HEALTH + WELLNESS
Don’t Wear Shoes Outside…
Or inside. Research is showing that walking barefoot may have more benefits
than strengthening of the tendons and ligaments and improved posture. The
health benefits include less chronic pain, improved sleep, improved circulation,
improved immunity and less foot pain and foot odor. Different areas of the feet
respond to different areas in the body. These are called acupuncture sites, and
walking barefoot can activate them and energize different areas in our bodies.
The tactile sensation of walking in a safe outdoor environment makes us more
aware of our bodies and surroundings and may be a way to our magnetic charge
(positive ions) when exposed to the negative ions of the earth, ultimately improv-
ing our health. So, kick off those shoes!
Do Walk on the Wild Side…
And get outside. Average Americans only spend five percent of their day out-
side, and it appears to be taking a toll on our health. Author Richard Louv (Last
Child in the Woods) coined the term “nature-deficit disorder” to describe the anxi-
ety, insomnia, hypertension, addiction and loneliness that studies have linked
to our lack of outdoor time. Humans evolved to be outside. Outdoor exposure
is necessary for optimal functioning, and those lacking the time in nature seem
to be burdened by chronic ailments. It appears that fresh outdoor air contains
phytoncides which are natural chemicals produced by plants and trees. Inhal-
ing these chemicals stimulates neurotransmitters which reduce stress and also
increase the production of immune-supporting natural killer cells in our body.
Don’t Get Your Food at the Grocery Store…
If you can buy it at your local farmers’ market. Eating food that is seasonal
and sourced close by is not only more environmentally sustainable but often
more nutritionally dense. When you buy at your local farmers’ market you eat
SUMMER 2018
95