It’s that time of year again…when I’m kicking off my shoes and adjusting barefoot as much as possible! Many health experts agree that bare is the healthiest state for your feet to be in, because most shoes have no relation at all to the natural shape of the human foot.
What are the benefits of being barefoot?
– natural shaped feet, including straighter toes free of corns, hammer toes, bunions and callouses in the wrong places
– well shaped legs resulting from a natural and balanced gait.
– a more natural gait, free of weight brought on by shoes
– prevention of blisters, ingrown toenails, and plantar warts
– better posture & spinal health!
It’s also been argued that most adult foot trouble would not exist if properly shaped shoes, or better yet, no shoes at all had been used during childhood.
Children who are encouraged to walk barefoot typically have:
– fewer instances of deformed toes
– greater foot flexibility
– greater ability to spread the toes
– denser muscles on the bottom of the feet
– greater agility than those who had never gone barefoot
– better hip rotation and more flexibility of leg muscles
– greater balance
– better posture, spinal balance and overall nerve system function
Less Stress & Improved Brain Function
People who are barefoot tend to be less stressed and authoritative, leading to a more relaxed environment at both home and work. Many cultures believe that the positive energy of the earth, known as chi/prana, is absorbed through the soles of the feet. When you are walking barefoot your body is absorbing this positive energy, allowing you to think more clearly.
In addition, there is also evidence that the natural motion of being barefoot positively affects brain function!
Other than the spine, the foot is the region of the body which contains the most proprioceptive sensory receptors. These are the distinctive nerve circuits that help your brain know where your body is in relation to the space around you. The natural unrestricted movement of the feet stimulates all these receptors, and is vital for overall neurological health!
So don’t be alarmed if you see me walking around barefoot. I love shoes, but barefoot is best!