The Remarkable Science of Grounding

The term grounding (or Earthing for some) refers to the practice of direct skin contact with the surface of the Earth. This can be expressed in various forms such as walking barefoot, lying on the grass or the bare sand at the beach or swimming in natural waters such as rivers or in the ocean or a natural lake. Our distorted reality may have you think that this is a new wellness trend, sweeping the globe, however this practice has roots in both physics and physiology. Let us take a moment to review the science behind the practice.

Grounding: Core Concept

The Earth carries a mild negative charge. The human physical structure (body) is constantly exposed to electronics, synthetic flooring and electromagnetic radiation which, over time, can build up positive charges. When we ground; or plug into the Earth; we allow the electrons from the Earth to flow into our physical structure helping us to usher in more balance of our electrons.

The Science: What happens while Grounding

1. 

Reduces Inflammation

Grounding may help reduce inflammation in our physical structure by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage within our physical structure. The electrons from the earth behave as antioxidants, which help to stabilize these harmful molecules.

Study Spotlight: A 2015 review published in the Journal of Inflammation Research noted that grounding could reduce markers of inflammation and pain in the body.

2. Improved Sleep and Cortisol Balance

Improvement of sleep quality is one of the most reported benefits of grounding. This is due to the regulation of cortisol, the stress hormone. Grounding helps to recalibrate circadian rhythms; our sleep/wake hormone cycle.

A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that participants who slept on grounding mats had more normal cortisol levels and improved sleep quality.

3. Reduced Stress and Improved Mood

The act of just placing our bare feet on the natural ground calls in our parasympathetic system (rest and digest) to dominate over the sympathetic system (fight or flight) response. The parasympathetic nervous system calms our overall nervous system, lowering any feelings of stress and anxiety.

4. Better Blood Flow

There is also evidence that suggests that grounding can reduce the viscosity or thickness of blood; often linked to heart disease. This contributes to improvement in circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

Closing Sounds

We are so technologically driven today that even within our health and wellness routines we have incorporated apps, subscriptions and various supplements. Grounding offers a refreshingly simple alternative; just connect with the earth.

Perhaps you are a nature lover or perhaps you are looking for more natural ways of being without the use of technology, either way the science of grounding suggests something very profound; that the earth we live on may be the one of the best medicines around.