top of page
Search

What does it mean to be grounded?

Writer's picture: Victoria WrightVictoria Wright
Tree with deep roots
Tree with deep roots

Sometimes it is easier to say what something isn’t versus what something is. For me, when I am not grounded, I am out of alignment, have internal chaos, am easily impacted by life’s stressors and am everywhere but in the present moment. However, when I am grounded, I have peace, stability and am connected to myself and the world around me. Being grounded provides clarity and allows me to see the truth. Focus comes easier, stress is more manageable, and my emotions do not rule my life.


To be grounded is like being a tree. The wind may blow, the branches may sway but the trunk is held steady by its deep roots. The practice of grounding is just that, connecting yourself to the earth’s energy like roots of a tree. This can be done physically by going outside, walking barefoot on the ground, digging in the dirt, laying in the grass or submerging in a natural body of water. If you can’t get outside other ways of grounding can be accomplished by using grounding mats, sheets, shoes or other grounding equipment.


How does grounding work? The earth has a slight negative electrical charge and when we have physical contact with it, we absorb her natural electrons. Our bodies operate on a complex electrical system and electrons play an important role in our cellular function. When we connect with the earth and receive these electrons or electrical charges they stabilize our body’s electrical environment. Spiritually, this brings peace and stability. Therapeutically, research has shown that grounding, also known as earthing, may reduce chronic stress, inflammation, pain, improve sleep, enhance mood, and reduce blood pressure levels.


The technique of grounding is far from new. Historically, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Indigenous cultures have used grounding for both therapeutic and spiritual benefits. Direct contact with the earth is best but other forms of mindfulness practices like meditation or breath work also provide grounding benefits. There are several visualizations that I use when I can’t be outside that ground me. My favorite is visualizing Gaia/ Mother Earth’s roots coming up from the ground and lovingly wrapping themselves around my feet and legs, holding me secure and steady. It also works the other way around when I visualize roots coming from the bottom of my feet growing deep into the earth.  Floating in the ocean, being supported by the water quickly calms me or imagining I am under a gentle waterfall, washes away my stress and brings me back to the present moment.


Grounding is an effective method to manage the impacts of an ever-changing world. The earth is a magical place so why not tap into her magic. When we connect ourselves to the earth, she graciously provides the balance we need for our body, mind, and soul.

 

 

 

GAIA

Gaia, mother nature, goddess of earth.

Giver of life through nature’s birth.

Soul of the planet provides unconditional love.

Nurture my being with the energies from below and above.

Standing tall with my feet solid on the ground.

Your roots surround me providing love that is profound.

You give of yourself to keep me alive.

Providing comfort and security so I may thrive.

Tethering my life to your existence and we become one.

I gratefully give all of me back to you when my life is done.

~Victoria Wright~

12 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All
Perspective

Perspective

Comments


©2023 by Healing Words.

bottom of page