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What is earthing? -

Earthing involves having direct skin contact with the Earth's surface, as it's believed that when we physically connect with the ground, its electrical energy rebalances our own.

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What is earthing? -

Earthing is said to not only improve mental health, but reduce pain, stress, and inflammation.

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The rise of chronic illnesses -

Some believe that the rise in chronic illnesses can be attributed to the fact that we wear rubber-soled shoes, which don't conduct electricity. The argument is that we've removed contact with the Earth, making us unwell.

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Earthing and Aboriginal Australian culture -

In Aboriginal Australian culture, one of the oldest continuous cultures on the planet, health and healing come from harmony with the Earth. When you are connected with nature, nature will nurture your body and mind.

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Earthing and Chinese medicine -

Ancient Chinese culture believes in the connection between humans and the earth via qi, the life force of the universe that animates all beings. In reflexology, a type of traditional Chinese medicine, walking barefoot stimulates qi throughout the body.

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Earthing in 19th century Europe -

In 1891, Louis Kuhne, a German nutritionist, published 'The New Science of Healing,' which explored the belief and study of the Earth's natural energies. In 1896, Adolf Just, a German writer, published 'Return to Nature,' which encouraged people to walk barefoot outdoors.

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Modern science and earthing -

Modern science continues to explore and advocate for the Earth's electrons' ability to balance the body's electrical current. 

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Earthing vs. grounding -

Grounding is a term for a range of mindfulness techniques, including earthing. However, not all grounding techniques involve connecting with the earth; some exercises include engaging your senses, like holding an ice cube or feeling something soft. 

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Who should practice earthing? -

Earthing may be beneficial for people who experience anxiety or depression, chronic fatigue, cardiovascular disease, post-traumatic stress disorder, or pain and inflammation.

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Types of earthing: walking barefoot outside -

Earthing techniques focus on connecting your energy with the earth through direct contact, like walking outside barefoot.

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Types of earthing: sitting or lying on the grass, dirt, or sand -

Sitting or lying on the grass, dirt, or sand allows you to directly connect with the earth.

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Types of earthing: sit in a chair and let your feet touch the ground -

Reconnect your energy with the earth by sitting in a chair and letting your bare feet touch the ground.

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Types of earthing: swimming or relaxing in a natural body of water -

Connect with the earth's natural energy and enjoy the refreshing properties of water by swimming in a lake or the sea.

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Types of earthing: touch or play with the soil -

Not only does gardening increase vitamin D absorption, but touching the soil has earthing benefits.

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Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing -

Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is simply being calm and quiet among the trees while practicing breathing techniques. Depending on your clothing and footwear choices, it could also be an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of earthing.

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Earthing may improve chronic fatigue and sleep disorders -

According to a recent study, participants who used grounding mats for four weeks saw decreased fatigue, sleep disruptions, and improved sleep duration.

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Earthing may boost immunity -

Some believe the Earth connects all living cells through a matrix held together by electrical conductivity, which acts as an immune defense. 

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Earthing may improve heart health -

One study showed that extended use of grounding techniques reduced blood pressure levels in those experiencing hypertension.

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Speak to a professional -

If you are new to earthing, you should find a guide to teach you. The earthing community can provide resources and best practices.

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Stick to a routine -

The more you work on grounding yourself through earthing, the quicker you'll begin seeing improvements. Try starting your day with a grounding routine to create a habit.

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Pay attention -

Be observant of yourself and your surroundings while earthing and stay in the moment.

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Risk: walking barefoot -

Walking around barefoot could put you at risk of injury, allergic reactions, and infections.

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Risks: uneven terrain -

Practice earthing by standing still or sitting down if balancing or walking on uneven terrain is difficult for you.

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Risks: open-water swimming -

If open-water swimming is your preferred earthing practice, you may be at risk of contracting a waterborne infection or drowning. Always follow swimming safety precautions and check the weather conditions before taking the plunge.

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Risks: be prepared for the possibility of an accident or emergency -

If you'd like to find a remote spot to practice earthing, make sure you're prepared for the possibility of an accident, and always bring plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

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Risks: trust your senses -

If you're practicing earthing away from your home, trust your senses and don't hesitate to leave an area if you feel unsafe.

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Speak to your doctor -

Some earthing techniques may require extra caution if you have podiatric health issues, nerve damage, immune system issues, or are pregnant.

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Evidence -

While there is some evidence to suggest earthing is beneficial for your health, the claims aren't backed by high-quality research, and further studies are required to confirm earthing's efficacy. 

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Try it out -

Earthing is generally safe as long as you follow basic health and safety precautions. While it's likely to have some physical and mental health benefits, earthing can't prevent diseases or replace modern medicine.

Sources: (Verywell Mind) (Cleveland Clinic)

See also: 10 reasons to practice mindfulness meditation

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