Healthy Hoopie Habits - Day 9: Walking Barefoot

A Childhood Memory That Still Rings True

I know this might sound a little silly, but some of my favorite memories from childhood are the long summer days I spent outside running around barefoot. My mom would call me in for dinner, sit me up on the bathroom counter, and scrub the dirt off my feet from the day. I’d be sun-kissed, tired, and happy.

Those were the best days—and honestly, not much has changed. I still love being outside, still love getting dirty, and still don’t like wearing shoes if I don’t have to. Back then, I wasn’t doing it for any reason other than it felt good. I didn’t know there was science behind it. I just knew I felt calm, connected, and grounded.

Turns out, walking around barefoot actually is a healthy habit.

From Childhood Joy to Adult Wellness

These days, we hear a lot about the concept of grounding. Some people talk about it like it’s a new wellness trend or biohack, but for a lot of us, it’s just something we’ve always done naturally. As adults, we’re often told to wear supportive shoes and protect our feet—but that constant cushioning can actually take away from the natural feedback and strength our body needs.

Personally, I don’t wear shoes in the house, ever. I train barefoot in our home gym, and if I’m working from home or hanging out with my family, I’m probably barefoot then too. I recently ordered barefoot shoes and I am sooo excited to try them!

So What Is Grounding, Really?

When you walk barefoot on natural surfaces—grass, soil, sand—you’re making direct contact with the Earth. And the Earth has a mild negative charge. Your body can absorb those electrons, which helps balance out inflammation, regulate cortisol levels, and even improve sleep quality. That’s what people are talking about when they refer to grounding.

Even Going Barefoot Inside Has Benefits

Even if you can’t get outside, going barefoot indoors has benefits, too. It helps wake up the small stabilizing muscles in your feet. It improves your posture, your balance, and even how aware you are of your movements throughout the day.

Most shoes are overly cushioned and overly structured. They keep us from using our feet the way they were designed to work. Going barefoot brings that awareness back.

Keep It Simple and Intentional

This habit doesn’t require equipment, money, or scheduling. It just takes a willingness to be a little more present. Kick off your shoes. Step outside. Walk through the grass. Stand in your driveway. Sit on the porch and let your feet touch the ground.

It’s a small, simple way to connect your body and your mind—and to slow down for a minute in the middle of a fast-paced day.