Would you consider walking barefoot today? You may respond, “Why?” Walking barefoot is a way to connect to the Earth and is called earthing or grounding. If you are an empath, you may have heard these terms. I was surprised to find this article with scientific evidence of the benefits of earthing.
I know it is winter in the Western Hemisphere and I give you some alternative earthing techniques below.
What is Earthing?
Earthing is contact with the earth’s surface electrons by walking barefoot outside. Alternatively, you can sit, work, or sleep indoors connected to conductive systems that transfer the energy from the ground into the body.
The article from the Journal of Environmental and Public Health goes on to say, “Emerging scientific research supports the concept that the Earth’s electrons induce multiple physiological changes of clinical significance, including
- Reduced pain
- Better sleep
- A shift from parasympathetic to sympathetic tone in the autonomic nervous system (a reversal of the fight or flight stress syndrome)
- A blood-thinning effect
There’s even a book, titled Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever!.
Why is Earthing Important to Me?
If you are an empath, earthing is your connection home. It brings you back to center. And it’s a wonderful way to practice being in the moment.
During my walk barefoot on a natural path through a native forest in Florida, I enjoyed the different sensations the multitude of sensory points in the soles of my feet sent to my brain. The tiny grains of sand almost tickled me. Then the hard clay felt rough. Finally, the coolness of the grass made me smile.
I determined my barefoot walking distance based on the availability of benches. After removing my socks and shoes, I gingerly stepped on the well-worn grass and then sank into the soft sand. My footprints obscured the many shoe prints along the way.
Tips on Walking Barefoot
Although I preferred walking around my yard barefoot as a child, now my feet aren’t used to the complexity of the ground after years of wearing shoes. Safety is always the first concern when walking barefoot. Here are some tips.
- Inspect the area first with shoes on
- Remove obvious debris that can injure your feet
- Consider starting with a concrete area that is in contact with soil
- Choose a location that is quiet
- Keep your eyes open, scanning the ground
- Perhaps walk with a partner who understands the sanctity of silence
- Start very small, a few minutes at first
Being Practical Too
Perhaps it isn’t possible to consider walking barefoot today where you live. What can you do to adapt in your situation? Even standing on the Earth is a type of grounding. Refer to my ground and release exercise while sitting and use it while standing.
In Conclusion
Consider walking barefoot today, enjoying the healing aspects for your physical body, energy body and delighting your Inner Child.
Wiggling my toes,
Dawn