Walking barefoot is one of those things we've always heard: "don't do it," "you'll get cold," "it's not good for your health."
But in fact, studies suggest the opposite. In safe places, walking barefoot can have some benefits for the body.
Walking barefoot is often associated with the concept of grounding , the idea that when you touch the ground directly (barefoot on grass, sand, sea), the body connects to the electrical charges of the earth and this is supposed to have positive effects on health (such as reducing inflammation, improving sleep, etc.).
Finally, Dalina Buzi said that she practices grounding , describing it as a fantastic and necessary activity for daily well-being. According to her, contact with nature has an extraordinary impact that is felt immediately.
However, beyond this theory, the physical benefits of walking barefoot have been accepted by science and are related to the way the body moves and functions.
1. It positively affects blood circulation
One of the benefits is improved blood circulation. According to studies, walking barefoot can help reduce blood viscosity, which is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular problems (blood viscosity is the thickness and stickiness of blood, which directly affects the ease of flow through blood vessels and cardiovascular health.)
2. Increase exposure to natural light
When you walk barefoot, you are often more likely to be outdoors. This helps absorb vitamin D from the sun, which is essential for bones and the immune system.
3. Improves posture
Walking barefoot allows the body to move more naturally. Shoes often restrict movement and affect the way the body's weight is distributed, while without them, posture becomes more balanced and upright.
4. It affects concentration and memory
Some studies suggest that walking or running barefoot can positively affect cognitive functions. When you walk barefoot, you are more careful with your steps, which activates the brain more and improves concentration.
5. It can relieve back pain
Uncomfortable shoes often cause tension and back pain. Walking barefoot helps strengthen leg muscles and improves posture, reducing pressure on the spine.
6. It is important for children
For children, walking barefoot has an even more important role, because it helps in the natural development of the foot, in strengthening the muscles and in improving balance. Also, direct contact with different surfaces (such as soil, grass or sand) stimulates the nervous system. This helps children have better coordination and a stronger foundation for movement in the future.
So, it's not about giving up shoes, but about understanding that our bodies are built to move naturally and in some cases, going back to the most basic things (like walking barefoot) can have more benefits than we thought.
