This week’s blog has nothing to do with ultrasound and everything to do with grounding. Am I the last person on earth to know what grounding is? I recall a scene in the movie “Pretty Woman” where Richard Gere takes off his shoes and socks and walks barefoot in the grass. It never occurred to me why he did that.
DO YOU KNOW?
Grounding, otherwise known as earthing, refers to direct skin contact with the surface of the earth such as bare feet or hands. If you aren’t familiar with this concept it may sound a little “Woo Woo.” Allow me share what I learned. Some believe the positive effects of grounding on the body are miraculous.
GROUNDING
Grounding refers to contact with the Earth’s surface electrons by walking outside in the grass with your bare feet so that energy from the ground transfers into your body. I read that we can also ground through concrete or paving stones. Research shows that grounding can reduce and prevent inflammation. The National Library of Medicine says that studies show it appears to improve sleep, normalize cortisol rhythm, reduce pain, reduce stress, increase heart rate variability, speed wound healing and reduce blood viscosity. Some report that you can achieve results by purchasing grounding bed sheets and or footwear. Others say there is no scientific evidence to support this and believe these claims come from the manufacturer of the sheets and shoes.
IS IT TRUE?
Can walking barefoot in the grass, dirt, or on a sandy beach actually have health benefits? Many find the grounding research pretty convincing and believe in the myriad miraculous benefits. Others say that “magical electrons” from connecting with the earth simply will not cure cancer or any other disease or illness. In fact one article I read said that grass and sand hide a lot of nasty stuff that exposes your skin to bacteria and parasites hence, you probably don’t want to walk barefoot. This article believes grounding has a strictly placebo effect. You decide.
VACATION
Every beach vacation I’ve ever been on, I can’t wait to dig my toes in the wet sand. When we go to the park, I sometimes kick off my shoes and wriggle my toes in the cool grass. While I’m not sure I felt any health benefits after the experience, I don’t doubt that maybe there is something to earthing. Apparently, to encourage the connection to the earth, some experts recommend we stand, walk or lie on the grass, soil or sand for about thirty minutes every day. Hummmm… I’m not sure I can fit that into my daily schedule. However, like placebos if you think it’s going to work, it may well work.
HDD
Today’s blog is brought to you in the hope of giving you an idea to ponder. If it improves your health, it is worth talking about. You and your healthcare provider must decide what is best for you. If that includes diagnostic ultrasound, call us at 505-350-3397. Happy grounding!