Go Touch Grass
The Benefits of Earthing
Finding simple, natural ways to improve health and well-being in our fast-paced, technology-driven world can be profoundly transformative. A couple of health trends that have gained popularity over the past few years for their ease of practice and numerous benefits are earthing (not to be confused with grounding) and exposure to the first-morning sun. Both methods have a holistic approach to promoting physical and mental health, supported by scientific research and backed by history and data. Earthing is one that has been entirely omitted by such a large portion of our population.
Beyond the science and having experienced it firsthand, I have also seen the immediate positive effects earthing has on our sometimes feral children. When attitudes become difficult to check, emotions start rising, and we can feel the meltdowns on the horizon; you'll hear my wife say, "Go touch grass." In our house, that means stop what you're doing, go outside, put your bare feet on the ground, and touch grass.
As parents, we know that in just a few minutes, two young girls will return calmer and more grounded (pun intended) than just moments ago. Earth, and nature in general, have healing properties that we shouldn't ignore. Ones that can improve mood, increase certain neurochemicals, and radically change blood cells. Check out this simple video that shows the difference in blood cells after just 10 minutes of grounding.
Reconnecting with the Earth
Earthing involves direct physical contact with the Earth's surface, such as walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil. The concept is rooted in the idea that the Earth's surface has a negative charge and is abundant in free electrons. When we make direct contact with the Earth, these electrons can be transferred to our body, potentially neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.
This practice is typically referred to as a set period during which one kicks off the shoes and ceremoniously reconnects with their long-lost mother nature, where she awaits arms opened wide. While this is one hundred percent accurate, it also isn't necessary. If you were raised like I was in Florida, you spend more time barefoot than not; I mean, I've even run a few races without the added distraction of shoes. To maximize the benefits of grounding and the healing properties of nature, spend as much time as possible where your body can hardwire in and reconnect with the Earth. Walk barefoot, sit on actual grass or soil for a quick lunch, or lie flat for an afternoon siesta in the shade. Pick your medium, but make the time - it's just a few minutes.
There are also synthetic forms of earthing, known as grounding, that consist of devices, mats, or blankets that plug into an outlet and tap into the structure's electrical grounding to ground with the Earth. While we know that earthing works, grounding has some additional variables that may result in undesired effects. Check out this great explanation of the possible implications of using a grounding device. (jump to 8:05)
The Science Behind Earthing
Several studies have highlighted the benefits of earthing:
Reduced Inflammation: Research has shown that grounding can significantly reduce inflammation and pain. A study published in the Journal of Inflammation Research found that grounding improved immune responses and decreased chronic pain and inflammation in participants.
Improved Sleep: Grounding has been linked to better sleep quality. A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that grounding during sleep resynchronized cortisol secretion. This stress-related hormone helped improve participants' sleep patterns and reduce stress levels.
Enhanced Cellular Health: Emerging research suggests that grounding may increase the proliferation of certain cells, such as fibroblasts, which play a crucial role in wound healing. The transfer of electrons from the Earth can help stabilize cellular function and support overall cell health.
Practical Ways to Ground
Walk Barefoot: Spend at least 30 minutes a day walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or soil. Go barefoot when checking the mail, taking out the trash, or walking through the yard. Don’t be afraid to slip off the shoes for some quick earthing when sitting or playing in the park with the kids.
Sit or Lie Down on the Ground: Direct skin contact with the Earth can be beneficial, whether you're having a picnic in the park, lying on the beach, or taking a nap under your favorite tree.
Use Grounding Equipment: For those living in urban areas or with limited access to natural spaces, grounding mats or sheets can provide similar benefits by mimicking the Earth's electric charge. Keep in mind the previously stated issues that are associated with these types of alternatives.
The Healing Power of the First Morning Sun
Exposure to natural sunlight, especially in the early morning, is another powerful practice for enhancing well-being. The first rays of the morning sun, often referred to as "morning light," have unique properties that can positively impact our health. Morning sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that controls our sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps signal to our body that it's time to wake up, leading to improved sleep quality at night. In contrast, regulating our late hours to reduce artificial light and blue light exposure will aid in keeping our rhythms more aligned with nature. Try spending a few moments outdoors under the night sky to adjust before turning in for the night. Sunlight exposure also increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boosts mood and promotes feelings of well-being. Studies have shown that morning sunlight can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. First-morning sun particularly provides UVB rays necessary for the production of vitamin D in our skin. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Research indicates that adequate morning sunlight exposure can help prevent vitamin D deficiency while avoiding the more harmful rays later in the day.
Combining Earthing and Morning Sunlight
I don't think two practices could be any more simple or more complementary than earthing and morning light. Integrating both earthing and exposure to morning sunlight into your daily routine can have synergistic effects on both your physical and mental health. Here are a few tips to easily combine these practices:
Morning Grounding Walks: Take a barefoot walk in your yard or a nearby park during the early morning hours. I have enjoyed many barefoot walks with the dogs and a good cup of coffee as the sky turns a majestic balance of purples and ambers. It’s a great way to start the morning in general, with the added benefits of earthing and morning light.
Outdoor Meditation: Meditate outdoors, sitting directly on the grass or standing firmly on the ground, facing the rising sun. Build this practice while incorporating our daily approach to PRIMING, and you will build a supercharged morning of energy and clarity.
Grounding Exercises: Earthing does not require a stationary or even sedentary approach to be effective. On the contrary, you can be actively engaged and still receive the benefits of grounding and early sunlight. Whether it be calisthenics, body weight exercises, yoga, or simple mobility drills, incorporate your exercises on the ground outside while enjoying the first rays of sunlight.
GO TOUCH GRASS!
Incorporating grounding and morning sunlight exposure into your daily life can provide a myriad of health benefits, from reducing inflammation and improving sleep to boosting mood and enhancing cellular health. By reconnecting with the natural elements of the Earth and the Sun, we can tap into a source of healing that has been available since their creation.
No different than when my wife tells our girls, “Go touch grass.” When the day seems to be slipping, and the odds are stacking up, I often have to tell myself the same. Get Your Head Out of Your Ass and Go Touch Grass! It’s often the reset I need to reconnect with nature, realign with gratitude, and remind myself of what my real purpose is. I encourage you to embrace these simple yet powerful practices to enhance your well-being and experience the profound connection between God, nature, and our health.
References
Chevalier, G., Mori, K., & Oschman, J. L. (2015). The effect of earthing (grounding) on human physiology. Journal of Inflammation Research, 8, 83-96.
Ghaly, M., & Teplitz, D. (2004). The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 10(5), 767-776.
Applewhite, R. (2005). The effectiveness of a conductive patch and a conductive bed pad in reducing induced human body voltage via the application of earth ground. European Biology and Bioelectromagnetics, 1(1), 23-40.
Wright, K. P., McHill, A. W., Birks, B. R., Griffin, B. R., Rusterholz, T., & Chinoy, E. D. (2013). Entrainment of the human circadian clock to the natural light-dark cycle. Current Biology, 23(16), 1554-1558.
Lambert, G. W., Reid, C., Kaye, D. M., Jennings, G. L., & Esler, M. D. (2002). Effect of sunlight and season on serotonin turnover in the brain. The Lancet, 360(9348), 1840-1842.
Holick, M. F. (2004). Sunlight and vitamin D for bone health and prevention of autoimmune diseases, cancers, and cardiovascular disease. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 80(6), 1678S-1688S.
