Recovery: Grounding or "earthing" after a run
After a long run or workout, it's essential to allow your body to cool down and recover. One practice that can help with this is "grounding" or "earthing," which involves walking barefoot on natural surfaces such as grass, sand, or soil to reconnect with the earth's electrical charge. Grounding has been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce inflammation, and even enhance athletic performance. It can also help stimulate your proprioception, or your body's sense of position and movement.
When we run or exercise, we put a lot of stress on our joints, muscles, and connective tissues. This can cause micro-damage and inflammation, leading to discomfort and even pain. Additionally, repetitive movements can cause our proprioception to become skewed, leading to a decreased ability to sense our body's position and movement accurately. This can lead to compensations and imbalances that can lead to further injury.
Grounding after a run can help reset your proprioception by stimulating the nerve endings in your feet. The soles of our feet are highly sensitive and have a dense network of nerves that send signals to the brain about the position and movement of our bodies. Walking barefoot on natural surfaces can activate these nerves, improving the communication between our feet and brain and enhancing our overall sense of balance and stability.
Additionally, grounding can help reduce inflammation and pain in the feet and lower limbs. When we walk barefoot on natural surfaces, we are essentially receiving a gentle massage from the earth. This can stimulate blood flow, reduce swelling, and release tension in the muscles and connective tissues. By reducing inflammation and pain, we can improve our proprioceptive feedback and move more efficiently and comfortably.
To get the most out of grounding after a run, it's important to take your time and pay attention to your body. Start by walking slowly and mindfully, allowing yourself to feel the texture of the ground beneath your feet. Focus on the sensation of each step, and pay attention to any areas of discomfort or tension.
Grounding our feet after a run is an excellent way to reset our proprioception, reduce inflammation, and promote overall recovery. By taking a few minutes to walk barefoot on natural surfaces, we can improve our balance, stability, and overall sense of well-being. So next time you finish a workout, consider taking off your shoes and reconnecting with the earth. Your body will thank you!
Keep going.
