At present, very few people in our modern civilizations touch the earth's surface barefoot, and this undoubtedly results in a loss of our ancestral roots and energy regeneration. This reminds us of the approach of certain millennia-old philosophies and therapeutic techniques that speak of vital energy or life force, also known as Chi, Qi or Prana. Much of this energy comes from being well grounded, sitting firmly on the ground and being in direct contact with the earth. This energy and force are also used in martial arts, which, let's not forget, are practiced barefoot.

One of the real benefits of barefoot walking is on an energetic level. It allows free electrons and negative ions to energetically recharge the body, providing it with charges with high antioxidant potential. If you're reluctant to go barefoot, start by taking off your shoes for a few moments during a nature walk.

If sports shoes are the cause of some damage, so are city shoes, and even more so pointed shoes and high-heeled shoes that compress the toes and cause very poor body statics. Wearing high heels or shoes that compress the ankles leads to disturbances in overall statics from the foot itself, through the ankles, knees and spine, to the nape of the neck.

According to some data, children who have had the opportunity to walk barefoot a lot are more agile, with more toned muscles in the soles of their feet, ankles and legs. They benefit from better pedestrian and overall statics, and less deformation of the toes and soles.

Reintegrating "barefoot" into your lifestyle should be a gradual process. A good place to start is on soft grass or sand.

Bear in mind that your approach will be different and your statics may change. Try to relearn how to listen to your body and feel the energies and information coming from the earth. This exercise will not only give you physical energy and well-being, but also soothe and relax your mind.