Ground Throughout the Winter Months
The cooler weather is upon us and that means it might take a little more effort to connect your body with the earth during this season. It is possible though and we are here to share some of our favorite ways to ground when it’s cold outside.
What is grounding?
Grounding, also known as earthing, is when we contact the earth and engage with the earth’s natural electrical charge. This can be done simply by walking barefoot on the earth or in the grass, submerging ourselves.
Why ground in the first place?
We are electrical beings meant to live in close contact with the earth and natural world but such of our modern way of living keeps us disconnected from the earth a majority of the time. The surface of the earth has a charge that our bodies need to connect with on a regular basis to maintain optimal health.
Research has shown a decrease in inflammation, improved sleep and blood flow, better energy and general well-being in those who are regularly in contact with the earth.
In the warmer months, grounding is hopefully happening for you on a regular basis. Shoes off, feet on the earth, river and lake swims, etc. In the colder months, we have to think about it more to make sure it’s happening at least here and there throughout the season.
Here are some of our favorite ways to ground during the cold seasons:
1. Go outside barefoot for even just 3-5 minutes.
Wait for the day to warm up and make it happen even if it’s a bit snowy. Just take your shoes and socks off and step outside to the dirt, snow or wet grass and set a timer and soak it up. It may feel hard at first but with consistency, your feet will get used to it quickly and you’ll be getting the daily dose of charge that your body so requires.
2. Sauna and river dip.
This is a little next level but also happening with greater frequency. Sauna therapy is being wildly accepted and has long been used in northern countries. Not only are you getting the benefits of contrast therapy, but you’re also adding in that grounding element. Love it! This too becomes easier with regular practice.
3. Place your hands on the earth.
If the first two feel like too much consider just placing your hands on the earth 1-2 times per day for a couple minutes.
4. Grounding mats. Earthing has grounding mats that either plug into a grounded outlet or have a wire with a grounding rod that is placed into the soil outside a door or window. There are mats for beds, for under feet while sitting or laying or even for under forearms while you’re working at a desk. These mats are embedded with conductive material that allows for the flow of electrical charge and the connection with the earth.
Hopefully these have given you some idea for how to stay connected to the earth and your body through the winter months! Happy grounding!
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