When you put your bare feet on the grass or sand it feels really good, but could it have health benefits too? Kerry Needs discusses.
After watching the fascinating documentary The Grounded, I decided to find out more about ‘grounding’ or ‘earthing’.
What is grounding?
Grounding is essentially having skin contact with the earth. This is usually with the soles of your feet, but any part of your body can touch the earth.
Whilst there are still more scientific studies on grounding to be done, initial studies show grounding can help with:
- Inflammation
- Blood pressure
- Jetlag
- Pain
- Autoimmune conditions
- Sleep
And potentially much more!
If you want to ground inside your home as well as when you’re outside, you can use a grounding rod.
A grounding rod is essentially a copper pole that goes straight into the earth, just a few inches deep. Attached to the rod are thin wires (you can use any kind of insulated wire), which can be safely trailed through your window, allowing it to still be closed shut. You can attach the rod to any conductive item that you’d like to use for grounding.
How to use a grounding rod:
According to Earthing, an online grounding store, essential steps to installing a grounding rod are:
- First push the Ground Rod directly into the earth (8″ to 10″) close to the foundation of the building.
- Run the cord from the Ground Rod, under or around a window or door, near where you will be using your product.
- Make sure to cover the cord to prevent tripping.
- Plug the prong end of your cord into the receptical end of the Ground Rod cord. If you live in a dry area, such as a desert, soak the earth around the Ground Rod from time to time for maximum conductivity.
You can attach the cord to a mat, or even your feet using sticky electrical pads.
By grounding yourself on a regular basis and for at least twenty minutes at a time, any inflammatory responses in your body may start to fade by restoring the body’s bioelectric field and connecting us to the Earth’s surface electrons. An hour a day is best!
Do I have to use a grounding rod?
No, not at all! You don’t have to use a grounding rod, but it’s a nice alternative to standing outside, especially if it’s cold. There are mats you can use for in your bed or for when you are working at a computer. For when you’re outside but don’t want to remove your shoes, you can buy special Earthing shoes.
This post was written by Kerry Needs