Wilder Health

Grounding, or earthing, involves direct physical contact with the earth's surface or using conductive devices connected to the ground to transfer electrons from the earth to the body. The concept is based on the principle that the earth's surface holds a negative electric charge due to an abundance of free electrons. When the human body makes contact with the earth, these electrons can transfer to the body, helping to neutralize positively charged free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

The science of grounding is supported by the understanding that the earth's surface maintains a relatively constant electric potential. Historically, humans have always been in direct contact with the ground through walking barefoot or sleeping on the earth. In modern times, however, we have become increasingly insulated from the earth due to the use of rubber-soled shoes and synthetic flooring, which can disrupt this natural electron transfer.

One key aspect of the earth's electrical environment is the Schumann Resonance, a set of spectrum peaks in the extremely low frequency (ELF) portion of the earth's electromagnetic field spectrum. The fundamental Schumann Resonance frequency is approximately 7.83 Hz, which is often referred to as the earth's "heartbeat." This frequency is produced by the space between the earth's surface and the ionosphere acting as a resonant cavity. This resonance can influence human brainwave activity and overall physiological health, making grounding an important practice for aligning our bodies with the natural frequencies of the earth.

The human body functions as an intricate bioelectrical system. Our cells communicate via electrical impulses, and the nervous system transmits signals through electrically charged ions. This electrical activity is essential for bodily functions, from the beating of the heart to brain activity and muscle contractions.

Grounding connects the body directly to the earth’s electrical field, allowing for the transfer of electrons between the earth and the body. When the body is grounded, it becomes part of the earth's electric circuit, helping to stabilize the body's internal electrical environment. This process can be understood through the concept of the Schumann Resonance, which helps to regulate and synchronize the electrical activity of the human brain with the natural electromagnetic frequencies of the earth.

The earth's natural frequency of 7.83 Hz corresponds to the alpha brainwave frequency in humans, which is associated with states of relaxation and mental clarity. By grounding, individuals can align their own bioelectrical activity with this frequency, potentially promoting a sense of calm and reducing stress. Additionally, grounding can help to discharge excess positive charge accumulated in the body from exposure to electronic devices and synthetic materials, which can create an electrical imbalance.

The transfer of free electrons from the earth to the body is a fundamental aspect of grounding. These electrons serve as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic inflammation and various diseases. By maintaining direct contact with the earth, either by walking barefoot or using grounding products, individuals can continually absorb these beneficial electrons, promoting overall health and well-being.

Grounding can help to protect the body from the potential harmful effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by electronic devices. EMFs are a type of non-ionizing radiation that can interfere with the body's electrical activities, potentially leading to various health issues. By grounding, the body can discharge accumulated static electricity and shield itself from EMFs, reducing symptoms associated with EMF exposure such as headaches, fatigue, and stress. Studies have shown that grounding can help to reduce the body's electrical potential, thereby minimizing the impact of EMFs.

References:
Chevalier, G., & Oschman, J. L. (2010). The effect of grounding the human body on mood. Psychological Reports, 105(2), 395-407. https://doi.org/10.2466/02.07.20.PR0.105.5.395-407

Grounding has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects, primarily by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, leading to chronic inflammation and various diseases. The earth's surface is rich in free electrons, which can transfer to the body upon contact. These electrons act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and thus reducing inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. By grounding, the body can mitigate this inflammatory response, promoting healing and overall health.

References:
Chevalier, G., Mori, K., Oschman, J. L., & Sokal, K. (2015). The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research, 8, 83-96. https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S69656

Grounding has been shown to improve sleep quality and regulate circadian rhythms by affecting the secretion of cortisol, a stress hormone. Cortisol levels typically follow a diurnal rhythm, peaking in the morning and declining throughout the day. Disruptions in this rhythm can lead to poor sleep quality and various health issues. Grounding can help to normalize cortisol secretion, improving sleep patterns and reducing stress. Studies have shown that individuals who practice grounding experience improved sleep, reduced stress, and better overall well-being.

References:
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. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2004.10.767

Grounding has potential benefits for cardiovascular health by improving blood viscosity, reducing blood pressure, and enhancing heart rate variability. Blood viscosity refers to the thickness and stickiness of blood, which affects how easily it flows through the vessels. High blood viscosity is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Grounding can reduce blood viscosity, thereby improving circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, grounding can help to lower blood pressure and promote healthy heart rate variability, both of which are important markers of cardiovascular health.

References:
Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S. T., Oschman, J. L., Delany, R. M., & Dahlgren, L. (2013). Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity—a major factor in cardiovascular disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(2), 102-110. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2011.0820

Grounding has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood by regulating the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system consists of the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) branches. Grounding promotes parasympathetic activity, helping to balance the autonomic nervous system. This balance leads to lower stress levels, improved mood, and overall better mental health. Studies have indicated that grounding can lead to significant reductions in anxiety, depression, and stress-related symptoms.

References:
Chevalier, G. (2010). Changes in pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygenation, perfusion index, and skin conductance resulting from grounding the human body. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(1), 81-87. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2009.0453

Grounding can enhance immune system function by reducing inflammation and stress, both of which can weaken the immune response. Chronic inflammation and high stress levels can compromise the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. By grounding, individuals can reduce these negative influences, thereby supporting a more robust immune response. The transfer of free electrons from the earth helps to neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and promoting a healthy immune system.

References:
Chevalier, G., & Sinatra, S. T. (2011). Emotional stress, heart rate variability, grounding, and improved autonomic tone: Clinical applications. Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal, 10(3), 16-21.