A new trend on TikTok has been gaining traction, with users claiming that walking barefoot on salt before bed can improve sleep quality and reduce stress. The trend, which involves placing salt on a tray or floor and walking on it barefoot, has been promoted by several users, including a content creator who posted a video of herself doing it. The video quickly went viral, with many users sharing their own experiences with the practice.
The trend is believed to have started with a content creator named Tami Weatherhead, who posted a video of herself walking on salt before bed. The video showed her placing Epsom salt on a tray and then walking on it barefoot. Since then, many users have shared their own videos and photos of themselves trying the trend, with some claiming that it has helped them relax and sleep better.
Proponents of the trend claim that walking on salt can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and even reduce inflammation. They also claim that it can help lower cortisol levels and increase serotonin production, which can help regulate mood and sleep. Some users have also linked the trend to the concept of "grounding," which involves making direct contact with the earth to promote relaxation and well-being.
However, sleep experts are skeptical about the benefits of walking on salt. According to Dr. Seema Tahir, a sleep specialist, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that walking on salt can improve sleep quality or reduce stress. While some studies have looked at the effects of grounding on the body, there is limited research on the specific benefits of walking on salt.
One small study published in 2004 looked at the effects of grounding on cortisol levels during sleep, but the study had a limited sample size and the results have not been replicated. As a result, it is difficult to say whether walking on salt has any real benefits for sleep or relaxation. Meanwhile, experts warn that walking on salt can cause skin irritation, particularly for people with dry or cracked feet.
In addition to the lack of scientific evidence, experts are also concerned about the potential risks of walking on salt. For example, walking on salt can cause friction and pressure on the feet, leading to skin irritation and potentially even infection. As a result, experts recommend sticking to proven methods for improving sleep quality, such as establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
Instead of trying trendy and unproven methods, experts recommend that people focus on establishing healthy sleep habits. This can include setting aside time to relax before bed, avoiding screens and electronic devices, and creating a consistent sleep schedule. By prioritizing good sleep hygiene, people can improve the quality of their sleep and wake up feeling rested and refreshed.
Key points
- There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that walking on salt can improve sleep quality or reduce stress.
