Earth Day is on April 22nd. It's a day that's dedicated to honoring our beautiful abode, Mother Earth. But why should the expression of our earthly endearment be restricted to just one day? After all, we just so happen to be products of this pretty planet. Isn't it about time that us earthlings remember where our roots reside and commit to regularly connecting with this green globe of ours? 

Extensive research has shown that the earth emits a natural energy that promotes vibrant health amongst us humans when direct skin-to-soil contact is made. However, our modern way of life limits our ability to regularly attain this raw earthly connection. We are discovering that this person-to-planet disconnect is directly correlated to a handful of common health issues, including insomnia, fatigue, depression, chronic pain, and problematic blood pressure.

So what's the best way to ditch this detrimental earthly disconnection? Enter: Earthing. It's a back-to-basics, fast-growing movement that's based upon the practice of allowing bare skin to make direct contact with the earth's surface. By walking barefoot on grass, sand, dirt, or rock, the body absorbs free electrons that are emitted from the earth. These electrons, studies suggest, act as antioxidants that have the power to diminish many of the ailments that plague so many people.

There are a number of ways to experience earthing. One is to go barefoot outside for at least half an hour. Give it a try and notice what a difference it makes on your pain or stress levels. Another option is to take a dip in the ocean or lakes. You can also try ditching your yoga mat and enjoy the grounding effects of practicing directly on our planet's surface. Four yoga poses that are particularly helpful for mental and physical grounding are:
1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
3. Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
4. Child's Pose (Balasana)

Have you given earthing a try? If so, we'd love to hear your stories! Share them with us in the comments below!