The Unique Walking Style of Alexia Kraft de la Saulx
While many people engage in traditional exercises like running or cycling, Alexia Kraft de la Saulx has chosen a different path. She is an advocate of the “Tarzan movement,” a walking style that mimics the natural and primitive posture of our ancestors. This unique approach to physical activity has gained attention, especially among young children, and offers numerous benefits to the body without appearing to be a strenuous exercise.
Popularizing the “Tarzan Movement”
Public health organizations often recommend taking 10,000 steps a day, and individuals have various ways to meet this goal. Some use hiking poles and move at a fast pace, while others prefer leisurely urban strolls with comfortable sneakers. However, Alexia takes a different approach. She walks on all fours from the forest to the asphalt, her silhouette resembling that of a primate as she moves through the trees. Monkeys are her inspiration, and this style of movement has become a part of her lifestyle.
A Connection to Nature
Alexia, with her blonde braids and azure eyes, has a physique reminiscent of Heidi, a character known for her connection to nature. She grew up in the countryside, where exploration was a daily part of life. As she shared on a morning show, she has always felt “connected to nature.” This deep bond with the Earth influences her every step. However, she moved to the city to pursue her career as a documentary filmmaker, distancing herself from the environment that once nourished her.
Discovering the “Monkey Man”
A bohemian at heart, Alexia encountered a “monkey man” in a park, who introduced her to the practice of crawling. While walking on two legs is a fundamental skill for children, Alexia chose to abandon this norm and return to moving on all fours. She left her shoes behind, opting to walk barefoot on the vegetal soil. Unlike children who drag their knees, Alexia performs a more fluid and refined movement. Her videos showcasing this technique have gone viral, with some reaching up to 80 million views.
Benefits of Crawling
Crawling is more than just a wellness trend; it is a demanding and spiritual discipline that reflects a philosophy of life. Alexia, who has distanced herself from the modern world, finds solace in nature, perching in trees and moving from vine to vine. While contemporary athletes work out in gyms, she has an open-air playground.
“It’s like parkour, but in nature,” she explains simply. She is part of a community of individuals who share this “roots” mentality, leading a minimalist lifestyle and avoiding modern conveniences like razors and anti-aging creams. These individuals, often compared to hippies or marginalized groups, are fully aware of their actions. Crawling is a sport in its own right, and Alexia attests to its benefits. After three years of practice, she has gained flexibility, strength, and balance, with her back becoming more toned than ever.
Public Reaction to the Practice
Alexia’s videos quickly went viral, but not everyone welcomed them with kindness. Internet users were perplexed and amused by these scenes, which they found “surreal” and “ridiculous.” They struggled to understand the significance of this primitive movement. Some comments even compared her to dismembered creatures in horror films, making her a target for criticism.
“Lucy is turning in her grave,” one comment read. Another joked, “Let me guess, she’s also vegan, she reduces her CO2 emissions by swimming in the river, and it’s her/they/cat/horse.” Such remarks used mocking language, highlighting the public’s misunderstanding of this practice.
Embracing the Basics
Despite the mixed reactions, walking barefoot or on all fours is a way to reconnect with the earth and embrace simplicity. This practice, though misunderstood by many, combines the benefits of yoga, bodybuilding, and gym workouts. It serves as a reminder of our primal roots and the importance of staying connected to nature.
