The term Gymnophobia does not refer to a fear of the gymnasium, as the name could imply. Although you may find gymnophobes avoiding the gym for reasons which will shortly become apparent. It is actually an irrational fear of nudity – from being nude oneself to encountering other people in the buff.
Chappie has heard some men who don’t like their private parts being examined by a doctor describe themselves of gymnophobes. In all likelihood, they are not. Here’s a brief account of why that’s the case, and also why it’s OK to be nervous before showing yourself to a stranger.
Why am I afraid of being naked? Do I have Gymnophobia?
While some people really do have Gymnophobia, we shouldn’t confuse a phobia – an irrational fear or anxiety – with a perfectly natural reaction to an uncomfortable situation. Humans are social animals, which means our responses to certain ideas or behaviours are influenced by society’s attitudes. While we’d all like to live in a world where everybody is perfectly comfortable in their own skin, that’s sadly not the case. So it’s not irrational to be nervous before taking our clothes off in front of strangers, even medical professionals.
There are many ways of overcoming natural shyness – from mental approaches to breathing exercises.
Getting over it
For Chappie, the best way of crossing the barrier is to tell himself there is nothing of which he should be ashamed. He is, after all, as God intended. Other people concentrate on breathing slowly to reduce anxiety before disrobing, or have other stress-relief mechanisms, while others don’t mind letting it all hang out. Imagining the doctor naked is another way people often overcome their embarrassment. It depends what works for you…
One thing to remember before you go in for an intimate examination is that no doctor will get you bollock naked without providing a gown or some coverage. And frankly, they have seen it all. And I mean ALL. They’ll check your chap then have their lunch and talk about the weather. They should have their heads checked, I know. But it’s how they roll. So while your problem may seem embarrassing to you, for them it’s just another body out of thousands they will see in their careers.
However you deal with it, just remember that it’s perfectly OK to be nervous – just as it’s fine to be naked.