What is Grounding? Simply stated, it’s getting out of our head and fully into our bodies, connected to the earth. Grounding creates a vital foundation- when we are grounded we can fully feel and release emotions, and stay in our center no matter what is going on around us. A daily grounding practice can benefit anyone looking for more stability, peace, and clarity amidst a high stress lifestyle. A regular grounding practice can also be especially supportive for people who deal with anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, head injuries like concussions or TBI, headaches, chronic pain, or PTSD.
In this modern world we are are constantly on the go and bombarded with technology- devices, wifi and the like flood the urban environment. While technology offers many benefits, it also is proven to be harmful to the human brain and nervous system. It can be understood as a form of false yang- all bright lights and fast movement, yet, without real substance beneath. Too much screen time and contact with devices can wreak havoc on our health if we don’t ground ourselves. Believe it or not, the body has its own electric natural charge, which is slightly negative. EMF’s increase positive charge and thus unbalance the deilcate wiring of the human nervous system.
The fast pace of modern life is also another form of false Yang- obliging us to always stay busy, be “on”, and never slow down. It’s an unrealistic expectation that leaves all except the most hearty type A’s frazzled. We applaud those who can multitask, and at the same time, multitasking is actually detrimental to attention span and brain health. When we look at what we busy ourselves with- often phones and social media, all the activity lacks true meaning. And, despite being able to text at any hour of the day, studies show that modern day people in general report higher levels of anxiety and depression.
Grounding is therefore the natural balance to our busy, overloaded lives. And, it only takes a few minutes to do! As we take time to slow down, connect to our bodies and the earth, we become more able to hold a stable center amidst the chaos of the world. Every human being posseses natural energy pathways (grounding cords) that run down from the base of the spine and the soles of our feet to root us into the earth. When those pathways stay open and connected we naturally feel more at ease, resourced and present. We are able to release toxic emotions and excess nervous energy down our grounding cords and into the earth. In turn,via the same grounding cords, we are also able to receive life force from the earth, keeping ourselves balanced, focused, and calm. Ever wondered how Qigong masters can stand completely upright and still for hours? By opening and activating the grounding cords.
Whether you’re a beginner, or more experienced and looking for new inspiration,
I hope you enjoy this free 4 minute grounding meditation!
The statements in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness. Copyright 2024 by Dr. Athene Eisenhardt, LAc. Music for Grounding Meditation by Calm Whale.