7 essential books on barefoot walking and grounding
- BareTierra
- Dec 3, 2025
- 4 min read
If you're new to the world of barefoot walking (minimalist footwear, bare feet) and grounding or earthing (direct connection with the earth), it's normal to feel a little lost amidst all the information. Where do I begin? What's really important to know? How do I make a safe transition?
In this article, I've compiled seven books that will help you better understand your feet, your posture, and your connection to the earth. Some are more technical, others more accessible, and there's even a children's storybook so the whole family can "learn from the feet up."
Books about grounding and earthing (connecting with the earth)
1. Earthing: with bare feet
This is the "classic" book on earthing : it explains why we have lost touch with the earth and what consequences this can have on our well-being. Through simple explanations, studies, and personal accounts, it opens a new way of understanding your relationship with nature.
If you want to understand the "why" behind grounding and not just follow a trend, this book is the perfect starting point. It gives you very concrete ideas to begin reconnecting with the earth in your daily life, even if you live in the city.
2. The power of grounding
If you feel stressed, disconnected, or constantly racing, this book shows you how connecting with nature can become a powerful self-care habit. You don't need to make drastic changes or move to the countryside: it offers simple, realistic practices.
It's written in an approachable style, making it ideal if you want to understand grounding without getting bogged down in technical jargon. You can read it little by little and try out the suggestions it includes for slowing down and regaining composure.
3. Grounding: Restore your natural balance through connection with the Earth
This book is a quick guide to understanding what grounding is and how it can help you regain physical and emotional balance. It gets straight to the point and focuses on offering practical ideas, which is appreciated if you're short on time or just starting out.
You'll especially like it if you're curious about the topic but don't want to read a dense, theoretical tome. It's motivating, straightforward, and easy to integrate into your daily routine, even if you spend many hours at the office or at home.
Books about barefooting, strong feet, and transitioning to minimalist footwear
4. Barefoot from scratch
If you've always worn conventional shoes and notice weak feet, bunions, discomfort, or poor posture, this book could be a game-changer. It teaches you how healthy feet should move and the role that supportive footwear plays.
It includes simple exercises to start strengthening your feet , tips for choosing barefoot shoes, and transition guidelines to avoid rushing things and ending up with more discomfort than necessary. It's a very practical and approachable guide for those who want to change their gait from scratch.
5. Barefoot running. The science of running barefoot and in minimalist footwear
If you already run or would like to start, but are drawn to the idea of a freer, lighter running style, this book is for you. It explains barefoot/minimalist running technique, progressive adaptation, and the most common mistakes that can lead to injuries.
The best part is that it doesn't just stay in theory: it proposes concrete steps for transitioning from cushioned to minimalist shoes at a steady pace, using common sense. It's ideal for runners who want to protect their joints and extend their athletic careers by gaining a better understanding of how their bodies work.
Barefoot and foot-friendly products for little ones
6. Follow my steps
This children's story is a gem if you want your children to grow up understanding the importance of free foot movement and supportive footwear. Through a simple and beautiful story, it teaches them that their feet need space, movement, and contact with the ground.
It's perfect for reading as a family and starting a conversation about why certain shoes (very rigid, with thick soles, or narrow toes) aren't the best for their feet. It's also a great resource if people at school or elsewhere still look at minimalist shoes with skepticism.
Barefoot inspiration books
Born to run
A journalist who could barely run without getting injured travels to the Sierra Tarahumara and discovers one of the best running communities in the world—wearing the finest sandals! Through this true story, the book is as captivating as a novel and opens your eyes to the natural, light, and free nature of running.
It's perfect if you want extra motivation to move more, question over-cushioned footwear, and understand why our bodies are made for running.
How to use these books on your own barefoot and grounding path
If you want to start changing the way you walk, move, and reconnect with nature, any of these books can be an excellent first step. Choose the one that resonates with you right now, start reading, and let your feet and body do the rest.
Disclosure : This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
