Discover the Benefits of Grounding
This simple practice can significantly enhance your overall wellness, and it doesn't cost a thing to take off your shoes and walk barefoot in the grass!
Those of you who know me can attest to the fact that I am a firm believer in the benefits of grounding. I use this practice in energy work sessions with my clients as well as when I'm teaching. Personally, I've been sleeping grounded for some time now and I either walk barefoot or wear grounding shoes whenever I can. It's such an easy thing to put into practice, but as always, I like to talk about the why behind the what.
Since so many people ask me about this, I thought I'd send out some information on it to help you understand the benefits of being in contact with the earth's energy. (And if you're science-y like me, stay tuned because you'll find a couple of studies linked at the bottom of this email!)
Electricity in the Earth and In the Body
The earth is electric, with an enormous electromagnetic field surrounding it. It gives off electrons that float on its surface, and the human body is designed to absorb that electricity, which works as a natural antioxidant, supporting our chemical and electrical health and neutralizing the damage done by free radicals. It also works in reverse, like a lightening rod, the earth helping to absorb and neutralize our bodies' excess energy.
Why is this important? Historically people were connected to the earth directly. But because we now wear shoes (predominantly rubber-soled, ultra-insulating shoes) our bodies can't easily release excess energy, nor can it absorb helpful energy. Our shoes are creating a barrier to the flow in both directions.
What is Grounding?
Grounding refers to direct skin contact with the surface of the Earth, such as walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil. This practice has gained substantial attention for its potential health benefits, supported by a growing body of scientific research.
Grounding has been used by a growing number of elite athletes.Tour de France athletes have been using electrically grounded sleeping bags for years to boost their recovery times. Major league baseball players are also practicing grounding like these San Francisco Giants players.
Benefits of Grounding
1. Reduces Inflammation and Pain
Research has shown that grounding can help reduce inflammation and pain. A study published in the Journal of Inflammation Research found that grounding decreased blood markers of inflammation following physical activity, promoting faster recovery and reduced muscle soreness.
Since inflammation has been linked to almost every chronic disease including several of the top 10 killers like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer, it pays to do whatever we can to decrease inflammation.
2. Improves Sleep
Grounding has been linked to better sleep quality. A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that grounding participants while sleeping led to significant improvements in sleep, stress levels, and overall well-being.
3. Enhances Mood and Reduces Stress
Grounding may also have psychological benefits. A study in the Psychological Reports journal demonstrated that grounding reduces stress and improves mood by balancing cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone.
4. Boosts Immune Function
Grounding has been shown to enhance immune function. The European Biology and Bioelectromagnetics journal published a study indicating that grounding can improve the body’s immune response, potentially leading to fewer illnesses and better overall health.
Easy Ways to Get Grounded
- Walk Barefoot: Spend time walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or soil.
- Use Grounding Mats: Grounding mats provide an easy and effective way to practice grounding indoors, connecting you to the Earth's energy while you work, relax, or sleep. Since we spend ~ 1/3 of our busy lives in bed, it makes sense to spend that time grounded! Talk about an efficient way to boost your health!
For a convenient and effective way to incorporate grounding into your daily routine, consider using grounding mats. These mats are designed to simulate the natural grounding effects, allowing you to experience the benefits effortlessly. I believe so strongly in these products and talk about them so often that they are the only types of products I have ever become an affiliate for. If you're interested in shoes you can get 15% off here. If you're interested in sleeping grounded or using mats under your desk at work or during yoga, see below. But remember, none of these products are necessary! All you need is to spend more time barefoot!!
There's currently a 4th of July Sale on Grounding Mats so if you're interested check them out here.
Investing in your health and well-being has never been easier. Embrace the natural benefits of grounding and start feeling the difference today!
Additional Resources
There's a really interesting documentary that's FREE on You Tube called "The Earthing Movie". I highly recommend it if you want to learn more.
For more information on the science behind grounding, you can explore these peer-reviewed studies:
- Chevalier, G., et al. (2012). "Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons." Journal of Environmental and Public Health.
- Ghaly, M., & Teplitz, D. (2004). "The Biologic Effects of Grounding the Human Body During Sleep as Measured by Cortisol Levels and Subjective Reporting of Sleep, Pain, and Stress." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
By staying informed and incorporating grounding into your lifestyle, you can take a simple yet profound step toward better health and well-being
