I have often wondered about the restrictions on the activities of nuns. One question that comes up frequently is can nuns go swimming?
After conducting research on the topic, I can confidently say that nuns are allowed to go swimming, but there are certain restrictions that vary depending on the religious order.
Most religious orders allow their nuns to go to public beaches to swim, especially on vacation.
However, some nuns do not like swimming on public beaches since they believe they should not swim close to males.
On the other hand, some cloistered nuns never swim at all, while those of other orders may choose to wear fairly modern suits, according to Sister Lorraine from Ask a Catholic Nun.
It is important to note that nuns join orders or congregations, which are usually sects within a religion.
Each order has its own set of rules and norms that dictate the behavior of its members.
Therefore, the restrictions on nuns’ activities, including swimming, may vary depending on the order.
Also Read: What Do Nuns Believe?
Swimming and the Church
As a Christian, I have been asked many times whether nuns can go swimming. The answer is not a simple yes or no.
It depends on the religious order and its rules regarding recreation and modesty.
In general, the Catholic Church does not prohibit nuns from swimming. However, there are certain guidelines that nuns must follow to ensure that they remain modest while enjoying recreational activities.
For instance, nuns usually wear one-piece swimsuits that cover their bodies from the neck to the knees. They may also wear a t-shirt or a cover-up over their swimsuits to provide additional coverage.
It’s worth noting that some religious orders are more conservative than others. For example, cloistered nuns may not swim at all, while those of other orders may choose to wear fairly modern suits.
It all depends on the specific rules of the religious order.
As a person with a master’s degree in theology, I understand the importance of adhering to the rules of the Church and the religious order.
However, I also believe that it’s important for nuns to take care of their physical health and well-being. Swimming is a great form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and reduce stress.
In conclusion, while the Church does not prohibit nuns from swimming, it’s important for nuns to follow the guidelines set forth by their religious order.
By doing so, they can enjoy recreational activities while remaining modest and adhering to the rules of their faith.
Nuns and Modesty
As a nun, I take my vows of chastity and modesty seriously. When it comes to swimming, I make sure to follow the guidelines set forth by my order.
In this section, I will discuss the clothing and swimwear options available for nuns who wish to swim.
Clothing and the Habit
As a Catholic nun, I wear a habit that covers my head, neck, and body. The habit is a symbol of my dedication to God and my order.
When it comes to swimming, some nuns choose to wear their habits, while others opt for more practical swimwear.
Modest Swimwear
Most nuns prefer to wear one-piece swimsuits while swimming. This allows them to be modest while still enjoying the water.
Some nuns also wear full-coverage bathing suits, such as the Aqua Modesta brand, which offers swimwear specifically designed for conservative and modest dresses.
Regulations for nuns’ swimwear vary depending on the order and the specific guidelines set forth by the church.
According to Sister Lorraine from Ask a Catholic Nun, some cloistered nuns may not swim at all, while others may swim in plain clothes or veiled habits.
While some nuns choose to wear their habits while swimming, most prefer to wear one-piece swimsuits or full-coverage bathing suits.
Religious Swimwear Across Cultures
As a nun, one might wonder what options are available for swimming attire.
While Catholic doctrine does not dictate which parts of the body a nun should cover when they go swimming, most nuns try to find fairly modern swimsuits for this activity.
However, their swimsuits are not too revealing since they fear being viewed as sexual objects. Nuns’ swimsuits are usually plain in color and have no flashy patterns.
Swimwear for religious women varies across cultures.
For example, Muslim women wear burkinis, which cover the entire body except for the face, hands, and feet 2.
In 2016, the burkini was banned in some parts of France, causing controversy and debate.
Mormons and Amish women also have specific swimwear requirements. Mormon women wear garments, which are a type of underwear that covers the shoulders, stomach, and knees.
Some women wear swimwear over their garments, while others wear garments that are specifically designed for swimming 3. Amish women wear swim dresses or swim sets that cover the collarbones, elbows, and knees 4.
Orthodox Jewish women follow halakhah, which is Jewish law. This law requires modesty in dress, including swimwear.
As such, many Orthodox Jewish women wear swimwear that covers the entire body except for the face, hands, and feet.
Some swimwear options include the adabkini and the mahei fatourade, which are halachic bathing suits 5.
In summary, religious swimwear varies across cultures.
Catholic nuns may wear modern swimsuits, Muslim women wear burkinis, Mormon women wear garments, Amish women wear swim dresses or swim sets, and Orthodox Jewish women follow halakhah by wearing swimwear that covers the entire body.
Muslim Swimwear
Muslim women wear burkinis, which cover the entire body except for the face, hands, and feet.
Mormon and Amish Swimwear
Mormon women wear garments, which are a type of underwear that covers the shoulders, stomach, and knees. Amish women wear swim dresses or swim sets that cover the collarbones, elbows, and knees.
Orthodox Jewish Swimwear
Orthodox Jewish women follow halakhah, which is Jewish law. This law requires modesty in dress, including swimwear. As such, many Orthodox Jewish women wear swimwear that covers the entire body except for the face, hands, and feet.
Practical Considerations for Nuns Swimming
As a former nun, I understand the practical considerations that come with swimming.
While some religious orders may have specific guidelines for nuns’ swimwear, it is important to remember that each order may have different regulations.
However, there are some general guidelines that nuns can follow when swimming.
Firstly, it is important to consider the location. If a nun is swimming in a public pool or at a beach, she may want to choose a swimsuit that covers her shoulders, upper thighs, and midriff.
Tankinis or one-piece bathing suits are often a good choice. However, if she is swimming in a private pool or lake, she may be able to wear a swimsuit that is less revealing.
Secondly, it is important to consider the nun’s formation. If a nun is in formation, she may want to choose a swimsuit that is more modest.
Lands’ End offers a variety of modest swimsuits that could be a good option.
Additionally, if a nun is observing Lent or is on a poverty vow, the cost of the swimsuit should also be taken into consideration.
Finally, it is important to consider privacy. A nun may want to choose a swimsuit that offers more coverage if she is swimming with older sisters or on a temple visit.
A Nun’s Life Ministry offers some tips for nuns who want to swim for exercise or on summer trips.
To be exactly sure if can nuns go swimming, here is a short recap:
While there may be some regulations for nuns’ swimwear, it is important to consider practical considerations such as location, formation, cost, and privacy.
By choosing a swimsuit that is modest and appropriate for the situation, nuns can enjoy swimming while still adhering to their religious beliefs.
