What Is Grounding and how can this improve our health?
Grounding therapy, also known as "earthing", is a beneficial treatment for both mental and physical health. In this article, we will explore the science behind
By @masha_bo - 07/Sep/2022
Picture: Merri J
Grounding therapy, also known as "earthing", is a therapeutic technique that involves activities that electrically reconnect you to the Earth, also referred to as "grounding." Basically, grounding means having direct skin contact with the surface of the Earth.
When walking barefoot, our body absorbs free ions from the Earth's surface, which are antioxidants. These antioxidants enhance our health and lead to positive feelings in the body. Unfortunately, nowadays, most people spend the majority of their time wearing shoes, but there are still ways to practice grounding. So, keep reading till the end.
From a scientific point of view, grounding is a well-researched topic, and there are scientific studies on its benefits. The most recent research has explored grounding as a practice to fight inflammation, cardiovascular disease, muscle damage, chronic pain, and to boost mood.
According the study published in Dove Medical Press Limited grounding affects the living matrix, which is the central connector between living cells. Electrical conductivity exists within the matrix, which functions as an immune system defense similar to antioxidants. They believe that through grounding, the body's natural defenses can be restored. Further research expands on this idea.
In a small study on grounding and heart health, 10 healthy participants were grounded using patches on the palms of their hands and soles of their feet. Blood measurements were taken before and after grounding to determine any changes in red blood cell fluidity, which plays a role in heart health. The results indicated significantly less red blood cell clumping after grounding, suggesting benefits for cardiovascular health.
Another slightly larger study examined the role of grounding on post-exercise muscle damage. Researchers used both grounding patches and mats and measured creatine kinase, white blood cell count, and pain levels before and after grounding. Blood work indicated that grounding reduced muscle damage and pain in participants, suggesting that grounding may influence healing abilities.
In another one small research, it was shown that even 1 hour of grounding therapy can significantly improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Most of the studies on grounding are small and rely somewhat on subjective measures, such as self-reported feelings, mood, or even self-administered treatment. Some studies also rely on blood markers, such as those that detect inflammation, but the size and scope of these studies suggest that more research is needed.
Types of grounding or earthing
There are many types of grounding, all of which focus on reconnecting yourself to the earth. This can be achieved through either direct or indirect contact with the earth.
Walking barefoot is one of the easiest ways to ground yourself to the earth. Whether on grass, sand, or even mud, allowing your skin to touch the natural ground can provide you with grounding energy.
Lying on the ground can increase your skin-to-earth contact. You can do this in the grass at a park or on the sand at the beach. If you choose to ground yourself this way, make sure that the surface is safe and that you will not be injured.
Submerging in Water
According to advocates of grounding, water can be used to ground in the same way that physical earth is used for grounding. They suggest simply wading in a clear lake or swimming in the ocean as a way to ground yourself. As always, be sure to stay safe when swimming, especially in murky or deep waters.
Grounding at Home
For those of you for whom going outside to ground is not an option, there are some alternatives:
1. Special Equipment
There is some grounding equipment available that is an effective way to incorporate earthing therapy into your daily life. This equipment includes:
Grounding mats, sheets or blankets, socks, bands and patches.
2. Transplanting plants at home.
Gardening at home offers a unique form of grounding that can greatly benefit mental health. The act of working with the earth, feeling the soil between your fingers, and nurturing plants connects us to nature in a calming, mindful way. This grounding experience reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, and promotes a sense of peace. By focusing on simple, repetitive tasks like planting, watering, and pruning, gardening encourages mindfulness, helping to quiet the mind and improve emotional well-being. Moreover, the tangible rewards of watching plants grow and thrive can boost mood and foster a sense of accomplishment, making it an excellent natural therapy for mental wellness.
3. Some crystals and gems can be used for grounding purposes. To interact with these crystals, it is necessary to keep them close to you. You can wear them as jewelry, carry them in your pocket or purse, place them at home or at work, in your car, or use them during meditation.
The most popular crystals that can be used for grounding practice are black obsidian, hematite, onyx, smoky quartz, clear quartz, ruby, and citrine.
Choose a grounding practice that suits you and get closer to nature!