Barefoot champion Zola Budd Pieterse won the world cross-country championships twice. The science behind the barefoot strategy among competing athletes was a simple one; going nude encouraged natural muscle strength which in turn increased speed and agility. For those of us whose only ambitious run might be for a bus, it's hard to even comprehend finishing a marathon minus our footie fashion statements. Still, there's many benefits to be gained by shedding our socks and shoes; here's three reasons why.
Restoring balance
Realistically speaking, most of us can't run about needlessly without some kind of protective footwear. Our roads are strewn with broken glass and metal not to mention germs. However, modern textiles like rubber and plastic commonly found in everyday footwear, serve as electrical padding. These materials block the natural flow of electrons from the earth to our bodies.
When our feet connect directly with the earth's soil, we feel naturally grounded. Our bodies benefit from electromagnetic fields which in turn restores overall physiological and psychological balance. There is also compelling research that shows how going barefoot can level out blood viscosity and steady irregular heart rates. Well-seasoned yoga enthusiasts who practice balance poses like the 'tree' and the 'half-moon' always do so barefoot because they know the healing properties that can be gained from realigning the bodies relationship with planet earth's primary surface.
How shoes can damage our feet
Shoe addicts who just can't resist buying ill-fitting cowboy boots or another pair of killer heels, often don't realize the permanent damage and disfiguration they are inflicting on their feet. Recent studies show that the tough skin found on the soles of our feet is naturally resistant to cuts and blistering. Going barefoot immediately benefits bone structure.
It can also help prevent bunions and corns because shoes generally restrict fluidity which impairs circulation. Arches can collapse and the foot slips into lethargy; a forgetful state where it doesn't recall how to self-heal. Likewise, our heels take a lot of abuse when forced into an upward position. It alters the way we walk. When we're forced to lean on the balls of our feet, we put pressure on small bones which makes us more prone to injuries and accidents. While we may covet our latest Manolo Blahnik or Christian Louboutin fashion statements, it's wise to remove them when we are relaxing at home. Feet need room to kick back and relax too.
Poise and posture
Due to decades of forced fashions, our feet have been pinched and squeezed into submission. We’ve all learned to adapt to walking in footwear that's not designed for the foot. Extreme triangular points and abnormally high arches cause a pronounced pelvic-tilt. This propels the body to jut forwards which causes bad posture and poise. In order to stay upstanding, we’re forced to bend forward at the waist, and this stance puts a huge strain on our hamstrings and lower back.
It also puts a great deal of stress on our shoulders, upper back and even the neck area. Our legs also get a rough deal from all the extra force and pressure they have to bear. Our hips, knees and feet all come in for punishment. Removing our shoes can immediately correct poorly aligned deportment. Once our feet touch the ground, the nerve endings on the bottom begin to send warning signals to problem areas that need to readjusted. Walking barefoot at home, or even on a beach, can straighten us up, giving us extra height as well as an elegant and attractive carriage.
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