Walking Barefoot Outside in Winter Is Beneficial

Go natural

There are many health benefits to walking barefoot outdoors. When our naked feet touch the ground we receive negative ions from the earth that combat the hazards of constant exposure to electronic devices. This is referred to as Grounding or Earthing and clears our meridian channels. Walking on wet grass or earth enhances these benefits. Desert Moon Rising's website says that walking in wet grass stimulates intestinal functions, strengthens the immune system, and also works as a counter-irritant by relieving chest and throat issues as well as headaches.

If you believe that you have to refrain from walking on the earth with your bare feet then you would be very wrong. Common sense and caution naturally must be applied when it comes to temperatures below freezing but you do not have to give up this activity when the temperature drops as the seasons change. Depending on your personal preferences and overall health you can choose if you like to walk outdoors without shoes or socks even when it is cold. I have even walked in the snow, but only for a few moments at a time.

Old folks wisdom

I used to live in a house where the mailbox was at the foot of the driveway about 50 steps from the front door. During the fall and winter months, I often walked barefoot to get the mail. Sometimes on the way back to the house, I would stroll across the yard to a tree to get extra steps in before going inside. Breathing in the oxygen provided by the trees helps us breathe better and being outdoors, in general, has been shown in studies to help people live longer.

I now live in a home with a decent-sized front and backyard. When my grandchildren are around, they enjoy going outside sans socks and shoes. We often walk around the house or run barefoot playing tag. Recently the temperature was about 45 degrees and we spent close to 30 minutes having fun outside. Naturally, this is not for everyone but those who are willing to take the chance may find their health improving.

I have an 80-year-old cousin who tells me to be careful not to catch a cold because when she was younger everyone believed that being exposed to the elements caused sickness. As a child, we were told to wrap up well during the winter months so we would not get pneumonia, a cold, or the flu. Studies now reveal that Playing outdoors in winter helps us adapt to different temperatures and observe the changes in the atmosphere once spring and summer are over.

Bring out your inner child

Adults engaging in outdoor games with children, or even just walking are using the muscles in their bodies that will help keep them moving. I recently had a snow ball fight with two of my grandchildren and we went for a walk together (with boots on) in the snow and ice. I laughed as my grandchildren kept falling and the next day when we walked I fell in deep snow. I was not hurt and neither did my getting wet cause me to become sick.

Bare feet touching the ground when the temperature permits is the equivalent of foot yoga and reflexology for free. It also stretches the ligaments, tendons, muscles, calves, and ankles. As your feet walk over uneven terrain, pressure points are making contact with the ground that can improve your health. If you are not used to walking barefoot outside, there may be some initial pain. I am a witness that in time it will subside.

Be careful

I grew up running barefoot in the great outdoors with cousins and friends. During the past 10 years I have been getting used to walking outside again on various types of ground. Last week my oldest grandson was going through the front yard with a number of "ooch ooch, ouch ouches." He asked me how I walked on rocks, sticks, and dirt without hurting, I laughed as I told him my feet were 63 years old, and tough as nails from doing this all my life. Even so it's important to be careful.

If you decide to walk outside don't be discouraged if you experience initial discomfort. Should you find you are not cut out for winter walking just take it in stride as this is not for everyone. If you do decide to venture out in your bare feet during cold weather, please take precautions. Pay attention to the temperature and don't allow yourself to get frostbite.

Be careful of where you are stepping and if you have medical issues such as diabetes, please check with your healthcare provider first. I all systems are go, then go for a stroll with your naked feet this fall and winter. It will clear your mind, decrease depression and anxiety, and help you enjoy a better night's sleep. If you deal with seasonal depression this may be just what you need.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not designed to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical issues.