Do you think it's real?
Personally? I do. I've found that when I'm barefoot, I am much more aware of the sensations and feelings of my feet and how my body moves. There is a freedom in walking unrestricted by your footwear.
When was the last time you took off your shoes and walked in the grass? or maybe on a beach? or even walking the side-walk?
Did you notice the instant relaxation in your body? Did you notice how "aware" you became with the sensations underfoot?
Give this a try....go barefoot....and let your body "feel" through your feet.
Picture taken from MindBodyGreen