#Barefoot shoes Market Trends

[amr-jayprakash]

A barefoot shoe has a zero heel-to-toe drop, which means the entire foot is on the same level as the ground same as barefoot. These shoes allow the foot to land on the ground almost as if one is running barefoot: they do little more than provide grip and protect feet against harmful objects on the ground. Some are designed to help the consumers transition from heel-first running to barefoot-style running. The shoes were introduced with the aim to strengthen and let the foot grow at an actual pace.  

[nickgerlich]

Losing Your Cool

The bigger they are, the harder they fall.This is one of the greatest truths, especially in business. Being big is no guarantee of your continued success. If anything, it means you have a big X on your back, with willing upstart competitors as well as larger ones all trying to figure out what to do if you should blink.

And that is exactly what happened to Nike, the footwear and athleisure company that has completely lost its cool. For many years, they could do no wrong, inking deals with superstar athletes and watching customers line up to hand over their money every time they launched something new.

It’s just that their now ex-CEO John Donahue made the company-crushing decision to produce retro Air Jordans, and completely miss a huge market trend. Trail running is big right now. Ask me. I know, and I see hordes of people enjoying it when I am plying the trails in Palo Duro Canyon. Air Jordans don’t cut it.

That was precisely the opening that brands like Hoka and On needed. They are crushing it right now, dominating the $150-$160 price point. Other long-tail competitors are also cashing in, like Altra, Salomon, La Sportiva, and others that few have even heard of. Go to any running store or REI, and you’ll see what I mean. You also won’t see Nike. They missed this train completely.

The old CEO is out, a failed and rare move by the company to hire an outsider for the role in 2020. In addition to missing a trend, he pulled back on the retail scene, focusing more on DTC—Direct To Consumer—efforts. The new CEO—insider Elliott Hill—has his hands full. Once a brand is tarnished, it is hard to regain the cool factor. Their stock price plummeted more than 20% one day this summer. Can anyone say “fell off a cliff?”

I know. Crocs came back, and is enjoying a second life right now. I can’t explain that one. They are a casual wear shoe, though, not at all performance-oriented. I think I would much rather wear Dutch wooden shoes, but to each their own.

Somehow Nike navigated the choppy waters following the Colin Kaepernick controversy in 2016. The company stood by him, and in 2018 its stock price hit record levels. I suppose that controversy and missing trends are two very different things, though.

But how could a CEO and company be so blind and tone deaf as to miss what people were doing with their spare time? Never mind that the company is located in Oregon, in a part of the country where outdoor activities are a big part of the lifestyle.

While I am not privy to cost data, I suspect the margins on specialty footwear are huge. The overwhelming majority are manufactured in southeast Asia, with New Balance being the only brand I can think of that runs the other direction. In shoes that have at least 70% of the materials from the US, they proudly proclaim they are “Made in the USA.” My Hokas and Ons are both made in Vietnam.

I’m not sure that matters to many people, though. I am looking for quality footwear, and it doesn’t matter to me where it is manufactured. In this activity, what you have on your feet is the most important thing, and I know for a fact that price is being used as a proxy for quality in some regards. Running shorts and shirts are cheap by comparison.

The sales reps I speak to at REI all tell me the same thing: Hokas, Ons, and the like will last 300-500 miles. Generally speaking, I will run them a little longer. The tread wears down, and the sole breaks down. You can begin to feel when it is time. I’m going to retire my second pair of Hokas at the end of this week with 600 miles on them.

Yet missing from this conversation is Nike, now the barefoot gorilla in the living room. How can a company lose its cool so fast? Can they do a 180 and come up with competitive trail runner shoes? Or have they simply given too much market space to Hoka, On, et al., to even have a chance in this sector?

Once again, the consumers have spoken, and someone wasn’t listening. That’s not cool, and it is not a good look for Nike falling as hard as they have.

Dr “Time To Lace Up” Gerlich

Audio Blog

[groundz21]

Achieve Better Health with the Best Earthing Shoes on the Market

In today’s fast-paced world, where technology often dominates our lives, many people are seeking ways to reconnect with nature and restore balance in their health. One growing trend that has captured the attention of wellness enthusiasts is earthing, also known as grounding. The practice of earthing involves direct contact with the Earth’s surface, allowing the transfer of the Earth’s natural electrons to our bodies. This simple act has been shown to have numerous health benefits, from reducing inflammation to improving sleep.

But in modern life, many of us spend most of our time indoors or on synthetic surfaces, making it challenging to engage in earthing naturally. This is where earthing shoes come into play. Designed to connect you to the Earth's electrical charge wherever you go, these shoes allow you to experience the benefits of grounding without walking barefoot.

What are Earthing Shoes?

Earthing shoes are specially designed footwear that enables direct electrical contact with the Earth. These shoes typically have conductive materials like copper, carbon, or silver woven into the soles, allowing the natural energy from the ground to flow through to your body. Unlike traditional shoes with rubber or synthetic soles that block this energy, earthing shoes mimic the effects of walking barefoot, but with the comfort and protection of modern footwear.

How to Choose the Best Earthing Shoes

1. Material: One of the most important aspects of earthing shoes is the conductive material used in the sole. Look for shoes that feature materials like copper, silver, or carbon, which are known for their conductivity. These materials will ensure that you are effectively grounded, whether you’re walking on grass, concrete, or dirt.

2. Comfort and Fit: Since earthing shoes are designed for daily wear, it’s important to choose a pair that fits well and offers sufficient comfort. Consider shoes with breathable materials, cushioned insoles, and a supportive design to keep your feet comfortable during extended wear. Many brands offer a variety of styles, from casual sneakers to sandals, so you can find something that suits your lifestyle and needs.

3. Durability: Earthing shoes should be durable enough to withstand the elements. Look for shoes made with high-quality materials that can handle regular outdoor use. Waterproof or water-resistant options are ideal if you plan to wear your shoes in various weather conditions.

4. Style Options: Earthing shoes come in a range of styles, so you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function. Whether you prefer minimalist designs or more athletic options, you can find earthing shoes that align with your personal style. From classic leather sneakers to sleek sandals, there’s something for everyone.

Health Benefits of Wearing Earthing Shoes

1. Reduced Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is often at the root of many common health conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. Studies have shown that grounding can reduce inflammation by increasing circulation and helping the body heal more effectively. Wearing earthing shoes can provide a daily source of grounding, reducing inflammation over time.

2. Improved Sleep Quality: Poor sleep is a growing concern in modern society. Whether it's due to stress, artificial lighting, or excessive screen time, many people struggle to get the restful sleep their bodies need. Grounding has been shown to help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep. By wearing earthing shoes throughout the day, you may help your body stay in sync with natural energy patterns, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep at night.

3. Enhanced Mood and Stress Relief: Earthing can also have a positive impact on your mental health. The connection with nature can help reduce stress levels, improve mood, and even enhance overall feelings of well-being. The grounding effect is known to reduce the body’s stress hormone, cortisol, and increase the production of serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone. Whether you're dealing with daily stress or chronic anxiety, wearing earthing shoes may help you feel more relaxed and balanced.

4. Better Circulation: Grounding has been shown to improve blood flow by enhancing the electrical charge of red blood cells. This leads to better oxygen delivery to tissues, which can speed up healing and reduce the risk of blood clots. If you suffer from poor circulation or conditions like varicose veins, wearing earthing shoes may help promote healthier blood flow throughout your body.

Final Thoughts

Achieving better health doesn’t always require drastic lifestyle changes. Sometimes, it’s the simple things—like connecting with nature—that can have the biggest impact on your well-being. By incorporating earthing shoes into your daily routine, you can experience the numerous benefits of grounding, from reduced inflammation and improved sleep to enhanced mood and better circulation.

Source by- https://groundingshoes.wordpress.com/2024/10/10/achieve-better-health-with-the-best-earthing-shoes-on-the-market/

[tuotuo2024]

Vivobarefoot SEO Keyword Analysis Report

1. Main Product Types

Based on keyword data, the main product types include:KeywordDescriptionbarefoot shoesHighest search volume, reaching 135,000 searches/monthzero drop shoes14,800 searches/monthminimalist shoes8,100 searches/monthbarefoot boots6,600 searches/monthbarefoot running shoes6,600 searches/month

The data shows that barefoot shoes are the most popular product type, accounting for the vast majority of search volume.

2. Popular Materials

Although the keyword data doesn’t directly mention specific materials, we can infer some related information:KeywordDescriptionwaterproof barefoot shoes720 searches/monthprimus lite knit260 searches/monthvegan minimalist shoes260 searches/month

This indicates that consumers have some demand for functional and environmentally friendly materials.

3. Personalization and Customization Features

The keyword data shows demand for some personalization and customization features:

Zero drop: “are all barefoot shoes zero drop” (1,900 searches/month)

Flexibility: Many searches involve the “barefoot” concept, implying a demand for flexibility

Functionality: Searches for barefoot shoes for specific purposes such as hiking, running, and work are relatively high

4. Target Customer Groups

Based on the keyword data, we can identify several main target customer groups:GroupKeywordDescriptionMenmens barefoot shoes4,400 searches/monthWomenbarefoot shoes women14,800 searches/monthChildrenbarefoot shoes for kids2,400 searches/monthToddlerstoddler barefoot shoes1,300 searches/monthOutdoor enthusiastsbarefoot hiking shoes5,400 searches/month

The data shows that both women and men are important target groups, and the children’s market also has considerable potential.

5. Price Positioning

Although there’s no direct price information in the keyword data, there are some relevant insights:

Discount code searches: “vivobarefoot discount code” (2,400 searches/month) indicates that consumers are price-sensitive

High-end positioning: The frequent occurrence of “minimalist” and “barefoot” concepts in keywords is usually associated with higher-end products

6. Seasonality and Special Occasions

The keyword data shows demand for specific occasions and uses:ScenarioKeywordDescriptionHikingbarefoot hiking shoes5,400 searches/monthRunningbarefoot running shoes6,600 searches/monthWorkbarefoot work shoes480 searches/monthFormal wearbarefoot dress shoes3,600 searches/month

This indicates that there is demand for barefoot and minimalist shoes in various scenarios, not limited to specific seasons.

7. Popular Trends

Several clear trends can be seen from the keyword data:

Popularization of the barefoot concept: Very high search volume for “barefoot shoes” related searches

Rise of zero drop shoes: “zero drop shoes” reaches 14,800 searches/month

Minimalist design: “minimalist shoes” has 8,100 searches/month

Functional demands: Relatively high search volume for specific functions such as waterproof, hiking, running, etc.

8. Competitive Analysis

Although there’s no direct information about competitors in the data, we can infer:

Intense market competition: The large number of related keywords and high search volume indicate that this is a highly competitive market

Brand awareness: “vivobarefoot” appears as a brand name in the keywords, indicating it has some recognition in the market

Niche market opportunities: There’s still room for growth in niche markets such as children, specific sports, work occasions, etc.

9. Recommendations

Based on the above analysis, we propose the following recommendations:

Product line expansion: Consider developing more product lines targeting women, children, and specific sports

Content marketing: Create educational content explaining the concepts and benefits of barefoot shoes and zero drop shoes

SEO optimization: Optimize website content for high search volume keywords

Emphasize functionality: Highlight features such as waterproofing and flexibility in marketing

Pricing strategy: Consider offering discounts or launching more affordable product lines to attract price-sensitive consumers

Scenario marketing: Conduct targeted marketing campaigns for different usage scenarios (e.g., hiking, work, daily wear)

Eco-friendly concept: Emphasize the use of environmentally friendly materials to attract consumers who care about sustainability

User education: Create content explaining how to choose suitable barefoot shoes and how to use them correctly

Seasonal marketing: Although not limited to specific seasons, launch corresponding marketing campaigns for different seasons

Personalization: Consider offering a certain degree of personalization or customization services to meet the needs of different consumers

10. Blog Titles for Similar Products Traffic Generation

The following recommended titles were generated using the Blogcard product from www.uniped.ai, based on real-time SEO data analysis.

Original blog: https://uniped.ai/blog/

Title: The Barefoot Shoe Revolution: Why More People Are Choosing Zero Drop Shoes Related keywords: barefoot shoes, zero drop shoes, what does zero drop shoe mean Topic description: Discuss the concepts of barefoot shoes and zero drop shoes, explaining their popularity and potential health benefits.

Title: Top 10 Best Men’s Barefoot Shoes for 2024 Related keywords: mens barefoot shoes, barefoot shoes for men, barefoot mens shoes  Topic description: Review and recommend the best men’s barefoot shoes currently on the market, covering different scenarios and budgets.

Title: From Running to Hiking: How to Choose the Right Barefoot Athletic Shoes Related keywords: barefoot running shoes, barefoot hiking shoes, barefoot trekking shoes Topic description: Guide readers on how to choose suitable barefoot shoes based on different sports needs, including running and hiking activities.

Title: The Ultimate Guide to Barefoot Shoes for Kids: Why They’re Crucial for Foot Development Related keywords: barefoot shoes for kids, kids barefoot shoes, toddler barefoot shoes Topic description: Explain the importance of barefoot shoes for children’s foot development and provide purchasing advice.

Title: The New Office Trend: Stylish and Comfortable Barefoot Work Shoes Related keywords: barefoot work shoes, barefoot dress shoes, minimalist shoes for work Topic description: Introduce barefoot shoe styles suitable for the workplace, discussing how to maintain a professional image while enjoying the comfort of barefoot shoes.

Title: Barefoot Shoes and Plantar Fasciitis: An Unexpected Solution for Pain Relief? Related keywords: barefoot shoes and plantar fasciitis, barefoot vitality shoes Topic description: Explore the potential benefits of barefoot shoes for plantar fasciitis, including expert opinions and user experiences.

Title: Minimalist Lifestyle: A Fashion Revolution Starting with Barefoot Shoes Related keywords: minimalist shoes, barefoot shoes casual wear, minimal shoes Topic description: Discuss how barefoot shoes fit into a minimalist lifestyle and their impact on sustainable fashion.

Title: Waterproof Barefoot Shoes Guide: Keep Your Feet Dry and Comfortable in the Rain Related keywords: waterproof barefoot shoes, barefoot boots Topic description: Introduce the features and selection tips for waterproof barefoot shoes, suitable for rainy seasons or outdoor enthusiasts.

Title: The Rise of Swedish Barefoot Shoe Brands: Nordic Design Meets Health Consciousness Related keywords: sweden barefoot shoes, barefoot shoes swedish Topic description: Introduce the characteristics and advantages of Swedish barefoot shoe brands, exploring their performance in the global market.

Title: DIY Barefoot Shoes: How to Make Your Own Simple Minimalist Sandals Related keywords: barefoot shoes, minimalist footwear, bare foot Topic description: Provide a step-by-step guide teaching readers how to make simple barefoot sandals, suitable for crafting enthusiasts and minimalists.

[blacksheep-023]

South Mumbai’s Best-Top Stores and Exclusive Finds

Exclusive Designs and Top-Tier Brands

In South Mumbai there is an excellent combination of luxury sneakers for those people who want to buy sneakers for a rather large amount of money. These stores contain all the out-of-box releases and those Trends that are hard to come by, placing you in front in the fashion queue. Purchasing a sneaker involves top brands and designs at luxury sneaker store in south mumbai. The store environment, customer care, and choice of products are all inspired by sneaker culture at the center of the store.

Premier Lifestyle Destination for High-End Sneakers

Blacksheep store located in South Mumbai is not only a sneaker store but is a lifestyle store as well. Popular for its selection of luxury shoes, especially sneakers, this store gets a good number of clients, both, resident and tourists. They give Blacksheep store in South Mumbai specialize in giving out a very unique range of designs from the traditional to the modern style.

This particular store located at South Mumbai known as the black sheep store is well furnished to sell sneakers for every day use or for the exotic tourists continuing the layouts of the city.

Whether it is the conventional look or the new fashion that is hitting the market, the store will afford the consumer a rich experience of the best shoes.

Top Stores for Quality and Style

Here now are some of the finest stores in the area where one can find premium sneakers: These stores are centered in selling quality shoes which are able to balance the principles of sustainability and aesthetics. Buying premium sneakers in South Mumbai means that you are ordering for shoes that are not only different in design and quality but also stand out.

Curated Collections and Exclusive Releases

Most of the sneakerhead is well aware of the sneaker store which is located in South Mumbai, which has a niche collection of sneakers along with the limited edition. South Mumbai sneakers store a place that would be so interesting for those interested in footwear. These stores include almost all types of fashion and designs, ranging from the contemporary ones to the traditional ones.

Diverse Collections and Exclusive Trends

Barefoot stores in South Mumbai have more varieties associated with this footwear than any other. The above stores have rare selections, limited edition items, and both common and hard to find sneaker models. If you are interested in finding the latest styles or some beautiful low production niche items, there are plenty of sneaker shops in South Mumbai now. That is why these shops are more special that others — they emphasis on quality and style.

Boutiques located in south Mumbai have limited editions and clean up designs, available with a variety of common and limited sneakers.

These shops offer unique shopping that majors on quality, and fashion to ensure that enthusiast is informed of the current fashion in sneaker.

Exclusive Sneakers and Exceptional Service

The Blacksheep store Mumbai includes distinguished sneaker collection and services traditionally. This store has been established in an area that other people pass through most of the times; it serves the people within that region as well as the tourists. The Blacksheep store Mumbai has many exquisite designs of sneakers which include new fashionable patterns and simple styles. Famous for its variety, the store has become popular among scooter lovers, as most young people call the.

Diverse Options and Quality Finds

Locating the sneaker stores in South Mumbai near me is very much easy, given the great varieties to choose from. There are different types of these stores that sell sneakers that are luxurious, premium and those that are cheap. Whether you are a local inhabitant or simply a tourist seeking for the best sneaker store, it will be convenient to search for the sneaker store near me in South Mumbai.

As for the sneakers near me in South Mumbai, one can get those for luxurious and affordable prices to fulfill people’s desires.

These stores provide luxury shopping services and present you with the latest in fashion so that you can find those perfect glasses right in your locality.

Exclusive Drops and Diverse Selections

Sneaker stores in south Mumbai have various products and their limited exclusive releases are special. Regardless of whether one is a collector or simply a buyer who has been occasionally lured to buy something from a boutique, these stores are in a class of their own. Sneaker stores in South Mumbai consist of various brands and differ in the way they are famous among people. Shopping at such stores makes the person using sneakers or athletic shoe to be in vogue.

Comfort, Style, and Performance

A New Balance sneakers store located in South Mumbai provides classic comfort for the consumers. Of course, this store offer different models from standard elegant design to the modern developments. Being a reputed athletic footwear company, a New Balance sneakers store in South Mumbai ensures you get the right one for your desired activity. Given the New Balance sneakers’ commitment to quality and athletic ware, a stop at a New Balance sneakers store in South Mumbai ensures one obtains the best sneakers that marry fashion and function.

Timeless Elegance and Unique Design

It is rather easy to find Omega Swatch collab watches in case you are in South Mumbai, which instantly elevates your style. These watches are recognized to have a special design and the work put into making them is excellent. Due to the present concepts and unique looks, these watches are a valuable addition to the collection and stylish accessories in the fashion world. Finding omega swatch collab watches south mumbai, so, enables one to be ahead in the outer circle of luxury watches.

This is where you find Omega Swatch collab watches in South Mumbai; their collection is a class apart due to the distinctive and intricate design.

Boutique watches for men and women in MW are nothing less than perfect assets that hold everyone’s account in fashion ceaselessly, which will be gleaming while they make a deal of shopping in South Mumbai.

Variety, Exclusivity, and Quality

The opportunity of being the sneaker store of choice for sneakerheads in South Mumbai comes with providing variety, exclusivity, and quality. At these stores you are sure to get the newest collections, rare designs, and almost every type of shoes. Moreover, shopping at the best sneaker stores in Southern Mumbai is a guarantee of choosing the most suitable pair for every man, being a simple buyer or an experienced collector. When it comes to customer service and range the best sneaker store in South Mumbai is a class apart.

Conclusion

Summing up, South Mumbai has proven to be one of the best spots for sneakerheads or anybody interested in luxury watches. This segment includes various ten shoe shops that offer everything starting from the latest fashion fit to the most obscure sneaker finds as well as luxury Omega Swatch watches that give an aesthetic touch to people’s collections. Be it the newest accoutrements of a sporting nature like sneakers or timeless appeals of classic dials of watches or for that matter the latest in fashion.

FAQS

Are there any budget-friendly sneaker options in South Mumbai?

Yes, there are many sneaker stores in different organizations in South Mumbai which are cheap retail stores and also luxury retail stores depending on the clients’ details.

How do I locate sneaker stores near me in South Mumbai?

There are various ways that you can use to find where sneaker stores are, this includes the use of online maps or the local directories to find sneaker stores around South Mumbai.

What makes South Mumbai a top destination for sneaker shopping?

South Mumbai has a huge display of sneaker outlets which are unique in their sales of limited edition sneakers, specially tailored collection and strong emphasis on finesse and design of sneakers.

[downincmi]

Athletic Footwear Market Dynamics: A Comprehensive Analysis

The athletic footwear market comprises shoes designed for professional athletic or amateur sporting purposes. Athletic footwear is crafted with special soles, cushioning, breathability, and flexibility features to suit various sports. These shoes provide excellent shock absorption and support during high-impact exercises. The global athletic footwear industry is driven by rising health awareness, increasing participation in sports and fitness activities, and growing consumer spending on athletic apparel and footwear. The Global Athletic Footwear Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 85,047 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 1.8% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030. Key Takeaways Key players operating in the athletic footwear are Nike, Inc., Adidas Group, Crocs, Inc., Wolverine World Wide, Inc., Skechers U.S.A., Inc., Under Armour, Inc., Puma AG, Geox SpA, K- Swiss. Nike remains the dominant player with over 40% market share owing to its strong brand image, extensive distribution network, and consistent product innovation. The global athletic footwear market is expected to witness robust gains owing to steadily rising health awareness among youth and increasing participation in sporting events and recreational activities worldwide. Additionally, the growing demand for multi-activity and versatile athletic shoes suitable for both exercise and casual wear will further propel market growth over the forecast period. The athletic footwear market is witnessing increasing global footprint of key players. Industry leaders are expanding to untapped regional markets through strategic partnerships and acquisitions. At the same time, growing industrialization in developing nations is anticipated to drive significant market gains across Asia Pacific and Latin America through the forecast period. Market Key Trends

The athletic footwear market is increasingly shifting towards more sustainable sourcing practices and eco-friendly material innovation. Growing consumer consciousness about ethical and environmental impacts has pushed footwear brands to reduce carbon footprint and invest in green manufacturing. Many top brands have established sustainability goals and are actively collaborating with green materials suppliers and recycling firms. Meanwhile, advanced fabrics derived from recycled ocean plastics and other renewables are gaining traction in the industry.

Porter’s Analysis

Threat of new entrants: High initial capital investment required for manufacturing and distribution will limit new competition.

Bargaining power of buyers: Large buyers such as sports retailers can negotiate lower prices from brands.

Bargaining power of suppliers: A few key raw material suppliers for shoes gives them some bargaining power over brands.

Threat of new substitutes: Growth in popularity of minimal or barefoot running poses a threat to traditional athletic shoes.

Competitive rivalry: Market dominated by top brands results in competitive pressures to innovate and differentiate through performance, styling, endorsements. Geographical Regions

North America accounts for the largest share of the global athletic footwear market in terms of value, with the US alone making up over half of the regional market. The popularity of basketball and other team sports has fueled consistent demand for performance and lifestyle athletic shoes. Asia Pacific has emerged as the fastest growing regional market for athletic footwear. Countries like China, India and other developing economies are seeing rising incomes as well as an increased participation in recreational exercise and sports. This has translated to surging demand for affordable yet high-quality running, training and basketball shoes manufactured locally as well as imported brands.

[groundluxe]

Unlocking the Magic of Earthing: Full Guide to Health Benefits

I've always been fascinated by the simple yet profound concept of earthing, also known as grounding. It's the practice of connecting with the Earth's natural energy by walking barefoot, touching the soil, or submerging in water. This connection is believed to offer a myriad of health benefits, from reducing inflammation to improving sleep. But how much truth lies behind these claims?

In my journey to uncover the benefits of earthing, I've delved into scientific studies and personal testimonies. The results? Quite compelling. Earthing appears not just as a wellness trend but as a foundational element to holistic health. It's intriguing to think that the Earth under our feet holds the power to influence our well-being so significantly.

Join me as I explore the fascinating world of earthing. I'll share insights into how this simple practice can make a profound difference in our health, grounding us not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well.

What Is Earthing?

Diving deeper into the concept of earthing, I find it fascinating how this simple practice connects us to the Earth's infinite energy. Earthing, or grounding, fundamentally involves making direct physical contact with the surface of our planet. This connection is achieved through barefoot walks on the grass, sitting, working, or sleeping outdoors in direct contact with the Earth, or using conductive systems that transfer the Earth's electrons to the body, even when indoors.

At its core, the science behind earthing revolves around the Earth's natural charge. Our planet maintains a negative electrical potential on its surface. When I directly connect with the ground, I'm allowing my body to receive a charge of energy that brings it to the same electrical potential as the Earth. This process is thought to stabilize the electrical environment of all organs, tissues, and cells.

Most modern lifestyles separate humans from physical contact with the Earth, whether through the insulating materials of shoes and buildings. I've learned that this disconnection may contribute to the chronic inflammation and elevated stress levels that plague so many today. By reestablishing this direct contact with the Earth, earthing practices aim to restore a state of natural electrical balance within the body.

Understanding this concept sets the stage for appreciating the numerous reported health benefits of earthing. With my focus on delivering clear, accurate, and valuable content, I aim to shed light on how incorporating earthing into our daily routines could be a key to unlocking an array of health benefits, supporting physical and emotional well-being in ways that many might find surprising.

Physical Health Benefits

Building on the understanding that earthing can significantly impact our well-being by reducing inflammation and stress, I'd like to explore the specific physical health benefits more deeply. Engaging in earthing practices connects us directly to the Earth's surface energy, offering remarkable advantages for our physical health.

Reduced Inflammation and Pain

One of the foremost benefits I've come across is the reduction of inflammation and pain. Studies suggest that the Earth's negative ions can neutralize free radicals, contributing to decreased inflammation in the body. Participants in these studies reported experiencing less pain, which implicates earthing as a potential natural painkiller.

Improved Sleep

Many individuals report improved sleep patterns after incorporating earthing into their routines. The grounding effect purportedly normalizes the body's circadian rhythms, enhancing sleep quality. I've noticed that on days when I engage in barefoot walks or use grounding sheets, my sleep is deeper and more restorative. You can buy this grounding product widely available in the market.

Enhanced Circulation

Another key benefit is enhanced circulation. Earthing is believed to improve blood flow by helping to release positively charged ions from the body and absorb negative ions from the Earth. Better circulation not only aids in nutrient distribution and detoxification but also supports overall heart health.

Accelerated Recovery from Exercise

For those of us leading active lifestyles, earthing can accelerate recovery post-exercise. The practice reduces muscle damage and inflammation, making it easier to bounce back after a workout. Anecdotal evidence and some studies underscore reduced recovery times, making earthing a valuable addition to any athlete's or active individual's recovery regimen.

Boosted Immune Function

Lastly, engaging in earthing has been linked to boosted immune function. By reducing inflammation and stress levels, the body is better equipped to fend off illness. This aligns with the theory that a body with a balanced electrical environment can operate more efficiently, supporting optimal immune system performance.

The physical health benefits of earthing extend from pain and inflammation reduction to enhanced sleep, circulation, exercise recovery, and immune function. By integrating earthing practices into daily life, individuals can harness these benefits, promoting better physical health and well-being.

Mental Health Benefits

Following the exploration of earthing's physical health advantages, I'll now delve into its mental health benefits, an aspect just as crucial for overall well-being. Earthing, by fostering a connection with the Earth's natural energy, can significantly impact mental health, providing a sense of calm and balance in today's fast-paced world.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Studies have shown that earthing helps decrease cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone. This reduction in cortisol can lead to a noticeable decrease in stress and anxiety levels. Participants in earthing experiments often report feeling more relaxed and at ease, suggesting that regular earthing practices might serve as an effective, natural stress-reliever.

Improves Sleep Quality

By lowering stress levels and balancing the body's natural rhythms, earthing also contributes to better sleep quality. Many individuals find that regular earthing helps them fall asleep faster, experience fewer night awakenings, and feel more rested upon waking. The grounding effect of earthing is believed to help reset the body's circadian rhythms, promoting a more natural sleep cycle.

Enhances Mood

Another significant mental health benefit of earthing is mood enhancement. Connecting with the Earth's energy can increase feelings of happiness and well-being, potentially reducing symptoms of depression. The natural setting of earthing activities, often outdoors, also contributes to this mood elevation, providing additional benefits such as increased exposure to natural light and fresh air.

Supports Cognitive Function

Earthing may also support cognitive function, including improved concentration and focus. The calming effect of grounding can help clear the mind, making it easier to concentrate on tasks and stay focused for longer periods. This benefit is particularly useful in today's digitally overloaded society, where attention spans are constantly challenged.

By integrating earthing into daily life, individuals might experience not only physical health improvements but also significant mental health enhancements, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved sleep quality, enhanced mood, and better cognitive function.

Effects on the Cardiovascular System

Building on the comprehensive exploration of earthing's benefits for both physical and mental well-being, it's crucial to delve into its specific impacts on the cardiovascular system. Earthing, also known as grounding, stands out for its ability to enhance heart health in several compelling ways. Primarily, it reduces blood viscosity, a key factor in cardiovascular health. Studies indicate that when individuals ground themselves, their blood cells carry a more negative charge, making them less likely to clump together. This phenomenon significantly lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes, as smoother blood flow is less taxing on the heart.

Moreover, earthing contributes to improved blood pressure regulation. The connection with the Earth's natural electrical charge can stabilize the body's biological rhythms, including those that govern blood pressure. For individuals struggling with hypertension or prehypertension, integrating earthing into their daily routine can be a supportive natural intervention alongside other treatments.

Another notable cardiovascular benefit is the reduction of inflammation throughout the body. Given that inflammation is a root cause of many chronic diseases, including those affecting the heart, the ability of earthing to mitigate this issue is profound. By neutralizing free radicals with electrons from the Earth, earthing diminishes inflammation, thereby protecting the heart and improving overall cardiovascular health.

Lastly, earthing's role in stress reduction directly benefits the cardiovascular system. High stress levels correlate with increased heart rate and blood pressure, putting undue strain on the heart. Through lowering cortisol levels, as previously mentioned, earthing can alleviate stress and its physiological effects, promoting a more relaxed state that supports heart health.

In sum, the cardiovascular benefits of earthing are both extensive and impressive. By reducing blood viscosity, helping regulate blood pressure, lowering inflammation, and mitigating stress, earthing practices offer a simple, yet powerful way to support and enhance cardiac function.

Skeletal and Muscular Benefits

Transitioning from the broad spectrum of cardiovascular improvements, it's crucial to shed light on the skeletal and muscular benefits closely tied to earthing. Given my extensive experience in researching wellness practices, the connection between earthing and the body's structural components is both fascinating and vital. Earthing plays a significant role in mitigating chronic pain, particularly within the skeletal and muscular systems.

Firstly, earthing has shown promise in reducing chronic inflammation, a common culprit behind musculoskeletal disorders. Studies suggest that the earth's negative ions may help neutralize free radicals associated with inflammatory conditions, thus offering relief for conditions like arthritis and back pain. The reduction in inflammation directly correlates with lessened pain and improved mobility for many sufferers.

Furthermore, the practice of earthing has been linked to better recovery following physical activity. Athletes and individuals engaging in regular physical exercise might find earthing a beneficial tool for muscle recovery. By decreasing muscle damage and inflammation, earthing can expedite recovery times and enhance overall performance. This aspect is particularly intriguing for those looking to optimize physical health and athletic performance.

Additionally, improved calcium metabolism through earthing can contribute to stronger bones, further supporting skeletal health. The electric exchange between the body and the earth may stimulate processes that lead to better absorption and use of calcium, a key mineral for bone strength and density.

In essence, incorporating earthing into one's daily routine could offer substantial benefits to the skeletal and muscular systems, thereby enhancing quality of life. The practice's potential to reduce inflammation, assist in muscle recovery, and promote bone health underscores its importance in a holistic approach to physical wellness. My exploration into the science behind earthing continues to reveal how this simple yet powerful practice can support the body's structural health, amongst its plethora of other benefits.

Conclusion

Earthing offers a simple yet profound way to connect with the natural world, bringing a multitude of health benefits that touch nearly every aspect of our physical and mental well-being. From bolstering heart health to easing chronic pain and enhancing mood, the practice stands out as a holistic approach to improving quality of life. By integrating earthing into our daily routines, we're not just grounding ourselves physically but also promoting a deeper sense of balance and harmony within. I've found incorporating this natural therapy into my life to be a game-changer, and I'm confident it can make a significant difference for anyone looking to enhance their health and well-being.

[theboeingdreams]

The Evolution of Footwear: The Rise of Barefoot Shoes

The thrilling tale of footweartesting time reveals captivating insights into human civilization's development, highlighting the intricate dance between culture and technology throughout histioryin. From the time immemorial sandals to present day sneakers, shoes have been an integral part of human experience. However, in recent times, there is a discernible shift toward beste barfußschuhe, a trends that not only alters our perception of footweares but also fundamentally redefines the sector itself.

Ascendance of Barefoot-inspired Shoes in Footwear Markets

The Beginnings of Footwear

The evolution of footwear stretches back to the dawn of civilization, with ancient humans crafting crude sandals from readily available materials like leathers, grasses, and barks some 10 millennia ago. When delving into antiquity's archival record, it becomes evident that our ancient forefathers were decked out in straightforward foot coverings constituted by natural components such as leverageable resources, verdant strands, and cured hide patches at least 10 millennia ago. In the early days, footwear served as a vital tool for survival, shielding humans from harsh conditions and enabling them to venture into uncharted territories.

Emergence of Traditional Shoes

As civilization evolved, so did the footwears. From elegant sandal of ancient time to sturdy leathern boots worn in Roman army, shoes become more specialized nd tailor-made for specific activity and social class. The latest advancements in footweargy have opened up a world of possibilities for the modern-day shoe enthusiast, allowing them to indulge their passion without breaking the bank.

The Drawback of Classic Shoes

Unlike traditional footwear, which prioritizes function over form, contemporary shoes have evolved to offer a more harmonious blend of both. Innovative shoe technologies have advanced so much that modern shoes are engineered to give you ultimate comfort as well as superior performance. Nonetheless, these advantages can likewise impede natural foot motion and proprioceptive capacity, resulting in problems including bad postural alignment, muscle weakening, and foot abnormalities.

The Barefoot Rebellion

As worries about the impact of footwea- excessively cushioned shoes have grown, a increasingly large contingent of individuals has embraced barfußschuhe damen, minimalist footgear designed to replicate the sensation of strolling and jogging without foot covers. Whereas traditional footgear often features thick, inflexible soles and constrictive toe boxes, barefsockofeatures thin, flexible soles that allow for greater range of motion and more direct odor reception. Advocates of going barefoot claim that doing so can fortify the feet, enhance equilibrium and positioning, and lower the chance of mishaps.

Embracing the Evolution of Footwear

With the increasing appreciation for barefoot footwears, sales of minimalist shoes are soaring. Courtesy of this trend, a plethora of brands now offer an assortment of elegant barefoot shoe designs-from casual sneakers and athletic footgear to elevated attire options. Not only have technological advancements in footweAR and materials improved the durability of barefoot shoes, but their stylish designs have also captured the attention of fashion-conscious consumers worldwide, making them more widely accessible than hitherto possible.

Conclusion

The journey of Footwear has culminated in the resurgence of Barefoot Shoes, as they offer a perfect blend of comfort, style, and practicality that was previously unachievable. As far back as ancient civilizations, simple sandal-like footwearmewas the norm. However, today's minimalist shoes represent a revolution in footweardesIgn that prioritizes natural movements and health benefits above all else. The current surge in popularly of barefoot shoestells a storyof changing attitudes towards Footwear, where form meets funcYonand practicality take center stage over traditional style or fashion influencers. For those desiring peak athletic performance or a more natural gait, going bare feet offers an intriguing option worth investigating. As we forge ahead in this footwearel revolution, it's evident that our quest to cultivate healthier feet is far from over – and that's pretty exciting!

[ainews]

Slippers are a popular and practical item of clothing for scholars, providing comfort and protection for feet during long hours of studying. However, a growing trend of 'slipper abandonment' is happening in academic circles, leaving many scratching their heads as to why.

Recent research from the University of Oxford suggests that slippers are being abandoned for two primary reasons. The first is fashion – the overall look of slippers hasn’t evolved in many years and so, amongst scholars, they are often seen as uncool. The second reason is comfort – although slippers provide comfort, for some they are too ‘heavy’ and ‘clunky’ and don’t give the same kind of fit as trainers or sneakers.

The research also found that college students are increasingly turning to sandals and espadrilles to provide both style and comfort. Unlike slippers, these styles of shoe have the potential for infinite variations to reach the levels of comfort and look desired.

Likewise, students are shunning socks, preferring to go barefoot in order to reduce discomfort and increase control of their movement. This has had a knock-on effect on the slipper market, reducing the rate of slipper-buying as students opt instead for lighter and more stylish footwear options.

As a result, retailers have responded to the trend by offering a greater range of sandals and espadrilles, as well as a range of shoe-thick socks, in order to remain attractive to students.

The trend looks set to continue into the future. While slippers will still be popular amongst some scholars, the majority are turning away from the traditional slipper in favor of more lightweight and stylish shoes and socks. As a result, slippers may become a thing of the past amongst students.

[bonzatrading]

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[amr-jayprakash]

A barefoot shoe has a zero heel-to-toe drop, which means the entire foot is on the same level as the ground same as barefoot. These shoes allow the foot to land on the ground almost as if one is running barefoot: they do little more than provide grip and protect feet against harmful objects on the ground. Some are designed to help the consumers transition from heel-first running to barefoot-style running. The shoes were introduced with the aim to strengthen and let the foot grow at an actual pace.  

[barefoot-shoes]

Unleashing Feet: Barefoot Shoes Revolutionizing Indian Footwear

Minimalist shoes, are becoming more popular among people looking for a more all-natural and holistic approach to foot health and performance. People are becoming aware of the advantages of barefoot shoes, it is anticipated that this trend will continue to influence the Indian footwear market.

Visit:- https://sites.google.com/view/barefoot-shoes-indian-footwear/home

[bellemorte180]

~Small Overalls ~

For @carolineforbae​, per our earlier conversation. 

The giant white house with the wrap around pouch rested against the setting sun. The fields of wheat bristled in the summer breeze. The sun that was slowly sinking down over the long field caused the wheat to appear more golden than they were during the day. The big oak tree that sat near the chicken coop had a tire swing that a small boy of the age of six swinging from it.

The boy’s laugh could be heard over the yard and into the open window where Caroline smiled gently at the sound.  Her hands were covered in suds as she washed the cutting board and a few dishes as she watched her son swing back and forth on the swing; the chickens clucking in annoyance at the sight. The buzzer on the oven went off and Caroline grabbed a light blue dish towel. She dried her hands and grabbed her phone, sending a text before walking towards the side door and stepped out onto the porch.

“Leo! Supper time!” Caroline turned to head back into the kitchen and pulled the baked chicken from the oven. She checked out of the window again, seeing her son running across the freshly cut grass, some of their hens scattering across the lawn as she ran towards the house. Leo tripped slightly and Caroline made a mental note of setting his overalls to soak overnight to remove the grass stains. Leo came all but bursting through the door just as Caroline was setting the roasted broccoli and some honey biscuits on the blue checkered tablecloth. Leo crawled up to the table and reached for the biscuits, but Caroline stopped him.

“Hey mister. Wash your hands.” Caroline placed one hand on hip while the other pointed towards the sink. The little boy climbed off his chair and went to wash his hands. He pulled the stool Caroline had found at a flea market a few years back when Leo started walking and turned the faucet on in order to put his hands under the running water. “And use soap.”

“Yes Mama.” Leo told her with an impossible sigh and Caroline knew he was rolling his eyes at her. A habit she insisted that he picked up from her husband. As though Leo could read her mind, he asked where his father was. “Where is Papa? He is always here for dinner.”

“Papa is right here.” The sound of her husband’s drawl reached her ears and she could not help but smile. Klaus walked through the archway that lead into the living room. Klaus must have come in from the back door from working in the barn. He was barefoot and Caroline smiled in a pleased manner at the sight; he had kicked off his shoes by the back door after Caroline’s many scolding of him dragging dirt through the house.

“Papa!” Leo all but jumped off the stool, causing Caroline’s heart to leap into her throat at the sight. Leo launched himself in Klaus’s arms as though he had not seen him mere hours ago. Klaus reached down and scooped his son into his arms, tickling his sides, causing the little boy to shriek. Caroline was once again taken aback by the resemblance. The small farming community they lived in all told her that Leo looked like her, until the small boy stood next to Klaus. Leo was a mini incarnation of her husband.

Caroline married Klaus in an October wedding when she was only nineteen, already three months pregnant with their son. Young marriage was a common trend in the community and most did not even blink an eye when Klaus placed his grandmother’s ring on her finger the summer after she graduated high school.  Klaus was working on his father’s farm, having showed up on his doorstep at the age of sixteen when he could not stand living with his stepfather any longer. A fifteen-year-old Caroline fell hard for the boy and the two had been inseparable since. When his father died two years previously, Klaus took over the farm easily, albite sadly.

“Did you wash your hands Papa? You should so Mama doesn’t scold you.” Leo whispered loudly, and Klaus’s eyes flickered to hers. Caroline fought down a smile at the sight of Leo wanting to keep Klaus from getting on her bad side. While Caroline could not claim that they never fought, for all couples did, they did their best to keep it away from Leo’s ears. It could be a struggle at times because Leo was far too curious for his own good and the couple quickly learned to lock their door at night in order to keep him from seeing some other things he should not.

“I don’t know, bubby, getting scolded by Mama can be rather enjoyable sometimes.” Klaus tossed her a mischievous smirk that caused his dimples to perdured on his cheeks. Caroline’s eyes widened and she whipped the towel that was in her hand against his backside. Klaus laughed at the action. “See. Enjoyable.”

“Leo, come sit down and I’ll make a plate for you.” Caroline told her son, fighting to keep a smile from her lips. Leo scrambled to the table and climbed up onto it. Caroline pointed her index finger at her husband and mockingly narrowed her eyes. “And you behave.”

“Never.” Klaus leaned down and kissed Caroline on the lips. Caroline could feel the smile on his lips as he let the kiss linger, both ignoring the exasperated sigh coming from Leo; he was far to use to seeing his parents exchange loving affection. Klaus’s hands touched Caroline’s stomach lightly over her forest green sundress. A knowing look passed between them and the dimples on Klaus’s cheeks became more pronounced as the happiness radiated from his eyes. “I love you.”

“Love you too. Now wash your hands.”

“See! I told you Papa.” Leo exclaimed and Caroline snorted, pulling from Klaus’s arms. Klaus shook his head, and went to the sink, making a rather dramatic show of washing his hands. Caroline shook her head while cutting Leo’s meat and piling a few pieces of broccoli onto his plate despite his little disgruntled face. He knew the rules, he must eat all his broccoli if he wanted any of the strawberry shortcake she had made earlier in the day. Klaus came to the table, ruffled Leo’s curly hair and sat at the table.

“Get yours first, Love and eat. Don’t worry about me.” Klaus told her when she went to get his plate. Caroline smiled at the hints of his overbearingness beginning to show and Caroline knew it would only get worse from here on. She rolled her eyes, knowing full well that he caught the little reaction as she made her own plate. She nodded to their son, who was playing with his broccoli instead of actually eating it and nodded. “Leo? I’m going to need a little help from you next weekend.”

“Does it have to do with the chickens? I don’t like them. They are mean when I try and collect the eggs.”

“No. Not with the chickens or their eggs.” Klaus replied with a laugh in his voice. The memory of Leo’s first time trying to collect the eggs, and his screams of terror, still stood out in their mind. “Uncle Kol is coming by and we are painting the spare bedroom. Can you be a big man help us?”

“We’re going to paint the walls?! Like with the pretty pictures on my walls?”

“Not right away but just the base once you mother finally decided on a color that she wants.” Klaus nodded, taking a bit of his own chicken while Caroline shook her head, a fond smile playing on her lips. “It needs to be ready for when the new family member moves in.”

“Who is moving in?” Leo’s eyes creased in confusion and then lit up in hope. “Is Uncle Kol moving in! That would be awesome!” Caroline could see all the hope playing in Leo’s eyes and it almost broke her heart that her brother-in-law was not moving in with them. Not that she would actually want that to happen because Kol was a handful. She shuttered at the thought of what her son’s manners would be like if Kol lived with them full time. “When can he move in? Can it be tomorrow?!”

“Uncle Kol isn’t’ moving in Sweetie.”

“Oh.” Leo looked dejected. “It’s not Aunt Rebekah is it? She can be scary.”

Klaus nearly doubled over in laughter at that. He placed his elbow on the table and covered his mouth with his hand. Caroline could see his shoulders shaking with laughter as she fought to keep her own lips from betraying her own amusement. The last thing either parent wanted was for their six-year-old son to tell Rebekah, someone who loved Leo more than anyone else in her family, that he found her scary.

“No, Rebekah isn’t moving in either.” Caroline told him and Leo perked up at the thought. Klaus was still fighting down his laughter and she knew that it would be best if she took over from here. “However, it very well could be a girl who moved in there. Or a boy. We don’t know yet, but you will be the first to know.”

“How do you not know?” Leo asked with a confused look on his face. For a second, he almost looked like Elijah with such a thoughtful look on his little features. Caroline could see Klaus slowly calming himself beside her however the amusement on his lips was still prominent.

“Remember how my friend Elena had her little girl last month?” Leo nodded. “Well, that is going to happen to me. Papa and I are going to have a baby and you’re going to be a big brother. Isn’t that exciting?”

“A baby?” Both Klaus and Caroline nodded, almost in a synchronized movement; both studying Leo’s reaction, unsure if he was pleased with the news or not. “But Elena’s baby cries all the time and smells funny.” Leo’s nose wrinkled. “Will this baby smell funny? And does it have to be a girl? I’d rather it be a dragon. Can we trade it for a dragon?!”

“We can’t trade it for a dragon, bubby.” Klaus told him, seeing the slight hurt look on Caroline’s face. “And we don’t know if it is a girl or boy yet. While agree that Damon and Elena’s baby smells funny,” Caroline playfully slapped Klaus’s arm gently. “I think you’re going to love your brother or sister. I think that once they are old enough, you will like having someone to play with. To climb the oak tree with and to push on the tire swing.”

“That does sound like fun.”

“And it will be your job, as the big brother, to teach them all the rules and make sure they follow them.” Klaus told him seriously, and Caroline’s breath hitched as she watched her son’s interest peaking and his attention not wavering from his father’s gentle coaching. “And it will be your duty to make sure they are safe and protected when your Mama and I are not around, because you’re growing into such a big boy. What do you think you can do that?”

“I think I can do that. Maybe having a little sister won’t be so bad.” Leo muttered in a more pleased manner, completely set on the baby being a girl since that is what Elena’s baby was. His blue eyes focused back onto Caroline, who had happy tears falling down her cheeks. She stood up from the table and walked around to pull her son into her arms, kissed his face while he tried to push her way, screeching in happy protest. “Mama! Stop it!”

“I love boy so much baby.”

“If I say I say it back will you stop kissing me?” Leo asked in annoyed protest. Caroline littered his face with more kisses while Leo gave out another protest. “Okay! Okay! I love you too! Stop! It tickles! Stop! Papa! Help!”

“You’re on your own there, Son.” Klaus replied watching the scene in amusement. Eventually Caroline stopped lavishing kisses on her son and went to sit down at the table. Klaus could see the happy tears still streaming down her face and he reached over to take her hand into his, giving it a light squeeze.

“Papa?” Leo’s timid and shy voice reached them, causing the two of them to turn back to him. Leo had his lip between his teeth and appeared deep in thought for moment. “Don’t get mad but I think you might have failed at being a big brother.” Klaus was about to protest but Leo pushed on. “I mean, you have met Uncle Kol, right? He doesn’t follow any of the rules.”

It took Klaus another twenty minutes before he was able to breathe again from the laughter that echoed through their small kitchen and out the open window into the field of wheat.

[youarejesting]

Curse.7 Scare Tactics

[First] [Masterlist] [Next] Beta: @jamaiskook​ Rating: PG Pairing: Prince!Jin x Reader Genre: fantasy, romance, comedy, drama, mystery, and more good stuff

Summary: A modern-day fairy tale whereby seven young princes born under King Bang’s greed cannot find true love. Unless they break a special spell, called the ‘Bang curse’. In order to break the curse, Prince Seokjin must be loved by a ‘Blue’ blood, by a royal. That seems almost impossible when you have a pig nose. (based off the movie Penelope)

[Story Give Away]

Jin wasn’t particularly excited by today's meet but there was a sense of anticipation unlike any other meet before. There was so much that he was working for. It was not just his own but his brothers’ happiness that was relying on this morning. He unwittingly combed his hair and wore a face mask, only to sit behind the glass and stare at the empty room. 

The girls entered one by one, each as pretty and high end as the last, with their designer clothes and pristine nails and— 

She walked in wearing ripped jeans and worn sneakers, her hair was a mess and her nails slightly bitten from stress. It didn’t appear that she was wearing much makeup, a sight that made him feel like she was more down to earth. It was a bit daunting- she was so beautiful and she must have barely worn anything on her face.

Ignoring the glances she was getting from the other girls, or the way they shifted from the chair as she sat down. She started going on about some new fashion trends and Seokjin could see it. She was a swindler. How could he not notice, for his entire life all he did was see and observe others. And he knew when someone was lying.

When locked away in a proverbial tower, one finds themselves with a lot of time on their hands. Seokjin used that time to read about human behaviour, so he knew a liar when he saw one and you were a damned good one. He had to pull his eyes away from your figure, your presence in the room demanded attention and you were able to ensnare these women in ribbons of lies and with those strings you could easily manipulate them like they were simple marionettes. 

Finally, the girls went quiet, all looking at their phones (including you, albeit with a frown) he was able to open the chat room. You had an older iPhones and it appeared you were having some technical difficulties. He wanted to help and almost did, partly standing before remembering his predicament.

The girls started messaging in the chat room and he was politely replying to their hellos and well wishes. It was honestly no different than any other meet, and yet he was so distracted by this young woman carding her hands through her soft curls and sporadically pacing about the room with her hand extended. 

He knew his brothers would be laughing at how strange this group of young women were behaving. They would watch the meets from one of the many living rooms within the palace. He wished he could be goofing off too, instead of holding the pressure of six other lives in his hands. 

Nothing could distract Seokjin from the sudden dark turn of the conversation. Some were bringing up past rumors and others were spouting rubbish about his mental capacity. He rebutted then, trying to keep his cool until they started accusing him of certain things he was not. 

They were demanding that he show himself and in a fit of rage, he told them he would be there soon.

Seokjin threw his phone onto the couch cushion beside him and stormed across the room toward the side door. To the girls it would appear as just another mirror, but each mirror was somewhere he could observe the young women and get to know them before he showed himself. As the years passed, the only time he used this door was to scare them away and that’s what he planned to do.

Each step he took was heavy like he was making a point to himself. He didn’t need anyone, he didn’t need these superficial women trying to tell him how worthless he was, he already knew that. Seokjin secured the small lever in his hand and pulled it down making the door swing open. Stepping into the middle of the room; each young lady looked up at him, their eyes traveling his form. Some noticed his body first, others his eyes, hair, or smile but they all landed upon his nose. 

He felt that crushing feeling in his chest as their faces turned to disgust and horror, watching them all scramble from their seats, tripping over themselves and each other and screaming as they ran from the palace. He felt a sick sense of satisfaction, a good riddens. Seokjin didn’t need anyone, at least that’s what he thought.

That is, until he realized he lost her. The girl who he thought was different, with her ripped jeans and messy hair. The one who captivated him with her mere presence, maybe she was the same after all. He sighed, reprimanding himself for not behaving as he promised Adora and his brothers he would. He turned his back to the empty room and shuffled back into the adjacent room, stopping only to pick up his phone. 

The trek through the castle was as quiet as always, Seokjin’s wing never had any real visitors, just the occasional cleaner or one of his brothers. He reached the lounge room where his brothers were sitting eating snacks, the television showed the waiting room the young ladies had been. So empty it almost mocked him. 

They each turned to him as he slumped into an armchair, stuffing his face with pink donuts. “I am sorry, they provoked me and my anger got the better of me,” he handed over the phone as evidence and Yoongi took it reading the texts out loud. He continued through Adora’s text as the moderator of the group and Seokjin’s overworked matchmaker. She had a lot to say about what happened.

“Look Adora I am sorry, I can’t take it back now” he remembered texting that as he was storming through the palace. 

“Hello, are you still there?” Yoongi said and Seokjin looked up at his younger brother confused.  “What?” He asked  “Hyung, there is a girl,” Taehyung said and sure enough, lying across the couch was the young woman he couldn’t help admiring earlier. 

“Did she see?” Jin asked, scared.  “Of course she did! You jumped out in front of everyone” Hoseok hissed. “Hurry up and get back in there” they shouted and Seokjin took his phone and ran back, hoping this was it. His chance to be normal, his chance to find love. 

Racing back into the other side of the waiting room she was no longer on the couch but by the mirror touching a delicate candelabra. Your eyes met his and he shied back covering his nose with his hands. She smiled, softly tapping the glass, “are you still there?”

He watched you check the chat room and sigh. He was frozen. He knew he had to text you but what would he say? His eyes widened as you picked up the candelabra. Were you going to smash the glass?

Laughter filled him as he saw you trying to stash the object under your blazer to no avail, he pressed the button on the small mic which allowed him to talk to someone in the next room. “I think it is a bit obvious.”

You jumped, dropping the badly concealed object and you paused in shock. He watched as your lips turned up in a soft smile and looked up, “you must be the prince I have heard so little about” “And you are?” “Y/n, I mean my friends call me that my real name is Suryeon”  “That’s a weird alias” he laughed “you are so strange”

“A lot of people don’t like others because they are different” you said in passing  “So did you see?” He asked  “See what?” You smiled, cheekily “So you didn’t see?” He added a little disappointed “You mean you bursting out through the side door and scaring all the girls away?”

“So you did see?”  “I see a lot of things” “You are talking us round in circles, I just want to know?” “Let me tell you what I want to know. Why did you lock yourself up? I mean wouldn’t it just be better to be like, I am me and if you don’t like it get out.” You said looking into the mirror.

Wide eyes curious and examining everything they came across, he felt bare in front of you, he knew logically you couldn’t see him, but why did it feel like your eyes were looking directly at him? 

“I have tried, but my father has a strong hold and his order is to keep me locked away.” Seokjin cut his rant short, figuring it wouldn’t make a good impression.

“Ah I wouldn’t know about that. I have no parents, not anymore” your smile seemed sad, he watched your hands moving on the other side of the glass. It seemed almost familiar but he couldn't quite place the action. 

“Tell me about yourself” you challenged him with a grin while you walked away from the glass and across the room to the couch. Which you pushed across the wooden floor, definitely scratching the flooring but without a care in the world. You removed your shoes and sat barefoot on the couch and smiled.

“What would you like to know?” He asked a little closed off, ready for you to ask him personal questions about why he was locked away and what was wrong with him. 

“Tell me what’s it like to have brothers”

An hour passed and you had swapped stories of your childhoods. 

“And we would go to the markets in the town and you could make your own candles, you choose a decorative tin and you can make it with whatever scent you want. I love the sweet scents.” Seokjin could imagine it just like in the movie she would be walking in the park music playing in the background. He had to remind himself to listen you your story finding it hard to concentrate when he got lost in your sweet smile.

“One year I made a mistake and got a floral musk one and it haunts me to this day.” He watched as the dazed look in your eye turned sharp and your nose scrunched up in disgust, he thought you were adorable. Unable to stop his fond chuckles that echoed through the next room. 

He hadn’t felt like this before it was warm and he wanted more. Finding himself leaning towards you, but his nose touched the cold hard mirror and he pulled back seeing his revolting features in the reflection of the mirror. “Maybe one day we could make one together. My favourite smell was the buttercream one I made in a little tin with a Strawberry pattern.” 

“The markets sound fun.” Jin sighed, wondering if one day he could see the markets with all the rides and animals and foods and everything. 

“You should go, there are so many fun things to buy and see and try,” the fond smile on your face alone made him jealous that you could go to such a joyous event and he couldn’t even leave the palace. “What about you? What do you buy? I bet you’re secretly an online shopper.”

“Lots of things?” He laughed thinking on his list of purchases and packages that arrive everyday. 

“I think I buy something new everyday”

“What’s the last thing you bought?” You sat up resting your chin on your hand and gazing into the mirror. 

“Don’t laugh!” He warned and you broke into a smile and giggled “hey I mean it you can’t laugh”

“Okay I promise to keep my laughing to a minimum” you pressed your pinky to the glass and he watched it longingly “are you pinky promising too?”

He placed his pinky to the glass and imagined how it would feel to hold your hands properly. “I am now”

“Okay, tell me what did you order online?”

“Bath bombs”

“Bath bombs?” You cackled

“You said you wouldn’t laugh” he laughed along with you, your laughter matching well with his. 

“Your laugh sounds like a window cleaner thing” you commented, and he laughed some more. He had never had so much fun with someone who wasn’t paid or related to him before today. There was a text on both your phones; it was the chat room. 

Adora was saying perhaps he call the meeting a day and you can return another day. “Well I guess I should let you go, you must have more bath bombs to buy. You know, your regular princely duty, give me a review on how it goes. I have a bath and would love to buy a bath bomb, something without glitter” 

“Wait when can I see you next?” Seokjin panicked standing his hands on the glass wanting to stop you. 

“Hmm how about tomorrow?” You asked looking directly at him. It made his heart sore how often you looked directly into his eyes even through the mirror. It’s like you knew where he was. Like you could feel the connection. 

“I will inform the guards and Adora to let you in,” he said, his heart fluttering with the promise of seeing you again. 

You froze in the doorway and ran back opening the door on the writing desk and looking rifling around until you found a small marker. Taking your time to carefully write backwards on the mirror. 

“Call me 0123457689, if you get sick of waiting we can text” you stepped back admiring your writing and waving and scurrying out chaperoned by a guard. This was the first time Jin had seen a woman reluctant to leave his presence before.

He sat stunned at the number and he saved your number into his phone. He wished he had a picture to set as your caller ID as well, but he was unsure if that would be weird to ask for so early in the friendship. 

Seokjin walked to the living room to see the guys smiling up at him, he was embarrassed, his ears turning pink. “He is so cute,” Jimin grinned, grabbing him by the shoulders and giving him an affectionate hug. 

Jimin always gave the best hugs, but rarely gave them to Seokjin; he knew it was because Jimin was mildly scared of Seokjin. Jimin was gentle and cared for anyone and everyone to the point where he would cry if he didn’t help, but that didn’t stop him from subconsciously being aware of his nose. 

Seokjin knew they were all similar; they all loved him but there was a hesitancy towards him and his nose. Taehyung was an exception to this, he admired his hyung and called him handsome every single day supported him in every decision he made. 

Hoseok stole the phone and texted her a ‘hey it’s Jin’ text much to the protest of Seokjin who was furiously scrambling for his phone but it was too late, the message was sent. 

The nerves kicked in, he had a plan and this was not it, he was going to wait until dinner and casually send a message. But this just punched his plans in the face, he stared as three dots appeared. Wiggling in a row. 

He waited and you replied, “Hey Jin it’s Suryeon” he giggled walking out of the room leaving his younger brothers staring after him as he walked back to his room. 

“Did he just ditch us for a girl?” Jungkook asked, his voice just reaching Jin’s ears before he was completely out of earshot.

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[songketalliance]

Walk With Confidence

“When we build strong enough self-esteem to get over the urge to conform to the restrictive society’s standard of how women should look, it is easy to curb the appetite to accumulate things that we don’t need to get a false sense of confidence.”

By Hani Syafi'i

“Is it possible for a woman to only have one pair of shoes?”

The question came into my mind as I looked over a wall fully installed with a huge shoe rack housing many different kinds of stilettos solely owned by my aunt.

I myself owned three pairs of high heels. A nude coloured one for semi-formal events, a black one for formal events, and a blue one for whenever I feel like I want to be fancy. That was already kind of less than normal standards.

But how many high heels do I really need?

We hear from many sources that great shoes boost our confidence as a woman and we believe it. Why not? We feel it ourselves. Wear a good pair of shoes and we’re out to conquer the world.

However, something about this doesn’t sit right with me. Why is our confidence in the hands of an inanimate object? Why do we make our confidence dependent on what we wear? Clothes, make-up, bags, etc. Without these things, do we have nothing to offer?

At the end of the day, they are merely man-made stuff, and if we depend on them to feel confident, we are gauging the approval of others.

I remember the time when materials were important for me. My needs to keep up with the current trends came from the need to feel accepted in society. I did not want to be sneered at because I wore exactly the same outfit last Tuesday. I did not want to miss out on any opportunities because I did not exude quality via how I dress. I did not want to lose friends because I failed to catch up with their new gadgets. I did not want to be rejected because I did not look good enough.

Ironically, I met a great man and the right friends when materials were the least of my priorities. Only when I am not busy trying to impress others that I know which kind of people I want to surround myself with. I no longer hope for people to want me. It is now up to me if I want them. If a person can’t enjoy my presence without me getting dolled up and owning the latest item in the market, it just means that we do not share the same values and us not having each other around is completely fine.

As a woman, it is important to trust that fashion and looks are not what we are all about. They only take up a small percentage of what we have to offer. It is easy to forget this when for decades, the media has been feeding us unrealistic imagery of how women should look like. Unwittingly we let other people decide if we are beautiful enough or good enough.

When you enter the room, nobody could take their eyes off you with your beautiful shoes but what I want you to know is that you are a completely stunning woman even without those Jimmy Choo’s.

You look great wearing that Cartier timepiece but that is only a little bonus compared to your sense of humour that can make a lot of people feel at ease.

Your amazing contours are so sharp they could slice, but hearing your views on life issues makes many feel happy to have met a woman so wise.

If you have a whole room designated to your huge collection of shoes, you are an inspiring woman because of your single-mindedness in pursuing what makes you happy. Your confidence should not come from your shoes, it should come from your amazing focus and persistence. The only thing a shoe can do for you is make your walk comfortable. Inanimate objects do not define our worth. Nobody should feel like their self-worth depends on things or people other than themselves.

Back to the question, is it possible for a woman to own only one pair of shoes?

The answer is yes.

Shoes are like scrunchies; not everyone needs to have a lot of them. When we build strong enough self-esteem to get over the urge to conform to the restrictive society’s standard of how women should look, it is easy to curb the appetite to accumulate things that we don’t need to get a false sense of confidence.

So stop telling women that given good shoes, we can conquer the world. We can very well conquer the world barefoot if we want to.

“Owning more shoes than necessary will not alter the amount of greatness you have in yourself.” I thought to myself in front of a donation bin as I decided I didn’t need all three of my high heels and settled for one pair of comfortable black pointed flats that I wear everywhere. And guess what, nobody who matters minds.

By Hani Syafi'i

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[erasamuel]

Trail Shoes Market Growing Popularity and Emerging Trends in the Industry

Latest Report Available at Advance Market Analytics, “Trail Shoes Market” provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamics and a forward looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining industry growth. The global Trail Shoes market focuses on encompassing major statistical evidence for the Trail Shoes industry as it offers our readers a value addition on guiding them in encountering the obstacles surrounding the market. A comprehensive addition of several factors such as global distribution, manufacturers, market size, and market factors that affect the global contributions are reported in the study. In addition the Trail Shoes study also shifts its attention with an in-depth competitive landscape, defined growth opportunities, market share coupled with product type and applications, key companies responsible for the production, and utilized strategies are also marked.

Some key players in the global Trail Shoes market are:

Brooks (United States)

Salomon (France)

Asics (Japan)

New Balance (United States)

Saucony (United States)

The North Face (United States)

Deckers (United States)

Montrail (United States)

LOWA (Germany)

Adidas (Germany) Trail shoes are running shoes that are specifically designed for running off-road, whether through forests, bridleways, beaches, or a grassy field. Some trail shoes are better suited to road running than others, while others are best kept off the road. Trail shoes typically have a gusseted tongue to keep trail debris and gravel out of the shoe. Trail shoes are frequently heavier than regular shoes. However, different weights are available within the trail shoe category. On well-kept trails, light trail shoes provide support. Rugged trail shoes protect feet on a variety of terrains. Off-trail shoes, on the other hand, offer the most protection and support when running on rocky or extreme terrain. Trail running shoes are typically designed to withstand the rigours of off-road running in environments with sharp rocks, jagged roots, and gritty dirt.What's Trending in Market: Growing ethical consumerism

Challenges: Fluctuations in the prices of raw material

Market Growth Drivers: Increasing demand for trail running shoes among participants to maintain safety and reduce the chances of injuries and fatigue

Growing female participation in the sports activity

The Global Trail Shoes Market segments and Market Data Break Downby Type (Barefoot Shoes, Low profile Shoes, Traditional Shoes, Maximalist Shoes), Application (Men, Women, Kids), Category (Light, Rugged, Off Trail), Distribution Channel (Offline, Online)

Presented By

AMA Research & Media LLP