Health Benefits of Walking Barefoot
As a massage therapist, I often emphasize the importance of connecting with the natural world to support holistic health. A common question I get from some clients is: Is walking barefoot good or bad for your body? After doing plenty of research, I have learned that, surprisingly, there are many health benefits to going barefoot that folks may not know about, such as:
Improved foot strength and flexibility
Pain reduction
Reduced inflammation
Improved posture
Better sleep
Stress reduction and mental well-being
Why Should You Walk Barefoot?
According to the Journal of Environmental and Public Health, some of the health advantages of going barefoot include increased antioxidants, reduced inflammation, increased circulation and improved sleep. When you are walking barefoot, also known as "grounding" or "earthing", you are drawing negatively charged electrons from the earth which studies show can improve your health. It can help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
You also develop muscle strength in your feet, legs and hips, according to experts. You will strengthen your calf muscles as well as improve your walking and running form. Walking barefoot can also help with flat feet. It strengthens the intrinsic muscles of the feet, which can help individuals with flat feet or fallen arches by promoting natural arch development over time.
How to Walk Barefoot Outdoors
By walking barefoot, you will have better posture by elongating your body and strengthening your spine. It can bring you Peace of Mind." When you're fully barefoot, you're awarefoot – studying the ground and your surroundings for everything. Until your skin grows strong (about 2-3 weeks), you're hyper-vigilant, looking at the ground for any sign of danger.
Going barefoot means that from this step forward, you are now one with the terrain, not just a spectator. Focusing on your steps rather than your problems helps empty the mind and put you at ease. Consider it forced quieting of the mind (which all of us could use). This gives you a great sense of peace or mindfulness, as you're now focused purely on the run (or walk), not on the troubles you've left behind."
Is it Safe To Walk Barefoot?
There are also, of course, hazards to going barefoot, like stepping on a sharp object, injuring the skin (blisters), picking up bacteria, a fungal infection, or contracting hookworms (parasites found in animal feces). Another concern is the lack of support offered by going barefoot and the damage it may have on your body. You could have Achilles tendonitis or calf strain from muscles being overworked.
When Walking Barefoot, Start Slow
Overall, walking barefoot can be a valuable aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Throughout history, humans mostly walked barefoot or with shoes made of animal skin. While barefoot walking has many potential benefits, it is important to start gradually, especially for people not used to it.
Transitioning too quickly can lead to foot pain or injury. When going barefoot, it is probably best to start with a soft surface like grass, dirt or sand. Allow your muscles and joints to become more stable and the skin on the bottom of your feet to thicken before walking on hard cement or asphalt.
Where should you walk barefoot?
In Jacksonville and St. Augustine, there is no shortage of places to enjoy walking barefoot. We have plenty of beaches, parks, and other natural areas. The soft, sandy beaches provide a natural foot massage as your feet sink into the sand, stimulating pressure points that help relieve stress and tension, much like reflexology. The beach also offers grounding, where the natural exchange of electrons with the earth can reduce inflammation and improve mood.
In Jacksonville's parks, walking barefoot on grass allows for the same grounding effect while giving your feet a break from shoes, improving flexibility and circulation. The warm, subtropical climate makes outdoor barefoot walking enjoyable year-round, and the natural beauty of the surroundings—whether along the ocean at Jacksonville Beach or in the peaceful greenery of parks like Hanna Park—makes it a soothing experience for both body and mind.
Ready to give your feet a rest?
Reflexology can also improve circulation and help rejuvenate your feet. Book a reflexology session with Sole Therapy today.