Grounding and the Human Matrix
The matrix refers to a vast, interconnected web composed mainly of proteins and ground substance. It is a physical link that extends from the nucleus of our cells out to the larger structures of the body. This network includes several important parts: connective tissues, the extracellular matrix (ECM), the cytoskeleton, and the nuclear matrix. All these parts are physically linked together.
The result is a continuous system of proteins, charged molecules, and water that runs from the nucleus of each cell, through its cytoskeleton, out to the ECM, and into the connective tissues of the body. Among these components, the ECM makes up the largest portion.
The ECM is a complex, three-dimensional network of macromolecules that provides both structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells. It plays essential roles in adhesion, migration, proliferation, differentiation, and, of particular importance here, energy transfer. Electrical energy transfer is made possible through proteoglycans, which consist of a core protein linked to long carbohydrate chains called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). GAGs such as hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and heparan sulfate carry dense negative charges from sulfate and carboxyl groups. These charges attract cations like sodium and potassium, along with water, which help maintain hydration and osmotic balance in the ECM.
The negative charges of GAG chains allow the ECM to resist compression and provide a hydrated environment for cells. They regulate diffusion of signaling molecules and act as reservoirs for growth factors, cytokines, and other bioactive molecules. Importantly, grounding promotes the flow of free electrons from the Earth into the body. The highly charged GAG chains serve as reservoirs for these electrons. When the body is grounded, electrons can be absorbed into the ECM and distributed throughout the body. These electrons can neutralize free radicals generated during inflammation, reducing oxidative stress and preventing excessive inflammatory responses. The ECM also conducts electrons to inflammatory barricades, extinguishing oxidative activity and preventing unnecessary buildup in the first place.
In essence, the matrix functions as a biophysical accumulator for electrical charge. Direct contact with the Earth restores electrical balance within the proteoglycan network and its extensions into cells and nuclei, leading to measurable physiological shifts.
From a thermodynamic and geometrical perspective, molecules of the ground substance form minimal physical and electrical surfaces. The mathematics of minimal surfaces shows that even small changes in one area can cause large changes elsewhere in the network. This suggests that the ground substance is highly interconnected and capable of transmitting effects across the body with great efficiency.
The matrix is continuous and pervasive, forming all tissues and organs. It is the only system that contacts every part of the body directly. Despite this, it has not been formally recognized as an organ in Western medicine, largely because of its complex ties to regulation and living structures. Still, its biophysical properties are of profound importance for communication and physiological function. Understanding them is essential for comprehending the effects of grounding.
Traditional antioxidant molecules face multiple barriers before reaching target tissues: digestion, absorption, circulation, diffusion through extracellular fluid, and transport across membranes. This slow process explains the often-limited effects of dietary or pharmacological antioxidants. Electrons from the Earth, however, are conducted through the body’s matrix rapidly, producing near-instant effects on inflammation and oxidative stress.
Consider an individual who spends most of their time indoors, insulated from the Earth. In this state of electron depletion, an injury like a sprained ankle produces prolonged inflammation and slower recovery. But when this same person grounds, through barefoot contact or conductive tools, the connective tissue reservoirs saturate with electrons. If injury occurs again, electrons are immediately available to neutralize reactive oxygen species, reduce swelling, and accelerate healing. This is a state of inflammatory preparedness.
The polyelectrolyte ground substance has a vast capacity to store electrons, but in an ungrounded person these reservoirs are chronically depleted as electrons are constantly consumed in normal metabolic processes. Without grounding, the body gradually loses its electron reserves. With grounding, these reservoirs are replenished, protecting healthy tissues and restoring balance.
The interconnected nature of the body’s matrix emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced electrical state. This article has shown how the matrix, grounding, and the body’s electrical properties intersect to maintain health. Grounding contributes to inflammatory preparedness by saturating the body with electrons.
Water is a fundamental part of this story. Without water, the matrix cannot function. Together, water and the ground substance create a conductive medium that links the body to the Earth’s electric field. The interaction of matrix, water, and environment sustains our electrical equilibrium. Water’s full properties remain elusive, yet its role in life is undeniable. Understanding its relationship with the matrix and grounding is key to unraveling deeper mysteries of physiology and health. That’s what we’ll cover next.
Information about the matrix along with everything else mentioned can be found in the Earth & Water books.
