In Dhaka, a bustling city dominated by brick and concrete, the connection between individuals and the earth remains strong. Despite the urban landscape devoid of natural scents and replaced by paved roads and a shoe-centric lifestyle, memories of rural footpaths and the feel of soft mud underfoot evoke a sense of tranquility that can be easily forgotten.
However, a unique opportunity awaits at the National Botanical Garden in Mirpur, where visitors can now experience a barefoot trail. Amidst the flower gardens, lush greenery, and serene ponds, this trail offers a sensory journey aimed at rekindling a deep bond with nature through direct contact with the earth.
The newly introduced barefoot path is a meticulously crafted experience. Upon entering, guests are greeted by informative signboards highlighting the benefits of barefoot walking and safety precautions to follow. The trail consists of various surfaces, including cool sand, wooden logs, pebbles, soft soil, shallow water, and a refreshing layer of mud, all bordered by bamboo fencing.
Each step along the trail offers a distinct sensation: from the soothing coolness of sand to the grounding rhythm of wooden logs, the stimulating pressure points of pebbles, the familiar embrace of soil, and the joyful coolness of mud. Completing the loop, many visitors find a sense of calm settling over them, shedding the restlessness of urban life.
Enthusiastic visitors, like businessman Mahbub Morshed and homemaker Shirin, have embraced this unique experience with appreciation, acknowledging the significance of reconnecting with the earth in an urban setting. The practice of barefoot walking is known to have numerous physical benefits, including stimulating nerve endings, enhancing circulation, and reducing stress, as explained along the trail.
Moreover, beyond the physical advantages, the barefoot trail promotes a slower, more mindful pace, offering a much-needed respite for the busy residents of Dhaka. People from various backgrounds, like retired banker Abdul Latif, emphasize the therapeutic value of the trail, advocating for similar initiatives in neighborhoods across the city.
For those interested in experiencing the trail, simple guidelines encourage a leisurely stroll, cautious steps, and prompt foot inspection post-walk. Individuals with specific health concerns, such as diabetes or foot injuries, are advised to seek medical advice beforehand.
Access to the barefoot trail is available through the main gate for a nominal fee of Tk 30, leading visitors to the designated area labeled ‘Barefoot Trail.’ This 50-meter path serves as a poignant reminder in a fast-paced city that the earth beneath our feet holds the power to heal, rejuvenate, and bring peace to the mind, offering a chance for all visitors to reconnect with nature and themselves.