Shoeless in Sheboygan

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Many Japanese people cite yet another compelling reason for removing shoes before entering their homes: to relax. Slipping out of shoes and into soft slippers serves as a simple but mindful ritual that helps them let go of the outside world as they cross the threshold of home. This may seem insignificant, but the repetition of such simple practices can help you slow down and become more connected to your body and the environment. Leaving your shoes at the door can signal to the psyche that you're making the transition from business to family, from commerce to quiet -- that you're entering sacred space. A home is not a museum, but it is -- or could be -- a sanctuary, a healthy place where you can invite yourself and your guests to unwind, relax, and wiggle their toes.

Despite all the sound reasons to go shoeless indoors, it's still controversial in our culture. If you're going to be a shoes-off host, you may have to make some thoughtful decisions. When my 85-year-old friend Alice comes to visit, I don't ask her to remove her shoes because she needs them to walk comfortably. If a guest overlooks or ignores the sign outside my door, I don't say anything unless it's snowing or raining. If guests ask if they should remove their shoes, I encourage them to but don't insist on it. In fact, every once in a while, I forget the rule myself. For shoes-on occasions, I've found that placing doormats on both sides of the entryway reduces track-in. You can also use a washable carpet runner in the front hallway.

If you're going to insist on the no-shoes policy every time, be prepared for some visitors to disagree. People who aren't used to taking off their shoes in public feel genuinely awkward, as though you were asking them to partially undress. And many people tend to get cold feet easily because of poor circulation. So do your best to make it easy for guests. Consider providing a shoe storage bench in your entryway and maybe some attractive, clean slippers for their bare feet.

Deena Wade is a freelance writer living in Boulder, Colorado. From Natural Home (Jan./Feb. 2004). Subscriptions: $24.95/yr. (6 issues) from Box 552, Mt. Morris, IL 61054.

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