GROUNDING: CONNECTING WITH THE WORLD AROUND US

Grounding, also commonly known as Earthing, is an underrated research topic; however, the most recent scientific research provides insight into the benefits of grounding and how it helps us mentally and physically. The practice of grounding is when you make contact with the earth with your body like your feet, legs, hands, etc. This practice creates an electrical and energized connection to the ground. It is a therapeutic technique that allows you to connect with the earth naturally.

Exploration in grounding has found inflammation, cardiovascular disease, muscle
damage, chronic pain, and mood can be reduced. The natural defenses within our body can be restored and replenished through grounding.

Benefits of grounding:

Modern living has made people feel disconnected from the earth's healing properties and electrical currents. Grounding is a technique that primarily focuses on realigning your body’s energy by reconnecting to the earth in a natural and attainable way. Earthing can improve your sleep routine and patterns by normalizing and neutralizing your stress hormones. Next, grounding can reduce pain by acting as a natural antioxidant.

Additionally, grounding can improve your mood by allowing you to feel centered,
balanced, calm, strong, and positive. Last but not least, grounding can improve your facial blood flow by improving your blood circulation, which allows for better delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body as well as the face.

Types of grounding/earthing:

Like many other natural self-beneficial methods, grounding or earthing can be applied in a multitude of ways. These methods can be done either directly or indirectly through contact with the earth.

- Lying on the ground: You can increase your skin-to-earth connection with the earth by lying on the ground.
- Walking barefoot: Walking in grass, sand, or even mud can allow your skin to make
contact with the natural ground and can provide you with the benefits of grounding
energy.
- Submersing in water: Although the techniques that are typically recommended consist of the ground as we all think, you can use water as an alternative way. Swimming in the water can also allow your body to be replenished.
- Using grounding equipment: Utilizing things like grounding mats, sheets, blankets, socks, bands, and patches can ensure a special connection with the earth. Additionally, you can find these utensils online, awaiting your purchase.

Always remember grounding is a useful technique that can be performed outside or inside, with or without the grounding equipment. In today’s world, it is easy to be distracted by different life factors, and we often forget that one thing that can relieve stress is only a few steps away, the earth, the ground. Choosing the method of grounding can allow you to feel more in tune with how your body works and gain more knowledge about fulfilling your body’s energy.

Words by: Erica Benton

Sources:

Wilson, Debra Rose, and Timothy J. Legg. “What Is Grounding and Can It Help Improve Your Health?” Healthline, 30 August 2019, 

“5 Healing Benefits of Grounding Techniques.” Goodnet.org, 4 June 2021,

Photos: Pinterest