Is a Barefoot Lifestyle Right for You?

There is something refreshing about being barefoot. It's the connection between you and Mother Earth that makes you feel grounded. Many people love to feel the sand beneath their toes or walk across the grass in a meadow. While shoes are required in some situations, there is a barefoot movement that is encouraging freedom. Are you ready to toss your shoes and adapt to a barefoot lifestyle? Here are some things you should consider.

The Benefits

It’s often said that people feel a warm and tingling sensation when they are walking barefoot. The truth is that there is a charge that comes from the ground. Did you know that there are many health benefits to going shoeless? Research shows that kicking your shoe habit can boost your immune system. It can help relieve headaches, ease muscle tension, and even improve your blood pressure. If a person is sick and needs to kick their healing properties into overdrive, a barefoot stroll may help. Some doctors believe that part of the reason why modern life is so plagued with diseases, and such is that society has disconnected from the earth. The body gets a charge of electrons when it’s in sync with nature, and could this be the reason why so many people’s immune systems are out of control? It’s an interesting concept to consider.

The Drawbacks

While there are many advantages to being barefoot, there are also a few concerns. First, you can step on something that can pierce the skin. Any bacteria in the area can enter your body through that cut. You must always be careful of your surroundings when you are without shoes because glass and sharp objects are everywhere. Outside of wounds, another reason why society wears shoes is to support their muscles and tendons. The strong support of shoes helps a baby learn to walk and balance properly. Being barefoot can cause poor foot mechanics that can lead to trouble. There could be some dangers attached to driving while barefoot. Did you know that many states forbid barefoot driving? If an officer pulled you over, you could get a ticket operating a motor vehicle with no shoes. You need traction and stability to use the gas and brake pedals. Plus, sweaty feet can easily slide off the pedals and cause an accident.

How to Get Started

If you want to adapt to the shoeless lifestyle, then you should start gradually. Start by going outside and spending 30 minutes walking around barefoot. It’s easier to walk on sand, dirt, and grass than it is on pavement or concrete. As you adapt to this new way of life, your feet will become more stable without extra support. Gradually work your way up to a wider variety of surfaces that are within your comfort zone.

There's something magnificent about being barefoot. Perhaps it's the connection to the earth, or maybe it's the fact that nothing is holding you back. Unfortunately, you can't be barefoot all the time. However, you can learn to enjoy a shoeless lifestyle whenever possible.