In early May I began going barefoot, and in my first blog article (“Barefoot Yogini Bliss”) about going barefoot, I shared that I was wearing a pair of slipper-like socks into stores. Well, shortly after writing that article, I went to a shoe store with a specialist who helped me find a pair of non-leather thongs that have the appropriate support for bunions. So then when I traveled to see Amma in June, I wore those shoes when going in public restrooms and stores.

The shoe specialist told me that I wouldn’t be able to wear any of my regular shoes again, that I would need to get special shoes from now on… so in the back of my mind I’d been thinking about getting rid of all of my old shoes… and I was cultivating the witness and watching how attached I was to all of that accumulated footwear! And, I was also well aware that I wanted to get rid of all the leather still in my possession from my non-vegan past…

So last week, in one fell swoop, I took all the shoes out of my shoes basket – all except for the one pair of thongs – and out the door they all went! It was a scary, exhilarating, and free-ing moment in my life. I had to surrender and trust that the footwear I need will come to me when I need it! And, the great thing about releasing all those shoes and clogs and boots and sandals, was that it inspired me to continue clearing out clutter… so the next day I cleaned out my closet and a few dresser drawers!

Maybe this article will inspire you to clear out some clutter, too… with less clutter in our living spaces, we create environments that are more conducive for daily spiritual practices. To begin a simple meditation practice (or to get inspiration for the meditation practice you already do), please order my pocket book, Radiance Rising: Spiritual Practices for Daily Living, available in print or e-book versions on this website Store.

May all beings be free. 

Om Shanti (Peace), 

Yogini Tejaswini

Photo of Teja’s shoes heading out the door taken by Teja Shankara. Cover of Radiance Rising designed by Gaelyn Larrick.