You've probably heard me talk about Earthing (also known as Grounding) before...
But what is it? Why should we do it?
Basically, Earthing is just getting in contact with the Earth.
The same way you need to "Earth" an electrical socket, your body also needs to be Earthed.
As we move around in daily life, we build up a charge, and we need to be in contact with the Earth to dissipate that charge.
The problem is, most people never (ever) come into contact with the Earth.
We walk around in rubber-soled shoes, insulating ourselves from the Earth when we go outside...
and when we're inside, we might take our shoes off, but again, we're insulated with floor coverings - we're not actually in contact with the Earth.
The issue this causes is that that charge that builds up in our bodies promotes inflammation, and inflammation is the root cause of just about every illness we suffer!
Reduced Inflammation: Grounding has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Studies have suggested that direct contact with the Earth's electrons can help neutralize free radicals and decrease inflammation, leading to improved pain management and enhanced recovery.
Improved Sleep: Many individuals have reported better sleep quality and reduced insomnia after incorporating earthing into their routine. The grounding process is believed to regulate cortisol levels, synchronize our circadian rhythm, and promote a sense of calm, ultimately leading to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
Enhanced Stress Reduction: In our fast-paced modern lives, stress has become an all too common companion. Earthing offers a natural and effective way to counteract the negative effects of stress on our bodies. By grounding ourselves, we can restore balance to our autonomic nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and experience a greater sense of calm and relaxation.
Boosted Immune System: The Earth's electrons have been found to possess antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in our bodies. By bolstering our antioxidant defenses, earthing may support our immune system's ability to combat illnesses and promote overall health.
While the concept of earthing may sound unconventional and a bit hippy, many people have reported experiencing positive results from incorporating this practice into their lives.
Whilst the scientific research on earthing is still evolving, and further studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms and validate these claims, I truly believe that it's something everyone should be doing.
It's zero cost and can't do any harm - so why wouldn't you try it?!
If you are curious to explore earthing further, I encourage you to try incorporating it into your daily routine.
Simply find a patch of grass, soil, or sand, kick off your shoes, and spend a few minutes connecting with the Earth. Observe any changes in how you feel and keep an open mind.
Take your shoes (and socks) off at any opportunity you have and get in contact with the ground. Just do it safely, obviously!
You could even hug a tree! 🤗🌳🤣
When I walk the dogs, there's a long stretch of grass that I know is safe to walk barefoot on, so I always do, and keep this going right up to the point it gets too cold in the winter.
I also like to paddle in the river. Water is a GREAT way to get earthed!
If you want to learn more about it I highly recommend that you read (or listen to) the book Earthing. It's a real eye-opener!
And if you want to take it to the next level (remember, we want to be grounded for as much of the day as possible), I'd recommend investing in an Earthing Bedsheet
If you can sleep grounded, that's a good 8 hours of your day covered, and it can also help you sleep better.
I've been sleeping grounded for years now! My last sheet actually fell apart because we'd slept on it almost every day for about 5 years! (So while it may seem a bit pricey for a bedsheet - it's worth it!). We only took it off to wash it, then it was straight back on again.
And while it may be difficult to tell if it makes a difference because it's a bit subjective, I truly believe it does (if you read the book - you will too) and I hate when we go away and don't have the sheet!
The final 2 things that I do personally to try and stay grounded as much as possible is to use a Grounding Mat when I'm working at the computer - you can either put it under your keyboard so your arms are touching it, or on the floor and have your (bare) feet on it.
And a grounding wrist band/anti-static wrist band when I'm sitting watching TV of an evening. You just plug it into the wall socket (don't worry, only the earthing pin is connected, not the live wires! ⚡)
Again, this may sound a bit crazy, and I've had to explain myself to guests (and my parents who think I'm mental) many times, but who cares what other people think - I'd rather try and convert them and have them benefit from it than try to hide it because of what they might think.
So, just try it.
I'd highly encourage you to read into it further, because the more you know and the more convinced of it you are, the more likely you are to do it and benefit from it.
We'll address the biomechanics benefits of being barefoot another time (probably should have started there as it's less hippy and easier for many to buy into, but hey ho!).
Mark
