Earthing volunteers needed:
 

I read the book "Earthing" and found it interesting. The way it was explained sounds logical and it seems it should work. But the author said it usually works best on those who need it the most, like those who have arthritis pain or any kind of pain.

I'm trying it because it's not costing me anything to do so. Today's the third day but I haven't noticed any change. I thought it might help me to sleep through the night without having to get up. But I haven't seen any change.

It would be nice if someone with arthritis would give it a try and then report back with whatever results. It's supposed to help all kinds of health conditions.

Any volunteers??? It won't cost anything.

might be more interested if I had a clue what earthing is??

An explaination....


What is Earthing

Another link...
http://magazine.foxnews.com/earthing...-better-health


Before you go walking barefoot in the grass around here, watch for fire ants....talk about jolts from the earth....:D

Thought it was a call for earthling volunteers.

.

Can you give more details about what you are doing ? I read the link that pooh posted, but that website is also selling earthing products that you put in to the grounding of a household outlet. Are you going shoeless inside and outside ? Or are you doing more than that ? It's an interesting concept.

I first wrongly read it that way too chuck. I'm thinking earthling volunteers for what exactly?

A theory pushed by James Oschman, Ph.D., and is considered quackery by the scientific community.

"Earthing"?
 

Is this what this thread is about?

Dr. James Oschman on Earthing

I generally walk barefoot at home, and no, I've noticed no change.... At least on a quick read of the article, they're not selling anything! Unless I'm missing something? Hmmm....

Actually, he is....his book.

Numerous products are available but I don't recommend buying any unless you first see some glimmer of there being a positive result. I tried grounding by walking barefoot outside. It won't work inside unless perhaps you have an unpainted concrete floor in your garage.

To increase contact with the earth, the grass is supposed to be at least slightly wet, and the same goes for unpainted concrete. That's about it.

Everyone is different so some may get a quick result and others may have to spend more time at it. To spend more time you might decide to sit in a lawn chair and put your bare feet on the damp or wet grass. Then you could do some reading to pass the time. Ten or fifteen minutes should give some indication of whether or not it will work.

If you try it, let us know if it was of any benefit to you.

Have you heard about flying saucers coming down from outer space, capturing earthlings and operating on them? Well, this isn't it. :D

Do you have a debunking-link by a qualified doctor? I'd like to know specifically what it is that doesn't work.

It seems fairly simple: 1) we all have free radicals in our system in the form of positive electrons. 2) the surface of the earth has an abundance of negative electrons and 3) if we come in contact with the earth our positive electrons will get paired up with the earths negative electrons. Where does this theory go wrong?

Dr. James Oschman on Earthing

Yes, your link provides a good explaination of what it's about.

Walking barefoot indoors usually won't do it if there are non-conducting surfaces like carpeting or vinyl. Unpainted concrete that is slightly wet, or damp grass, is best.

As far as selling products: Near the top of your link, under the dark blue bar it says "shop for health products". But I would recommend trying it out for free first. It won't cost anything to try it outside.

...

I agree.

born to farming folks in Tennessee...mom born in 1929, and shoes were a luxury. I grew up allowed to go barefoot. recall pulling sandspurs from my feet and scraping my toes on asphalt under a bicycle pedal.
Still, I like being reminded of how lovely the grass feels underfoot. Thanks to the OP for that. I don't think I need lessons in how to go barefoot, but I appreciate the reminder.

Feels good to have my opinion validated.:wave:

You might try yoga. It is done barefoot and its results are numerous and proven. There might even be a class held outdoors. Or maybe walking around in or at the pool? Many associated benefits with either of those.

I think Dr. O didn't have fire ants in his neck of the woods.

I think it's nice to have people who present new ideas for peoples' consideration, especially when there is a chance they could be helpful.

It also takes courage - it's much easier to stay silent than to put it out there, knowing how likely it is that some people will be quick to criticize.

You are right of course but we can't all agree with everything posted on this or any forum If posters have some background or a valid opinion on any idea presented than to challenge or debate issues which are not widely accepted or are new hypothesis is part and parcel of what any poster can expect.

This thread may seem like junk science to some and a plausible theory to others.

We all have our views and to disagree is what I think the OP wants to happen. He appears to enjoy debate.

What about the aforementioned fire ants and other slithery creatures????

Actually, folks with arthritis are told to wear supportive footwear and NOT go barefoot........going barefoot can lead to more joint pain, heel pain, etc. if one is prone to it.

I'm glad you will simply be walking barefoot in the grass.......on earth.

At first I thought you might be taking off on one of those trips to Mars or some other galaxy..............along with the author of that book.

Negative Ions Create Positive Vibes

For those interested in the science behind ...negative ions are abundant outdoors, especially where water splashes, simply put, and not so much indoors in the AC. Research shows improved reaction times and elevated mood. To benefit, one might go to the beach or hang out at the pool. thanks to the OP for the reminder...why we like waterfalls and pounding surf..
K

I read something about swimming pools not being a good idea for grounding.
Perhaps due to painted surfaces.

I have never read this theory before but I can tell you that I am 70 years young. I have always gone bare foot when home, both inside and outside. I hate wearing shoes. I do not have any arthritis or joint pain or any foot problems. Perhaps this is a coincidence but who knows? Also I have never had a problem being attacked by scorpions, fire ants or other varmints.

I just found this under alternative therapy.........

http://www.healthyfellow.com/wp-cont...ges/header.jpg

• Earthing and Grounding
  
  

January 21, 2010 Written by JP



A reader recently inquired about an holistic practice commonly referred to as “earthing” or “grounding”. The question was a like a portal to my past. I was first exposed to the concepts behind this therapy when I studied holistic medicine in Arizona many years ago.

In essence, grounding is, supposedly, a therapeutic process by which you connect with the earth. A popular theory behind its reputed healing power is that electrons present in the earth’s surface can be passed on to physical bodies when a person walks barefoot or sleeps on the natural ground.

An expert in the field of earthing, Dr. James L. Oschman, describes the exchange in this way, “The most reasonable hypothesis to explain the beneficial effects of earthing is that a direct earth connection enables both diurnal (daily) electrical rhythms and free electrons to flow from the earth to the body”.

Hypothesis and proposed mechanisms are helpful as far as they go. But the real question in my mind is whether there’s any serious science that supports these assertions and the many claims made by purveyors of grounding products.
http://www.healthyfellow.com/images/2010/01/lying.jpg
The first question that logically comes to mind is why an influx of electrons would have a beneficial effect in the human body. Dr. Oschman believes that direct exposure to the earth’s electrical rhythms may help promote a normalizing effect on hormone production, sleep patterns and stress levels. An interesting side note is an additional theory that “free and mobile electrons from the earth can resolve chronic inflammation by serving as natural antioxidants”. If accurate, these biochemical changes could obviously provide far reaching benefits for much of the world’s population. (1,2,3)

I was able to locate two peer review, published studies on grounding – one from January 2010 and another from October 2004. These scientific inquiries were conducted by two separate research facilities and were deemed worthy enough to be printed in a reputable medical publication, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The results of the following scientific trials will be the primary basis for my opinion of earthing.

A total of 28 men and women took part in the most recent study of a grounding device. Their ages ranged from 18 – 80 years old. The controlled trial used a double-blind protocol which means that both the participants and the researchers didn’t know when they were using the experimental device or the inactive/placebo device.

• The study volunteers were asked to sit on a standard reclining chair or one that was fitted with (hidden) grounding technology – which is typically made of metallic yarn.
• Measurements were taken before, during and after “treatment” that indicated changes in blood oxygenation, pulse rate, perfusion index, respiratory rate and skin conductance.

When the participants were resting on the grounded recliner chair, they exhibited a decrease in skin conductance (an indicator of stress reduction) and an increase in respiratory rate. There were also significant changes noted in blood oxygenation during grounding, shifts in perfusion index (circulation) and pulse rates. Collectively, these responses were suggestive that “Grounding could become important for relaxation, health maintenance and disease prevention”. Additional research was urged by the authors of the study. (4)

An 8 week trial from 2004 examined the effects of a grounding bed in 12 volunteers suffering from pain, sleep disturbance and stress. The bedding used in the trial was described as “using a conductive mattress pad”. Multiple saliva samples were taken at the beginning and at week 6 of the experiment testing for concentrations of cortisol, a stress hormone.

Questionnaires were also employed to determine subjective changes in pain, sleep quality and stress levels. Both daytime and nighttime cortisol levels declined significantly after sleeping on the grounded bed. A trend toward normalization of 24 hour cortisol levels was noted overall. The volunteers reported that virtually all of the pain, sleep and stress symptoms were greatly improved or eliminated by the 8 week point. It’s also interesting to note that the female participants appeared to benefit the most from this therapy. The reason why unclear at this time. (5)
http://www.healthyfellow.com/images/...s-barefoot.gif
Source: New York Magazine April 21, 2008 (link)

Right about now, some of you may be rolling your eyes in disbelief.

I do realize that earthing may seem like a rather “new agey” sort of practice. The use of a grounding bed or chair may, in fact, fall into this category.

But, in my opinion, the idea of re-connecting with the ground isn’t so far fetched. Human beings haven’t been wearing tennis shoes and sleeping on NASA tested foam bedding for all that long a period of time. These inventions are certainly useful, but they’re far from natural. I’m not suggesting that we all ditch our clothes, mattresses and sneakers and reclaim a stone age way of living.

But I think it’s important to remember that there may be some positive practices from our distant past that can be applied to the present. One example is walking barefoot when it’s practical and safe. Beyond any possible grounding effect, walking with bare feet can promote healthier feet and joints. (6,7,8)

I’m going to adopt a “wait and see” attitude about grounding products. There’s a hint of promise there as indicated by the apparently real physiological changes brought about by said products. But that’s about all that can currently be said on their behalf. The many distributor and manufacturer claims far exceed what is verifiably documented in the scientific literature. For the time being, I would feel much more comfortable recommending spending more time in contact with the ground in a natural setting – lying down or walking barefoot in the park or at the beach, etc. If this topic interests you, consider trying it out for yourself. See how non-commercial grounding makes you feel.

The worst case scenario is that you’ll probably expose yourself to more fresh air and sunshine. Fortunately, that’s not a side effect that warrants much concern.
Be well!
JP

The grass is wet in the morning and ants don't come out early in the morning. As far as slithery creatures, they will usually slither away when they see someone coming.

If it's not a good idea for those with arthritis to walk barefoot, you can sit in a lawn chair with your bare feet in the grass. Walking is not actually required.

About Mars: Earthing might not work on Mars, that would be called Maring. Anyway, the radiation on Mars would eventually kill you so what would be the point? ;)

I just found this under alternative therapy........

• Earthing and Grounding
• January 21, 2010 Written by JP

A reader recently inquired about an holistic practice commonly referred to as “earthing” or “grounding”. The question was a like a portal to my past. I was first exposed to the concepts behind this therapy when I studied holistic medicine in Arizona many years ago.

In essence, grounding is, supposedly, a therapeutic process by which you connect with the earth. A popular theory behind its reputed healing power is that electrons present in the earth’s surface can be passed on to physical bodies when a person walks barefoot or sleeps on the natural ground.

An expert in the field of earthing, Dr. James L. Oschman, describes the exchange in this way, “The most reasonable hypothesis to explain the beneficial effects of earthing is that a direct earth connection enables both diurnal (daily) electrical rhythms and free electrons to flow from the earth to the body”.

Hypothesis and proposed mechanisms are helpful as far as they go. But the real question in my mind is whether there’s any serious science that supports these assertions and the many claims made by purveyors of grounding products.
http://www.healthyfellow.com/images/2010/01/lying.jpg
The first question that logically comes to mind is why an influx of electrons would have a beneficial effect in the human body. Dr. Oschman believes that direct exposure to the earth’s electrical rhythms may help promote a normalizing effect on hormone production, sleep patterns and stress levels. An interesting side note is an additional theory that “free and mobile electrons from the earth can resolve chronic inflammation by serving as natural antioxidants”. If accurate, these biochemical changes could obviously provide far reaching benefits for much of the world’s population. (1,2,3)

I was able to locate two peer review, published studies on grounding – one from January 2010 and another from October 2004. These scientific inquiries were conducted by two separate research facilities and were deemed worthy enough to be printed in a reputable medical publication, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The results of the following scientific trials will be the primary basis for my opinion of earthing.


A total of 28 men and women took part in the most recent study of a grounding device. Their ages ranged from 18 – 80 years old. The controlled trial used a double-blind protocol which means that both the participants and the researchers didn’t know when they were using the experimental device or the inactive/placebo device.

• The study volunteers were asked to sit on a standard reclining chair or one that was fitted with (hidden) grounding technology – which is typically made of metallic yarn.
• Measurements were taken before, during and after “treatment” that indicated changes in blood oxygenation, pulse rate, perfusion index, respiratory rate and skin conductance.

When the participants were resting on the grounded recliner chair, they exhibited a decrease in skin conductance (an indicator of stress reduction) and an increase in respiratory rate. There were also significant changes noted in blood oxygenation during grounding, shifts in perfusion index (circulation) and pulse rates. Collectively, these responses were suggestive that “Grounding could become important for relaxation, health maintenance and disease prevention”. Additional research was urged by the authors of the study. (4)
An 8 week trial from 2004 examined the effects of a grounding bed in 12 volunteers suffering from pain, sleep disturbance and stress. The bedding used in the trial was described as “using a conductive mattress pad”. Multiple saliva samples were taken at the beginning and at week 6 of the experiment testing for concentrations of cortisol, a stress hormone.

Questionnaires were also employed to determine subjective changes in pain, sleep quality and stress levels. Both daytime and nighttime cortisol levels declined significantly after sleeping on the grounded bed. A trend toward normalization of 24 hour cortisol levels was noted overall. The volunteers reported that virtually all of the pain, sleep and stress symptoms were greatly improved or eliminated by the 8 week point. It’s also interesting to note that the female participants appeared to benefit the most from this therapy. The reason why unclear at this time. (5)
http://www.healthyfellow.com/images/...s-barefoot.gif
Source: New York Magazine April 21, 2008 (link)

Right about now, some of you may be rolling your eyes in disbelief.

I do realize that earthing may seem like a rather “new agey” sort of practice. The use of a grounding bed or chair may, in fact, fall into this category.

But, in my opinion, the idea of re-connecting with the ground isn’t so far fetched. Human beings haven’t been wearing tennis shoes and sleeping on NASA tested foam bedding for all that long a period of time. These inventions are certainly useful, but they’re far from natural. I’m not suggesting that we all ditch our clothes, mattresses and sneakers and reclaim a stone age way of living.

But I think it’s important to remember that there may be some positive practices from our distant past that can be applied to the present. One example is walking barefoot when it’s practical and safe. Beyond any possible grounding effect, walking with bare feet can promote healthier feet and joints. (6,7,8)

I’m going to adopt a “wait and see” attitude about grounding products. There’s a hint of promise there as indicated by the apparently real physiological changes brought about by said products. But that’s about all that can currently be said on their behalf. The many distributor and manufacturer claims far exceed what is verifiably documented in the scientific literature. For the time being, I would feel much more comfortable recommending spending more time in contact with the ground in a natural setting – lying down or walking barefoot in the park or at the beach, etc. If this topic interests you, consider trying it out for yourself. See how non-commercial grounding makes you feel.

The worst case scenario is that you’ll probably expose yourself to more fresh air and sunshine. Fortunately, that’s not a side effect that warrants much concern.
Be well!
JP

You know. now that you present it like that...without the ions, it makes more sense. Me too, no arthritis or joint pain or bunions or corns or foot problems. Except I am 73. Those blasted ants didn't bite me on the foot but nailed me on my hand when I was weeding. Maybe they don't like the work ethic?

I do remember the ants biting you.......I'll make sure to watch out for them.

However, I could swear, and I have an excellent memory, that when I was new to this TOTV and mentioning the stiffness of arthritis, etc. and wondering if the humidity, etc. would affect it even worse than up north, you mentioned that you were always stiff for most of the morning with your own arthritis?????????? Morning stiffness is common when one first gets out of bed and starts moving about. Everyone and their uncle have some form of arthritis.....up north here.........either R.A., O.A. or other variations. With the past 25 days of rain and dense humidity, we are feeling it even more...........when it's dry and the barometer is HIGH , we do experience relief. But glad you no longer suffer from arthritis.

I think this time you remembered incorrectly. I had a torn Achilles tendon. I have other stuff but no arthritis. Maaaaybe beginning in one finger. But never had it. I walked around all last summer in a boot. My close friends will tell you how I tore it. ;)

Thanks, quirky, for your support but I can't take credit for being the first to present the idea of earthing on this board. I would mention who that person was but I'm not sure if that's allowed. When it was first mentioned, I expressed doubt myself but offered to keep an open mind. I said I would read the book "Earthing" and give my opinion:

My only opinion now, after reading the book, is that it sounds like it could work but it didn't work for me, at least not yet. And if it's going to take much longer, I'm not sure I have the patients for it. So I figured this might be a way to settle it, by having several people try it. But if there are going to be hecklers in the group, I doubt that anyone will commit to it for fear of being thought silly or gullible.

For those who don't know, there's a difference between having a thoughtful difference of opinion and heckling.

I read your link and found it interesting. It gives us one more thing to consider in our effort to promote health and well being. But how does an Ion compare to an electron? Earthing envolves negative and positive electrons. Positive electrons, or free radicals, come about when cells burn glucose. And it sounds like the only way to get them under control is to match them up with negative electrons.

What have I said that you disagree with? Exactly what serious "challenge or debate" have you presented? Furthermore, how can you "challenge or debate" a concept that I have not endorsed?

I presented the concept of earthing as something that needed to be either proved or disproved. That's why I chose the heading, "Earthing Volunteers Needed". Not that a few anecdotes would settle it for all time but it might be encouraging to see some positive result. It was not the point of this thread to debate it, unless you happen to have something of scientific substance.

Not true! I didn't ask for agreement or disagreement. I asked for volunteers, the purpose of which would be to see if anyone might get a favorable result or otherwise. There are times when I do enjoy debate but that's not exactly what this thread is about. However, as I have said, I would make an exception if someone had something substantive of a scientific nature.

Do you feel you have contributed anything of substance? If not, why interfere with those who might want to volunteer to try it out?