The word organic is abused, but I like definition number 3 in my dictionary: denoting a relation between elements of something such that they fit together harmoniously as necessary parts of a whole. It reminds me that feet are designed to “fit together” with the ground for walking and running… and dancing. I have experienced this organic phenomena in various ways over the last 3 years and learned many things. Some of those lessons were more painful than I would like, but some of them were learned more as a normal part of the journey or through other people’s wisdom. It seemed time to catalog some of the more basic lessons in one place. Thus, I give you Organic Barefoot Principles in Action, a list of links about the ups and downs of learning to be organically barefoot.
Common Concerns About Being Barefoot
Recovering From Shoe Dependency
How to be Smart About Winter Barefoot Running
Simple Remedies for Cracked Skin on Feet
Evaluating Pain When Running Barefoot
Enjoying Barefoot Runs In Spite of Minor Flesh Wounds
The Importance of Seeing Where You Put Your Feet as You Run Barefoot
Understanding Frost Damage to Bare Feet
Minimalist Shoes for Extreme Conditions
So many times when I am running, passersby make comments about me being hardcore or tough. I try to respond, in the limited time as I run by, that rather I am having more fun than I ever did while running with shoes! Though this list may seem to list supposed problems with running with bare feet, it is like with any story. It is often the problem solving that is the most interesting. I have other articles about very fun experiences and races. Those can all be found under the category Barefoot Episodes (as these links can, too). But this list will hopefully be a resource to those who wonder about common concerns and are wondering if their own barefoot experiences are “normal.”