In this episode, we hear from Gaetan Chevalier, Ph.D. in engineering physics. Dr. Chevalier is the director of the Earthing Institute, an organization dedicated to research and education on the benefits of earthing. Earthing, known more commonly as “grounding” in the United States, takes place when our body is in direct contact with the earth. Research has suggested that time spent grounding can help calm the nervous system, relax muscles, and reduce pain and inflammation. Dr. Chevalier explains that the body’s immune system uses acids when fighting infection, and if there are insufficient electrons to neutralize these acids, the increased acidity leads to further damaged cells, thereby creating a positive feedback loop of inflammation. Because the earth’s surface is negatively charged, time spent grounding enables the body to neutralize its otherwise acidic state. Dr. Chevalier has seen improvements to many inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and many cancers. For those whose geographic location, lifestyle, or mobility limits their ability to walk barefoot outside or sit on the grass, sand, or pavement, there is an array of products designed to allow for grounding—even when you sleep! Listen in to learn more. For more information on the Earthing Institute, go to earthinginstitute.net. You can also email them at info@earthinginstitute.net.