In recent years, a practice known as Grounding either EARTHING has gained popularity among people looking for reconnect with nature and improve your well -being. This technique simply consists of walk barefoot on natural surfaces such as earth, grass or sand, under the premise that direct contact with the Earth has positive effects on the Physical health and mental. But what really does science say about it?
This hypothesis is based on the fact that the Earth has a natural electric charge, and being barefoot, the human body – connected to multiple electronic devices and exposed to artificial electromagnetic fields – could be discharged and returned to a more natural state. Although it sounds mystical, some scientific studies have begun to explore this theory with preliminary results.
Benefits of Grounding
Since physiology, several mechanisms have been proposed to explain why walking barefoot on earth could be beneficial. Among them, the improvement of the electrical conductivity of the body and the reduction of oxidative stress. Some investigations have shown that the Grounding can influence biological markers related to inflammation, Cortisol And the circadian rhythm, says Carlos de León, clinical psychologist.
“There are small clinical trials in which the participants who practiced Grounding For several weeks they reported improvements in sleep quality, reduction of muscle pain and a greater sense of calm, ”he adds. Changes in the variability of heart rate were also observed, an indicator related to the regulation of the autonomic nervous system.
However, it is important to highlight that these studies are still limited in size and scope, and the evidence is not conclusive. The scientific community continues to evaluate whether the observed effects are attributable to the electrical connection with the Earth or other factors, such as spending time outdoors, reducing stress or being more aware of the body itself.
Psychological dimension of contact with nature
Beyond bioelectric aspects, walking barefoot can also have an important psychological impact. From psychology, it has been proven that contact with natural environments reduces anxiety levels, improves mood and favors full attention.
“The simple act of walking without footwear forces more present attention, since each step must be taken and perceive textures, temperatures and reliefs. sensory connection It can act as a form of moving meditation, helping to calm the mind and reduce daily stress, ”explains the psychologist Carolina Santizo.
In addition, walking barefoot involves leaving closed and sedentary spaces to move outdoors, which already represents a positive change in terms of cardiovascular, respiratory and mental health.
Are there risks when practicing grounding?
Although walking barefoot has potential benefits, there are also important considerations. The terrain must be safe, free of sharp objects, glass or pollutants. It is recommended to practice Grounding In clean natural spaces, such as parks, beaches or private gardens.
People with medical conditions that affect the sensitivity of the feet, such as diabetes, must take additional precautions and consult a health professional before incorporating this practice.
In a hyperconnected, technological and accelerated world, reconnecting with the natural environment can be more than a fashion. “Walking barefoot on land, beyond its electrical effect, offers an opportunity to pause, breathe and pay attention to the present,” Santizo emphasizes. Although science is still in the process of understanding the exact mechanisms behind the grounding, its perceived benefits, both physical and emotional, make it an accessible, safe and potentially therapeutic practice.