Earthing, also known as grounding, allows people to directly connect their bodies with the Earth and use its natural electric charges to stabilize them.1 This practice involves walking barefoot outdoors or using indoor grounding systems while sleeping or sitting.
Although earthing can positively impact the mind, this form of grounding differs from the practice used in mental health treatment. Earthing research suggests reduced pain, stress, and inflammation and an improvement of overall mental well-being.2 This technique restores the connection between the body and the electrical currents of the earth.
Throughout history, Indigenous societies have espoused the Earth's healing power benefits and described it in varying ways. For example, in Chinese medicine, the term Qi—pronounced "chee"—is defined as the vital energy that fills the universe.
Ancient philosopher Ge Hong said, "People reside within qi, and qi resides within people. From heaven and earth down to the ten thousand things, each one requires qi to live."
This belief and study of the earth's natural energies could also be found in Europe in the 19th century. In 1891 Louis Kuhne published "The New Science of Healing."3 Then, Adolf Just wrote "Return to Nature" in 1896,4which encouraged people to begin walking barefoot outdoors.
A few decades later, George Starr White,5an American medical doctor, began investigating the use of sleeping while grounded—connected to copper wires affixed to home pipes—to improve the quality of sleep.
Modern scientists continue to advocate for Earth's electrons' ability to balance our body's electrical current. This grounding technique continues to grow and get mainstream attention as people search for simple, inexpensive ways to heal themselves.
There are signs that an earthing practice will benefit your life. You may want to try earthing if:
Earthing techniques focus on reconnecting your energy with the earth through direct or indirect contact. These methods include:
There are many ways to reconnect with the earth in your daily life and hopefully restore your body's natural defense system.
Here are ways you can practice earthing:
Earthing can be a free and relatively quick way to positively impact your physical and mental health. Experts suggest 30 minutes is enough time to begin reaping the benefits. Whether you connect yourself to a metal rod outside or purchase grounding socks, you can easily incorporate earthing therapy into your wellness routine.
New treatments will emerge as modern scientists continue tapping into ancient holistic practices. Research shows a promising connection between earthing and measurable improvements in these health issues.
A recent study2 showed that people who used grounding mats for four weeks decreased fatigue, sleep disruptions, and improved length of sleep. They also reported an improvement in their depression, stress, and pain.
Some researchers believe that the earth connects all living cells through a living matrix held together by electrical conductivity. This behaves similarly to antioxidants as an immune defense6 system that restores the body's natural immunity by connecting to the matrix.
One study7 shows that prolonged use of grounding techniques reduced blood pressure levels in those experiencing hypertension. And in a smaller study, grounding patches7were used to minimize blood clumping.
Earthing, like other forms of treatments, isn't a quick fix. It requires patience and perseverance; however, the benefits are encouraging. Here are some tips once you decide to add earthing as part of your healing journey:
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