do this?” The question was a gentle murmur in my mind, each rotation of my wheels a testament to the choice I’d made. Maya, riding gracefully beside me, seemed to sense my introspection. “For the thrill, for the statement, and for the pure joy of embracing our truest selves amidst the tapestry of this grand city, remember?”
Our path led us along the South Bank of the Thames, the river reflecting the twilight sky, a ribbon of light amidst the shadowed contours of the city. The London Eye, a modern marvel, offered a panoramic embrace of the cityscape. “In this moment,” I mused, “we’re part of a living panorama, a moving portrait etched against the canvas of London.”
The beauty of St. James’s Park beckoned us with its lush tranquility, a natural haven where the urban and the natural coalesce in harmonious existence. The gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze, the soft murmur of conversation among fellow riders, and the distant hum of the city created a symphony of sensations. “This park, with its timeless grace, reminds us of the layers of existence, the delicate balance between the bustle of life and the serenity of nature,” I remarked, each breath a deeper connection to the world around us.
Maya’s presence was a quiet strength, her insights weaving through my thoughts like the threads of a rich tapestry. “In the heart of this city,” she reflected, “amidst the grandeur of its landmarks and the whisper of its parks, we find a reflection of our own journey, a mirror of the resilience and beauty of the human spirit.”
Our ride was more than a mere traversal of streets and landmarks; it was a pilgrimage through the essence of life, a journey through the heart of a city that stands as a testament to history, resilience, and the ever-evolving narrative of humanity.
“The world,” I realized, “is a grand stage, and in this ride, we are both audience and performers, our stories interlacing with the age-old narrative of this illustrious city.”
And so, the ride carried on, an unending exploration of the rich tapestry of existence, each pedal stroke a verse in the epic poem of life, each breath a testament to the enduring spirit of London and its inhabitants.
“What new revelations await us in the embrace of this city’s historic embrace?” I pondered, my heart open to the endless chapters of life’s grand, unfolding story in the heart of London.
As the twilight deepened, casting a serene glow over the city, London’s streets seemed to whisper tales of the ages. The gentle hum of our cycling mingled with the rhythmic heartbeat of the city, creating a symphony of movement and stillness. The illuminated façade of the British Museum appeared ahead, its storied walls holding the whispers of civilizations long past. “Every artifact within,” I thought, “is a testament to the human journey, a fragment of our collective narrative.”
“Why did I choose to do this?” The question had become a part of my cadence, each pedal stroke a rhythmic affirmation of my presence in this moment, in this city. Maya’s silhouette, steady and reassuring beside me, was a constant in the fluid tapestry of the ride. “For the thrill, for the statement, and for the profound connection we share with each other and with the heartbeat of this city, remember?”
Our route veered towards Covent Garden, its cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere a stark contrast to the quiet grandeur of the museum. The lively chatter of evening revelers, the rich aroma of street food, and the eclectic melodies from street performers enveloped us, a tapestry of life in its most vivid form. “Here,” I mused, “in the midst of this bustling microcosm, we find the essence of London – diverse, vibrant, and unapologetically alive.”
The verdant expanse of Regent’s Park offered a respite, its sprawling gardens and tranquil lakes a world away from the urban vibrancy of Covent Garden. The delicate fragrance of blooming flowers, the soft whisper of the wind through the trees, and the distant laughter of fellow park-goers spoke of the timeless dance between nature and the human spirit. “In this peaceful haven,” I reflected, “we find a harmony that echoes the deepest chords of our existence.”
Maya’s voice, soft yet clear, broke the comfortable silence between us. “In this city of contrasts, of history and modernity, of bustle and tranquility, we discover not just the pulse of London, but the reflection of our own journey – complex, multifaceted, and beautifully real.”
Our ride was not just a journey through the streets of London; it was an odyssey through the layers of human experience, a voyage that intertwined our individual narratives with the rich tapestry of a city that has stood witness to the ebb and flow of time.
“The world,” I realized, “is a mosaic of countless stories, and tonight, in the heart of this historic city, we weave our own thread, adding our chapter to the ever-evolving story of London.”
And so, the ride carried on, an eternal journey through the myriad hues of existence, each pedal stroke a note in the symphony of life, each breath a testament to the indomitable spirit that courses through the streets of London and the souls of its people.
As the last hues of twilight faded into the night sky, the vibrant energy of the World Naked Bike Ride slowly began to settle. The streets of London, once a live canvas of human expression and unity, gradually returned to their nightly routine. It was time to conclude this extraordinary journey, to transition from the shared exhilaration of the ride back into the individual narratives of everyday life.
I found a quiet spot near the Thames, the gentle flow of the river a soothing backdrop. With care, I dressed, each piece of clothing feeling strangely new and familiar at the same time. The fabric against my skin was a gentle reminder of the ordinary world, a soft transition from the raw vulnerability of the ride back to the conventional norms of society.
Maya and I exchanged a knowing look, a silent acknowledgment of the profound journey we’d shared. “This experience,” I said, my voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and contentment, “it’s something that will stay with me forever. It’s not just about the ride; it’s about what we’ve discovered about ourselves, about each other, and about life.”
With a nod of agreement and a warm smile, Maya replied, “It’s the stories we’ve woven into the fabric of this city and the memories we’ve created that make this ride truly unforgettable. It’s a reminder of our shared humanity, our strength, and our capacity for joy and connection.”
We made our way to the nearest tube station, the familiar sounds and sights of London wrapping around us like a well-worn cloak. As the train whisked us away from the city center, I gazed out of the window, watching the city lights blur into a kaleidoscope of color and motion.
The journey back to Witney in Oxford was a time for reflection, a quiet space to let the myriad impressions and emotions of the night settle and find their place in my heart. The rolling hills and peaceful countryside of Oxfordshire seemed a world away from the vibrant pulse of London, yet I carried a piece of the city with me – the courage, the joy, and the profound sense of connection I’d experienced on this remarkable ride.
As the train pulled into the station, the adventure of the World Naked Bike Ride became a cherished memory, a chapter in my life story that spoke of bravery, of freedom, and of the beautiful tapestry of human experience. And though the ride had come to an end, the journey of life, with its endless possibilities and stories, continued on.
If you’ve never experienced the profound liberation of baring it all, of joining a sea of people who are as vulnerable and authentic as the day they were born, I implore you to consider it. I’ve had the privilege of embracing this raw freedom not once, but twice in my lifetime, and each time, it has been a revelation—a journey into the depths of self-awareness and communal connection.
Imagine standing there, with nothing but the sky above and the earth below, your skin breathing every sensation more intensely. It’s a powerful act, one that strips away more than just clothes; it peels back the layers of pretense and societal expectation, revealing the core of who you are. It’s a moment where you stand, alongside friends and strangers alike, and share in an experience that transcends the everyday.
I remember my first time, the nervous flutters in my stomach, the second-guessing. But then there was the moment when I committed, when the fabric fell away, and I was left with nothing but myself. And it was enough. More than enough, it was empowering. By the time I did it again, alongside my dear friend Maya, it felt like coming home—a home where acceptance is the foundation and freedom is the roof over your head.
So, to you reading this, why not try it just once? Step out of your comfort zone and into a space where you can be your most authentic self. It’s not about exhibitionism or shock value; it’s about connection—to your own body, to a community, to a cause that calls for a gentler, kinder way of living on this earth.
It doesn’t have to be a grand event; it could be as simple as a skinny dip in a secluded lake or a moment in your own backyard under the stars. What matters is the intention behind it, the willingness to confront your own vulnerabilities and, in doing so, discover a strength you might not have known you possessed.
Join me, even if it’s just this once. You might find that in the act of baring your skin, you’ll also shed some burdens you didn’t realize you were carrying. And perhaps, in this shared vulnerability, we’ll find a collective courage to face the world, not as it is, but as we know it can be—more compassionate, more sustainable, more in tune with the intrinsic value of every living being.