Happy Earth Day
We alluded in our February journal to a future deep dive into the magical powers of mud, for mud is not in short supply in the UK, so instead of commiserating it, let’s give it some love today on Earth Day.
The healing power of the earth is such that the NHS is now offering “green prescriptions” for time in nature. Recent research has been exploring the effect of “getting your hands dirty” on mental and physical health. When we come into physical contact with soil, a bacterium called Mycobacterium vaccae gets absorbed into the body through the skin, activating a group of neurons to release serotonin.
Serotonin is made and stored in our central nervous system and it is best known as the “happy hormone” for mood regulation, but it also helps to control a wide range of other functions such as digestion, blood clotting and sleep. A surge in serotonin acts in a similar way to antidepressants, leading to happier mood and greater energy levels. It is thought that lack of serotonin is a contributing factor in depression.
Research conducted by the University of Bristol and University College London treated mice with ‘friendly’ bacteria normally found in soil and found, as a result, an alteration in their behaviour in a way similar to that produced by antidepressants. Dr Chris Lowry, lead author on the study said: “These studies help us understand how the body communicates with the brain and why a healthy immune system is important for maintaining mental health. They also leave us wondering if we shouldn’t all be spending more time playing in the dirt.”
Another of Dr Lowry’s studies found that injections of Mycobacterium vaccae prior to a stressful event could prevent a PTSD-like response, and also have a long-lasting anti-inflammatory effect on the brain. Equally, bodily contact with the earth, known as grounding or earthing, has been shown to reduce inflammation, pain, stress and improve blood flow, sleep, and lymphatic and venous circulation. This is thought to be because of the conduction of the electrical charge of the Earth through the body.
A study conducted on athletes suffering from DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) by the University of Saltzburg documented clear evidence of reduced DOMS and inflammation found in those who had grounded or earthed than those who hadn’t. Furthermore a 2017 study by Penn State University found that earthing premature infants produced immediate and significant improvements of autonomic nervous system functioning critically important in inflammatory and stress responses, as well as improved vagal tone. The vagus nerve is the main nerve in the parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system and carries signals between brain, heart and digestive system.
It is a truth widely acknowledged that children who play in mud don’t get sick as often, and many parents are quick to allow their children this freedom. Yet we forget as adults to allow ourselves the same therapy. There are plenty of ways in which we can experience the benefits that the earth has to offer. Gardening is a wonderful and productive way to get your hands dirty, even with a small space. Yoga or meditation outside is another wonderful way to ground on the earth, combining wellness practices. In the summer months, walking barefoot is a peaceful practice which can also improve posture and structure of the feet. Even simply sitting or standing on the grass for a few minutes a day can have huge benefits.
We hope this gives you some inspiration to go outside and explore with childlike abandon the mud between your toes!
