Walking barefoot, also known as “earthing”, in the elements and environment and being familiar with nature was natural to our ancient ancestors. Walking barefoot on the earth was and still is one of the most primal instincts for mankind.
Going barefoot is a practice that has a number of remarkable health advantages. Such as increasing antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep. This is supported in a number of scientifically-researched studies.
Earthing
The term Earthing means walking with bare feet on any natural surface (soil, grass or sand). Studies are showing that the health benefits come from the relationship between our bodies and the electrons in the earth, which has its own natural charge. We seem to do better when we are in direct contact with it – or ‘grounded‘.
A light, natural stride in the body returns when walking or running with bare feet. Muscles (made dormant by our shoes) improve our balance system, reawaken nerve endings, and reflexology points on the bottom of our feet are stimulated.
Barefoot walking becomes more than just exercise. It becomes a form of healing, through releasing stress and replacing it with wellbeing on every level.
Watch this full length
documentary film about “Earthing” (aka Grounding).
It’s interesting to see that shift in perspective, isn’t it? The way people are increasingly looking to get back to nature feels like a response to the overwhelming pace and demands of modern life. I’ve been noticing it in myself, too—it’s almost like a natural instinct kicking in. Spending time outdoors has become a way to recharge, whether it’s taking a hike, gardening, or just sitting quietly in a park.
It really is fascinating how that instinct seems to emerge more strongly in so many of us. The busyness of modern life can easily drown out that connection to nature, but when we step outside, it feels like we’re tapping into something primal. I’ve had similar experiences myself—whether it’s the simple joy of watching the leaves change color or the surprising calm that comes from digging my hands into the soil while gardening.
It’s interesting how that instinct does seem to emerge more strongly in so many of us. I often find that when I take the time to step outside, it feels like a reminder of what’s essential, a sort of reset. There’s something deeply calming in those moments, like tapping into a shared human experience that’s been around long before our current pace of life.
You hit the nail on the head about stepping outside. It’s like a “reset button” we didn’t even know we had. I mean, sitting with your thoughts in nature is a bit like recharging your phone instead of frantically searching for a charger at 2% battery life. The fresh air does wonders, and suddenly those racing thoughts feel more like a gentle stream rather than a rushing river.