In a time of great angst, it’s important to maintain your sense of self and peace. To be sure, there is much to be concerned with and about. But it helps no one if we all fall into a pit of misery and despair. So, with an eye on creating positive change from within, let’s look at grounding techniques that can help you wade through these difficult times.
What is Grounding?
Grounding or “earthing” is a therapeutic technique that involves doing activities that reconnect you to the earth. The practice is based on electrically reconnecting you to the earth through earth science and physics. It relates to how electrical charges from the earth can have positive effects on the body. The subject is currently under-researched, but I’ve linked a couple of interesting studies below. The most recent scientific research explores grounding for inflammation, cardiovascular disease, muscle damage, chronic pain, and mood.
The central theory is that it affects the living matrix – the central connection between living cells. Within that matrix, electrical impulses function as immune system defense, much like antioxidants. Researchers believe that through grounding, the natural defenses of the body can be restored. (see below articles)
Try These Grounding Techniques
Walking barefoot outside
Let the earth and the grass tickle your toes and feel how the earth supports you. Even sitting in a chair and running your toes through sand or grass will work. Take a deep breath. Put down your phone or iPad. Consider the sensations of the earth beneath your feet. What are 5 things that you can feel? Take note of the feel of the clothes on your body, the feel of the sunshine on your face, and the grass between your toes.
Lying down on the ground
This creates even more contact with the energy of the earth. Be sure to pick a safe spot (don’t pick an anthill!), lie down, and breath. Relax and let the earth support you. Consider how your body feels as the earth supports you. What things that you can smell? The freshly mowed grass, the flowers, and the soil all have distinctive smells. Take note of them as you breath in and out through your nose.
Submersing in water
Water can also be used for grounding, whether you submerge, or simply wade through water. Even dangling your feet in water can give you the same effect. How does the water feel as you float? If you’re dangling your feet, how does the water flow through your toes? Does it feel smooth? Cold? Take a deep breath, inhaling through your nose, and exhaling through your mouth. How does the water smell? Is it a pool, or a natural body of water? Run the water through your fingers.
Grounding equipment
When going outdoors isn’t an option, there are indoor options that can help create the same effect. Grounding mats, sheets, blankets, socks, bands and patches are available to help you in the process. (see the third article below).
Studies relating to grounding:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576907/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3265077/
Consider how you can begin to pull yourself back to a healthier mindset and physical place. Let’s work on this together! Come see me for a FREE fitness consultation and we’ll get started on your goals!
Set up a Free Fitness Consultation
Written by Melissa Abramovich, ACE CPT, NASM CGT, AAHFRP Medical Exercise Specialist at Elite Sports Club-River Glen
Melissa Abramovich went into Personal Training and Group Exercise instruction after successfully losing 140 pounds through healthy diet and exercise. Her desire to help others drove her forward into a career helping others to make healthier choices. She is an ACE certified personal trainer and now also a Medical Exercise Specialist (AAHFRP), helping clients with a myriad of health issues at Elite Sports Clubs. She holds a Bachelor’s degree, and many group exercise related certifications as well.