Even as the western world celebrate National Go Barefoot Day on June 1, 2025, Indians have been going barefoot for centuries. In fact, the practise of worshipping barefoot or taking off one’s shoes before any auspicious practise has deep significance. If you have wondered why millions of devotees remove their footwear before entering a temple or performing a ritual, the answer lies at the intersection of spiritual purity, energetic grounding and Vedic astrology.

Why Worship Barefoot?

1. Sacred Connection to the Earth (Bhumi Devi)

In Hinduism, the Earth is personified as Bhumi Devi, a nurturing mother goddess. Walking barefoot is seen as a sign of humility and respect — a surrender to her divine presence. Shoes, made of leather or rubber and carrying outside impurities, act as barriers to this sacred connection.

2. Energetic Grounding

From an energetic standpoint, the human body is seen as an electromagnetic system. Walking barefoot on natural surfaces — especially soil, grass, or stone — is known to discharge static energy, balance the body's electrical field, and reduce stress. This idea aligns with the modern wellness practice of earthing. In temples, where cosmic energy is believed to be concentrated, being barefoot helps absorb these subtle vibrations, especially through specific marma points (energy points) located on the soles of the feet.

3. Purity and Mindfulness

Footwear is often associated with travel, external movement, and exposure to physical impurities. Removing shoes is not just a hygienic act; it symbolizes leaving behind worldly distractions and entering a state of inner stillness. This state is essential for prayer, meditation, and connection with the divine.

Grounding Rituals in Indian Astrology

Indian astrology (Jyotisha Shastra) views grounding as essential for aligning with cosmic energies and balancing the planetary influences in one's birth chart. Here are some grounding rituals recommended by astrologers:

1. Walking on Grass at Sunrise

This is often recommended for those with afflicted Mercury or Moon in their charts — planets associated with the mind and nervous system. Walking barefoot on dew-covered grass at dawn stabilizes mental energy, reduces anxiety, and balances the Manas Tattva (mental element).

2. Prithvi Tarpanam (Offering to Earth)

A lesser-known ritual, Prithvi Tarpanam involves placing offerings (like raw rice, water, or sandalwood paste) on the ground while chanting specific mantras. It's done to pacify planetary afflictions and thank Bhumi Devi. This is especially beneficial during Rahu-Ketu dosha or Shani (Saturn) afflictions, which can cause instability and fear.

3. Mud Bath or Clay Therapy

Using natural mud packs, especially during a Shani Dasha or after lunar eclipses, is considered cleansing and grounding. It draws out negative energy, especially from the feet and legs, and is believed to stabilize Vata dosha, which governs movement and anxiety.

4. Touching the Earth Before Sunrise

As per ancient texts, one should begin the day by touching the floor and mentally offering gratitude to Bhumi Devi. The verse commonly recited is: "Samudra vasane devi Parvata sthana mandite Vishnupatni namastubhyam Paada sparsham kshamasva me" This prayer, often taught to children, is a grounding mantra that teaches humility and cosmic reverence.

5. Lighting a Diya on the Floor

During planetary remedies (like for Mars or Ketu), astrologers may prescribe lighting a sesame oil diya placed directly on the ground, often facing South. This connects the element of fire with Earth, channeling negative planetary energy into the ground.

Bringing the Practice into Modern Life

Even if you're not deeply religious, walking barefoot on natural surfaces, sitting on the ground while meditating, or simply acknowledging the Earth before beginning your day can transform your mental and emotional well-being. In a world dominated by screens, speed, and synthetic environments, grounding rituals offer a return to balance, simplicity, and wholeness. Whether you're standing barefoot before a temple sanctum or walking through your garden at dawn, remember — you're not just touching the Earth. You're touching something ancient, eternal, and healing. In Indian culture, worship isn’t just about rituals — it’s about relationship: with the self, the cosmos, and the Earth beneath our feet. Being barefoot during worship isn't a rule — it's a reminder. That before we seek the divine in idols and mantras, we must feel it beneath our own feet.