The relationship between the body and nature is an essential chapter in the studies on corporeality and body ecology, one that articulates ethical, social and educational issues. Based on French and Brazilian references, this paper presents a reflection on the body and naturalism, highlighting aspects of body ethics, hygiene, leisure, nudity and modesty. Here, in the theoretical context of the geography of sports, we present naturism and the practice of naked surfing on Tambaba Beach in João Pessoa, Paraiba, Brazil. ‘Body Ecology is a practice of self-care that is responsible for the care of others through lifestyle choices’ (Andrieu, 2011, p. 12). This is not a return to an ideal state of nature, but an observation on our lifestyles, our ways of producing and consuming. From this perspective, the material elements of air, water, sun and earth penetrate our bodies, such that we become ecological at the very moment we breathe or feel the warmth or depth of water, for example, in naturist or artistic pursuits.