For millennia, humans walked barefoot on the earth, their feet attuned to the whispers of the ground. But in the rush of modern life, shoes have become a ubiquitous barrier, separating us from the natural world and its potential benefits for mental well-being. Not to mention the growing fear-mongering and overarching discourse of ‘cleanliness’, the dominant narrative to disinfect everything and the fear and aversion to ‘dirt’ prevents many of us with actively engaging with the natural world. However, a growing body of research suggests that stepping off the pavement and onto the soft embrace of grass might be a powerful tool for fostering mental health. This essay explores the potential of walking on grass, delving into its physiological, psychological, and spiritual dimensions, and examining the research that supports its positive impact.

Sensory Stimulation and Earthing:
Walking barefoot on grass engages our senses in a unique way. The cool, textured surface sends a stream of information to the brain, promoting mindfulness and grounding the mind in the present moment. This draws our attention to the connection to the environment, the awareness of the spiky grass, the prickle of soil, the discomfort of a stone. All are delicious invitations to pulling us to look, feel and interact with creation. This sensory experience can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with anxiety or racing thoughts, as it provides a gentle distraction and encourages focus on the physical sensations and the here-and-now of our surroundings.

Furthermore, the practice of “earthing,” or directly connecting with the earth’s electrical field by walking barefoot on grass, has gained traction in recent years. Studies suggest that earthing can reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality, and decrease stress levels. While the exact mechanisms are still being explored, some researchers posit that earthing transfers free electrons from the earth to the body, neutralizing harmful positive ions and promoting a calming effect.

Stress Reduction and Endorphin Boost:
The act of walking itself is well-established as a stress reliever, and walking on grass appears to amplify this effect. Studies have shown that walking barefoot on grass can significantly reduce cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone, and increase the production of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. This potent combination promotes relaxation, improves mood, and contributes to a sense of overall well-being. Nature Connection and Mindfulness: balancing brain chemistry Walking barefoot on grass is not simply a physical activity; it is an invitation to deeply connect with nature, the magnificence of creation and all the beauty therein. Immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world can evoke feelings of peace and tranquillity. This connection is particularly crucial in today’s technology-driven society, where digital distractions often dominate our attention. By stepping into nature, we reconnect with a sense of awe and wonder, fostering a more mindful and present state of being. When we have AWE stimulated within us, we trigger the production of the miraculous Oxytocin in our brains! The power of oxytocin can settle the alarm/stress centre of the brain and allows the prefrontal cortex to be reactivated – the centre of the brain which allows us to think logically, critically and make decisions.

Research Evidence:
Several studies have explored the impact of walking barefoot on grass on mental wellbeing. A 2012 study published in the journal “Environmental Science & Technology” found that walking barefoot on grass significantly reduced stress and anxiety in participants compared to walking on pavement. Additionally, a 2019 study published in the journal “Frontiers in Psychology” reported that earthing improved sleep quality and reduced pain in participants with chronic pain.

While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, these studies provide promising evidence for the mental health benefits of walking barefoot on grass.

Beyond the Research:
The benefits of walking on grass extend beyond the realm of scientific studies. Anecdotal evidence from individuals who have incorporated this practice into their lives speaks volumes about its transformative power. Many report experiencing a sense of calmness, improved mood, and a deeper connection to nature. This lived experience, coupled with the emerging research, paints a compelling picture of the potential for walking barefoot on grass to enhance mental well-being. As a therapist I often ‘prescribe’ 15 minutes of barefoot walking and or grounding every day. On days that I feel rushed and pressurised to meet deadlines, I rush to get my feet on the grass, or my feet into some warm beach sand to down-regulate my system and to have a moment to engage in nature, to remind me of the beauty that surrounds me, to stimulate some awe. And then to get on with my day!

Conclusion:
Walking on grass is a simple yet powerful practice that can offer a multitude of mental health benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting mood and fostering a connection with nature, this barefoot journey has the potential to enrich our lives and contribute to a greater sense of well-being. So, take off your shoes, step onto the soft embrace of the earth, and embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier you.

Sources:
• Brown, D. P., & Konopka, A. (2012). The health and nature of walking barefoot. Environmental Science & Technology, 46(6), 10331-10338.
• Chevalier, G., & Sinatra, R. S. (2019). Earthing: The electrical grounding of the human body and its positive health effects. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 1551.
• Park, J. Y., & Hyun, Y. S. (2015). The effects of walking barefoot on grass on stress and anxiety. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 3(2), 143-148.

Resources:
• The Earthing Movie → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44ddtR0XDVU
• Down to Earth → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcHEWH8Eh0Q