Earthing
There's something grounding about being outside in nature, even without the myriad of benefits, simply being outside is a tonic to us as humans. Maybe it's the fresh air, freedom above our heads, the sounds of birds or calming leaves rustling in the breeze. Whatever it is, interacting with nature can be incredibly therapeutic and that's why earthing, or spending time barefoot on the ground, is such a powerful practice. Not only does it help us feel more connected to the planet, but earthing can also lead to better sleep, reduced stress levels, and improved overall wellbeing. So if you're looking for a way to incorporate nature therapy in your life, this could be a simple way. You might just be surprised at how good it feels to walk on Mother Earth barefoot.
Earthing in the springtime is an especially great way to connect with nature and invigorate your body and mind. Standing or walking on the earth with bare feet allows you to absorb some of its natural energy. With the rising sap, densely packed and nutrient filled cotyledons bursting forth, the transfer of electrons from the ground to our bodies is strong at this time of the year. Helping to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and even aid in stress relief, it's a simple and calming way to start your day and tap into the energy of springtime. Earthing has been around for centuries, but it’s seeing a resurgence in popularity as more people recognise its benefits. If you haven't tried earthing yet, now is the perfect time to give it a go.
For some people, this sensory experience can be quite intense, after all our feet have more nerve endings in than our hands so feeling the ground below us could be overwhelming. My top tips having worked with children in a movement and natural pace learning capacity look like this…
If bare feet on the earth isn’t a pleasant experience for you or your child but you’re keen to try, then start with hands. We’re more used to experiencing the world with our hands. Place your hands down on the ground, experience the textures and temperatures in a more familiar way.
Take a blanket or wear socks. An interim step is to simply keep a layer between you and the ground. You’ll still feel more than if you were wearing shoes.
Make it easy. Start with something which is appealing to you, everyone is different but think of the textures which you think may work best for you. Sand, grass, rock, humus even water, find the something which is easy for you.
Make it safe. Do a check around and make sure there aren’t any hazards which would mean slipping back into shoes/socks/flip flops quickly. For example, don’t ditch your shoes if you’re in a cow field with animals or on a rocky beach with the tide coming in.
Start with just a few minutes then build up to grand barefoot excursions. There’s no competition in going barefoot so go at your own pace. If that means a few moments, seconds or minutes, you start there and see how you feel.
There's something special about being in nature, surrounded by the beauty of the natural world. It can be a place of peace and calm, where we can connect with something bigger than ourselves. Whether you're a sceptic or a believer, the earth is magical I’m sure of it. Connecting with toes on the ground is definitely worth giving a try. So go ahead and take your shoes off...the ground is waiting for you.
