Are Fire Walking Ceremonies Beneficial?

There is no scientific evidence that fire walking provides physical or mental health benefits. While participants often report feelings of empowerment, focus, or spiritual significance, these are subjective psychological experiences. The ability to walk on hot coals without burns is explained by physics: brief contact time, low thermal conductivity of embers, and the Leidenfrost effect (moisture on feet creating a protective vapor layer). Claims of supernatural or therapeutic effects lack empirical support.