Grounding, also called earthing, is a therapeutic technique that involves doing activities that “ground” or electrically reconnect you to the earth. It has been a secret among the wellness scene for some time and is finally making its way in to mainstream culture. And why shouldn’t it? Afterall, it’s as simple as using electrical charges from the earth to positively impact your body.
So, what does that really mean? Being grounded means being physically, mentally, and spiritually present. It means that you center your soul and connect it with Mother Earth and when these connections are strong, it can help you feel safer and more in touch. As the Journal of Environmental and Public Health states: It is an established, though not widely appreciated fact, that the Earth’s surface possesses a limitless and continuously renewed supply of free or mobile electrons. The Earth’s negative charges can create a stable internal bioelectrical environment for the normal functioning of all body systems which may be important for setting the biological clock, regulating circadian rhythms, and balancing cortisol levels.
While there are many types of grounding, the most simplistic way you can try it is by going for a walk barefoot outside. Try it on the grass, in the sand or even in the mud – the goal is to allow the soles of our feet to touch the natural ground so that you can connect to the Earth to restore the electromagnetic balance needed to maintain optimal health.
Another great way to ground yourself is to go for a short walk in nature and sit under a tree - visualizing your energy merging with the tree roots. Imagine the roots coming out of the soles of your feet and traveling deep into the earth. This type of visualization is not only something we do with our clients during their Reiki treatments but also with clients that just need to take a moment for themselves.
In the colder climates, indoor earthing has become increasingly popular, especially during the winter months. We have a heated, grounding biomat that our clients absolutely love. It produces specifically tuned frequencies of infrared and negative ions that pass through amethyst crystals, enhancing health and vitality. Many have mentioned that the biomat has also helped to improve their energy levels.
Studies show that grounding techniques are also helpful for relieving anxiety. Anxiety is a primal human capacity to anticipate and prepare for threats, so in its pure form it is beneficial. However, at a certain frequency and intensity, anxiety becomes a mental illness that can disrupt and negatively affect your entire life. We recommend what’s called “box breathing” to our clients that suffer with anxiety. Try it: breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, breathe out for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and so on until you feel grounded. If you’re dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, chronic fatigue, PTSD, depression, or any other condition that could benefit from grounding techniques and mindfulness, call our office or speak to your mental health professional.
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