Posted 8 months ago
Harnessing the Healing Power of Earthing and Grounding for Cancer Patients
I believe that we often have an innate sense of knowing what our body needs. Since childhood, I was known as the barefoot little girl always carrying my kittens around on our hobby farm in Minnesota. Currently, I am known as the barefoot lady walking her pug in an Arizona neighborhood. Some would say I am eccentric. But recently, after learning about of benefits of “earthing”, I would say that I am wise.
For cancer patients, the journey toward healing often involves a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and holistic approaches. Among these approaches, earthing and grounding have emerged as promising practices that offer a multitude of benefits for those with a diagnosis of cancer. These practices involve connecting with the earth’s natural electrical charge.
Earthing involves connecting directly with the earth’s surface, whether through walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil, or utilizing conductive systems like grounding mats or sheets indoors. This simple act allows the body to absorb the earth’s electrons, which in turn helps neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation. For cancer patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, which can generate oxidative stress and inflammation, earthing provides a natural way to counteract these effects and support the body’s healing process.
Earthing has also shown to promote better sleep, alleviate pain, and reduce stress by regulating cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. Cancer patients often experience insomnia, fatigue, and emotional distress, making the benefits of earthing particularly valuable in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
Grounding, on the other hand, involves techniques such as visualization, meditation, or breathwork to cultivate a sense of connection with the earth and promote balance within the body. By grounding themselves in the present moment and aligning with the earth’s energy, cancer patients can experience greater peace, clarity, and resilience in the face of their diagnosis and treatment journey.
Both earthing and grounding offer cancer patients a sense of empowerment and control over their health. In a time when they may feel overwhelmed by medical interventions and uncertainty about the future, these practices provide a tangible way for patients to actively participate in their healing process and cultivate a deeper connection with their bodies and the natural world. Another beauty of this practice is that it is free.
Ironwood Cancer and Research Center offers several free classes to assist you in experiencing grounding through their Supportive Care Services program. Guided meditation, breathwork, sound healing, reiki, and yoga are just a few of the opportunities provided. To receive more information or to sign up for a class, email wellness@ironwoodcrc.com or call 480-314-6660.
Jodi Puhalla, BSW
Social Worker for East Valley Offices
Jodi Puhalla obtained her social work degree from MN State University/Moorhead in 1990. She has spent most of her career as a medical social worker in hospitals, long term care facilities and hospice care.
Jodi is a native of Minnesota and moved to the Phoenix area in 2020. She has a passion for holistic healing and meditation. She likes to explore ancient practices for stress management in the modern world. She enjoys supporting others through difficult transitions in their lives.