Have you ever watched a dog run wide open? Grace and agility come to mind. A running dog is a beautiful sight.
The connection to the earth through their paw pads may just be the thing that brings so much joy and yet allows a grounded calm state when the run for dogs is done.
Connection to the Earth
Humans are just catching on to the fact that they have lost connection with the earth. Research reveals that re-connecting with the electrons and natural frequencies on the surface of the earth can:
- Restore Normal
- Improve Energy
- Enhance Recovery
- Improve Sleep
- Relieve Muscle Tension
- Reduce Stress
- Biological Rhythms
A recent study found that the bacteria Mycobacterium accae, commonly found in soil, increased serotonin levels in the brains of mice. A lack of serotonin is thought to cause depression in humans. Researchers became interested in the bacteria after cancer patients being treated with it began unexpectedly reporting lifted moods and better quality of life. *Thats Fit
We’ve lost connection with the earth because we always wear shoes. Years of confining our feet to shoes have also affected the ability to balance, to use our toes, and in a growing number of cases caused injury from the constant flattened state of the shoes holding our feet in positions that not only are not part of our natural gait, but leave muscles unused and unable to help maintain fluid movement and strength.
Get your Feet Connected to the Earth
Barefoot running may seem a bit extreme, but getting your feet connected to the earth for even small amounts of time can change an attitude from stagnant and stuck to alive and flexible.
If you are in the habit of taking your dog out to run, or to a park or beach (or need to get in one) for exercise make a point to take your shoes off and connect with the earth while you are out. Even if you don’t have a dog, it will work for you too! You may find it gives you so much new found connection, energy and focus you’ll be barefoot running as your new favorite habit.
If you’d like to start barefoot running start slow. 3 days a week. Walk and run. Start with 10 minutes and do it for a week or even two weeks before you add time. Barefoot running with your dog more than doubles your connection with the earth since they’ve got those 4 legs!
At the very least, take some time for yourself, clear your mind and put your bare feet on the ground for even a minute to start some time this week. It will never be a habit if your don’t start somewhere.
If you need help, encouragement, and a plan, I am here.
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Jt Clough lives on the Big Island, Hawaii, and practices health, happiness and natural remedies, while working as a Habits Coach for people looking to live healthier and happier lives. She is a dog whisperer for our best friends; and studies natural dog remedies, nutrition and communication. Her latest e-book is 5K Training Guide | Running with Dogs.
