Connection with the brain

The Importance of Sensory Perception:

There are more sensory receptors in our feet than in our hands. The skin and nervous system in the feet work together closely and in a complex manner to ensure a continuous flow of information to the brain about the body’s position and its relationship with the environment.

The various receptors (mechanoreceptors) in the feet detect pressure, touch, vibration, and tension.

But why is sensory perception so important?

These receptors can communicate properly with the brain if we allow them to do so. The nerves transmit the information to the brain, particularly to the sensory cortex. What kind of information can be conveyed? For example, the texture, temperature, and incline of the ground, as well as how the body weight is distributed on the surface.

Now, let’s look at the benefits of “allowing” ourselves to sense:

Enhancing Proprioception:

What is proprioception? It’s the ability of the body to sense its own position in space, with information coming from the arches, ankle, and muscles of the foot. The receptors under the feet play an important role in sensing the body’s position, balance, and direction of movement. When the foot feels the ground, the information is immediately sent to the brain, helping the body to align itself, improve posture, and maintain balance.

Neural Pathway Rewiring (Plasticity):

New sensory stimuli stimulate the brain’s plasticity, meaning its ability to create new neural pathways. When our feet sense the surface again, the brain forms new nerve connections. These new sensory inputs give the nervous system a chance to respond better, which contributes to improved movement coordination and helps avoid injuries.

Improving Balance:

The small sensors in the feet constantly send data to the brain to fine-tune the body’s “alignment.” This is particularly important in older age and during physical activities. By allowing the feet to sense uneven ground, it aids in maintaining balance.

Activating the Muscles:

Sensory input from the feet stimulates the activation of foot muscles. Strengthening the foot muscles contributes to the optimal functioning of the entire body and the increased stability of the foot and ankle.

According to some sources, a barefoot lifestyle may help keep the nervous system young and could prevent cognitive decline, as it continuously stimulates the sensory receptors in the feet, thus keeping the brain’s processes active.

Overall, sensory perception through the feet is vital for maintaining natural movement, balance, and stability. If these sensory functions are impaired (e.g., due to wearing tight shoes), it negatively affects the functioning of the entire body.