Barefoot Walking

The universal anti-inflammatory remedy for everyone, barefoot walking is a great and fun way to boost the mood and health of all the family. By Becky Duncan

Reading time: 3 minutes

Reconnecting with the Earth's rhythms

Walking barefoot* is an often overlooked but profoundly enriching experience. It’s not just about the fun and joy of stepping into squishy mud or feeling the different temperatures of the ground beneath your feet. It’s a practice that can bring us closer to the natural world and offer numerous health benefits.

The science of grounding

Grounding, also known as earthing, is the practice of making direct physical contact with the earth’s surface and therefore the natural electric charge of the earth (electrons). This can be as simple as walking barefoot on grass, sand or soil. One of the fascinating aspects of grounding is its connection to the Earth's natural electrical charge.

At the heart of this concept is the Schumann resonance, the natural electromagnetic frequency of the Earth. Often referred to as the ‘heartbeat of the earth’, and electromagnetic ‘vibration’, the Schumann resonance is an ultra-low frequency (7.83 Hz) in the atmosphere as well as a humming of the energetic surface of the earth.

These vibrations have a calming effect on our bodies.

An article found in Bomedical Journal states: The Schumann resonances are not uniform but vary from moment to moment in a rhythm that affects the motion of the electrons in the surface of the earth. Thus the earth’s ground is electronically active and dynamic.

This electron-rich emission is thought to serve as a powerhouse of antioxidants, neutralising free radicals in the body.

Health benefits supported by science

Recent studies published in Biomedical Journal by Dr Stephen Sinatra called ‘Grounding – The Universal Anti-Inflammatory Remedy’ highlighted several health benefits associated with grounding. They include:

Reduced inflammation: Grounding has been shown to decrease inflammation in the body, which is a root cause of many chronic diseases.
Decreased chronic stress: Direct contact with the Earth's surface can help reduce chronic stress levels by balancing the body’s stress hormones.
Pain reduction: Many individuals report significant pain relief when regularly engaging in grounding practices.
Improved heart rate variability (HRV): HRV is an indicator of the autonomic nervous system's health and adaptability. Grounding has been found to have a positive impact on HRV, promoting better overall cardiovascular health.

As humans, we are vastly composed of space and vibrations. Our bodies function through a complex network of electrical signals, and reconnecting with the Earth's natural charge can help realign these signals, promoting overall health and wellbeing.

Feeling alive and connected

On a personal level, walking barefoot is so much fun and can be a deeply invigorating experience. My feet are left feeling alive and tingly, like they’ve been dipped in a minty, fizzy drink! This feeling of aliveness is not just physical; it resonates deeply with our sense of being.

There’s something so magical about being submerged in nature ‘fully’ down to earth in every sense, connecting to the soil, grass, slugs and all. It’s a simple yet profound way to enhance our health, reduce stress and feel more connected to the world around us.

So, kick off your shoes, step outside, and let the Earth rejuvenate your body and soul.

Becky Duncan is a yoga teacher and breath coach at Chanting Stork Yoga (chantingstorkyoga.com). Connect on Instagram @chantingstorkyoga

*commission earned from this link.