Monthly Archives: September 2023

Top Six Health Benefits Of Grounding

by Miraenvironment, gratitudegrounding, stress

What is grounding?

Grounding, also known as earthing, is a simple yet powerful practice of connecting with the Earth's surface, primarily through our bare feet or skin. Our modern lifestyles have led to more of a disconnect from the natural world. We are, surrounded by concrete jungles and walking around in insulated footwear. All of which separates us from the earth. Millions of years ago our ancestors were more connected to the Earth's electromagnetic field because they didn’t have these things.

The science of grounding

Recent research is revealing more information that supports the science behind this ancient practice.

In simplistic terms, the earth can be viewed as a battery which has a negative electrical charge. When we ground ourselves, by exposure through non-insulated skin, with the earth, this helps to stabilize your system. You can ground most effectively by having bare skin on dirt or grass, or through the use of grounding or earthing devices. As you engage in this energy transfer process there are a number of health benefits:

Reduced Stress: Stress is considered a regular part of modern life. But when you have too much stress, or chronic levels, it’s not healthy. Grounding has been shown to help reduce cortisol levels which can support relaxation. This may, in turn, help with emotional balance.
Reduced Inflammation: Grounding has been shown to neutralize free radicals and lower pro-inflammatory cytokines which can in turn help reduce inflammation. Often reducing inflammation can also help to decrease chronic pain.
Better Quality Sleep: Many people share that when they regularly engage in a grounding practice they notice an improvement in sleep. One study found people who slept grounded (using an earthing mat) had more balanced cortisol levels and synchronicity with a 24-hour circadian rhythm.
Improved Immunity: The more balance your immune system is the faster you can heal from trauma or injury. Studies seem to indicate that after trauma participants who were grounded had a faster recovery time with less pain and inflammation.
Improved Circulation: How well your blood circulates is an important measure for overall wellness by optimizing nutrient and oxygen delivery to your cells. Studies showed improved circulation after a grounding session and suggested that it might be a helpful health practice for those struggling with cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
Increased Energy: Grounding is supportive and rejuvenating. It has been reported that people who regularly engage in a grounding practice feel more energetic. It’s like a therapeutic rejuvenation.

How to add grounding to your life

Thankfully, grounding is an accessible and easy practice that can be incorporated into our daily routines:

Go Barefoot: Whenever possible, kick off your shoes. It’s wonderful to take a leisurely walk, or even just stand still and wiggle your toes, while standing on natural surfaces such as grass, sand, or soil. It’s even better if they’re damp.
Earthing Mats: Try using a ground mat or grounding sheets. These can be placed on a bed or draped over a chair while working at your desk. This can help you stay grounded while you’re indoors. It’s also a good option to help with grounding for inclement weather.
Gardening: Engaging in gardening activities. This gets your hands in the dirt and provides a perfect way for you to connect with the Earth and its healing energy. Don’t have a garden? Houseplants count too!
Hug a Tree: Trees are wonderful and a great way to connect with the earth. They’re so deeply connected through their roots that hugging a tree, or even justs sitting under one and leaning against it can be beneficial.
Beach Time: Spending time at the shore offers both the calming effects of being by a body of water. And you can walk on the shore or in the water to connect with the earth.
Read: I highly recommend the book Earthing by Clint Ober. This is the book that introduced me to the concept of this practice.

In summary

As we navigate the modern world with its technological marvels, let’s not forget the how amazing it can be to incorporate the healing power of nature, especially the practice of grounding. When you reconnect with the Earth's energy, you can experience so many benefits including less stress and an improved immune system.

Take time every day to connect with nature!

[expand title="Sources"]

Koniver, Laura. "Practical Applications Of Grounding To Support Health". Biomedical Journal, vol 46, no. 1, 2023, pp. 41-47. Elsevier BV, doi:10.1016/j.bj.2022.12.001.

Menigoz, Wendy et al. "Integrative And Lifestyle Medicine Strategies Should Include Earthing (Grounding): Review Of Research Evidence And Clinical Observations". EXPLORE, vol 16, no. 3, 2020, pp. 152-160. Elsevier BV, doi:10.1016/j.explore.2019.10.005.

Sinatra, Stephen T., at al. Electric Nutrition: The Surprising Health and Healing Benefits of Biological Grounding (Earthing). ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES, SEP/OCT 2017 VOL. 23 NO. 5.

Yum, Byeong et al. "Effect Of Earthing Mat On The Quality Of Sleep". 2020, https://www.e-jehs.org/journal/view.html?pn=&uid=1957&vmd=Full.

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The Impact Of Climate Change On Your Food

by Miraenvironmentclimate change

Climate change is a topic that frequently makes headlines, primarily focusing on its environmental and weather-related consequences. However, one aspect that deserves more attention is how climate change affects the food we consume. In this blog post, we'll explore the profound repercussions of climate change on the food we eat, with a particular focus on the role of processed foods in exacerbating these challenges.

Climate Change disrupts agriculture in several ways, primarily through extreme weather events like prolonged droughts, devastating floods, heightened fire risks, and temperature fluctuations. These changes directly impact crops, potentially reducing the availability of fresh, nutrient-rich foods.

The Dark Side of Ultra-Processed Foods

The majority of primary ingredients in ultra-processed foods, such as corn, are derived from monoculture farming, where the same crop is repeatedly cultivated in the same area. Coupled with excessive water consumption and the heavy use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers like glyphosate, these practices contribute to soil erosion, water pollution, and the loss of biodiversity. Additionally, the carbon footprint of these processed foods, due to extensive transportation, further intensifies their environmental impact.

Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture and Food Supply

Climate change can affect agriculture and the food supply in three critical ways. First, changes in agricultural productivity may demand increased irrigation due to a warmer growing season. Second, climate-induced heavy precipitation can lead to soil erosion, affecting soil and water resources. Lastly, climate change poses health challenges for agricultural workers and livestock, including exposure to extreme weather, pesticides, and deteriorating air quality.

Health Implications of Processed Foods

Processed foods are not just detrimental to the environment but also to our health. Artificial additives, unhealthy fats, and refined sugars found in these foods have been linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Thus, the consequences of consuming processed foods extend beyond our plates and directly affect our well-being.

Cultivated meat has been hailed as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional livestock farming. However, recent research suggests that its global warming potential could be four to 25 times greater than that of retail beef. As we explore this emerging food source, it's essential to consider its environmental impact and its implications for our health.

A Call for Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture

To mitigate the impact of climate change on our food supply, we must prioritize sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices. These approaches focus on enhancing soil health, promoting environmental equilibrium, and supporting local farmers. By choosing organic or sustainably produced foods and advocating for biodiversity across all sectors of our environment, we can contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Conclusion

Understanding the impact of climate change on our food is essential for both our health and the health of our planet. By making informed choices, supporting sustainable practices, and demanding transparency from food producers, we can help create a better future for ourselves, future generations, and the entire ecosystem. Climate change is a global challenge that requires individual and collective action – let's start by transforming our relationship with food for the better.

In addition to the information above, I highly recommend watching this informative video interview with Dr. Ben Orlove. Dr. Orlove is an expert in the field of climate change and its effects on food systems. In this interview Ben and I cover a wide range of topics from deforestation to high impact foods, water usage, composting and more.

Care And Feeding Of Pets

by MiraUncategorizedpets

Every year, as special occasions roll around, pet owners across the country face the same adorable but guilt-inducing scene: our furry family members' mournful, pleading eyes. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, a birthday celebration, or any other festive gathering, our pets somehow become convinced that we've forgotten to feed them for days, and they're desperately trying to hypnotize us into sharing our delicious spread.

While it's tempting to slip them a sliver or a morsel, it's crucial to remember that many holiday foods are distinctly unhealthy for our beloved fur babies.

What NOT to feed them during special occasions

Turkey: The centerpiece of many celebrations, turkey often comes smothered in butter and seasoned with ingredients like onions, garlic, or various spices – none of which are safe for pets. If you want to treat them to some turkey, make sure it's plain and cooked specifically for them.
Ham: Pork is a no-no for dogs, as consuming it can lead to pancreatitis, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Onions: Onions contain N-propyl disulfide, which can cause anemia in dogs. This harmful substance is also found in garlic, leeks, and raw cabbage.
Stuffing: As delicious as it is, stuffing usually contains ingredients that are dangerous for pets, such as grapes or raisins, wine, or onions.
Nuts: Almonds, macadamias, pecans, and walnuts might be tasty for us, but they can cause pancreatitis, diarrhea, and vomiting in pets.
Sweets: Pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, cookies, and other desserts are off-limits for our furry friends. However, plain cooked pumpkin from a can is okay, as long as it's free from added sugars.
Xylitol: This low-calorie sweetener can sneak into various dishes and desserts, posing a severe threat to dogs and cats. It's toxic for them, so be cautious of any foods containing xylitol.
Chocolate: Chocolate is dangerous due to its theobromine content, which pets cannot metabolize. It can lead to seizures, diarrhea, or vomiting if consumed.
Caffeine: Sources of caffeine like coffee, tea, and soda should be kept out of reach, as they can cause seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal heart rhythms, and even death in pets.
Alcohol: While you may not intentionally give your pets alcohol, be cautious during gatherings, as they might attempt to sneak sips from drinks like eggnog or punch. Dogs and cats can't tolerate alcohol, resulting in vomiting, dehydration, and liver or kidney issues.

Superfoods for Your Pet

Superfoods like kale and broccoli are finding their way into pet foods as owners prioritize healthy nutrition for their animals. However, ensuring that the superfoods you feed your pets are safe is essential. Not all foods that benefit us are suitable for our furry friends. If you prefer to skip expensive packaged dog food, add superfoods like carrots, kale, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes to your dog's diet.

Closing

No matter which occasion you're celebrating, whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other special day, keeping your pets away from harmful foods is an act of love and responsibility. So, wherever you are and however you're marking the occasion, I wish you and your furry friends a happy and healthy celebration.