Fall Is In The Air

I love fall! Well, if I’m completely honest, I love all of the seasons. I may wish Wisconsin winters were just a bit shorter, but I digress. Fall brings a crispness to the air, but still welcomes the warmth of the afternoon sunshine. It brings the desire for all things apple, pumpkin and cinnamon. Soon it will bring a chill that beckons a crackling fire in the fireplace and big comfy sweaters.

Summer is Coming to an End

As summer comes to an end, and the days of being barefoot, lounging in the sunshine and being outside until well after the 8 o’clock sunset,  give way to boots, shorter days and more time spent indoors; I embrace the beauty of fall with long walks through the forests of red, orange & yellow, more hot tea & soups and time spent curled up with a blanket and a book.

From The Vibrancy of Summer to The Melancholy of Fall

As the days become shorter, my mood seems to wane as the vibrancy of summer fades. Fall brings a melancholy to my soul. Over the years I have found ways to mitigate this melancholy. One of these ways is to make time for being outside with my feet in the grass, even when there is a chill in the air.

Grounding Is An Easy Way to Improve Your Mood

I find it amazing that this one simple act can improve my mood for an entire day! This is not just my quirky way to find more joy, there is an explanation as to why this helps. Grounding, also known as earthing, is the simple act of being barefoot outside. Research suggests that this can counteract stress and anxiety, boost your mood and even reduce inflammation.

The Science Behind Grounding

The theory behind grounding is that our modern lifestyle has disconnected us from the electrons naturally present in the earth. Without the electrons, free radicals in our bodies, that are missing these electrons, adversely affect many of the body’s processes. This free radical damage could be responsible for increased inflammation, increased stress and anxiety, poor sleep quality, and chronic pain. Several studies exist that support the theory of grounding, but these studies have been the subject of controversy and skepticism. However, I have experienced my own benefits through the simple act of putting my feet on the earth.

How To Get Grounded

There are many ways to become grounded and all of them focus on reconnecting with the earth.

• Walking barefoot on the grass, sand or in the water
• Lying on the ground and having the skin of your body in contact with the earth
• Submerging in water: just wading in or completely submerging your body
• Using grounding equipment, when going outside is not an option – you can find many options online
  • Mats, Blankets, Sheets, Socks, Shoes and Bands
  • These items have a cord that connects to a grounded outlet 

Grounding Is Becoming More Necessary

Grounding has been increasing in popularity around the world. Some grounding researchers suggest that changing environments are responsible for more people losing access to the benefits of grounding. One theory from a study is that grounding affects our living matrix, which is the central connector between living cells. Electrical conductivity exists within the matrix that functions as an immune system defense, similar to antioxidants. Through grounding, the natural defenses of the body can be restored. With less opportunities to get outside and more health issues arising, maybe our bodies are naturally drawn to getting back our connection to the earth.

More Studies May Be Needed, In The Meantime, Try It Out For Yourself

Most of the studies on grounding are small and rely somewhat on subjective measures, such as self-reported feelings, stress, pain or mood. However, some studies also rely on blood markers, such as those that detect inflammation. More research is needed but you can see for yourself if you experience any benefits just by taking the time to put your feet on the ground.

Slow Down & Breathe, Feel the Earth Under Your Feet & Enjoy Fall

With the crispness of fall in the air, in addition to enjoying all things apples, pumpkin and cinnamon, take the opportunity to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the beauty of nature around you with your feet on the earth.

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