Ground Yourself (Not Your Kids)

Let’s be honest, most of us probably don’t take enough time to “sit” with ourselves. Taking the time to meditate, write in a journal, or, honestly, even have a healthy meal is constantly being challenged by other priorities and responsibilities. And when the weekend comes and we might have some “free time,” we have to catch up with everything else that’s competing for our attention and let’s not forget about trying to have a social life.

The Empress is one with nature and finds a way to balance their responsibilities while maintaining a connection to nature. Perhaps this is why they are linked to the element of Earth. Grounding ourselves, finding a way to make the connection back to the Earth, is an easy way to help take some time for ourselves with minimal effort.

What is Grounding?

Grounding, or earthing, is the practice of making direct contact with the Earth, by walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or soil. I think back to my time studying reflexology when I was taught about the importance of foot care. As humans, we used to walk barefoot, traversing natural ground with sticks, rocks, and uneven surfaces. Maybe this made their feet a little calloused, but they were healthier for it. This simple yet powerful practice is based on the idea that the Earth’s surface has a negative charge, and by connecting with it, we can balance our body’s electrical energy.

Benefits of Grounding

Research suggests that grounding can have several positive effects on physical and mental health, including:

• Reduced Inflammation: Grounding can help decrease inflammation in the body, which is linked to a variety of chronic diseases.
• Improved Sleep: By balancing the body’s natural rhythms, grounding can promote better sleep quality.
• Stress Reduction: Connecting with the Earth can help lower stress levels and cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
• Enhanced Mood: Grounding has been shown to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
• Better Circulation: The practice can improve blood flow and circulation, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.’

I titled this “Ground Yourself (Not Your Kids)” as a play on discipline, but you can absolutely teach your kids to Ground themselves. It’s a powerful tool that can greatly help children in many ways.

The Science of Grounding

I know this can sound a little hocus-pocus-y, but there have been scientific studies done that back up the restorative effects of Grounding. Research indicates grounding can improve sleep, reduce pain and inflammation, and decrease stress by shifting the autonomic nervous system from sympathetic to parasympathetic dominance (or, switches your nervous system from a “fight or flight” to a “rest and digest” mode). Studies show it normalizes cortisol levels, enhances heart rate variability, and speeds wound healing. Grounding may also reduce blood viscosity, benefiting cardiovascular health. Research shows that regular grounding for at least 30 minutes daily can significantly improve physical and mental well-being.

But Nature Sucks…

If you’re like me, a fair-skinned ginger who abhors the sun, spending time outdoors is not likely to happen. And in those cases, there are man-made options that can help you incorporate Grounding into your daily routine.

There are Grounding products you can buy like Grounding mats, socks, sheets, pillowcases, and wrist wraps that can be used in place of natural settings. These work by attaching a grounding wire to an electrical outlet that is connected to your tool of choice. Here are a few options for you to check out:

• Earthing Kit (a whole collection of different Grounding tools)
• Grounding Mat (for sitting/standing on): Amazon
• Grounding Mat for Beds: Amazon
• Grounding Fitted Sheet: Amazon
• Grounding Pillow Cases: Amazon
• Grounding Wrist-wraps: Amazon

Ground Yourself Ever Day

Finding ways to incorporate Grounding into your daily routine is actually fairly simple and can be done in various ways, natural or otherwise:

• Walk Barefoot: Spend time walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or soil. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes a day.
• Use Grounding Mats or Sheets: These products are designed to connect you with the Earth’s energy while indoors, allowing you to benefit from grounding even when you’re not outside. Put one at your desk while your work, or at the couch while you watch TV.
• Sit or Lie on the Ground: Take a break from your day to sit or lie down on the grass or sand, allowing your body to connect directly with the Earth. If you’re at your kid’s soccer or baseball game, slip your shoes off and sit barefooted.
• Gardening: Engage in activities like gardening, where your hands and feet come into direct contact with the soil.

Talk to Your Doctor

I’m not a doctor and am not prescribing cures or medical advice. Grounding is a simple, accessible practice that can significantly enhance your overall well-being, but as with everything, please talk to your doctor before engaging in Grounding practices, particularly those involving man-made implements. If you are going to be spending time outside, please wear sunscreen and protective clothing.