It’s more than an idea, a research-supported theory, or an excuse to get outside more often.

Tapping into the nourishing, healing power of the earth through the food we eat, the way we move our bodies, and how we live is a way of life – it’s vital to your life – and it’s the essence of a healthy life.

I recently read an article written by Laura Koniver, MD – in Mary Jane’s Farm magazine and had an AHA! moment. The topic? EARTHING.

It’s something we can all do every single day for our health that is simple, free, and doesn’t require much time.

What is Earthing?

Modern living can easily disconnect us from the earth, and it takes a conscious choice to live closer to nature – and more specifically – the healing power of nature. The earth’s surface is negatively charged and full of free electrons.

On the other hand, free radicals build up in our bodies, from environmental toxins, chemicals in our food and water, and other stressors. Free radicals cause inflammation, damage, and a net positive charge in the body.

Earthing (v.): also called Grounding; making contact with the surface of the earth; barefoot.

What happens when the earth’s negative electrons meet the positive free radicals in our bodies?

The earth’s energy neutralizes the negative impact of free radicals as we experience grounding – earthing – and healing.

Why Earthing is Healing

The most primitive form of healing involves touching the earth. No disease can escape the healing power of grounding and earthing.  Did you know that most “age-related” changes in our bodies like arthritis, heart disease, and cancer are actually related to chronic inflammation?

The good news is that every single one of us can get back in touch with the earth to promote healing and…

• Stabilize hormones
• Speed up metabolism naturally
• Decrease pain and stress
• Get better sleep
• Support the adrenal glands

No matter what health challenge you face, what food you eat, or how many hours you spend indoors, the earth can literally help you discharge stress, tension, and inflammation every single day.

How to Get More Grounded

To get the benefits of earthing, you don’t have to be barefoot 24/7 (or you could be!) or buy any special tools. You can do it for 2 minutes or 2 hours a day – by the ocean or on top of a mountain – and in the spring, summer, fall, or winter. Start with one small barefoot step at a time!

Free Your feet

Your feet have more nerve endings than anywhere in your body, and are the area most dense with sweat glands. That means that they are naturally and perfectly made to be a conduit for electron exchange with the earth. You can even leave your socks on in cold temperatures and still get the electron exchange. Just keep off your rubber-soled shoes.

Dip Your Toes in the Water

Sand and salt water are extremely conductive (and high in magnesium). Think beach, lake, stream, or even your bath tub… and dive in!

Use Your hands

Barefoot in the snow isn’t very practical or comfortable, so in cold temperatures, spend time touching the trees instead. You’ll pull in the same benefits by touching your hands to a tree that is rooted in the earth.

Walk On Cement

The earth is the best conductor, but cement isn’t a bad alternative if you don’t have green space available. Hopscotch anyone?

Nature provides endless experiences for us to get close and get healing, so pick one of these fun and simple ideas to get earthing!

10 Ways to Go Earthing Today

1. Walk barefoot in the grass
2. Take a nap against a tree
3. Star gaze on a blanket
4. Dig your feet into the sand on the beach
5. Do yoga on a rock
6. Garden. Dig your hands in the dirt.
7. Touch the trees while you’re hiking along a trail
8. Sit on the ground or a log around a campfire
9. Go on a picnic
10. Stand in a rocky creek with your feet in the water

Have you kicked off your Chacos yet? Tell me in the comments below how you get grounded in nature!