“Get yourself grounded and you can navigate even the stormiest roads in peace.”

— Steve Goodier

“Grounding yourself” is a tenet of mindfulness of which you may be aware, and one that is oft-suggested as a technique to ward off feelings of stress or anxiety. But beyond a yogic notion of staying calm and centered, the practice actually has biomedical roots. Our bodies naturally build up positive electrons, in the form of free radicals. This happens faster and more intensely today because of the electronic waves we’re surrounded by. When we’re outside and in contact with the ground, the earth’s negative grounding charge detoxifies and balances us. However, walking barefoot outside isn’t part of our daily routine, so we need to force this grounding process into our lives.

These four simple methods will enable you to better connect with yourself and the earth; no fancy meditation techniques or unrealistically long periods of time required.

Get Outside

Studies show that physically connecting with nature inspires calm, happy feelings. Go outside and make contact with the world around you, whether that involves walking barefoot, breathing in fresh air, running your hand through water, or hugging a tree.

Meditate

If you feel overwhelmed, come back to your breath. Research demonstrates that concentrating on breathing alters your mood. Breathe deeply, lie or sit down on the floor, and let your weight sink down through your body into the ground. Imagine that the parts of your body touching the floor are growing roots down into the earth, grounding you literally and mentally.

Take a Hot Shower

Water purifies and removes negative energy from our bodies. In Blue Mind, Dr Wallace J. Nichols writes “our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.” In short, being near, or in, water, works to remove negative energy, and helps us stay calm.

Take a Step Back

If you feel stressed, look at your life from a new perspective. Ask yourself questions which help you be grateful for the important things you have. Do I have food to eat? Do I have friends and loved ones who care for me? Do I have a roof over my head? Research reveals that a focus on positive thoughts leads to a more optimistic mindset.

Remember you always have access to the tools you need to get grounded, and stay there. When stress or anxiety start to overwhelm, return to these grounding practices to help you regain focus and calm.