But, like many people, I have been recently on this entire "self-improvement" journey. Attention? It tried (and mostly slept). Green smoothie? They dominated (while secretly dreaming of pizza). sum? Stretch (and a muscle drawn, perhaps). Therefore, when I stumbled from the idea of "Earthing" or "Grounding" - basically, walking barefoot - I was suspicious. Seriously doubt. It seemed something like a hippie would write a herbal tea and write communally with the souls of nature.
But, Intressed (and slightly frustrated for a self-reforming win), I decided to give it a shot. Only 10 minutes a day. Barefoot. Outside. How hard could it be?
Tell me, friends, this ... was surprisingly great.
First impression: not as GDP as expected (most)
My first outing is considered, it was a bit strange. I chose my backyard, carefully surveyed the landscape for Dog Poo and Evil Garden equipment. The initial sensation ... was strange. The grass was used to make the soil feel cool and moist, and I knew about every small pebble. My legs, clearly used for great comfort of socks and shoes, were protesting.
But after a minute or two, some went away. I started resting. I focused on the Earth's soul under my feet, the sun on my face and the soft air. I also started enjoying it! (Well, perhaps "Anand" is a strong word for the first day. Let us say that "tolerate" with a sign of curiosity).
Daily piece (or I should say, daily ground?): What I saw
Proceed rapidly in a few weeks, and my 10-minute barefoot distance has become a non-conversion part of my routine. Rain or glow (within reason, I am not crazy!), I am out of there, joining the earth. And what have I seen here:
Low stress and anxiety (seriously!): This was the biggest surprise. I am usually a very worried person. My brain moves at a distance of 100 mph, constant deadlines, worrying about the bill, and I left the oven (I was usually not, but worry always hurts). But those 10 minutes barefoot grounding felt like a mini-racet button for my brain. I felt calm, more current, and less overwhelmed. I think it is something with focusing on the physical sensations of the ground under my feet, draws me from my head and in the present moment.
Better sleep (Halelujah!): Sleep is my slavery. I toss and turn, fight to sleep, and then feel that I have not slept at all. But after a few weeks of my barefoot routine, I started to see that I was sleeping and feeling more relaxed. Can it be grounding? Perhaps. I am not a scientist, but I am not complaining!
Better leg health (duh!): I didn't realize how compressed my feet were until I did not breathe them. Barefoot walking strengthens muscles in your feet and ankles, improves balance and flexibility. I also saw that my feet felt less tight and pain after a long day after sitting on my desk. This is like giving them a very important massage.
A fresh praise for nature (Aw, how emotional!): Ok, I know it seems strange, but it's true. I started paying more attention to the world around me. The feeling of grass, soil texture, the way light filters through trees. It was like finding the beauty of my own backyard again. I also started a small garden (which is surprisingly prosperous).
More grounded (punishment intention!): Well, I had to throw that punishment there. But seriously, I feel more connected to the earth and myself
But wait, there is more! (Science-Y Goods)
So, what is science behind all this barefoot magic? Well, grounding supporters believe that there is a negative electrical charge in the Earth, and when you walk barefoot, you allow free electrons to flow into your body.
These electrons are considered anti-inflammatory, anti-free radical and antioxidant properties.
Now, I am not a scientist, and not much research has been done on grounding. However, some research points to potential benefits, such as:
Low pain and inflammation: According to some research, grounding helps individuals with long -term diseases such as arthritis to feel less pain and inflammation.
Better heart health: Grounding can reduce blood pressure and increase heart rate variability.
Adorned immune function: According to some research, grounding can strengthen the immune system.
Of course, further studies are required to validate these benefits. However, the anecdote evidence is very strong, even though science is still developing. And hey, I will take it even if it is only a placebo effect!
Cavet and Isition (Gottatta It It Real)
Before you dig your shoes and run in the nearest park, keep some things in mind:
Start slowly: If you do not have a habit of walking barefoot, then start with a few minutes a day and slowly extend time.
Be careful: See out for sharp objects, broken glass and other dangers.
Choose your location wisely: Avoid walking barefoot in areas that are likely to be contaminated with chemicals or bacteria. Public parks are generally cured, but beware of areas where animals often occur.
Listen to your body: If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop immediately.
If you have diabetes or other medical conditions, talk to your doctor before starting a routine of walking barefoot. Especially if your feet have neuropathy or impaired circulation. You don't want to risk injury!
My barefoot journey: decisions
So, am I converted a full barefoot? Not enough. I still appreciate the comfort and safety of my shoes. But I have definitely adopted the practice of grounding as a simple and effective way to improve my overall well -being.
Each day those 10 minutes barefoot time have become a sacred ritual. To disconnect from the digital world a moment, join with nature again, and calm the fuck in my head. And honestly, this is a very powerful thing.
Ready to try it?
Here are a few tips to get you started:
Find a safe and comfortable place: Your backyard, a local park, or even a sandy beach are all great options.
Start with 5-10 minutes a day: You can gradually extend time because you are more comfortable.
Pay attention to the sensations: Pay attention to the feeling of the earth under your feet, the sun on your skin and the feeling of air in your hair.
Practice it an arbitrary practice:Use your barefoot time as an opportunity to relax, de-stress and connect with yourself.
Do not be afraid to use: Try to walk on different surfaces such as grass, soil, sand, or even rocks.
So what are you waiting for? Kick your shoes and try it! You can just be surprised how good it looks.
And if you do, tell me in the comments! I would love to hear about your barefoot experience. What did you see? Did this make a difference in your life? Let's get ground together! (Okay, I will stop with punishment now… maybe.)
