WHAT IS GROUNDING?
Grounding is the process of physically connecting the body to the earth or ground. This can be done directly through skin contact with the ground, or indirectly with the use of a conductive material to complete the connection.
WHAT IS THE POINT OF GROUNDING?
Establishing a connection with the ground, while sounding like an esoteric placebo exercise, is a scientifically verified health practice that is rooted in sound principles of physics. The mechanism of action is a transfer of electrons from the surface of the earth to an individual. The surface of the earth is a nearly endless reservoir of electrons. Walking barefoot on the beach, through grass, or swimming in a natural body of water are all means of electron transfers and one of the reasons why a beach vacation leaves people relaxed and refreshed.
Why are electrons valuable?
In order to understand the value of electrons for health purposes, it is first helpful to understand what free radicals are. Free radicals are atoms that have one or more electron that is unpaired or missing. The body naturally produces free radicals through cellular metabolism. Additionally, free radicals can be generated from external sources like excessive UV radiation and pollution. Within the body, free radicals are unstable due to missing an electron and cause damage to cells and tissues by stealing an electron from other atoms. The term for this theft of electrons is oxidative damage. This is why it is common health advice to consume a diet high in antioxidants.
What are the health impacts of electrons?
Oxidative stress is cited by many researchers as the root of the aging process and a significant contributor to the development of a number of conditions. Therefore delivery of antioxidant electrons to minimize oxidative stress has a wide range of health benefits that extends to nearly every organ and biological process within the body.
The Systemic Benefits of Grounding
Inflammation
The delivery of antioxidant electrons addresses inflammation at a physics level.
Sleep
Sleep timing and quality is governed by the circadian rhythm and the associated hormones which are influenced by it. Grounding has been shown to normalize cortisol levels.
Relaxation
Grounding has been studied to relax muscles and calm breathing the instant a connection has been made. The effects are physiological and psychological.
Bloodflow
Blood cell spacing and integrity is maintained by the charge on the cell's outer membrane. Electrons supply this charge to maintain smooth and fluid bloodflow.
Recovery
Muscle recovery, whether it is soreness from a workout or an injury, is sped up with grounding.
Skin
Maintaining healthy skin requires a balance between providing nutrients and bloodflow and protecting from external damage. Grounding helps with both sides of the equation.
Focus
Improved cerebral bloodflow, reduced inflammation, and increased relaxation all contribute to improved mental clarity and focus.
Bodyweight
Grounding can help maintain a healthy bodyweight through improving organ function and bloodflow.
Anti-aging
Inflammation has been implicated as being at the root of the aging process. Grounding provides electrons that reduce inflammation.