Energize Your Body Through Grounding

I did it. I kicked my shoes off and walked barefoot on the creeping thyme lawn. I have done this before but this time it is with the intent to explore the phenomenon of Grounding.

What is Grounding?

Essentially, Grounding, which is also known as Earthing, ( I will use the terms interchangeably), is ancient knowledge rediscovered and updated for modern participants.

Scientists now confirm many theories which were previously considered esoteric myths, now have some validity. One such idea is that the Earth provides healing energy. For example, when you walk barefoot on the ground you have a negative surface charge and you are grounded because you equalize with the Earth.

One of the main proponents of grounding is Clint Ober, a former cowboy, who became a telecommunications expert. He credits his early exposure to ranching led him to understand that keeping the pasture healthy will keep the herd healthy, in other words “It’s about our connection to nature.” Ober noticed a link between the increase in health issues with the advent of rubber sole shoes. The grounding community emphasize the Earth is like a battery, and all life on it can receive energy from its surface through direct contact.

Humans are creatures who surround themselves with barriers to the natural environment. Of course, there are times when we do need protection from the elements, but in many cities there is often a complete disconnect from nature. As a result, during a working day one can go from home, to office, and back home without any physical contact with the Earth’s surface. According to grounding advocates, this has a huge impact on our wellbeing.

Why you should Ground

In our increasingly complex world, we are all seeking healthy and strengthening activities for the body. When it comes to the body, we are the captain of the ship. Grounding is free, and can be done by all age groups and genders.

Science

There have been many studies supporting the health benefits of grounding. Notably, grounding balances the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nevous system. Furthermore, the calming effects of being in direct contact with nature improves mental well being.

For more details on the science conducted over the years into grounding/earthing check out: Earthing : the most important health discovery ever! (Public Library) a thorough guide to the origins and health benefits of Earthing by pioneers in the field.

According to a study conducted by Oschman, Chevalier, Brown, grounding was found to be beneficial in reducing inflammation.

Inflammation has been found to the precursor to many medical issues including chronic pain, diabetes, cardiovascular issues and cancer.

An experimental injury to muscles, known as delayed onset muscle soreness, has been used to monitor the immune response under grounded versus ungrounded conditions. Grounding reduces pain and alters the numbers of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes, and also affects various circulating chemical factors related to inflammation.

James L Oschman,¹ Gaétan Chevalier,² and Richard Brown

How to Ground

As they say, the best things in life are free. One does not have to spend anything grounding if you are blessed with a suitable environment. There are various ways to access this free resource.

One can walk and one can walk with intent. Both will provide benefits but one will provide a focus to help calm the chatter of the monkey mind. It is the simplest form of relaxation. Letting go while allowing the energy of the Earth mingle with your own.

• Walk on conductive surface.

• Stand on a grounding surface.

• Swim in natural water such as a sea or lake.

• Lie on the ground with as much surface contact on skin as possible.

Indoor grounding products

For those of use who live in a four season climate and want to still take advantage of grounding during the winter months, there are new products which connect us to the charging effect of the Earth. Do your due diligence and research these products as all are not equal. I will be reviewing some of these products in the future and will purchase from veterans in the field who have proven research to back up their claims. Such products include:

• Universal mats
• Patches
• Mattress covers

For how long?

Each person will have their own individual results, therefore, they will know how much time to devote to this practice. The basic minimum is 30 minutes, after all this is down from a time when we were constantly connected to the earth. We have to make time for ourselves. As the Theoretical physicist, Albert Einstein (1879-1955), concluded time is relative since it allows us to manage our existence.

Yours to discover

In summary, we are energetic beings, so it makes perfect sense to use the biggest battery available – the Earth, to recharge. This used to be a natural process when we lived closer to nature. The modern lifestyle has disconnected us. The rise in certain ailments, and diseases related to the nervous system indicates the problem is becoming worse as we become more technologically advances and use more synthetic products.

Can something so simple provide such positive results? In the light of research linking inflammation in the body to energy imbalance, and beneficial results of grounding, there is every reason to give it a try. Only you can decide what is best for you.

By seeking to address human disconnect with nature, including direct contact with the Earth, we are moving back to the future of harmony and well being. As Nikola Tesla (1856-1943), the brilliant inventor, recognised everything is energy.

“If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.”

Nikola Tesla

The most amazing thing about grounding is that it is something that you are able to do yourself and judge how it works for you. Knowing that each of us has the potential to unlock the secrets of the universe is inspiring. Equally important is the free, available to everyone, source of therapeutic energy from the Earth.