The benefits of earthing or grounding, derived through physical and direct contact with earth’s surfaces, are fascinating, just as they have gotten the science world talking.

Continuing studies show how our physiology and general health can improve considerably when we walk barefoot on earth’s natural surfaces.

Earthing appears to correct what we call an “electron deficiency syndrome,” an overlooked and likely significant cause of multiple health disorders. We believe that Earthing as a preventive/lifestyle strategy can counteract the sharp rise in non-communicable diseases throughout the world, a major challenge and barrier to global development.

ScienceDirect

Yes, the interconnectedness between the human body and the earth is as old as life itself. By walking barefoot on sand, soil, grass, gravel, and moist surfaces, our bodies receive a stream of free electrons through the soles of our feet.

These negative electrons enter our bodies as antioxidants, and helpful in neutralizing the positive charges our bodies accumulate every day!

Recent scientific research has this to say;

Mounting evidence suggests that the Earth’s negative potential can create a stable internal bioelectrical environment for the normal functioning of all body systems. Moreover, oscillations of the intensity of the Earth’s potential may be important for setting the biological clocks regulating diurnal body rhythms, such as cortisol secretion

NCBI

Today, most of us cover our feet in synthetic rubber and other forms of plastics. These are not conductive, and therefore hinder the transfer of electrons from earth’s surfaces into the body.

And if you try to look back in the last year alone, you will agree with me, your feet and soles have scarcely touched natural earth, except through synthetic coverings!

Because of these plastics, in addition to other insulating objects that we touch and brush against throughout the day, our bodies also accumulate tones of electrostatic charge – sometimes up to 2000 volts! This can lead to electrostatic shock, and other complications.

The science of earthing quickly reminds us of the sun’s energy and frequencies, from where we acquire vitamin D. This vitamin is essential in facilitating the absorption of calcium into the body, for stronger bones, teeth, and regulation of the heart and nerves.

The role and benefits of earthing in neutralizing free radicals

Radicals (previously free radicals), are scientifically regarded as unstable atoms or molecules notorious for wrecking body cells. They are uncharged molecules because they contain single unpaired electrons. This makes them quite reactive.

Free radicals can cause damage to parts of cells such as proteins, DNA, and cell membranes by stealing their electrons through a process called oxidation. (This is why free radical damage is also called “oxidative damage.”)

HOPES

The activities of radicals, or oxidative stress, are contributing factors to the following health complications when left unchecked for years and decades:

• cancer
• autoimmune diseases
• arthritis
• cardiovascular diseases
• diabetes
• neurodegenerative diseases
• skin aging

Despite the negatives listed above, free radicals and oxidants are helpful compounds in the body, as long as their numbers are kept in check. They work with immune cells responsible for fighting bacteria and viruses. They also help eliminate damaged and dead cells in our bodies, to enable, and create room for new ones.

What leads to the production and multiplication of free radicals and oxidants:

Free radicals are formed naturally through normal cell metabolism in the body. They can also be formed due to malfunctions in the immune system.

Elsewhere, external and environmental factors listed below can facilitate the formation of free radicals:

• tobacco smoke
• air pollution
• ozone
• x-ray
• alcoholism
• industrial chemicals such as pesticides
• clinical medicines and other drugs
• fried foods
• aging

The amount of free radicals will also increase naturally as we age, and this can leave the body vulnerable to many illnesses.

What happens is that too many of these molecules cripple the activities of T cells, and destabilize the balance of oxidants and antioxidants in the body. They basically grab or steal electrons from healthy cells, and according to the National Cancer Institute, can cause real damage to DNA, proteins and cell membranes.

To ensure this does not happen, our bodies produce antioxidants to neutralize their effects. For example, through our diets, antioxidants are derived from fruit and vegetable servings, and other plant chemicals. They can also be absorbed through clinical supplements such as vitamins C, E, and beta carotene,  

Besides food, the most radical way to introduce natural antioxidants into our bodies happens through physical connection with Mother Nature. This is possible through increased hours we spend walking barefoot on moist soils, and other natural surfaces.

It is well established, though not widely known, that the surface of the earth possesses a limitless and continuously renewed supply of free or mobile electrons as a consequence of a global atmospheric electron circuit. Wearing shoes with insulating soles and/or sleeping in beds that are isolated from the electrical ground plane of the earth have disconnected most people from the earth’s electrical rhythms and free electrons.

NCBI

What happens when our bodies receive sufficient antioxidants through earthing?

Antioxidants are compounds capable of giving free electrons to the unstable free radicals. This neutralizes their negative activities such as killing healthy body cells.

In all its glory, antioxidants are known as

… radical scavenger, hydrogen donor, electron donor, peroxide decomposer, singlet oxygen quencher, enzyme inhibitor, synergist, and metal-chelating agents.

NCBI

The following are the earthing benefits derived from walking barefoot:

• reduces inflammation and pain
• fosters faster healing
• reduces emotional stress (neutralizes cortisol levels)
• stabilizes blood flow and pressure
• improves mood
• gives room for good sleep at night
• protects the body from the effects of EMF
• strengthens the immune system

Of course, if natural earthing is out of the question for you, probably then, you can invest in specially designed earthing mats for the bed and feet. A reminder though, natural earthing is better for you and will always be free.

The last word

Why not take the leap of faith and try earthing at home? While at it, pay attention to your body’s response before, during, and after 30 – 60 minutes of connecting with nature.

While the benefits of earthing are reassuring in fighting inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases, it is important that you do everything else correctly.

Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, develop a positive mindset, and avoid indulgence in bad foods such as fries. Just as well, beware of environmental pollution and cut down excess intake of alcohol and drugs!