In our modern world, we spend most of our lives wearing shoes with rubber or plastic soles that insulate us from direct connection with the earth. But the practice of going shoeless and letting your bare feet make contact with natural surfaces like grass has become an area of scientific interest. This concept is called "grounding" or "earthing" and may provide some fascinating health benefits.
What is Earthing or Grounding?
Grounding is simply making direct skin contact with the earth's natural, negative-charged ionic surfaces by walking barefoot outside. When our bodies are grounded, research suggests it allows natural electrical charges from the earth to permeate into our bodies and produce a wide range of positive physiological effects.
Potential Health Benefits
Studies on grounding have revealed some promising results, including:
Improved sleep and reduced cortisol levels
Faster healing of inflammation and muscle recovery
Increased surface charge on red blood cells
Reduction in inflammation and chronic pain
Improved regulation of glucose and stress hormones
The effects are theorized to result from grounding the body, which is largely bioelectrical, with the earth's abundant negative ionic charge. This helps maintain your body's optimal natural electrical state and electron balance.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Beyond the physical aspects, grounding is also thought to have psychological benefits. Developing a closer connection to the earth can reduce anxiety and produce positive emotional effects. Walking barefoot on soft, cool natural grass has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones.
Free Electrons and Antioxidants
Nature's gentle negative ionic charge acts as a battery to replenish depleted electrons within our bodies. These free electrons are considered nature's antioxidants, helping neutralize harmful positive ions and free radicals that can lead to chronic inflammation, disease, and accelerated aging.
Simple and Free
One of the best things about grounding is that it's an easy, no-cost way to potentially improve your health. Simply take off your shoes and socks and go for a mindful walk on grass, soil, sand, or other natural surfaces for 30-60 minutes when possible.
Our grass specialists would be happy to discuss having a lush, grounding-friendly natural grass lawn installed. The benefits of regularly "earthing" on soft turf just might surprise you! Contact us today.
