Walking in your shoes

This is the time of year we all put on shoes. Summer has flown by. Sandals have all been reluctantly put away. Autumn is in its full splendor!

By now, we have gone into our closets and searched for last years’ shoes. We slip our feet into what we wore last year. And perhaps those shoes have been with us for several years.
I have question for you: How did your feet and the rest of your body feel when you put on last years’ shoes, or those that are 2 , 3 or more years old?
Were you even aware of how you felt physically as you slipped into your Fall Footwear?
Let’s explore: Choose one pair of shoes. How old are they? Think back to that time. Tune in on the physical plane. How were you feeling then? Were you feeling strong and physically able? Were you recovering from an injury or nursing discomfort? In your memory, scan your whole body. This is about more than your feet! Our shoes carry our imprint and if you had been compensating due to any number of reasons, you may just be walking back into that pattern!
Don’t be surprised if some emotions come up as you scan back in time with those shoes. Here’s a reminder: Then was then. Now is now!
Moving in to the present moment, what is going on right now? How do you feel physically, right now?
Continuing this exploration about you and one pair of shoes, put them on. Reflecting upon the previous questions, scan your body once again as you walk around. Are you comfortable? How does your body feel? Are your feet happy?
If your answer to yourself is “Yes”, wonderful! An answer of “No” leaves a new space in your closet or gives you an excuse to freshen up your pedal wardrobe!
Awareness is the key. Try this with all your shoes. With winter around the corner, tune in to your boots as well!
I am NOT saying to get rid of all your shoes! I AM saying that it is an interesting exploration with which to spend a little time. Don’t hold on to shoes just because you think you can eke one more season out of them! Your feet and the rest of your body will thank you!