We all know that getting out in nature is good for the soul, but did you know it’s good for your soles too?! Walking barefoot, also known as “earthing” or “grounding” has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the many benefits it provides for both the body and mind. You’ll have to skip the sidewalks in favor of soil and grass if you want to use those buzzwords though, otherwise, it’s just plain old walking without shoes on.
The concept of Earthing has been around for thousands of years, but it only became popularized in recent years thanks to an electrical engineer called Clin Ober who took an interest in it after suffering from health issues. In the years since, there are been an growing body of research in this area that has uncovered the numerous benefits of kicking off your shoes and getting out into the grass
The concept of Earthing has been around for thousands of years, but it only became popularized in recent years thanks to an electrical engineer called Clin Ober who took an interest in it after suffering from health issues. In the years since, there are been an growing body of research in this area that has uncovered the numerous benefits of kicking off your shoes and getting out into the grass
So what can you expect when you dip your toes into the world of barefoot walking?
Reduce Pain and Inflammation
Having direct skin contact with the earth has been shown to produce significant differences in cytokines. These small proteins help to control the inflammatory process which can also help to relieve pain associated with inflammation. Research has shown that this is due to absorbing free electrons from the earth through your feet!
Improve Heart Health
We all know that walking is good for heart health, but earthing takes it to another level entirely. Many studies have demonstrated the link between walking barefoot and improved cardiovascular health. One major research revelation was a decrease in blood viscosity levels which can lower hypertension.
Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Most people know about cortisol, the big bad stress hormone that you really don’t want to spike up 24/7. The good news is that walking barefoot has been shown to decrease your levels of cortisol to reduce irritability and anxiety.
Strengthen Your Feet
It’s no surprise that walking barefoot strengthens the muscles and tendons in your feet! And of course your ankles and calves too. It can also help to strengthen the arch if you suffer from flat free, and prevent painful issues like plantar fasciitis.
Improve Sleep
Help Regulate the Nervous System
Earthing is also shown to regulate the nervous system by activating the vagus nerve. This nerve extends from the brain to the colon and plays an essential role in your immune system, heart, lung, and digestive functioning.
Ready to Bare Your Sole?!
You can’t really go wrong getting started with barefoot walking, just take your shoes off and go! You won’t need to walk miles a day either. Experts say that an easy 15 minute walk a day will do the trick!
What do you think? Will you be giving it a try? Leave a comment below and let us know if barefoot walking sounds like something you want to try!
What do you think? Will you be giving it a try? Leave a comment below and let us know if barefoot walking sounds like something you want to try!