Personally, I like to think of Earth Day as an opportunity to reflect on my relationship with planet and the impact we, human beings, are creating on a daily basis – especially in developed and developing areas; which are growing exponentially every year.
As I reflect and feel somewhat powerless and “puny” as a single human being, I also like to think about taking every possible opportunity to get closer to our land and to find ways of understanding and appreciating what our planet is all about.
More and more, I realize that one of the easiest, most effective ways to get this connection and promote this understanding is to allow myself to be in direct contact with Earth by removing all barriers between the ground and my body – that is, connecting directly with my bare feet.
Ever since I started going barefoot, almost 20 years ago, I have always been amazed at the kind of feedback I get through the soles of my feet when I allow them to be in direct touch with all surfaces – both natural and man-made. And is this feedback that also allows me to develop a deeper connection and exchange with my environment; thus helping my whole body develop a better understanding of the surroundings.
I often hear from people who are opposed to going barefooted how they think it’s gross or dangerous to be in direct touch with the ground. I can’t help but feel sorry for them, as I realize how truly disconnected they are from our planet when they are so afraid of actually getting in direct contact with it through the very roots of their bodies, their feet…
So today, in celebration of our planet, I urge you to stop being afraid and to take a few minutes out of your busy day and to engage in an intimate experience with your planet. Find a patch of grass or any other natural surface near you, take off your footwear and touch the ground with your bare feet, feel it, and allow your soles to have a true dialog with Earth. You won’t regret it.
Barefoot Moe
Toronto Canada
