This weekend I got to enjoy some blissful grounding on the west coast of New Zealand. Spring has arrived and it’s time to ditch those shoes for beach walks (I do try shoeless walks in winter but when your feet are frozen, every shell on the beach is painful).
My feet relished the textures and sensations of walking barefoot on the pathway, the sand and the grass. I could feel the different temperature of each surface and I felt so much more connected with where I was. I just recently read about how barefoot walking allows you to take in so much more information on our surroundings and I wholeheartedly agree.
Not only was I enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the beach, but my nervous system was alive with sensations of the texture, temperature and touch of my surroundings.
Okay, so maybe ‘grounding’ or ‘earthing’ sounds a little too airy fairy to you? Let’s dive into some of the science and benefits of this simple natural approach.
Our body is electrical!
Yes that’s right, you are more electrical than you think. Your body is naturally able to absorb electrical charges from the earth since your skin acts as a conductor. The Earth’s surface provides a limitless supply of free electrons and this negative electron charge balances your body’s bioelectrical environment for the healthy functioning of all body systems.
Although more research needs to be done, the known benefits of earthing have to do with a reduction of free radicals that takes place in the body when it comes into contact with “free electrons,” from the earth.
As you know, free radicals cause oxidative stress in the body leading to inflammation, so grounding may be one of the cheapest and quickest way to reduce inflammation in the body.
Other benefits include setting the biological clock, regulating circadian rhythms and balancing cortisol levels which are all very necessary after travelling overseas. Whenever I travel, I am quick to get my shoes off and ‘get grounded’ wherever I am.
Grounding can reduce stress, improve sleep and reduce physical pain in the body.
With a constant connection to our electrical devices and an ever increasing exposure to EMFs (electromagnetic frequencies), there is no wonder that we build up an unhealthy electrical charge in our body, leading to discomfort, tension and inflammation.
Constant contact with electrical frequencies coupled with rubber soled shoes, concrete jungles and a disconnection with nature is a recipe for oxidative stress in the body.
That’s enough technical information for one day, don’t take my word for it, go ahead and try it.
Take off those shoes and socks, head to the beach, a park or even your back yard and stand for a moment, noticing the sensations. Take a deep breath and give your feet a little twist or scuff them along the surface of the sand or grass. I can personally feel the exchange of ions that occurs beneath my feet and it is a delightful experience for me.
You have nothing to lose, and many benefits to gain from regularly grounding yourself. It is free, it is fun, it calms and invigorates the nervous system and it allows you to be more fully grounded and connected with nature.
So I challenge you, get out there today and have a go and I would love to hear your experience.
Health and Harmony to you
Rani
