re-post
37 Reasons for having a shoes-off policy in your home:
1. Carpets are not easy to clean.
2. Carpets absorb dust and become breeding grounds for dust mites, causing the development of asthma and allergies.
3. If you do not have a carpet, the dust will not be absorbed and you are likely to breathe it in.
4. Shoes can leave marks on wood, PVC and marble floors.
5. Shoes can scratch wood flooring, especially if they have high heels.
6. Boots and high heeled shoes can cause wear and tear to carpets.
7. That goes for rugs as well.
8. Shoes pick up small particles of grit that cause wear and tear to carpets.
9. Shoes pick up traces of petrol fumes and industrial pollution.
10. Shoes can pick up pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals.
11. Shoes pick up traces of animal excrement.
12. Ever noticed how much chewing gum there is stuck to the streets?
13. In a square mile, there are more insects than people on the planet. How many do you think you have squashed on your shoes?
14. If you have a crawling baby, do you want him or her to be exposed to the dirt from people's shoes?
15. In rain or snow, you are less likely to get the floor wet.
16. If you live near a beach, you will bring less sand into the house.
17. If you have a crawling baby, you will do less damage if you accidently step on him or her.
18. If you get mad and kick the cat or dog, you will do less damage (apologies to animal lovers).
19. If your children play rough, they will do less damage.
20. It creates a less formal atmosphere.
21. It creates a greater sense of relaxation.
22. Your guests will become more like you by removing their shoes and will feel part of the family.
23. An oriental, Scandinavian or East European visitor will feel more at home.
24. It teaches children the importance of respecting and looking after things.
25. Psychologically, removing your shoes helps you to enter a frame of mind where you keep your everyday troubles outside your home.
26. It is more comfortable.
27. It is healthier for you feet to take your shoes off during the day.
28. Small children with growing feet should wear shoes only to the minimum.
29. If you wear high-heeled shoes, your feet badly need a break.
30. You can put your feet up on the sofa without taking your shoes off first (Dont tell me you put your feet on the sofa with shoes on?).
31. You can put your feet up on the coffee table without taking your shoes off first.
32. If you ever visit Japan, it will seem less weird.
33. If you are ever arrested and they confiscate your shoes, along with your belt and jewellery, it will seem less weird.
34. Your feet smell less if you do not wear them all day.
35. When you lovingly chastise your children, you will have a slipper to hand.
36. It was a Biblical custom (come on, did they wash their feet with shoes on?)
37. Do you really think the Saints in Glory are going to trample the sparkling, clean New Jerusalem with shoes on?
Reform School Shoes
Enough already. Poor rich little Paris. Is she now going to be wearing reform shoes? According to what I had read she "says" she is. One article said that God has given her another chance. With all the antics I have seen it is very hard for me to take that with any seriousness. All I can see is her saying, "God. He's hot!" That sounds like the REAL Paris. There have been too many of these types of pictures. Who really takes her serious? She is almost a walking vagina, she shows it so much!
EWWWWWH! Does she have a rash in that photo? So after a pink cake and hair extensions she is a new woman who has found God. I will have to wait and see if she is really wearing reformed shoes and for exactly how long.
EWWWWWH! Does she have a rash in that photo? So after a pink cake and hair extensions she is a new woman who has found God. I will have to wait and see if she is really wearing reformed shoes and for exactly how long.
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
Keen Footwear-Hybrid Life
I have just bought a pair of Keens. Why? Just because they are a little different. They are all about standing: up, out and for something. Shoes with a vision. I will be doing some ruigged walking and hiking when I go on vacation in a few weeks so some different shoes than what I already have were needed. My Keen Footwear is the Hood River II shoe. These shoes are a cross of water shoe, part sandal and part Crock.
The traction on them is great! They are made with a wet traction technology called Aqua Stop that gives the Keen Hood River II has serious grip even on slick surfaces. Because of the open air design drainage when in or near water is no problem. The webbing under the strap also helps with drainage. It is a very comfortable shoe that I can wear just about all day. Here they are.
As soon as I can get my camera I will post me in them. I have started wearing them today to break them in before the trip. Nothing is worst than a bad pair of shoes on a trip. Trust me I know first hand....I will never forget those horrible pair of Nine West Bad Bad Shoes that ripped up my heels. Going on a trip? Break the shoes in first!
You can get a pair like mine/these here. It has been 6 hours now and they are the most comfortable shoe I have ever had on. They are fantastic! Several styles to choose from.
These are some men styles!
The traction on them is great! They are made with a wet traction technology called Aqua Stop that gives the Keen Hood River II has serious grip even on slick surfaces. Because of the open air design drainage when in or near water is no problem. The webbing under the strap also helps with drainage. It is a very comfortable shoe that I can wear just about all day. Here they are.
As soon as I can get my camera I will post me in them. I have started wearing them today to break them in before the trip. Nothing is worst than a bad pair of shoes on a trip. Trust me I know first hand....I will never forget those horrible pair of Nine West Bad Bad Shoes that ripped up my heels. Going on a trip? Break the shoes in first!
You can get a pair like mine/these here. It has been 6 hours now and they are the most comfortable shoe I have ever had on. They are fantastic! Several styles to choose from.
These are some men styles!
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
London Travel
One of these days in the very near future I would love to go to Europe. I really just want to hit all the highlights on the first time. I would have to go to London. The Royals and Buckingham Palace are there. That is one place I would have to see. I mean they have lived there since 1837 and the Queen allows parts to be visited by the public. It would be one of the first places to see and soon after would be Big Ben. There are lots of places to stay from the very nice to the very cheap. I think I would be somewhere in the middle. Cheap hotels in London are everywhere. That is why it is the hot spot of so many students to go to after graduation. I remember when I graduated from high school eons ago, quite a few of my classmates were given that by their parents as a gift.
I am not sure if those who were going were going to stay in hostels or not. I just know that accomodations are quite affordable there for as little as gbp 10.00. Who can beat that? Now that is a hostel but if all you are looking for is a place to sleep it is worth it. For that cost it is a 1 star accomodation. Due to all of the beautiful, historic landmarks, cheap accomodations can be found everywhere in just about every suburb. Take the cheap hotels in Piccadilly for example. If you are backpacking the prices start at GBP 20 and go on up to GBP 168 for a 5 star hotel for those who want just a little more comfort. These prices are good all the time, whether your trip is one that has been planned for a year or whether you decided to make a last minute jaunt. Lots of the accomodations are within walking distance of famous landmarks like Trafalgar Square or Hyde Park.
CheaperThanHotels is far reaching with accomodations in other places as well. One of my dream places is Down Under and sure enough there are cheap hotels in Australia . Australia has such a varied landscape with beaches and tropics to very dry areas. There are budget accomodations and luxury resorts in all of those areas that range from serviced apartments, hotels and backpacker hostels. CheaperThanHotels has last minute deals that are available only on line and extras that come with some of your travel selections. How can they do this? Well they have established networks with leading hotel chains worldwide to bring affordable travel arrangements to the public at competetive prices.
I am not sure if those who were going were going to stay in hostels or not. I just know that accomodations are quite affordable there for as little as gbp 10.00. Who can beat that? Now that is a hostel but if all you are looking for is a place to sleep it is worth it. For that cost it is a 1 star accomodation. Due to all of the beautiful, historic landmarks, cheap accomodations can be found everywhere in just about every suburb. Take the cheap hotels in Piccadilly for example. If you are backpacking the prices start at GBP 20 and go on up to GBP 168 for a 5 star hotel for those who want just a little more comfort. These prices are good all the time, whether your trip is one that has been planned for a year or whether you decided to make a last minute jaunt. Lots of the accomodations are within walking distance of famous landmarks like Trafalgar Square or Hyde Park.
CheaperThanHotels is far reaching with accomodations in other places as well. One of my dream places is Down Under and sure enough there are cheap hotels in Australia . Australia has such a varied landscape with beaches and tropics to very dry areas. There are budget accomodations and luxury resorts in all of those areas that range from serviced apartments, hotels and backpacker hostels. CheaperThanHotels has last minute deals that are available only on line and extras that come with some of your travel selections. How can they do this? Well they have established networks with leading hotel chains worldwide to bring affordable travel arrangements to the public at competetive prices.
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
Sleek Golden Shoes
The shoes are said to be made of up-to-680g pure gold by an Italian designer in Wuhu, Anhui Province under the invitation from World Gold Council. Price? Most likely priceless. I would not think it would be very comfortable. Does gold give like leather? No. They make a showy statement!
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
Golden Glitteries
While the gold shoe to come is off limits to almost all except the rich, famous and eccentric, we all have the opportunity to buy gold and reap the benefits in investing in gold. Since the ancient civilizations man has known the benefits of gold investment. It can increase your economic worth and your buying power. While I would not want a pair of golden shoes, I would like coins or the bullion. Based on your financial situation, there are several ways to invest. You can just invest or buy coins outright with cash and have them delivered to you. The other option is to finance a purchase with a 20% down payment.
It is relatively simple to do. Decide the form of gold you want and how you want to buy/invest then call Monex. There are investment specialist who will guide you through the process. Your price and purchase rates will be confirmed, you will then get a written confirmation of the transaction. Payment is due the day you call and once the holding period for money transfer is completed, your gold will be on the way to you. You can have it shipped to your bank and walla! gold is yours! In the future if you wanted to change your investment and sell, that is easy to do to. Just call Monex again and a sale can be transacted.
Gold shoes? Not so good an investment. Nice novelty. Gold coins or ingots? Now that is what I want to have for keeps.
It is relatively simple to do. Decide the form of gold you want and how you want to buy/invest then call Monex. There are investment specialist who will guide you through the process. Your price and purchase rates will be confirmed, you will then get a written confirmation of the transaction. Payment is due the day you call and once the holding period for money transfer is completed, your gold will be on the way to you. You can have it shipped to your bank and walla! gold is yours! In the future if you wanted to change your investment and sell, that is easy to do to. Just call Monex again and a sale can be transacted.
Gold shoes? Not so good an investment. Nice novelty. Gold coins or ingots? Now that is what I want to have for keeps.
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
My Summer Sandals Continued
Well, an update to this post. I forgot about this pair. After I saw how lovely the off white flip flops went with so many things I decided that I should break down and get a pair of shoes that really were nice enough for dressing. I got these by Nine West. They are white patent leather and very nice. They too dress up everything and can go anywhere. I can't even remember the last time or year that I had a pair of white shoes. I had decided that white shoes were taboo long ago. Now, this year for me, the white shoe is in!
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
My Summer Sandals
I took a look around in my closet and realized that the only shoes I owned for 2 inches and higher and heeled. I have no flats at all of any kind. I had a pair of old flip flops that I had about 4 years ago. I threw them out and decided to go shopping over the past 2 weeks for flat shoes. Not so much nice flats for summer dressing but really casual. All my shoes are dress heels. All my sandals are dress sandals with 2-3 in heels. Heels do not work for long distance walking. I have had to walk far distances lately and those heels are not working.
I have even taken to walking in the flats and then changing into the heels once I arrive at my destination. My flats fit into a large purse or my briefcase and noone knows the wiser. I still strut in with the best, highest shoes on! Bam! Heels are in the house!
So what have I purchased? Well, I guess I will start with the Uggs. These I love and they are my very first pair of Uggs. I have seen several pairs of the boots around in the winter but they are pink or purple. Can't buy those. These are very comfortable and they go just about with anything casual.
The next pair of shoes I got were on a whim. I was at Target with my child dirty Fila and she wanted a pair of flip flops. I am not to keen on flip flops for anyone but I did get her a pair. As we were leaving the aisle I spotted these and was struck by the "flip flop cuteness" of them. Well they screamed buy me. The rhinestone dressed them up so much that they make casual things almost dressy! I have worn them quite a bit now and they are a bit dingy. I think I will be getting another pair. This is really a fashion must have for summer. A big "yeeeessss" for the embellished glam flip flop!
I have even taken to walking in the flats and then changing into the heels once I arrive at my destination. My flats fit into a large purse or my briefcase and noone knows the wiser. I still strut in with the best, highest shoes on! Bam! Heels are in the house!
So what have I purchased? Well, I guess I will start with the Uggs. These I love and they are my very first pair of Uggs. I have seen several pairs of the boots around in the winter but they are pink or purple. Can't buy those. These are very comfortable and they go just about with anything casual.
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
7 Highly Effective Habits In Ballet Training
There are 7 highly effective habits that affect: the key area of dancing for young ballerinas, pointe work, and; a key area for men in ballet, jumping. In early training, regardless of age, these will contribute to excellence in both these areas. This analysis can apply to other areas of dance in the same way also, I'm choosing this one for the sake of discussion.
***First, education as to specific physical attributes and shortcomings. One example is, every dancer would like to have long and stretchy Achilles tendons, and flexible ankles. These 2 advantages provide the biggest range of movement between the bottom of a demi-plie and the take-off point of a releve or jump. One of the dancers in my class at the National Ballet School of Canada had a very shallow demi-plie. Yet, she had very flexible ankles and a high arch, and this gave her the thrust to jump very high.
***Second, technical education . Regardless of physical advantages, progress can be made by understanding the ideal ballet movements and by learning correct ballet stretches. Also, get the correct preparation for dancing in ballet pointe shoes. There is no restriction on our access to information.
***Third, a teacher who not only has decent credentials, but who has the required habit of demanding correctness in class. This is a variable, and inexperienced teachers do not realize how often they are going to repeat the same old correction over the years of training, to the same students.... in a million different imaginative ways.
***Fourth, knowing that there is cross-training that will help you compensate for your physical shortcomings. If you need to get more flexible, there is Pilates, massage, and Yoga. If you are flexible but weak in some areas, Pilates, and weight training will help.
***Fifth, knowing where more details count - if your habit is curiosity, that's a huge asset. If it's not, adopt it. Studying how to increase your ballet turnout and extensions is a plus.
***Sixth, coordinating your knowledge of your physiology, and how you might be compensating detrimentally to get the deepest demi-plie and best take-off that you can, and instead compensate more with cross-training and less with bad habits. It's only a life-long process, even for the most gifted.
***Seven, a truly habitual appreciation of your own uniqueness, talents, intelligence, and determination. There will always be an invitation to doubt yourself, envy others' real or imagined superiority, and waste time thinking negative thoughts.
Proper rest and good nutrition have a lot to do with #7. Body and brain fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies are directly related to mood. Please be curious and get the information you need.
These 7 highly effective habits are just the tip of the icebergs, but they are a great guide to go with until you develop your own uniqueness in training priorities.
***First, education as to specific physical attributes and shortcomings. One example is, every dancer would like to have long and stretchy Achilles tendons, and flexible ankles. These 2 advantages provide the biggest range of movement between the bottom of a demi-plie and the take-off point of a releve or jump. One of the dancers in my class at the National Ballet School of Canada had a very shallow demi-plie. Yet, she had very flexible ankles and a high arch, and this gave her the thrust to jump very high.
***Second, technical education . Regardless of physical advantages, progress can be made by understanding the ideal ballet movements and by learning correct ballet stretches. Also, get the correct preparation for dancing in ballet pointe shoes. There is no restriction on our access to information.
***Third, a teacher who not only has decent credentials, but who has the required habit of demanding correctness in class. This is a variable, and inexperienced teachers do not realize how often they are going to repeat the same old correction over the years of training, to the same students.... in a million different imaginative ways.
***Fourth, knowing that there is cross-training that will help you compensate for your physical shortcomings. If you need to get more flexible, there is Pilates, massage, and Yoga. If you are flexible but weak in some areas, Pilates, and weight training will help.
***Fifth, knowing where more details count - if your habit is curiosity, that's a huge asset. If it's not, adopt it. Studying how to increase your ballet turnout and extensions is a plus.
***Sixth, coordinating your knowledge of your physiology, and how you might be compensating detrimentally to get the deepest demi-plie and best take-off that you can, and instead compensate more with cross-training and less with bad habits. It's only a life-long process, even for the most gifted.
***Seven, a truly habitual appreciation of your own uniqueness, talents, intelligence, and determination. There will always be an invitation to doubt yourself, envy others' real or imagined superiority, and waste time thinking negative thoughts.
Proper rest and good nutrition have a lot to do with #7. Body and brain fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies are directly related to mood. Please be curious and get the information you need.
These 7 highly effective habits are just the tip of the icebergs, but they are a great guide to go with until you develop your own uniqueness in training priorities.
Culture
re-post
Some people in Britain and the USA have an interesting perspective on this subject. They feel happy taking off their shoes at the home of an Asian person whose culture demands removal of shoes, but consider it deeply rude for a British or American person to insist on visitors to her home removing their shoes.
There are two problems with this attitude. Firstly, there is a touch of cultural arrogance about it. It implies that the Asian custom of removing shoes is purely of spiritual or cultural significance with no practical value. Maybe Asian people are primarily concerned about keeping their homes clean! Behind the pretended respect for a foreign culture, there is the unspoken assumption that Western practice is superior.
Secondly, this attitude seems to take a rather static view of culture, seeing it as a set of chains that bind people to particular rules of behaviour. In fact, culture is dynamic and fluid, it changes over time.
It seems to me to be quite obvious that if a person of Asian descent can be considered British while keeping her home shoe-free, it is perfectly acceptable for a White British person to keep her home shoe-free.
It may be the norm in Britain and most of the USA for shoes to stay on in homes now, but this may change. In fact, I believe it probably will. Many White Americans and even British people are adopting the custom of shoes-off in homes.
We are living in a global village with increased immigration, travel and communication between different cultures. There is tremendous potential for different cultural practices to migrate across geographical boundaries.
Some people in Britain and the USA have an interesting perspective on this subject. They feel happy taking off their shoes at the home of an Asian person whose culture demands removal of shoes, but consider it deeply rude for a British or American person to insist on visitors to her home removing their shoes.
There are two problems with this attitude. Firstly, there is a touch of cultural arrogance about it. It implies that the Asian custom of removing shoes is purely of spiritual or cultural significance with no practical value. Maybe Asian people are primarily concerned about keeping their homes clean! Behind the pretended respect for a foreign culture, there is the unspoken assumption that Western practice is superior.
Secondly, this attitude seems to take a rather static view of culture, seeing it as a set of chains that bind people to particular rules of behaviour. In fact, culture is dynamic and fluid, it changes over time.
It seems to me to be quite obvious that if a person of Asian descent can be considered British while keeping her home shoe-free, it is perfectly acceptable for a White British person to keep her home shoe-free.
It may be the norm in Britain and most of the USA for shoes to stay on in homes now, but this may change. In fact, I believe it probably will. Many White Americans and even British people are adopting the custom of shoes-off in homes.
We are living in a global village with increased immigration, travel and communication between different cultures. There is tremendous potential for different cultural practices to migrate across geographical boundaries.
A Ballet Dancer's Guide - Increase Your Turnout, Learn Ballet Stretches
Deborah Vogel's ballet dancers guide books highlight the hot topics - increase your ballet turnout, ballet stretches and much more.
This summer there are some extra workshops scheduled for any teacher or dance student interested in functional anatomy - "FUNctional Anatomy" is Deborah Vogel's title of her book series (with co-author Anneliese Burns Wilson).
I remember that nothing felt as good as the progress a summer intensive created. Several classes a day, 6 days a week. Exhaustion, hot and humid weather, but no academic school. Complete focus on ballet, and then running off to extra modern dance classes in the evenings too. (Gosh, how did I do all that?!!!)
The evenings at the school residence were spent sewing all pointe shoes we needed for the summer intensive, and getting ready for the next day.
Deborah Vogel is a dancer, author, and master teacher who conducts workshops across the U.S. for both student and professional dancers. From a recent e-mail:
"Announcements
The venues have been set! Here is the listing of the cities and contact information
of my summer workshop tour. The full workshop information will be posted online
soon - and I will send a notice out when it is viewable. Contact the sponsors ASAP
to save a slot, as registration will be cut off at 25 participants per workshop!
7/07/07 Santa Fe, NM, Contact: Audrey Derrell, charismatopia@aol.com (10 - 1pm)
7/08/07 Albuquerque, NM, Contact: Cecelia Jaramillo, cjlamesa@swcp.com (1-4pm)
7/12/07 Paso Robles, CA, Contact: Cheryle Armstrong, classactdancepasorobles@yahoo.com
(5-8pm)
7/14/07 Berkeley, CA, Contact: Elizabeth Godfrey, berkeleycityballet@sbcglobal.net
(9am - noon)
7/14/07 Berkeley, CA, Contact: Karen Olson, idance@berkeleyballet.org (2-5 pm)
7/18/07 Elko, NV, Contact: Yong Pratt, dance_elko@yahoo.com (1-4 pm)"
So the contacts are above for more info.
Ballet tips - my recipe for a multi-mineral homemade electrolyte drink here. It's fantastic for keeping the blood balanced and the strength up:
Freshly squeezed lemons (probably about 6 per 4 quarts of water)
Maple syrup to taste
Pinch or so of cayenne pepper (that's where the minerals are)
Filtered water to dilute to taste.
Dancers tend to disregard recovery time for muscles and summer is especially intense. Please eat good lean proteins and fresh foods - minimize junk food.
For muscles soreness and cramps try "A to B Calm", a calcium-magnesium powder you dissolve in hot water. It tastes chalky so you can cool it with fruit juice. The so-so taste is really worth the relief from pain. You will find it at a health food store.
Get the most out of your ballet summer intensives with the best info from a ballet dancers guide.
This summer there are some extra workshops scheduled for any teacher or dance student interested in functional anatomy - "FUNctional Anatomy" is Deborah Vogel's title of her book series (with co-author Anneliese Burns Wilson).
I remember that nothing felt as good as the progress a summer intensive created. Several classes a day, 6 days a week. Exhaustion, hot and humid weather, but no academic school. Complete focus on ballet, and then running off to extra modern dance classes in the evenings too. (Gosh, how did I do all that?!!!)
The evenings at the school residence were spent sewing all pointe shoes we needed for the summer intensive, and getting ready for the next day.
Deborah Vogel is a dancer, author, and master teacher who conducts workshops across the U.S. for both student and professional dancers. From a recent e-mail:
"Announcements
The venues have been set! Here is the listing of the cities and contact information
of my summer workshop tour. The full workshop information will be posted online
soon - and I will send a notice out when it is viewable. Contact the sponsors ASAP
to save a slot, as registration will be cut off at 25 participants per workshop!
7/07/07 Santa Fe, NM, Contact: Audrey Derrell, charismatopia@aol.com (10 - 1pm)
7/08/07 Albuquerque, NM, Contact: Cecelia Jaramillo, cjlamesa@swcp.com (1-4pm)
7/12/07 Paso Robles, CA, Contact: Cheryle Armstrong, classactdancepasorobles@yahoo.com
(5-8pm)
7/14/07 Berkeley, CA, Contact: Elizabeth Godfrey, berkeleycityballet@sbcglobal.net
(9am - noon)
7/14/07 Berkeley, CA, Contact: Karen Olson, idance@berkeleyballet.org (2-5 pm)
7/18/07 Elko, NV, Contact: Yong Pratt, dance_elko@yahoo.com (1-4 pm)"
So the contacts are above for more info.
Ballet tips - my recipe for a multi-mineral homemade electrolyte drink here. It's fantastic for keeping the blood balanced and the strength up:
Freshly squeezed lemons (probably about 6 per 4 quarts of water)
Maple syrup to taste
Pinch or so of cayenne pepper (that's where the minerals are)
Filtered water to dilute to taste.
Dancers tend to disregard recovery time for muscles and summer is especially intense. Please eat good lean proteins and fresh foods - minimize junk food.
For muscles soreness and cramps try "A to B Calm", a calcium-magnesium powder you dissolve in hot water. It tastes chalky so you can cool it with fruit juice. The so-so taste is really worth the relief from pain. You will find it at a health food store.
Get the most out of your ballet summer intensives with the best info from a ballet dancers guide.
Discovering Reverance
re-post
The comfort aspect of shoe removal is both a strength and a weakness of the case for shoes off at the door.
It is certainly the case that most people will feel more comfortable for having removed their shoes. A 'no-shoes' home is a place of comfort.
The problem is that the western association of removing shoes with comfort and informality may make people more reluctant to accept the idea of removing shoes on more formal occasions even in the home. People may think that it is somehow inappropriate or impolite to go shoeless at a dinner party.
The problem is that in western culture, we have no concept of removing shoes as an act of reverance. The closest thing in the west would be Roman Catholics going barefoot at shrines like St. Patrick's Mount. To us in the west, it is more respectful to keep shoes on than to take them off.
In contrast, in most oriental cultures there is an assocaition of shoes-off with reverance. Muslims do not remove their shoes in Mosques to be more comfortable (though I believe they usually have lovely carpets); they remove them because the Mosque is sacred. Japanese pupils remove their outdoor footwear on arriving at school, not just in order to keep it cleaner, but because the school is a place of authority that is worthy of their esteem.
I dare say that British people will come to appreciate this association of shoes-off with reverance more and more. School pupils in this country are often taken to visit non-Christian places of worship where their shoes must be removed. Thailand has become a very popular tourist destination for British people and there they experience going barefoot in Buddhist temples. More and more they will learn to show respect and reverance to the homes of their friends by taking off their shoes.
The comfort aspect of shoe removal is both a strength and a weakness of the case for shoes off at the door.
It is certainly the case that most people will feel more comfortable for having removed their shoes. A 'no-shoes' home is a place of comfort.
The problem is that the western association of removing shoes with comfort and informality may make people more reluctant to accept the idea of removing shoes on more formal occasions even in the home. People may think that it is somehow inappropriate or impolite to go shoeless at a dinner party.
The problem is that in western culture, we have no concept of removing shoes as an act of reverance. The closest thing in the west would be Roman Catholics going barefoot at shrines like St. Patrick's Mount. To us in the west, it is more respectful to keep shoes on than to take them off.
In contrast, in most oriental cultures there is an assocaition of shoes-off with reverance. Muslims do not remove their shoes in Mosques to be more comfortable (though I believe they usually have lovely carpets); they remove them because the Mosque is sacred. Japanese pupils remove their outdoor footwear on arriving at school, not just in order to keep it cleaner, but because the school is a place of authority that is worthy of their esteem.
I dare say that British people will come to appreciate this association of shoes-off with reverance more and more. School pupils in this country are often taken to visit non-Christian places of worship where their shoes must be removed. Thailand has become a very popular tourist destination for British people and there they experience going barefoot in Buddhist temples. More and more they will learn to show respect and reverance to the homes of their friends by taking off their shoes.
Shoes-Off at Parties?
re-post
There are some people who are strict about no-shoes in their homes who make an exception for parties. They feel that parties are an occasion when people expect to dress up and this must include shoes. I disagree with their view. I think it is perfectly reasonable to require shoes to be removed for a party.
In Canada and Scandinavia, it is common for people to attend formal parties with a special set of party shoes that are not worn outdoors. This is not really feasible in the UK. I doubt that many British folks have shoes that are never worn oudoors, unless they keep a pair of sneakers to go to the gym. And if those formal party shoes have high-heels, they are unacceptable anyway.
Some people say that part of a party is clearing up afterwards, so you should not make a fuss about mess from people's shoes. This seems a little silly to my mind. People will make more than enough mess at a party without them bringing in dirt on their shoes. There will be plenty of spilled wine and crumbs ground into the carpet without chewing gum and dog dirt from peoples' shoes as well. Also the main party season in the West is Christmas and New Year, when there will be plenty of rain and snow (maybe not snow in England, but plenty of rain). The party season is a wet season.
Some argue that people will feel silly and uncomfortable at a party without their shoes. It is true that people might find it a little odd. But they will probably feel more comfortable for having removed their shoes. If it is made clear in the invitation that shoes willl need to be removed, then it will not come as a shock. Furthermore, if there is alcohol at the party, then most people will be feeling more relaxed.
The main argument levelled against shoes-off at parties is that people dress up for parties. A lot of people, particularly women, will chose their outfits very carefully and they the choice of shoes is part of that selction. For them, a party is an occasion to show off their good taste. They would not want to combine their cocktail dresses with barefeet.
In response I would say that parties are hardly the only occasions for dressing up. Ladies can show off their fancy shoes in restaurants or at the races. Not all parties are such formal occasions. If a party is a smart-casual event, it is actually quite rude to dress up more smartly than other guests.
The host sets the theme of a party. If it is meant to be a fancy dress party, then you should make the effort to find a costume or stay home. If it is an informal party, leave the suit or cocktail dress at home. If it is a no-shoes party, leave the kitten heels at the door.
I keep making this point, but I will make it again: it is best that guests know in advance that shoe-removal is required. If you are printing fancy invitations, make it known there (with some clip-art maybe?). If people know that they will have to take their shoes off, it will not come as a shock and they can plan their outfit with this in mind. They can bring some nice slippers that complement their outfit if they want and they can avoid long trousers that only look right when worn with high heels.
There is the question of whether it is really possible to hold a formal party while people are shoeless. It may be difficult in the West to maintain an air of formality when everybody is without their shoes, but is that really such a bad thing? Is it not better to be relaxed at a party? Certainly, the host and guests can make an effort to keep the party formal. Men can look reasonably smart by combining respectable slippers with their suits and women can look pretty elegant in stocking feet. So all is not lost. If shoes-off in homes becomes more common, shoe-lessnes will probably become less associated with being casual and informal.
There are some people who will certainly be far more happy and comfortable to party without their shoes on. As I argued in a previous post, it is not simply a matter of giving these people the choice. At a shoes-on party, those who take it upon themselves to remove their shoes are likely to get their feet squashed and to have to walk on a soggy carpet. Shoes-off for all guests makes it easier for those who want to take their shoes off.
There are some people who are strict about no-shoes in their homes who make an exception for parties. They feel that parties are an occasion when people expect to dress up and this must include shoes. I disagree with their view. I think it is perfectly reasonable to require shoes to be removed for a party.
In Canada and Scandinavia, it is common for people to attend formal parties with a special set of party shoes that are not worn outdoors. This is not really feasible in the UK. I doubt that many British folks have shoes that are never worn oudoors, unless they keep a pair of sneakers to go to the gym. And if those formal party shoes have high-heels, they are unacceptable anyway.
Some people say that part of a party is clearing up afterwards, so you should not make a fuss about mess from people's shoes. This seems a little silly to my mind. People will make more than enough mess at a party without them bringing in dirt on their shoes. There will be plenty of spilled wine and crumbs ground into the carpet without chewing gum and dog dirt from peoples' shoes as well. Also the main party season in the West is Christmas and New Year, when there will be plenty of rain and snow (maybe not snow in England, but plenty of rain). The party season is a wet season.
Some argue that people will feel silly and uncomfortable at a party without their shoes. It is true that people might find it a little odd. But they will probably feel more comfortable for having removed their shoes. If it is made clear in the invitation that shoes willl need to be removed, then it will not come as a shock. Furthermore, if there is alcohol at the party, then most people will be feeling more relaxed.
The main argument levelled against shoes-off at parties is that people dress up for parties. A lot of people, particularly women, will chose their outfits very carefully and they the choice of shoes is part of that selction. For them, a party is an occasion to show off their good taste. They would not want to combine their cocktail dresses with barefeet.
In response I would say that parties are hardly the only occasions for dressing up. Ladies can show off their fancy shoes in restaurants or at the races. Not all parties are such formal occasions. If a party is a smart-casual event, it is actually quite rude to dress up more smartly than other guests.
The host sets the theme of a party. If it is meant to be a fancy dress party, then you should make the effort to find a costume or stay home. If it is an informal party, leave the suit or cocktail dress at home. If it is a no-shoes party, leave the kitten heels at the door.
I keep making this point, but I will make it again: it is best that guests know in advance that shoe-removal is required. If you are printing fancy invitations, make it known there (with some clip-art maybe?). If people know that they will have to take their shoes off, it will not come as a shock and they can plan their outfit with this in mind. They can bring some nice slippers that complement their outfit if they want and they can avoid long trousers that only look right when worn with high heels.
There is the question of whether it is really possible to hold a formal party while people are shoeless. It may be difficult in the West to maintain an air of formality when everybody is without their shoes, but is that really such a bad thing? Is it not better to be relaxed at a party? Certainly, the host and guests can make an effort to keep the party formal. Men can look reasonably smart by combining respectable slippers with their suits and women can look pretty elegant in stocking feet. So all is not lost. If shoes-off in homes becomes more common, shoe-lessnes will probably become less associated with being casual and informal.
There are some people who will certainly be far more happy and comfortable to party without their shoes on. As I argued in a previous post, it is not simply a matter of giving these people the choice. At a shoes-on party, those who take it upon themselves to remove their shoes are likely to get their feet squashed and to have to walk on a soggy carpet. Shoes-off for all guests makes it easier for those who want to take their shoes off.
These Shoes are $300
I have seen this before but it has been a very long time ago. Fun ny, but it has a few cuss words. Enjoy!
What I do is kick them in the pants with a diamond buckled shoe!
~~Aileen Mehle~~
Barefeet
In the UK and the USA a lot of people feel a sense of disgust and abjection towards feet. Of course, in many Asian countries, the foot is considered to be unclean. However, this is in connection with the fact that the foot touches the ground. Thus, shoes are considered to be far more unclean than the naked foot. In an Asian home, barefeet are acceptable, but shoes are not. This is actually the very opposite of the western abjection of the foot.
It is very common in internet discussions about shoes-off in homes for the subject of barefeet to be raised. It is argued that barefeet are disgusting, more so than the dirt on peoples' shoes. Of course, if you do feel that feet are disgusting, you can still ask visitors to remove their shoes if you lend then flip flops or socks to wear. Angie mentioned this in a previous post.
It is very likely that the sense of disgust about barefeet will decline. Sandals and flip flops have become incredibly popular in the UK and the USA. People are becoming more used to exposed feet. And ladies (and some men) are spending good money on keeping them looking nice.
The argument that feet are more unhygienic than shoes is quite wrong. Unless a person has been going barefeet outdoors, they will not have been picking up the awful things that the soles of shoes pick up (though sandal-shod feet do get a bit dusty). You may think your feet are disgusting, however, you undoubtedly have more germs on your hands than on your feet. Feet are usually remarkably cleaner than the average pair of hands.
One should remember that the oils on barefeet are acidic and can cause some wear on carpets, though not as much as shoes. Thus, it is best to restrict going barefoot on carpets to spring and summer.
It is very common in internet discussions about shoes-off in homes for the subject of barefeet to be raised. It is argued that barefeet are disgusting, more so than the dirt on peoples' shoes. Of course, if you do feel that feet are disgusting, you can still ask visitors to remove their shoes if you lend then flip flops or socks to wear. Angie mentioned this in a previous post.
It is very likely that the sense of disgust about barefeet will decline. Sandals and flip flops have become incredibly popular in the UK and the USA. People are becoming more used to exposed feet. And ladies (and some men) are spending good money on keeping them looking nice.
The argument that feet are more unhygienic than shoes is quite wrong. Unless a person has been going barefeet outdoors, they will not have been picking up the awful things that the soles of shoes pick up (though sandal-shod feet do get a bit dusty). You may think your feet are disgusting, however, you undoubtedly have more germs on your hands than on your feet. Feet are usually remarkably cleaner than the average pair of hands.
One should remember that the oils on barefeet are acidic and can cause some wear on carpets, though not as much as shoes. Thus, it is best to restrict going barefoot on carpets to spring and summer.
Hospitality part 2
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Guests are aware when they visit a home that the hosts have boundaries that cannot be crossed.
Guests know or should know that they cannot go wandering about upstairs, looking in their hosts' bedrooms. They ought to be careful in conversation that they do not mention subjects that may cause offence to the host. If the host has strong views on a subject, it is best not to argue with him or her. Guests know that they cannot bring their pet dog to somebody else's home unless the host has expressly said this is acceptable. Even if the host is an animal lover, permission to bring a pet dog must be sought.
It is now recognised by most people that when you visit the home of a non-smoker, they should not smoke inside. If they need to smoke, they should put their coat on and go outside. There are still some people, probably mostly from the upper strata of British society who think it is rude to forbid smoking in one's home. However, this view is very much in a minority.
It is important to recognise these boundaries when one visits a home and if hosts prefer, even if they do not insist on it, removal of shoes, this should be complied with by guests. To ignore this boundary is, as stated in the previous post, taking hospitality for granted.
Some people would object to comparisons with smoking pointing out the health risks of smoking, compared with the minor ill effects to health of wearing shoes past the door. However, it is not so much the health risks that should deter smoking in a non-smoking home. Nobody is going to get lung cancer because a few guests smoked at a dinner party. They are unlikely to even develope a cough because of it. No, the reason one should not smoke in a non-smoking home is simply because the smells and mess are not convenient for such hosts. It is simply impolite. Likewise it is not convenient to impose the dirt and dust of your shoes in the home of a person who would object to it.
Some would argue that it is polite for guests to remove their shoes if this is what the hosts do, but it is impolite for the host to request shoes-off. They feel that it is better to leave the responsiblity of politness to guests. To my mind, this is not quite logical. If guests have the responsibility to comply with the preference of their hosts, then it is surely quite reasonable for guests to make their preference known.
Part of the reason why a verbal request for shoes-off may be necesary is because etiquette is so uncertain and in such a state fo flux on this point. While it may be a good idea to remove one's shoes when one is welcomed by a shoe-less host, as this may be a shoes-off home, such a gesture might be taken as impolite by some. There are some who go shoe-less in their home who would be surpised by guests going shoe-less. It is probably necessary for those who desire shoe-removal to make their wish known.
Guests are aware when they visit a home that the hosts have boundaries that cannot be crossed.
Guests know or should know that they cannot go wandering about upstairs, looking in their hosts' bedrooms. They ought to be careful in conversation that they do not mention subjects that may cause offence to the host. If the host has strong views on a subject, it is best not to argue with him or her. Guests know that they cannot bring their pet dog to somebody else's home unless the host has expressly said this is acceptable. Even if the host is an animal lover, permission to bring a pet dog must be sought.
It is now recognised by most people that when you visit the home of a non-smoker, they should not smoke inside. If they need to smoke, they should put their coat on and go outside. There are still some people, probably mostly from the upper strata of British society who think it is rude to forbid smoking in one's home. However, this view is very much in a minority.
It is important to recognise these boundaries when one visits a home and if hosts prefer, even if they do not insist on it, removal of shoes, this should be complied with by guests. To ignore this boundary is, as stated in the previous post, taking hospitality for granted.
Some people would object to comparisons with smoking pointing out the health risks of smoking, compared with the minor ill effects to health of wearing shoes past the door. However, it is not so much the health risks that should deter smoking in a non-smoking home. Nobody is going to get lung cancer because a few guests smoked at a dinner party. They are unlikely to even develope a cough because of it. No, the reason one should not smoke in a non-smoking home is simply because the smells and mess are not convenient for such hosts. It is simply impolite. Likewise it is not convenient to impose the dirt and dust of your shoes in the home of a person who would object to it.
Some would argue that it is polite for guests to remove their shoes if this is what the hosts do, but it is impolite for the host to request shoes-off. They feel that it is better to leave the responsiblity of politness to guests. To my mind, this is not quite logical. If guests have the responsibility to comply with the preference of their hosts, then it is surely quite reasonable for guests to make their preference known.
Part of the reason why a verbal request for shoes-off may be necesary is because etiquette is so uncertain and in such a state fo flux on this point. While it may be a good idea to remove one's shoes when one is welcomed by a shoe-less host, as this may be a shoes-off home, such a gesture might be taken as impolite by some. There are some who go shoe-less in their home who would be surpised by guests going shoe-less. It is probably necessary for those who desire shoe-removal to make their wish known.
Public Toilets
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I do not know about ladies' public toilets, but the floors in mens' public toilets are always disgusting. They smell, they are wet, there is likely to be all manner of dirt on them. Not just the obvious, but cleaning chemicals and mud. You definitely would not want to touch the floor of a public toilet with your hand.
Now imagine somebody goes to a public toilet. He then visits your house or apartment and comes in with his shoes on, walking on the same floor on which your children play. See what I am getting at?
I do not know about ladies' public toilets, but the floors in mens' public toilets are always disgusting. They smell, they are wet, there is likely to be all manner of dirt on them. Not just the obvious, but cleaning chemicals and mud. You definitely would not want to touch the floor of a public toilet with your hand.
Now imagine somebody goes to a public toilet. He then visits your house or apartment and comes in with his shoes on, walking on the same floor on which your children play. See what I am getting at?
Hospitality
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There are some who think that asking guests to remove their shoes is contrary to the principle of hospitality. Again, this is a culturally relative matter. Albania and Turkey are countries in which hospitality is greatly valued and yet is expected in those countries that guests remove their shoes.
The shoes-on people argue that a hostess should primarily be concerned with her guests comfort and not with the state of her carpet or floor. However, most guests will feel more comfortable after removing their shoes. They may, admittedly, be uncomfortable because they are embarassed about their feet or they feel their shoes are part of their outfit. Those problems can be dealt with by letting guests know in advance that shoes-off is expected and so they can either bring slippers or plan their outfits with bare or stocking feet in mind. Any embarassment should be minimal if guests are not taken by surprise.
In my opinion, those who insist that guests should be allowed to keep their shoes on take hospitality for granted.
When I get my own house or apartment, I may well invite you. I will give you the best seat. I will cook for you. I will serve you the best food I can. I will give you whatever you want to drink, whether it be alcoholic or not. I will give you my undivided attention. I will entertain you with conversation. If you live nearby, I will drive you home in my car. If not, I will let you stay the night. I will wash up the dishes and cutelry you have used and clean up any mess you make. Given that I am willing to do all this for you, do you really think it is so unreasonable that I ask you to take your shoes off?
There are some who think that asking guests to remove their shoes is contrary to the principle of hospitality. Again, this is a culturally relative matter. Albania and Turkey are countries in which hospitality is greatly valued and yet is expected in those countries that guests remove their shoes.
The shoes-on people argue that a hostess should primarily be concerned with her guests comfort and not with the state of her carpet or floor. However, most guests will feel more comfortable after removing their shoes. They may, admittedly, be uncomfortable because they are embarassed about their feet or they feel their shoes are part of their outfit. Those problems can be dealt with by letting guests know in advance that shoes-off is expected and so they can either bring slippers or plan their outfits with bare or stocking feet in mind. Any embarassment should be minimal if guests are not taken by surprise.
In my opinion, those who insist that guests should be allowed to keep their shoes on take hospitality for granted.
When I get my own house or apartment, I may well invite you. I will give you the best seat. I will cook for you. I will serve you the best food I can. I will give you whatever you want to drink, whether it be alcoholic or not. I will give you my undivided attention. I will entertain you with conversation. If you live nearby, I will drive you home in my car. If not, I will let you stay the night. I will wash up the dishes and cutelry you have used and clean up any mess you make. Given that I am willing to do all this for you, do you really think it is so unreasonable that I ask you to take your shoes off?
Shoe Covers
Sometimes in internet discussions of this subject, people suggest that those with shoes-off homes should provide shoe covers, so those visiting can keep their shoes on.
Firstly, I am not sure if you can wear shoe covers with high heeled shoes or flip flops. Does anybody know if you can? I would be interested to know.
Secondly, I think there are circumstances in which shoe covers might be an idea. For workmen who have to protect their feet or for those who are elderly or have some medical condition.
The reason I do not like the idea is that it goes against the whole aesthetic of 'shoes off at the door.' The idea is that the guest enters the comfort of the host's house and is able to relax and unburden herself of shoes.
Strange as it may seem, I do not feel entirely comfortable in a living room in which people are wearing shoes. Even if I am not wearing mine, the presence of shod persons makes me feel like I am in an office or hotel.
I think if a person would rather wear shoe covers which make them look ridiculose rather than take their shoes off in a comfortable home, I think they must be far more obsessive than I am.
Firstly, I am not sure if you can wear shoe covers with high heeled shoes or flip flops. Does anybody know if you can? I would be interested to know.
Secondly, I think there are circumstances in which shoe covers might be an idea. For workmen who have to protect their feet or for those who are elderly or have some medical condition.
The reason I do not like the idea is that it goes against the whole aesthetic of 'shoes off at the door.' The idea is that the guest enters the comfort of the host's house and is able to relax and unburden herself of shoes.
Strange as it may seem, I do not feel entirely comfortable in a living room in which people are wearing shoes. Even if I am not wearing mine, the presence of shod persons makes me feel like I am in an office or hotel.
I think if a person would rather wear shoe covers which make them look ridiculose rather than take their shoes off in a comfortable home, I think they must be far more obsessive than I am.
Dust Allergy
I think I must be allergic to dust. Cleaning the house today, I kept sneezing and sneezing.
Mainstream opinion holds that laminate or wood floors are the answer to dust allergies as carpets trap dust. Not everybody agrees; there is a strong argument that carpets improve air quality by absorbing dust that would otherwise be in the air. Either way, having a shoes-off policy will reduce the dust that comes into your house in the first place!
Mainstream opinion holds that laminate or wood floors are the answer to dust allergies as carpets trap dust. Not everybody agrees; there is a strong argument that carpets improve air quality by absorbing dust that would otherwise be in the air. Either way, having a shoes-off policy will reduce the dust that comes into your house in the first place!
Neat Freaks?
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It is commonly thought that people who insist on shoes-off in their homes are neat freaks who are obsessed with keeping their homes clean and tidy.
I dare say that there are some people who prefer shoes-off who are genuine neat freaks. And those who are Obsessive-Compulsive about cleanliness may well be among the shoes-off community.
Of course this is culturally relative. In Japan it is thought that money is dirty and unhygeinic because it is handled by untold numbers of people. Japanese people also regard any objects placed in bathrooms, such as books or ornaments to be 'dirty'. A person in a western society who held such attitudes would almost certainly be regarded as Obsessive-Compulsive.
I have known a number of people who really were excessive in their desire to keep their homes clean. Interestingly, these people did not require visitors to remove their shoes. I suspect that they probably spent so much time in cleaning their homes that they were happy to waste time cleaning up afer their visitors.
Many people who keep their homes shoe-free are not domestic goddesses who like nothing better than spending whole days doing spring cleaning. Rather, they are busy working people who have far better things to do. They do not want to clean up for the sake of it, but they know that living in a clean environment is healthier and far more pleasent. Knowing that time is precious they would rather keep the mess to the minimum and spend as little time as possible cleaning up after their visitors. Prevention is better than cure.
Nobody needs a house that is spotless, but it is pointless to allow dirt and dust to accumulate when it could easily be kept out by leaving shoes at the door. A floor is meant to be walked upon, but that does not mean that one should not reduce wear and tear and save time and money.
It is commonly thought that people who insist on shoes-off in their homes are neat freaks who are obsessed with keeping their homes clean and tidy.
I dare say that there are some people who prefer shoes-off who are genuine neat freaks. And those who are Obsessive-Compulsive about cleanliness may well be among the shoes-off community.
Of course this is culturally relative. In Japan it is thought that money is dirty and unhygeinic because it is handled by untold numbers of people. Japanese people also regard any objects placed in bathrooms, such as books or ornaments to be 'dirty'. A person in a western society who held such attitudes would almost certainly be regarded as Obsessive-Compulsive.
I have known a number of people who really were excessive in their desire to keep their homes clean. Interestingly, these people did not require visitors to remove their shoes. I suspect that they probably spent so much time in cleaning their homes that they were happy to waste time cleaning up afer their visitors.
Many people who keep their homes shoe-free are not domestic goddesses who like nothing better than spending whole days doing spring cleaning. Rather, they are busy working people who have far better things to do. They do not want to clean up for the sake of it, but they know that living in a clean environment is healthier and far more pleasent. Knowing that time is precious they would rather keep the mess to the minimum and spend as little time as possible cleaning up after their visitors. Prevention is better than cure.
Nobody needs a house that is spotless, but it is pointless to allow dirt and dust to accumulate when it could easily be kept out by leaving shoes at the door. A floor is meant to be walked upon, but that does not mean that one should not reduce wear and tear and save time and money.
Smelly Feet
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The issue of 'smelly feet' is often raised as an argument against the Shoes-Off rule.
In Western society there seems to be a lot of paranoia about the phenomena of 'smelly feet'. I think this is simply a result of people not removing their shoes very often. Your feet will actually smell a lot less if you remove your shoes regularly. It is unfortunate that we in Britain have not yet reached the civilised heights of Finland, where it is acceptable to remove shoes in business meetings and on trains (not that people do not do so in Britain, but it is frowned upon somewhat).
Nevertheless, I think most people worry too much about this issue. People imagine their feet smell far more than they actually do. I have met very few people who let off much of an aroma after removing their shoes, and most of them were people who did not wash and change their socks regularly.
If people know in advance that they need to remove their shoes, they can make sure they wear clean socks, or even better, bring slippers with them. If they are especially worried about it, they can use some of those fancy foot deoderents.
Feet wil smell a lot less if people wear sandals. Sneakers are best avoided in favour of leather shoes.
Some people will say 'I would rather put up with a dirty floor than people's smelly feet.' Well, I guess people must set up their onw priorities. However, stinking feet will leave with the guests. A dirty floor will not. Nor will the dust they brought in on their shoes, and that is very bad for your health.
The issue of 'smelly feet' is often raised as an argument against the Shoes-Off rule.
In Western society there seems to be a lot of paranoia about the phenomena of 'smelly feet'. I think this is simply a result of people not removing their shoes very often. Your feet will actually smell a lot less if you remove your shoes regularly. It is unfortunate that we in Britain have not yet reached the civilised heights of Finland, where it is acceptable to remove shoes in business meetings and on trains (not that people do not do so in Britain, but it is frowned upon somewhat).
Nevertheless, I think most people worry too much about this issue. People imagine their feet smell far more than they actually do. I have met very few people who let off much of an aroma after removing their shoes, and most of them were people who did not wash and change their socks regularly.
If people know in advance that they need to remove their shoes, they can make sure they wear clean socks, or even better, bring slippers with them. If they are especially worried about it, they can use some of those fancy foot deoderents.
Feet wil smell a lot less if people wear sandals. Sneakers are best avoided in favour of leather shoes.
Some people will say 'I would rather put up with a dirty floor than people's smelly feet.' Well, I guess people must set up their onw priorities. However, stinking feet will leave with the guests. A dirty floor will not. Nor will the dust they brought in on their shoes, and that is very bad for your health.
Ballet Stretches - Tips To Relieve Muscle Tension
One thing that I have now - and love - is my physio ball, also known as a gym ball or exercise ball. Below are some tips on doing ballet stretches on the ball. (You can click right now to get it).
I use the ball as my computer chair. I use no other.
Bouncing gently, or just fidgeting on the ball while I'm thinking or waiting for pages to load, is healthy, and it is relaxing. Sore muscles get a little movement. Sitting on a chair, sore muscles get positioned poorly and become more spasmed and hurt.
Also, the ball gives even when you breathe. There is literally no impact, no pressure moving up the spine when you sit on the ball.
Sitting in second position, fourth position, and lunge positions, you just roll in different directions and get stretched, while you are reading or writing.
Since we dancers tend to mindlessly stretch something, taking advantage of every move we make, the ball is a great addition to our collection of things that aid our recovery after classes. If you get one, experiment with it and you'll see what I mean.
If your legs just are relentlessly aching, lie on the floor and put your calves up on the ball. You can roll slowly from side to side, stretching the sides of the hips and lower back, or roll all the way to the side, draping the top leg over the ball so you don't overdo the stretch.
Hanging over the ball like a rag doll, knees on the floor, and rolling up and down is a wonderful
spine stretch. It opens up the lower, mid and upper back, relaxing the shoulders as well. Just let the head hang. Aahhh.....and you can reverse the position, bending back over the ball, and roll around a little.
I use an exercise mat so my feet don't lose grip. Also you can position the ball against something behind you so you won't lose control and get dumped overboard.
So it's a great tool for stretching and relaxing. The bouncing is excellent for your lymph system.
A wonderful ballet dancer's guide has been put on a DVD by a dance expert. It gives a top to toe routine for getting the most out of your ballet stretches.
I use the ball as my computer chair. I use no other.
Bouncing gently, or just fidgeting on the ball while I'm thinking or waiting for pages to load, is healthy, and it is relaxing. Sore muscles get a little movement. Sitting on a chair, sore muscles get positioned poorly and become more spasmed and hurt.
Also, the ball gives even when you breathe. There is literally no impact, no pressure moving up the spine when you sit on the ball.
Sitting in second position, fourth position, and lunge positions, you just roll in different directions and get stretched, while you are reading or writing.
Since we dancers tend to mindlessly stretch something, taking advantage of every move we make, the ball is a great addition to our collection of things that aid our recovery after classes. If you get one, experiment with it and you'll see what I mean.
If your legs just are relentlessly aching, lie on the floor and put your calves up on the ball. You can roll slowly from side to side, stretching the sides of the hips and lower back, or roll all the way to the side, draping the top leg over the ball so you don't overdo the stretch.
Hanging over the ball like a rag doll, knees on the floor, and rolling up and down is a wonderful
spine stretch. It opens up the lower, mid and upper back, relaxing the shoulders as well. Just let the head hang. Aahhh.....and you can reverse the position, bending back over the ball, and roll around a little.
I use an exercise mat so my feet don't lose grip. Also you can position the ball against something behind you so you won't lose control and get dumped overboard.
So it's a great tool for stretching and relaxing. The bouncing is excellent for your lymph system.
A wonderful ballet dancer's guide has been put on a DVD by a dance expert. It gives a top to toe routine for getting the most out of your ballet stretches.
Sacred Space
I do enjoy visiting Anglican churches. Not that I am Anglican myself, but I do appreciate the art and architecture.
One certainly feels different visiting a church as opposed to visiting a museum. One feels that, despite being a tourist, one must behave with a degree of reverance.
I do feel strange keeping my shoes on in a building that is considered sacred; defiling it with my shoes that may have been anywhere. And I am a western Christian who is used to wearing shoes in churches. It must be very weird for a person from an Hindu, Muslim or Buddhist background to visit a Christian church where shoes stay on.
To me it seemed far more appropriate and reverant in Japan where shoes were removed on entering churches.
One certainly feels different visiting a church as opposed to visiting a museum. One feels that, despite being a tourist, one must behave with a degree of reverance.
I do feel strange keeping my shoes on in a building that is considered sacred; defiling it with my shoes that may have been anywhere. And I am a western Christian who is used to wearing shoes in churches. It must be very weird for a person from an Hindu, Muslim or Buddhist background to visit a Christian church where shoes stay on.
To me it seemed far more appropriate and reverant in Japan where shoes were removed on entering churches.
Again
I visited Pershore Abbey today. Again, I started getting really bad hayfever. No doubt most of the pollen in the building was brought in on visitors shoes.
Gojirah was absolutely right that it makes a difference.
Gojirah was absolutely right that it makes a difference.
It does make a difference
I attended a prayer meeting today at somebody's house. I got the worst hayfever attacks I have had this summer. Notably, it was a 'shoes stay on' house.
A Testimony
Not that I want to brag, but I am going to quote a fellow blogger by the name of Gojirah. Contrary to what his ID might suggest, he is not Japanese.
Changing the world one person at a time.
Matthew, by the way, you should be pleased to note that your no shoe policy has become a hit with the family. Believe it or not, that is a ton of help to those of us who have spring and summer allergies. Just wanted to tell you that.
Changing the world one person at a time.
Shoes still Need to Come Off in Summer
re-post
Some people may be of the opinion that shoes-off in homes is a good idea in the damp of winter, but is quite unnecessary in summer, except when it rains (which it certainly does here in the UK).
However, on the contrary I maintain that shoes ought to be removed even in summer.
It is true that the weather is drier in summer,so there is less chance of bringing damp or mud into the house. However, in summer, shoes will still pick up small particles of grit. These particles gradually wear out carpets.
If you have laminate or wood floors, there is still the risk of making scratches (watch out with those high-heeled sandals, ladies) or leaving marks (why do you think you are expected to wear deck shoes or go barefoot on a yacht?).
Dust is still a problem in summer. Dust is not good for your health or your children's health and the less of it in your house, the better. There is likely to be even more dust in summer, as the ground dries up and cracks.
Dog dirt is still a problem in summer. In winter, many people will walk their dogs to the minimum that is necessary. In summer, people will be spending longer outisde with their dogs, increasing the risk of fouling up. Dog dirt is extremely unhealthy stuff. Not good for crawling babies. You may try to avoid stepping in it, but your shoes will still pick up small traces and then grind them into the carpet if you do not take them off.
There is also pollen, which is only a problem in summer. Your shoes will pick up lots of the stuff. If you suffer from Hayfever or you live with Hayfever sufferers, I recommend having a shoes-off policy in summer.
Of course, on a hot summers day, nobody ought to mind taking their shoes off!
Some people may be of the opinion that shoes-off in homes is a good idea in the damp of winter, but is quite unnecessary in summer, except when it rains (which it certainly does here in the UK).
However, on the contrary I maintain that shoes ought to be removed even in summer.
It is true that the weather is drier in summer,so there is less chance of bringing damp or mud into the house. However, in summer, shoes will still pick up small particles of grit. These particles gradually wear out carpets.
If you have laminate or wood floors, there is still the risk of making scratches (watch out with those high-heeled sandals, ladies) or leaving marks (why do you think you are expected to wear deck shoes or go barefoot on a yacht?).
Dust is still a problem in summer. Dust is not good for your health or your children's health and the less of it in your house, the better. There is likely to be even more dust in summer, as the ground dries up and cracks.
Dog dirt is still a problem in summer. In winter, many people will walk their dogs to the minimum that is necessary. In summer, people will be spending longer outisde with their dogs, increasing the risk of fouling up. Dog dirt is extremely unhealthy stuff. Not good for crawling babies. You may try to avoid stepping in it, but your shoes will still pick up small traces and then grind them into the carpet if you do not take them off.
There is also pollen, which is only a problem in summer. Your shoes will pick up lots of the stuff. If you suffer from Hayfever or you live with Hayfever sufferers, I recommend having a shoes-off policy in summer.
Of course, on a hot summers day, nobody ought to mind taking their shoes off!
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