How to Ground Yourself
Profound change is waiting just beneath your feet.
Every naturally occurring event gives energy to the earth. Its surface acts as a conductor, constantly receiving and distributing energy to all its inhabitants. For most of humanity, humankind was one with this primordial connection. Walking barefoot across the land, our bodies were continually linked to this massive energy field. Now, thanks to the advent of asphalt and plastics, we have become increasingly separated from the earth and its many gifts. From tennis shoes to supermarkets, nearly every step we take is on a foundation that is not conducive.
What is Grounding?
The term grounded is often applied to stabilizing electricity, which is precisely why the new theory and movement are aptly named. The world is made up of electrical and magnetic fields or currents (electromagnetic), including our bodies. We are endlessly emitting vibrational signals out from our organs, while also receiving them from the objects around us. This notion is the driving force behind cable television pioneer Clint Ober’s theory, which applied the same techniques behind grounding electricity to the human body.
Though it may have started as an innocent query into the conducting and stabilizing powers of the earth, universities and scholars have adapted Ober’s research. One of the most advantageous qualities of the theory is its ability to be tested by nearly anyone. All one needs to do is step outside and touch the earth for several minutes a day and record the results. There are, however, other DIY experiments that offer more proof for the skeptics.
Research held by the University of Arizona examined the vitality of plants in relation to their connection to the earth. The earthing experiment pitted 2 sunflowers against each other, one grounded, and one ungrounded, to reveal the results of separating a living entity from its direct source. What became apparent immediately was the decline in the health of the ungrounded flower, which became “stressed”, versus the vibrant nature of its grounded neighbor.
Earthing for Healing
What does all this mean for humans? As bioelectric living beings, we too need to feel this grounded connection to the earth. Amongst one of the groundbreaking revelations provided by the University of Arizona was the discovery that electrical currents transmitted from the earth increase electrical charges, emitting electrons that neutralize disease and inflammation. Simply put, when our skin comes into contact with the ground, the molecules in our bodies receive an extra boost of vital energy.
“Emerging evidence shows that contact with the Earth—whether being outside barefoot or indoors connected to grounded conductive systems—may be a simple, natural, and yet profoundly effective environmental strategy against chronic stress, ANS dysfunction, inflammation, pain, poor sleep, disturbed HRV, hypercoagulable blood, and many common health disorders, including cardiovascular disease.” – Dr. Stephen Sinatra, Research from the Journal of Environmental and Public Health.
According to Dr. Sinatra and other experts in the field, that’s not all the earth’s energy has to offer. Not only can our bodies be healed by this vibratory connection, but the currents emitting from the earth can also counteract and deflect the effects of potentially harmful frequencies commonly known as electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs).
Deflecting Electromagnetic Frequencies
Like the molecules that move with the wind, EMFs are unseen to the naked eye yet our bodies are constantly communicating with them, as they emit from nearly anything that holds an electrical charge. While most electronics release a low level of energy, those dealing with autoimmune or chronic conditions may find themselves especially susceptible to EMFs.
Devices have been designed to provide energy readings to help maintain a healthy energetic field in your home. Orgone is also a great resource for reducing the effects of EMFs, as they convert all surrounding charges and into positive energy.
Often found in small pyramids, organite can be placed around the home or near sources of water and electricity, as well is in pendants to be worn around your neck. Another cost-effective option for deflecting electromagnetic frequencies: leave electronics out of the bedroom. This will ensure a period of at least 6-8 hours of sleep, uninterrupted by potentially harmful energies.
Hours of rest are perhaps the most opportune moments to take advantage of grounding. Along with leaving out cell phones and televisions, tools have been developed to connect you to the earth’s healing energies without leaving your home. Some hotels have also adopted this idea and have designed Grounded Rooms for overnight visitors to receive an extra recharge at night.
How to Ground
Perhaps the most intriguing, and most criticized, aspect of grounding is its simplicity. It proposes the idea that all you need, in order to be your most healthy, revitalized self, is to spend time connecting with nature.
The film Grounded and its follow up Heal for Free feature first-hand accounts of individuals who have used earthing techniques to heal. Those suffering from chronic pain, insomnia, and other conditions show improvements after practicing grounding, including the profound healing of a 30-year-old paraplegic.
The most straightforward way to participate in grounding is to simply make contact with the ground on either the dirt or concrete, which is also conductive. Making a habit of taking a walk to the nearest park on a Sunday, or taking your shoes off in your backyard each day after work, are practices that are easily adaptable for any lifestyle.
You’ll not only receive the benefits of grounding, but you’ll also allow yourself the time for fresh oxygen to fill your lungs and hopefully, a few moments enjoying nature, rather than focusing on your phones. Swimming in a large body of water is another way to consume mass amounts of positive earth energy, so if you are in need of serious healing, plan your next vacation near a beach or lake. Gardening is also a great opportunity to ground, not to mention eat organic garden vegetables!
Grounding Meditation
If you find yourself looking for a deeper connection to Mother Earth and her supportive power, a grounding meditation is simple and effective. Through the power of imagination in meditation you are able to project strong emotions and thoughts into the universe, sending messages through your heart’s own magnetic field, which acts as a communicator between your desires and the universe.
Find a comfortable seat on the earth. Close your eyes and breath deeply. Feel the supporting soil underneath. Imagine roots stemming out from the base of your spine and into the core of the earth. Reach as far down as you can imagine, fractal roots surrounded by and connected to Mother Earth. Spend a few breaths embodying this strong, supportive energy. This connection is always available to you. Return to your heart center and send your blessings of gratitude to mother earth out into the world.
Mantras are also a great tool to call upon when meditating, but also when in need of re-centering throughout the day. Words can be a powerful tool and hold their own vibration, so the thoughts and words you speak impact the energetic fields around you. Repeat the below phrases in your head or out loud and notice how your body responds.
I am grounded. My spirit is grounded deep in the earth. I am calm, strong, centered and peaceful. I am able to let go of fear and trust that I am eternally safe. I am worthy of all things beautiful. -Carly Marie
If you find yourself feeling unsure, weak, or vulnerable, engaging in your earth energy through grounding and meditation can alter your conscious and physical states out of stress and into harmony.
For the Love of Earth
“Every square yard of the surface of the earth is spread with miracles.” – Walt Whitman
Instinctively, we feel a profound gratification when encountering nature. Whether walking along the beach, touching the bark of a tree, or picnicking at the park, a deeper connection is ignited within us. We walk away taller, happier, and more grounded to ourselves and loved ones. We have been disconnected from these gifts for decades, but thanks to the work of Clint Ober, Dr. Sinatra, and others, science is proving the importance of engaging with this essential relationship.
Think of the earth as a giant recharging station. Anytime you touch the ground your body is provided the chance to be reenergized through this connection, and the relationship goes both ways. Earth needs our contact just as much as our bodies long to connect to it. As our cosmic mother, Earth is always there loving and supporting us, and although we may never call, she waits every day for her children to acknowledge her presence.
The next time the sun beckons you to come out and play, consider taking your shoes off and allowing the soles of your feet to connect to the earth’s energy.
There are no consequences to grounding, only the opportunity to benefit your overall health and well-being. Remember, the earth knows what you need to be healed, all you need to do is stop by and say hello.
About the Author
What is Voodoo? A Tradition of Magic and Interconnected Realms
When the word “voodoo” arises, it’s usually accompanied with misconceptions, fear, and a lack of understanding. Often thought of as a violent cult, the truth couldn’t be farther from the popular cultural associations, such as voodoo dolls, witchdoctors, and violent-tinged sorcery. Voodoo, more appropriately known as vodou, is an ancient and diversely practiced religious tradition tied to Africa, the Caribbean, and the Catholic church.
But what exactly is Vodou?
Voodoo: A Rich Tradition Born From Trauma
The word Voodoo/Vodou/Vodun translates to mean “the spirit of God.” Vodou is a monotheistic religion; followers, or vodouisants, believe in one divine figurehead called Bondye, or “the good god.” Additionally, Vodou has a lesser god hierarchy, Iwa, as well as Ioa who are more engaged with the day-to-day life than Bondye, who is considered to be more remote. The Ioa/Iwa are split into three families: Rada, Petro, and Ghede. Humans and Lwa have a reciprocal relationship in which believers provide sustenance and objects in exchange for the Lwa’s protection.
Vodou combines traditions from Africa, the Caribbean, Native Americans, and Catholicism. There is evidence that as far back as 1492, many in the Taino culture were executed for their practice of Vodou during Christopher Columbus’ conquering of Hispaniola. But as the slave trade grew, so did Vodou; the newly arrived African slaves and the surviving Taino found much in common in their shared rituals and approaches to healing.
Vodou does not have a central scripture, it is community-centric and supports individualism. New Orleans is North America’s vodou epicenter, where it arrived through the slave trade from West Africa during the 18th century. Catholicism was the primary religion in the city, and what is now known as “New Orleans Vodou,” is in actuality a hybrid between the two traditions. New Orleans Vodou has become so ingrained in the city’s culture that one need only search online to see the multitude of shops, tourist attractions, and other popular destinations that keep the tradition alive.
