The Liberating Feel of Bare Feet

Why Western Shoe Culture Confuses Me

There’s something oddly satisfying about feeling the cool, smooth tiles under your bare feet after a long day.

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You know what I’m talking about. Those quiet moments when wearing shoes feels like too much work, and you just want that direct connection to the earth (or tile).

Or the primal urge to feel the yielding embrace of sand between your toes when you go to the beach.

It’s grounding, It’s soothing. It’s natural.

Living in the city, the constant encasement of feet feels… unnatural. Yet somehow, we’ve developed a culture that treats shoes like a second skin, worn from sunrise to sundown, indoors and out, rain or shine.

I don’t get it. And honestly? I think it’s time we started talking about the downsides of our shoe obsession.

The Case for Going Barefoot (At Least Sometimes)

I watch, bemused, as Western media portrays the dreaded “stinky feet” — a rarity in my experience. Perhaps it’s due to our ingrained habit of switching into breathable slippers or going barefoot at the first opportunity. Afterall, sneakers are for purpose, not permanent fixtures.

Sure, shoes have their place. They protect our feet from burns, bruises, and rough terrain. They…