Grounding

Article by Angie Webster

Grounding is an important and often overlooked topic in our health. Grounding is simply reconnecting or realigning ourselves with the Earth or the ground. We are electrical beings with electrical currents running through our brains, nervous systems and bodies. It helps us to allow this electrical energy to ground.

There are a couple of really important reasons for grounding. First of all, the Earth has a steady supply of energy which we would naturally draw upon. Without it, we can feel drained, tired and even depressed. Secondly, we build up excess energy as we go about living our lives, through the charge of emotional energy, interactions with others and interactions with electrical equipment, for example. This can cause a feeling of overwhelm and anxiety, headaches, muscle pain or nausea. Some people have so much build up that they shock themselves or others when they touch things. This excess energy can easily be discharged and bled off into the ground through our feet without causing a disturbance and we will feel a great relief and improved well being.

It is especially important to ground before, during and after doing a Reiki treatment on a client. You will be opening your energy field to the energy field of the client, as well as to the energy of Reiki and for some people this takes their awareness out of their own body and brings more awareness of the client’s issues and pain. Grounding can help keep you in your own body awareness, without taking on the issues of your client.

There are several ways to ground, so simply choose the method that feels most natural for you. Over time, it will become so natural that all you will have to do is think the word ‘ground’ and you will feel the magnetizing sensation in the bottoms of your feet, rooting you to the Earth as the sensation washes over your body and mind.

1. Envision strong roots growing from the bottoms of your feet, growing down into the Earth’s core.

2. Walk outside, taking in the fresh air for a few minutes. That can be all it takes. If you feel really in need, take off your shoes and walk barefoot on the dirt or the grass.

3. Trees are very grounding. Sit under a tree, stand with your back against one, place your palms on one, or even go all out and hug one!

4. Play in the dirt or sand. Seriously. Play is grounding. So is gardening and being around any living thing that grows in the soil.

5. Dance.

6. Imagine a ball of light that begins either in your head, heart or belly. See the light drop down the center of your body, along your spine, then down your legs and out the bottoms of your feet into the Earth, connecting you to the light in the Earth.

7. Drink a glass of water or eat something. These things activate your body, so they help to ground you.

It can be helpful to ground yourself several times a day, especially after something very draining or before and after events where you are around large numbers of other people.

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Angie Webster made a significant contribution to the Reiki community, with a particular focus on Animal Reiki, which she had a deep affection for. As a knowledgeable Reiki Master Teacher and Author, she conducted online courses on energy healing, herbalism, flower essences, and personal growth.
She is the author of “Animal Reiki: How it Heals, Teaches & Reconnects Us with Nature” and “Reiki from A to Z”. Currently, Angie has decided to retire from her professional life to devote more time to her health, family, and the little joys of life.