Long-Term Effects of Going Barefoot

Between Western thought and Eastern though, there is a constant debate over whether going barefoot is good for a person's feet. People in the West who are are accustomed to wearing shoes claim that it puts a person's feet at risk for infection and injuries such as cuts and bruises. On the other hand, people in the East are more comfortable walking barefoot and say there are many positive benefits in doing so. Even though a negative stigma is attached to going barefoot, there are plenty of benefits that can make a strong case in favor of this practice.

  1. General Foot Health

    • A new Harvard study has shown many advantages to walking barefoot. People who begin walking barefoot in childhood have less trouble with their feet than those who keep their feet constantly covered. These children tend to have fewer occurrences of foot deformities, greater agility and better flexibility. All of these factors contribute to a greater ability to stay on one's feet. When walking barefoot, a person's toes and other foot muscles are forced to become stronger and contribute to the overall condition of the feet.

    Circulatory Benefits

    • When a person walks barefoot, it greater stimulates the micro leg muscles to pump blood back to the heart. In doing this, the person decreases the likelihood of developing varicose veins. Additionally, a person who chooses to walk barefoot will turn their feet into a natural cooling system by absorbing heat through the soles of the feet. When the feet are covered, heat is trapped, which makes the body feel warmer. It is better for the body to allow its natural cooling system to function as originally designed.

    Emotional Benefits

    • Walking barefoot in the park, a garden or simply in the backyard can help a person feel closer to nature. This has a calming emotional effect by increasing energy levels, relaxing the mind and refocus attention to less stressful areas. In Oriental exercises such as martial arts, tai-chi and yoga, it is believed that practicing these arts barefoot allows the person to absorb Chi, the life force. By increasing the amount of Chi absorbed into the body, a person can think more clearly and is able to work more efficiently.

    Physical Comfort

    • Contrary to what the shoe industry preaches to consumers, a perfectly designed pair of shoes is not a substitute for going barefoot. The stiffness of shoes can cause unnecessary aches and pains, which can adversely affect a person's overall health. When a person makes the decision to go barefoot, whether just in their home or in public, they are making the choice to be comfortable, natural and conscious of their overall health. Feet are not just what we walk on; they serve multiple functions to keep a person healthy and in tune with their inner energy. Despite the benefits of going barefoot, certain people require the arch and support of a shoe. Shoes also protect the wearers from stepping on hazardous debris.