Here’s How I’m Learning to Be Naked and Not Afraid in a New Relationship After 40

Nudity and vulnerability after 40 is a mind game.

Image submitted by author. Author is featured.

Getting naked as a 40-year-old divorcee is a mind-fuck. After spending almost two decades with the same person, getting vulnerable with someone new is an even bigger learning curve.

Let me preface this article by admitting:

1. Nudity at any age can be intimidating.
2. Many people will think I’m crazy for having body image concerns, given my physical condition.
3. Both men and women suffer from body image issues.
4. Undressing my soul has proved to be the hardest hill to climb of them all.

Regarding number two, my rational brain knows I look great naked. But I know I’m not alone in my insecurities about letting someone else see my body, so I’m writing this piece to normalize what men and women go through when taking their clothes off in front of someone — especially in a new relationship.

Regarding number four, I’ve had the most growth overall by learning how to let down my guard and let someone else in. Here’s how I’ve learned to accept what it is to be naked in body and soul at 40.

Naked And Not Afraid