Touch Some Grass: Why Reconnecting with Nature Could Be the Best Thing You Do for Your Health
In a world filled with screens, social media, and tech-driven lives, “touch some grass” has become a bit of a modern mantra—a reminder to get outside, breathe, and disconnect from the digital. With technology advancing faster than ever, we’re spending more time indoors and less time in nature, trading sunlight and fresh air for Wi-Fi and device chargers. But our bodies and minds crave connection to the earth in ways we often overlook, and the benefits of unplugging and stepping outside go far beyond just getting a breath of fresh air.
Our devices—phones, laptops, Wi-Fi routers—emit low levels of electromagnetic radiation (EMF) that, over time, can impact our health. A typical smartphone emits around 0.2 to 1.6 watts per kilogram of body tissue in radiation. While these levels are considered safe by current standards, constant exposure has been associated with symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and disrupted sleep cycles. Chronic exposure, especially with the rise of higher-frequency 5G waves, has raised questions about long-term effects, as studies suggest that low-level radiation exposure can lead to oxidative stress, which impacts the balance in our cells.
When our cells experience oxidative stress from frequent EMF exposure, they produce excess free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cellular structures like DNA, proteins, and cell membranes. Over time, this cell damage can lead to inflammation, accelerate aging, and increase the risk of more serious conditions, including cellular mutation and chronic diseases. Though research is still unfolding, it’s clear that reducing exposure and finding ways to counteract these effects are essential for long-term health.
One way to counteract this “electromagnetic pollution” is through grounding, or “earthing.” When we touch the earth—whether by walking barefoot on grass, touching trees, or simply spending time outside—our bodies absorb electrons from the ground, which help neutralize the free radicals that build up from EMF exposure. Grounding has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, our body’s main stress hormone, decrease inflammation, and even improve blood flow, offering a natural antidote to the health effects of constant digital exposure.
The benefits don’t stop there. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and even boost immune function. When we spend time outdoors, we give our minds a break from constant digital stimulation, allowing us to breathe easier and feel more present. Nature offers something no screen can—a sense of calm, grounding, and the reminder that life exists beyond notifications and updates. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider taking the advice literally: touch some grass, reconnect with the world outside, and let yourself feel rooted again. Sometimes, the best way to recharge is to disconnect entirely for a bit.
Xoxo,
A.D