Thought provoking article on the benefits of going barefoot and/or adopting footwear that simulates the barefoot experience. Anecdotal evidence mixes with scientific study in this article. One of the keys is learning how to walk in a manner consistent with Nia move #1 - the heel lead. You'll get more info on why by reading the article. There is even mention of the Alexander Technique in the text!

The author does a good job of pointing out that switching to barefoot may not go smoothly at first as the body initially continues to pursue bad habits developed from years of wearing shoes. It can take time to develop ones barefoot 'sensory IQ' and learn to remember to do the 'heel lead'.

NPR glossed this article. Read their take on it. and while you're there, you can also listen to an interview with the author.