Going barefoot in office boosts creativity!

Unlace those keds, take off the work heels or party stilettos and try what a large population of runners across the globe are adhering to in races and contests... they're going bare on the feet with a vengeance!

Rihanna was spotted walking barefoot on a street in New York and closer to home, there's no better example of the trend than the late painter, MF Husain. Based on the hypothesis that it is the most natural state for the foot, folks are increasingly removing the shoes at the gym, while running and in offices too! Kicking off your shoes under your desk at work may improve your creativity, say experts. "The idea lies in the mind. It's about a sense of freedom so you automatically start to unwind," says life coach Nitasha Shah. For those with a painful back, taking off the heels at the office can also reduce foot exhaustion and lessen pain. Amanda Levete Architects, London, has a barefoot work policy where clients have to leave their shoes outside and they can put their feet up on the sofas!

They've done it

Running enthusiast from Seattle, Ted McDonalds advocates the need for going back to the basics to get rid of ailments. Earlier, he used to run in shoes but his back problem surfaced. After various shoe options did not help, he decided to simply walk barefoot. He found this did not hurt him. This started his journey into the barefoot world. Sankara Subramanian, an associate professor at IIT Madras, has decided to give up his shoes while running because he feels he is less injury prone while going barefoot and actor Milind Soman is known to do marathons minus the footwear.

The debate

While some find the idea gross and insanitary, an author who is an expert on the subject, says, the shoe may be the cause of most of the foot problems which might be prevented by going barefoot. While pollution or road conditions may not permit one to go barefoot, walking on the grass that way might be a solution. Earthing, or walking barefoot on soil, is said to make one feel better instantly, reduce inflammation and aid sleep. Orthopedic expert Dr Noshir Hadvaid says, "So many foot problems today like swollen heels, bunions, etc, are caused due to tight shoes. Wearing them for long hours strains the foot muscles and makes ligaments weak.Read more at:vintage prom dresses