Earthing, also known as grounding, is a self-regulating therapeutic practise that helps individuals feel more present, relaxed and centred physically and mentally by connecting with the Earth’s energy.
What is earthing?
A body connected to the earth is healthier and has more stability. Due to the increasing disconnection of humans from earth, we have lost our natural state- we no longer sleep on the ground, seldom walk barefoot outside, and wear synthetic shoes to protect our feet. We live and work disconnected from nature, frequently in high rises far above the ground.
Earthing is helpful physically and emotionally and is a commonly prescribed wellness practise in integrative healthcare. It involves connecting with the energy of the Earth by interacting with natural surfaces, such as grass, sand, or soil. It is based on the belief that the Earth carries a subtle electric charge that can benefit our overall well-being. It restores balance and harmony within our bodies, and connects us to tangible feelings instead of being lost in intangible thoughts. Barefoot walking, sand therapy, gardening and tree hugging were in the past common ways people would ground themselves.
How does earthing benefit the body?
Connecting with the earth can have incredible health benefits- earthing has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even boost immunity. Incorporating earthing into the daily routine is a means of reconnecting with nature and finding a sense of stability in our increasingly fast-paced and technology-centric world. Multi-disciplinary research reveals measurable differences in the concentrations of white blood cells, cytokines, and other molecules involved in the inflammatory response.
Our feet are home to nerve sensors responsible for an incredible amount of sensory input for the whole body. Walking barefoot and other forms of earthing improves sleep, normalizes the day–night cortisol rhythm, reduces pain & stress, shifts the autonomic nervous system from sympathetic toward parasympathetic activation, increases heart rate variability, speeds up wound healing, and reduces blood viscosity. (Journal of Environmental and Public Health)
What is the impact of earthing on the mind?
Spending time with nature helps reconnect you with your surroundings and provide a sense of calmness, relieving stress. It is an effective way of helping with anxiety, overthinking and disassociation. By grounding oneself in the present moment and focusing on the sensations of nature around us, individuals can centre themselves and experience a reduction in anxious thoughts and feelings.
The act of earthing allows individuals to detach from the constant distractions and stimulations caused by daily life, embrace mindfulness, and improve mental clarity and focus. Mood-lifting effects of being in contact with the energy of the Earth increase overall emotional well-being.
How to connect with nature:
1. Bare feet walking meditation
2. Listen to the sounds of nature surrounding you
3. Use your hands to feel the soil, garden or touch the trees
4. Mindful breathing
5. Become aware of the contact between your body and the surface as you sit or lie down
6. Physical activities such as pottery and gardening
7. Spending time with pets