Are you familiar with grounding or earthing? It’s a practice that involves connecting to the earth’s surface by walking barefoot, sitting or lying on the ground, or using grounding mats or sheets. It's said to have a number of health benefits, many of which are backed up by scientific research.
If you are thinking, "This really isn't something valid or it's too woo-woo for me," I recommend you at least investigate it further. I was also a bit skeptical but after seeing a good friend have such large and immediate changes, and more research, I was willing to give it a chance.
Here are some of the potential benefits of grounding:
Reduced inflammation: Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s immune response, but chronic inflammation can lead to health problems. Grounding has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which may help with conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and even cancer.
Improved sleep: Grounding has been found to improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. This may be because grounding helps regulate the body’s production of the hormone cortisol, which is involved in the sleep-wake cycle.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Grounding has been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Some people even report feeling more relaxed and calm after grounding.
Improved circulation: Walking barefoot on natural surfaces such as grass or sand can help improve circulation by stimulating the feet’s reflexology points.
Reduced electromagnetic radiation: In our modern world, we are constantly exposed to electromagnetic radiation from devices such as cell phones, computers, and Wi-Fi. Grounding can help reduce the effects of this radiation by neutralizing the positive ions in the body.
The idea behind grounding is that our bodies are naturally designed to interact with the earth's electrical energy and that by disconnecting from the earth, we may be contributing to a range of health problems. While the scientific research on grounding is still in its early stages, there are some theories about how grounding works on the body.
One theory is that the earth has a negative charge, and when we come into contact with it, our bodies absorb this negative charge, which can help neutralize the positive charge caused by free radicals and electromagnetic radiation. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage our cells and contribute to chronic inflammation, which is linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.
Another theory is that grounding helps regulate the body's production of the hormone cortisol, which is involved in the stress response. Cortisol is a necessary hormone for the body's fight-or-flight response, but chronic stress can lead to excessive cortisol production, which can contribute to a range of health problems, including high blood pressure, obesity, and mood disorders. Grounding has been found to reduce cortisol levels in the body, which may help reduce the negative effects of chronic stress.
Additionally, grounding may help improve sleep by regulating the body's circadian rhythm. Our bodies are designed to be in sync with the earth's natural cycles of light and dark, and disruptions to this cycle can contribute to sleep problems. Grounding has been found to help reset the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, which can improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
Another way grounding may work on the body is by improving circulation. When we walk barefoot on natural surfaces like grass or sand, the soles of our feet are stimulated by the different textures and surfaces, which can help improve circulation by activating the reflexology points on the feet.
While the scientific research on grounding is ongoing, these theories suggest that grounding may have a range of health benefits by reducing inflammation, regulating cortisol levels, improving sleep, and improving circulation. Honestly, there have been countless people who share their stories on how it helped them, turning the "theories" into reality. More research is needed to fully understand how grounding works on the body, but the potential benefits are certainly intriguing.
Think about the tribes and groups that live in jungles and don't wear shoes ever. Do they have inflammation, disease, cancer, etc.? The answer is a resounding no.
So, next time you have the opportunity to take your shoes off and walk on some grass or sand, give it a try! Your body may thank you.
Lastly, grounding or earthing is a simple practice that has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits. From reducing inflammation to improving sleep, the benefits are worth exploring. So why not kick off your shoes and connect with the earth today?
Although a bit long, this is certainly worth watching, especially on the first hand testimonials.