So, I'm sure you have come across those in the outdoors that swear that going barefoot in the wilds keeps them present, thankful, and in a constant conversation with the earth whilst making them more nature literate. I know, I know- Bush Hippy lingo! While the language used to describe their experiences makes me ill, the experiences in and of themselves are none the less valid. There is scientific evidence that "earthing" works.
By walking barefoot regularly, directly in contact with the earth- as in the dirt or grass- and not over the patio or sidewalk; you reduce electrical fields induced on the body. In an age where we spend the majority of our time fully immersed in a variety of electrical and magnetic fields stemming from cell phones, satellites, radios and anything else that can identify or sense us; anything that can negate the effects of this constant bombardment to our senses should be taken advantage of.
In a study conducted in 2012 listed in the Journal of Environment and Public Health (click here to read the full study) it was determined through their studies and tests that sleep, pain, and stress (anxiety, depression, and irritability) could all be affected for the better with regular earthing techniques. Some subjects reported a 93% increase in quality of sleep and a 74% decrease in chronic back and/or joint pain over eight weeks. Subjects in the study used grounding pads in their mattresses as well as barefoot contact techniques.
Many of us that recreate outdoors on a regular basis already know the feeling of rejuvenation that occurs from a day or night afield. But this compelling research done to date supports the concept that grounding or earthing the human body may be an essential element in the health equation along with sunshine, clean air and water, nutritious food, and physical activity.
So, next time you head outside spend 15 minutes or so grounding yourself and make it a regular part of your daily routine. I'm making a commitment to do it twice daily or more when possible. While you may not feel different immediately, your body will receive immediate results in it's electrophysiological make up which will start a metabolic healing response- as someone that;s not a bush hippy and deals with regular pain and issues, I look forward to reporting my findings.
Let us know how you feel in the comments below!