“Forget not that earth delights to feel your bare feet.”
-Khalil Gibran
We delight to bare our toes; whether splashing through the puddles of our childhood, soaking in the warmth of southwestern red rocks, or cooling our piggies in the pebbles of the French Riviera. Historically, we have evolved to wear minimal footwear for strong healthy feet. The human foot is inherently designed for walking on natural surfaces without the need of extensive support or cushioning. This ideal connection provides enhanced sensation, boosting proprioception for better balance and coordination.
Biomechanical studies have shown that minimalist running promotes transition to a forefoot or midfoot strike pattern, lower vertical loading rates, and increased stride frequency. While a forefoot strike may be associated with reduced impact loading and potentially less injuries, it can also increase stress on the ankle and potentially lead to overuse injuries. Minimalist footwear may improve running biomechanics, but an abrupt transition to this type of footwear may increase the risk of injury, particularly pain in the shin and calf. Barefoot running demands even more control of stability compared to shod running and requires time to adapting to the new running conditions. More research, including prospective studies, is needed to further investigate the long-term effects and benefits of barefoot or minimalist running. Ultimately, runners should carefully consider the risks and benefits and transition gradually to minimalist footwear.
Grounding with our primitive roots is important for injury prevention, enhanced running efficiency, and improved performance. Connecting with earth cultivates body awareness and provides numerous health benefits such as reduced inflammation, improved sleep, lower blood pressure and less pain. Theoretically speaking, grounding (AKA earthing) reconnects us with the natural electric charge of our planet, transferring electrons to our bodies. The electronic nutrition of Vitamin G neutralizes positively charged free radicals that damage the body, in order to function at our best and to optimize health span through barefoot bliss and grounded living.