Grounding or Earthing as it is also called is a form of a therapeutic technique which involves the activities of which one ground or electrically reconnects to the earth.
This technique involves the basis of earthing science and grounding physics in which it explains how electrical charges from the earth are effective in positively affecting your body & mind.
In this blog, we will understand what exactly grounding is, how you can effectively do grounding and the benefits it has on the individual’s body & mind.
Ways of grounding/earthing
There is a few methods of which you can perform grounding. Each method focuses on reconnecting yourself to the earth.
Walking Barefoot
Do you ever remember being a child and running around all day kicking a ball barefoot at the park? Well, if so, this I sone the simplest ways to ground yourself to the earth, by simply walking barefoot.
You can do this by walking on the grass, sand and even mud. In any way you allow your skin to touch the natural ground it will provide you with grounding energy.
Laying on the ground
Another valuable way of grounding is through skin-to-earth contact, an easy way of doing so is simply by laying on the ground, you can do this while reading a book, having a nap, or just relaxing, you can do this on grass or even sand on the beach.
Make sure that you practice safe procedures when out in the weather ensuring you find shade, apply sunscreen and practice safe sun methods.
Submersing in water
According to some studies for grounding, water is another method in grounding the same way that physical earth is used.
It is suggested that by simply being in a lake, river or swimming in the ocean is another way to perform grounding. Ensure you are aware of the water and have knowledge on swimming and correct first aid techniques.
Using grounding equipment
There are alternative methods to grounding that doesn’t involve the above. A method you can do is by connecting a metal rod to the ground outside and connecting the rod to your body through a wire.
If you do not want to use the metal rod there is other option available including:
- Grounding Socks
- Grounding Sheet/Blankets
- Grounding Mats
- Grounding Bands & Patches
You can find all the above online.
Why do we do grounding?
There isn’t a whole lot of research on grounding. However, many people have reported significant benefits and improvements for their conditions including:
- Muscle Recovery. Many athletes swear by grounding and have noticed dramatic results in the aid of muscle recovery post workout/session.
- Sleep Disorders. Increase in sleep length, and quality of sleep. With also decreasing sleep interruptions/disturbances.
- Fatigue. Many reported a decrease in fatigue levels after a few weeks of treatment. Resulting in more energy and less tiredness.
- Anxiety/Depression & Other Conditions. In a small study, the benefits of grounding showed that 1 hour of the activity significantly improved mood.
As mentioned prior, many of these studies are small and require further extensive research, still many health professionals believe that the benefits of grounding therapy may come from feeling connected to nature. There is no harm.
Harms of grounding
Most of the techniques to grounding involve nature and walking through grass or swimming, they all are categorised as relatively safe.
Certain conditions may need to seek further expert medical advice, such as chronic fatigue, cardiovascular issues, pain, and anxiety. Always seek medical advice from your doctor or another health professional. Grounding should never be substituted for any medical treatment and should be used as an extra tool rather than a substitute.
Although grounding is considered safe some precautions to follow include:
- Sun Safety. Ensure you are always seeking shade, wearing sunscreen, wearing suitable clothes, and are drinking plenty of water.
- Knowledge of the water. Ensuring that you are aware of where you are swimming, the waters depth and any rips/tides that may be harmful. Ensure someone with you is first aid medically trained.
Summary
Grounding or also known as earthing is a therapeutic technique which is used to focus on reconnecting with nature to regain health benefits. There is minimal research on the benefits of grounding, but smaller studies and personal findings have shown slight benefits. Reporting benefits on inflammation, muscle recovery, mood and more.
Grounding has the option to be performed both inside and outside with and without equipment. In any way you choose to perform grounding make sure to always be aware of potential risks and perform so safely.
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