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REVITIVE: How to Get Started

The Revitive Medical device is an excellent product, and it’s capable of affecting change throughout the entire body.

One reason the device is effective is that it’s powerful.

–> To read about how and why the Revitive is so effective,
check out the article: The Body is Electric.

And, with any powerful device, it’s important to use it wisely — to both achieve maximum results and avoid setbacks. How to use the Revitive depends, mostly, on you — and your body.

Generally speaking, you’re probably one of two types of people:

  • you’re not very sensitive to most things
  • you’re quite sensitive to many things

Do you know which type of person you are? If so, great! This will help you know what to expect from the Revitive.

Let’s explore how you should get started using the Revitive?

Establishing a Baseline

What does the Revitive User Manual recommend?

The Revitive user manual recommends 1-2 sessions per day, with an upper limit of “up to six (30-minute) sessions per day.”

The manual recommends an intensity setting of 40 and above — but this is likely optimized for typical, not-sensitive people.

It also recommends that you drink water before and/or after each session.

Remember, the Revitive is really, really powerful — and these recommendations will almost certainly be too intense for many, if not most people.

If you’ve been dealing with any long-term chronic health issues, especially ones that interfere with your body’s homeostasis, it’s almost certain that you will need to start more gently.

So how do we begin using the Revitive more gently?

How should you start using the Revitive
if you’re sensitive?

If you’re sensitive, it’s likely you’ll notice some unwanted effects from the Revitive, at least at first.

The most common might be sleep disturbance, related to dehydration, falling blood sugar, or simple energizing of the body.

Second, you might notice that the sensations are overwhelming — even on tiny settings.

There, if you might be sensitive, only do one or two sessions per day, to begin.

Then find the intensity setting that feels comfortable. For some that might be 50 and above. For others, that might be closer to 7-20. For a few, it might be all the way down below 4.

There is no wrong setting to use the Revitive! Even at the lowest settings, the device delivers powerful free electrons to the body. It delivers quite a bit more electricity than grounding on the Earth, even below a 4.

There’s also no wrong duration to use the Revitive. Of course, more could be better because more electricity is delivered to the body, which results in more benefits.

But if your body is overwhelmed by the sudden influx of energy, the only thing that matters is that you reduce the duration to the point that you can tolerate it.

When reducing the duration of your sessions, reduce significantly if needed. The goal is to feel good afterward. A pleasant sense of energy and calm is the goal. Find the duration (and intensity) that meets this goal — even if that’s only 5 minutes on setting 2.

You may find that you can use the Revitive for longer sessions if you lower the intensity. This is highly recommended — to choose a longer session at lower intensity than the other way around.

Thus, if you can only tolerate the Revitive on level 2 — for five minutes at a time — that’s okay! I suggest doing exactly that (level 2 / five minutes) each day.

Once you’ve found your comfort zone, over a few days or weeks, see if you can raise the duration by a few minutes — before increasing the intensity.

Over time, you’ll probably find your tolerance improves, as well as the benefits as you increase usage of the device.

A few obstacles can make you less likely to tolerate the Revitive’s energy. Sick buildings may be the biggest obstacle to using the Revitive. If you’re in a sick building, you may need to use the Revitive on the lowest settings, and for short durations.

Do you tolerate the Revitive easily?

Most people will tolerate the Revitive with zero problems. These people can use the Revitive 4-6 sessions per day with no issues.

So, if you tolerate Revitive’s electrical current, I recommend 4-6 sessions per day for optimal effect.

This is the sweet spot where you will see the most benefits.

Not matter how you tolerate the intensity, it’s a good idea to work up to four (or more) 30-minute sessions per day.

Next, find the instensity level that works for you! Many folks tolerate somewhere between 40 and 60. If you’re higher or lower than that, that’s great. All that matters is that you’re getting as many free electrons as you can each day!

What if you’re very sensitive?

The Revitive is incredibly gentle in its effects — but some with chronic health conditions may notice a few interesting phenomena after use.

Keep in mind, the effects from this device on the body are due to the introduction of new electricity into the biological system — and much change happens when new energy enters tissues.

This has a great effect on the body! Both the metabolism and immunity will likely be boosted.

With these changes — especially in a state of chronic health struggles — we see the body’s homeostasis shift, sometimes rapidly. Homeostasis just means balance; the body’s balance is shifted — especially its fluid balance.

1

A chronically ill/aging body is constantly dehydrated.

This influx of beneficial electricity will spur biological activity that tends to use more water — as part of the increased metabolic and immune function.

Therefore, more water is needed to meet the dehydration initiated by the new free electrons in the body.

Dehydration typically feels like a combination of fatigue and wired: too tired to do anything, but unable to relax. Sleep is particularly hampered by dehydration.

2

The chronically ill body is depleted of minerals.

As the body’s water demands rise, more minerals & electrolytes will also be required.

Therefore, additional electrolytes (minerals) will be needed to aide in restoring hydration.

Dehydration is a function of water intake and mineral intake. The most important minerals are: sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. You may be especially deficient in one alone, or any of the four.

The Revitive’s “boosting” effect will cause both immediate and long-term effects on the body.

In the immediate, the metabolic and immune boost will use up nutrients and water — leading to symptoms of dehydration.

But over time, if we supplement those nutrients (especially minerals) and drink more water, the heightened metabolism and immunity will work together so that the body is healthier — resulting in better nutrient stores and hydration of cells.

In other words, the root causes of chronic dehydration (as a result of illness/aging) are being addressed by the free electrons.

It’s important to consider that the chronically ill/aging body is depleted of most nutrients, not just water and minerals. When the Revitive boosts metabolism, there may not be many nutrients available to use. This is a temporary depletion of nutrients as they are used up.

What the Revitive does, though, is address the root cause of nutrient depletion — which is inflammation. Over time, the body will be in a better place to be able to absorb those nutrients, and hydrate more properly.

Therefore, as long as you hydrate (drink water + minerals) after using the Revitive, the body should become healthier and healthier, more nutritionally sound, and better hydrated.

Think of it this way: In chronic illness/aging, water “goes right through us,” but when we are healing, the opposite happens. We stop wasting nutrients, and begin absorbing them, deeply into cells.

Free electrons — whether from the Earth, a pool, or the Revitive — calm the inflammation that blunts nutrient absorption, allowing for true hydration of cells.

3

Sometimes, the metabolic boost from this device will create an acute need for more calories.

In other words, the Revitive can create a metabolic boost that has the effect of lowering your blood sugar. This will especially be true if you tend to undereat, -or- have a history of poor gut health and high inflammation (conditions that, like hypothyroidism, can contribute to hypoglycemia).

Therefore, along with needing more water or minerals, additional calories might be needed to bring out the maximum benefits of a Revitive session and to reduce symptoms of dehydration.

Signs of being over-stimulated by the Revitive will nearly always present as symptoms of dehydration or low blood sugar.

These symptoms are very similar to the effects of a sauna, or any other energy-boosting hack (such as light therapy, sunbathing, or even taking thyroid hormone).

These symptoms are usually very easy to balance out yourself, simply by drinking water, taking needed minerals, or eating some food.

Concerning hydration, you could be amazed how much water you’ll need after a more intense session (or multiple sessions in a row) with the Revitive. This is a good thing. In my experience, the body will now better utilize the water you drink.

Keep in mind that a healthy body requires lots of water. As you heal, you might begin needing more water, too. This is also a very good sign. You’ll know your water is hydrating you if you feel hydrated after drinking — if your thirst is “never ending,” this is a sign of high inflammation that needs to be corrected. Free electrons can counteract the inflammation that causes endless thirst.

We’ve mentioned how powerful the Revitive is, yet this methodology — receiving free electrons from the Earth or a device — is still one of the most gentle and holistic approaches we have.

Only those who are quite sensitive to environmental and dietary variables will experience much sensitivity to the Revitive. The first symptom they may notice is usually sleep disruption — in which case they should back off intensity/duration of sessions.

But for those of us who are sensitive, drinking more water and replenishing electrolytes is the way to both enjoy the myriad benefits of the Revitive, and mitigate any minor discomfort along the way to better health.

The benefits of the Revitive.

Personally, I require about 3-4 sessions per day to notice the majority of Revitive’s benefits.

This is easy to achieve, as I can generally find an hour or two to sit down and enjoy the Revitive each day. My favorite time to use the device is while I work, but also when I wake up and before bed.

I feel improved mental clarity, reduced inflammation, and more energy.

This reduced inflammation seems to help digestion and produce deeper sleep at night.

With the increased mental clarity seems to come more creativity and sharper analysis in my day to day work.

I also noticed two lingering sports injuries that I’ve been neglecting for months, one in my wrist and another in my ankle, seemed spontaneously heal up. The ankle was 100% better with days (truly astounding), while the wrist improved each week until better. It also seems like my teeth feel more strong and smooth than before. This is something I will continue to monitor.

I also seem to function much better on inadequate sleep than I formerly did. I’ve been unofficially testing this out lately — sleeping less — and I’m shocked how good I’ll feel on 6 hours of sleep. That would have severely impacted me before the Revitive. Make no mistake, 7-8 hours is still much better than 6, Revitive or not. And why not stack multiple variables in our favor?

In the first few months of use, multiple clients have described positive benefits from the Revitive, including better sleep and better skin. One client mentioned it is better than their grounding mat. Another client said they recommend it highly. Another client reported better digestion, and better tolerance of various gut supplements while using the Revitive.

Take advantage of the TENS pads

The Revitive can also power TENS pads, to be used around the body.

My favorite way to use them is on the palms of my hands — one on each palm.

I only use this method on an intensity setting of just 1, or 2.

This allows for a bit more electrical flow to the upper body, especially the hands and arms, but also, potentially the brain.

The Revitive‘s benefits are holistic

The Revitive’s benefits are derived from its supply of free electrons.

This is the energy that powers the entire body and all of its biological functions, the same energy the body extracts from food.

Therefore, it is entirely reasonable that we find benefits virtually everywhere, all over and throughout the body, as the result of the electrical flow from the device.

As we discuss in The Body Electric article, there are numerous published studies on PubMed showing dramatic improvements in many basic biomarkers of health — simply from standing on the Earth with bare feet. The Revitive takes that concept and amps it up several notches — significantly providing new free electrons to your entire body.

How well you take advantage of these free electrons is up to you! Any signs of dehydration are the result of something good: more energy in the body. You’ll just need to know what to do in response to the increased energy. The answer is usually more water, more minerals, and possibly more food (if you’ve been undereating).

As with all our endeavors, a strong, balanced foundation will enable you to make more dramatic (and lasting) changes in your health — so don’t forget the pillars of health such as: nutrition, sleep, food, & gut health.

Related Articles

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Big Picture Gut Nutrients Product Reviews

The Body is Electric

Every now and then, a product comes along that could potentially shift how you feel — across your entire body.

Let’s back up though.

First, consider this:

  • All animal bodies move and function via electricity.
  • We are no different. Every activity is performed electrically — breathing, moving your limbs, brain function, & immunity.

In other words, life functions using a currency of energy… of electricity.

And real, legitimate scientific research is now demonstrating something super unusual:

  • Touching the earth puts you in contact with small currents of electricity. Your body then does something with the energy it gains.

What happens in the body with that electricity? A lot.

Multi-disciplinary research has revealed that electrically conductive contact of the human body with the surface of the Earth (grounding or earthing) produces intriguing effects on physiology and health. Such effects relate to inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/

In layman’s terms: touching the Earth provides electricity to the body — which then impacts system-wide bodily functions:

  • inflammation
  • wound healing
  • prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
  • improve sleep
  • normalize the day–night cortisol rhythm
  • reduce pain
  • reduce stress
  • shift the autonomic nervous system from sympathetic toward parasympathetic activation
  • increase heart rate variability
  • speed wound healing
  • reduce blood viscosity

A summary of these health impacts has been published in the
Journal of Environmental and Public Health.

How could touching the Earth impact health so much?

Our main hypothesis is that
connecting the body to the Earth
enables free electrons
from the Earth’s surface
to spread over and into the body…

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/

What are free electrons? To oversimplify, they are what electricity is made of.

“The continuous flow of electrons in an electric circuit is called an electric current.” (source)

Image courtesy of: https://circuitglobe.com/electric-current.html

Free electrons (electricity) can do a lot in the body. Consider one major role:

  • Free electrons are antioxidant

How is electricity anti-oxidant?

Consider what happens when an object — say a wrench, or chain — is oxidized.

Outdoors, metal oxidizes — mostly due to oxygen and moisture. This oxidation is what happens when metals rust.

This rust — or oxidization — means the surface of the object is losing its electrons.

Oxidation = to remove electrons.

Instead of removing, free electrons (from the Earth) add electrons.

So, providing your body with extra (free) electrons quite substantially counteracts all the oxidative stress in your body.

This is why anti-oxidants are so lauded these days. As we age and suffer poor health, our bodies become unbalanced, with high oxidative stress — not a healthy state. Antioxidants help us detox, and protect our tissues and volatile nutrients from oxidation.

And as research is showing, free electrons — from the earth — can help the body in ways that dietary antioxidants cannot.

But wait, there’s more — regarding the food we eat.

Our metabolism — how we generate energy from food — is a very specific type of metabolism. Care to guess which type?

That’s right — oxidative metabolism.

What does that mean? It means the body uses oxygen (when we breathe in) to literally steal electrons from food, so we can use it as our body’s energy. (Cellular respiration is another term for this).

We oxidize food — just like that rusty chain left outside — to get electricity.

Thus, all energy from food comes via electricity.

Yes — the energy that powers your brain, fights off pathogenic invaders, pumps your heart, moves your limbs, opens your mouth and eyelids — it’s all electricity taken from food.

…energy from food and, perhaps, from the Earth.

Or, it used to be.

Humans used to touch the Earth constantly.

Throughout history, we walked barefoot more, constantly absorbing small amounts of electricity from the ground.

Shoes had leather soles — which conduct electricity when moist. People often slept directly on the ground at night, on wool blankets that are conductive when moist.

Round the clock, this intimate contact with the Earth provided us free energy, helping us be more healthy, less inflammed, and more energized — to fight diseases better, to sleep more deeply.

It’s plausible to suggest that historic humans were supplementing free electrons nearly all day.

Ancient humans were never far from the earth’s electrical supply.

As a result of less inflammation, deeper sleep, and more efficient metabolism, it’s likely they were able to maintain energetic homeostasis with slightly lower food requirements .

Nowadays, we almost never touch the earth — and subsequently, never receive any electricity from it.

That is, unless, we dip in the ocean, or walk barefoot on the beach or in the grass. That’s when we get electricity from the earth.

Q: How is the body so electrically conductive?

Great question! Here’s how:

  • The body is made of semiconductive tissues.

Collagen and other structural proteins are semiconductors.

Water plays crucial roles in enzymatic activities and semi-conduction. 

Hydrated proteins actually are semiconductors, and have become important components in the global microelectronics industry.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/

In recent studies, given awards by the Materials Research Society in both Europe and the USA, scientists from Israel made flexible biodegradable semiconductor systems using proteins from human blood, milk, and mucus.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/

Yes! Your entire body is made of water, minerals (electrolytes), hydrated proteins, and collagen. Your entire body is made of semi-conductors!

You are incredible — and electrical.

More evidence that you’re a walking, semi-conducting battery.

Check out five fascinating facts about how our electrical body works:

Fact #1

  • The whole body has a semiconductor network

Moreover, research in cell biology and biophysics reveals the human body is equipped with a system-wide collagenous, liquid–crystalline semiconductor network known as the living matrix,31 or in other terms, a ground regulation system32,33 or tissue tensegrity matrix system (Figure 11).34 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
It’s known as “the living matrix.”

Fact #2

  • This network delivers electricity to the whole body
  • This electricity protects the body from stress and injury

This body-wide network can deliver mobile electrons to any part of the body and thereby routinely protect all cells, tissues, and organs from oxidative stress or in the event of injury.23,31 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
A body without electricity cannot function.

Fact #3

  • Free electrons are able to arrive inside cells

The living matrix includes the extracellular and connective tissue matrices as well as the cytoskeletons of all cells.31 Integrins at cell surfaces are thought to allow for semi-conduction of electrons to the cell interior, and links across the nuclear envelope enable the nuclear matrix and genetic material to be part of the circuitry

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
Cells need energy for biological activity.

Fact #4

  • Connective tissues are particularly conductive and behave like batteries

Ground substance polyelectrolyte molecules associated with the collagenous connective tissue matrix are charge reservoirs (Figure 12).

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
  • “Ground substance” is simply gelatinous material in connective tissue
  • “Charge reservoirs” are essentially batteries, where electrical charge can be stored for later use
All bodies are like walking batteries.

Fact #5

  • A “redox system” serves the entire body — a system which oxidizes (steals electrons) for energy, and transports that energy around the body, as needed

The matrix is therefore a vast whole-body redox system.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
All bodies oxidize — steal electrons — for energy.

Your body has as much electricity as an entire thunderstorm.

Bill Bryson, A Short History of Everything

What are the full benefits of touching the Earth?

In the past decade, the benefits of touching the earth have become clearly evident in published research.

Free electrons promote “intriguing” physiological changes & well-being.

Reconnection with the Earth’s electrons has been found to promote intriguing physiological changes and subjective reports of well-being.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28987038/
There’s a “surprisingly positive” effect on health.

Emerging scientific research has revealed a surprisingly positive and overlooked environmental factor on health: direct physical contact with the vast supply of electrons on the surface of the Earth. Modern lifestyle separates humans from such contact. The research suggests that this disconnect may be a major contributor to physiological dysfunction and unwellness.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28987038/
The worst and most prevalent disease — and aging itself — is linked to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, something free electrons can directly address.

Modern biomedicine has discovered that many of the most debilitating diseases, as well as the aging process itself, are caused by or associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28987038/
Free electrons — rapidly — calm our inflammation, in ways that dietary antioxidants and standard medical care perhaps cannot.

Electrons from the Earth quickly attenuate chronic inflammation not resolved by dietary antioxidants or by standard medical care, including physical therapy (Figure 3). 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
Free electrons significantly alter the inflammatory response — even resulting in faster wound healing.

Taken together, these observations indicate that grounding or earthing the human body significantly alters the inflammatory response to an injury.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
Free electrons reduce pain.

Grounding reduces pain and alters the numbers of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes, and also affects various circulating chemical factors related to inflammation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
feet sand
Free electrons treat both symptoms of inflammation, including swelling, pain, and loss of function.

Grounding reduces or even prevents the cardinal signs of inflammation following injury: redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function (Figures 1 and ​and2). Rapid resolution of painful chronic inflammation was confirmed in 20 case studies using medical infrared imaging (Figure 3).2,3

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
walk barefoot
Chronic inflammation prevents healing — but free electrons can restore it.

“Classical textbook descriptions also refer to an “inflammatory barricade” that isolates injured tissues to hinder the movement of pathogens and debris from the damaged region into adjacent, healthy tissues.

…This barrier also hinders the movements of antioxidants and regenerative cells into the blocked-off area.

Repair can be incomplete, and this incomplete repair can set up a vicious inflammatory cycle that can persist for a long period of time, leading to so-called silent or smoldering inflammation that in turn, over time, can promote the development of chronic disease.”

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/

All of these benefits — along with those mentioned at the beginning of this article — point to a dramatic potential impact on the body.

Clearly, free electrons from the earth promote health, well-being, cognitive improvement, deeper sleep, better digestion, stronger immunity, more energy, and even improved mood.

So how do we take full advantage of these findings?

How to touch the Earth

and reap the health benefits most optimally

The following recommendations are designed to achieve maximum results — effects that we can notice and feel.

Truly beneficial habits produce excellent results and don’t have to be abandoned later — because we can observe the improvements.

First, let’s identify the best locations for free electrons:

  • Grass (especially wet grass)
  • Bare dirt or sand (especially moist)
  • Concrete (especially wet concrete)
  • Bodies of water, rivers, & streams

Notice a trend there? Moisture — water — enables electrical flow.

There are two other important variables that matter for optimal results.

  • #1 — Time spent touching the Earth
  • #2 — Amount of skin surface area
Variable #1

Time Spent

touching the Earth

The electricity in the earth is definitely there, but it’s gentle. It won’t electrocute you, and it won’t shock you, either.

So, while it’s true that there is a “vast supply of electrons on the surface of the Earth” (source) the amount of electricity we can be exposed to in the earth is still relatively low.

Which means that “earthing” takes time — lots of it — spent in contact with the ground to receive these free electrons, and to charge up the human body. Some studies suggest two hours is needed.

Consider the hours spent in nature by prehistoric humans, nearly always in contact with the planet. Our bodies are similar to theirs, and benefit from being connected to this electrical source virtually around the clock.

If we didn’t have technological advances (which we’ll explore below), it would seem logical, then, that we should spend hours per day outside, in nature, touching the ground — certainly not mere minutes.

After all, this is what humans historically benefitted from, constant contact with the Earth.

Remember, though, we’re shooting for substantial health benefits. Without technology, hours spent outside and touching the ground is the best answer.

Now, let’s look at the other important variable:

  • #2 — Amount of skin surface area
Variable #2

Amount of

Skin Surface Area

touching the Earth

Your skin is quite conductive, but in order to maximize electrical flow, we need to maximize surface area between Earth and your body.

This is for two big reasons:

  • Skin can only (comfortably) allow a certain amount of electricity at a time in a small area
  • There’s only so much electrical current available in one small area of Earth

The more skin is touching the earth, the more free electrons can flow into your body.

For example, when we walk barefoot in the grass, only the bottoms of the feet receive electrons.

  • But if you sit or lay down, more skin can be exposed to the ground. In fact, the entire length of your legs and arms could be in contact with the Earth while sitting — much more surface area.

So, what’s better? Sitting & laying down beats walking — for free electrons. Of course walking is restorative movement, and that’s a major benefit.

But here’s where things get interesting. We’ve been discussing our body posture on dry land. Let’s think about something else: water.

Consider how superior water is as a conductor (particularly when it includes minerals as electrolytes, as it does in nature).

In bodies of water (lakes, rivers, streams) are easily the best locations to ground. These are the most conductive places on the planet.

Actual water is superior for both the bottoms of our feet, alone, but also because they represent an opportunity to submerge more of the body — which drastically exposes more skin to free electrons.

My personal experience indicates that submersion in water is perhaps 10X (or higher) more effective at supplying free electrons than standing on the ground.

Submersion Speeds Up the Process

I’ve found that noticeable positive effects can be achieved in water in much less time, compared to standing on the ground — perhaps 15-30 minutes instead of 2-3 hours.

The Best Methods

to benefit from free electrons

Let’s explore the best ways to receive free electrons — into the body.

Here’s what researchers suggest as a place to start:

Earthing is as simple as routinely walking barefoot outdoors and/or using inexpensive grounding systems indoors while sleeping or sitting, practices that restore a lost and needed electric connection with the Earth.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31831261/

What an easy start!

  • Routinely walk barefoot outdoors
  • Use inexpensive grounding systems while indoors

While that is a really good start, but let’s think even bigger. Let’s be interested in clear-cut, superior methods — both the best natural method and what new technology is offering.

Let’s check out three superior options to receive free electrons. If you’re interested in Earthing, these are the best ways to do it.

Option #1

Submersion in Water

This is, hands-down, the best method for receiving free electrons.

In a body of water, virtually the entire body is in contact with electron-abundant water — meaning the entire surface area of your skin becomes a pathway for electricity to enter the body.

Even if you’re only dipping your feet — or your lower legs — in the water, this is still a fantastic source of free electrons, and will always be superior to simple bare feet on the ground.

I have found a therapeutic dose to be much shorter in water — as little as 15 minutes — but, the longer the better. Spending hours in the water is powerful, powerful stuff.

The ocean, pristine lakes and rivers, and streams are all fantastic natural sources of water for free electrons.

Pools, especially those with concrete construction, are also excellent sources of free electrons.

Your only requirement to get started, here, is a body of water nearby. If you can regularly, it’s absolutely, hands-down worth doing.

Consider 1-2 sessions per day, at 30+ minutes per session.

Option #2

Revitive

Medical Device

Every now and then, a product comes along that offers a chance to shift how you feel — through your entire body.

That product is the Revitive.

A souped-up TENS unit — with large electrode foot pads — the Revitive is capable of delivering impressive quantities of free electrons to your body.

Best of all, it feels really, really good while using it.

Electrical pulses stimulate the muscles and tendons in your feet and calves to move and flex, providing an automatic, gentle workout in your feet, ankles and lower legs. This is also great for circulation and muscle/tendon strength.

But the primary benefit, in my mind, is the free electrons — and this device delivers them in droves to the entire body.

I feel a difference even in my cognition after regular use, as well as energy levels, and fluid balance around the body. Inflammation generally feels lower after use.

This device requires virtually zero effort to use — simply rest your feet on it while you:

  • work at your desk
  • relax on the couch
  • watch TV
  • read a book
  • eat meals
  • chat with friends or relatives
  • before bed

It’s been two years since moving away from regular, daily access to a pool for my grounding. Getting the Revitive has been a complete game-changer for me, and my opinion of it is this:

It is virtually as good as spending hours in a pool each day.

What makes the Revitive so effective? Two things:

  • the amount of electricity the device delivers
  • the size of the electrodes

The Revitive provides much more electricity (free electrons) than the Earth provides.

The Earth’s electricity isn’t readily noticeable, and it certainly isn’t enough to make muscles contract. The Revitive is and does — you can feel it (it feels really, really good), and it readily makes muscles contract, enough to increase their strength.

The Revitive also has large electrode pads — they will touch the entire bottom of your feet. By comparison, TENS units (which provide similar amounts of electricity) use pads that are typically only 1-2 inches in size. Your feet are much bigger than that, and therefore, can absorb much more electricity over their surface area — and send many more free electrons into your body.

Comparing the Revitive to the Earth (or a TENS unit)?

On one hand, a TENS unit delivers high amounts of free electrons, but is somewhat limited by the amount it can deliver via small electrode pads.

On the other, the Earth delivers much lower amounts of electrons — which is why scientists recommend 2+ hours per day (or my recommendation to submerse in water) to be powerful and effective for your health.

By contrast, the Revitive can both deliver high amounts of free electrons, while also utilizing a much larger electrode pad than a TENS unit. Two or three (30 min) sessions per day can be similar to spending 30+ minutes in a pool or body of water, in terms of the free electrons provided to the body.

How to Use the Revitive

Revitive recommends up to six 30-minute sessions per day.

For maximum effect, I suggest a minimum of 2-3 sessions (60-90 minutes) daily — though more is certainly even better.

I believe this minimum threshold of 60-90 minutes daily (2-3 sessions) can be surprisingly achievable — it requires no effort, only sitting. You can do anything else while you sit and receive free electrons.

You can also walk away from the Revitive — the device will pause until you return.

Further, Revitive is extremely logical for anyone who is not able to be very active due to health challenges.

Purchase Revitive on Amazon (link) or on Revitive.com (link).

Option #3

Sleeping while Grounded

This is an excellent option if you can figure out how to make it work for your bedroom.

Remember, the Earth’s free electron supply is quite low. It takes hours of exposure to it — daily — for noticeable effects to occur.

This is why sleeping while grounded is such a fantastic way to touch the earth. You can easily achieve 7-9 hours of grounding occur — without much effort.

Many “grounding” systems exist, for purchase, to help you ground while you sleep. Real research (source, source) supports this as beneficial.

This very simple DIY system involves three components:

  • A conductive sheet — laid under your bedsheets
  • An connector cable — that connects this sheet to a “ground” source
  • A ground source — that is touching the Earth

The conductive/grounding sheet can be purchased here: here. You’ll want to use the HertzCloth™ option.

The connector cable can be purchased here: here. You’ll want to use the “Plug to clamp” item if connecting to your electrical 3-prong outlet, or the “Gator to clamp” item if connecting to a stake outside a window.

The ground source needs to be either 1) the ground wire in your 3-prong electrical system, (purchased here: item #A295-4 or item #A295-12), or 2) a stake driven into the ground outside a window.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360250/

GRD was shown to result in faster recovery and/or less pronounced markers of muscle damage and inflammation. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360250/

Sleeping while grounded: three drawbacks:

First, the Hertzcloth — like all conductive fabrics — are delicate and must be washed by hand, with natural soaps (no detergents), and promptly removed from water to open air dry. This conductive fabric will likely need to be replaced every 18-24 months, if only for sanitary reasons — they cannot be washed normally.

Second, the system is a bit convoluted. It involves a grounding sheet under your normal sheets, so making the bed has an extra step: making sure the grounding sheet is situated. There will also be a wire going from under the bed sheet to either an electrical outlet or out a window (to a stake in the ground). For some people this will be fun, for others it will be worth the trouble, and for others it will look and feel like a mess.

Third, there is a strong argument that grounding like this is not advisable in areas of high EMF. Some areas, especially large cities or close to major power grid stations, have high-powered EMF fields in the ground (near power stations) or in the air (near cell towers). It is debatable whether grounding in these locations is actually helpful; some argue it could be harmful.

All that said, if you can manage this system — it can be highly worthwhile. The steady supply of electrons all night can be a powerful force for healing, energy, sleep, and inflammation-busting. I personally noticed extensive dreaming in my first nights sleeping on a grounded bed.

Touching the Earth & free electrons

Final Thoughts

Receiving electrons directly from the Earth — or from a device like the Revitive — has the potentialy to level-up your journey toward health.

Of course, the business of harvesting free electrons is, mostly, a daily routine — whether being outside with the Earth, or using a Revitive. This routine also will require time spent each day for maximum effect.

Of course, I will always insist that even five minutes of exposure to free electrons is better than nothing. Certainly!

Yet, when done with wisdom — to maximize effectiveness — significant benefits are real and verifiable by research, and anecdotally.

There are other ways to receive free electrons, too — truly fresh air, and water, for instance. We’ll share those methods soon; some of them are perhaps as powerful as intense Earthing.

What happens when the body doesn’t have enough electrons?

A lot happens biologically in an electron deficit!

In fact, this is likely the end result of most diseases: a lack of energy supply — potentially created by pathogens, inflammation, poor sleep, nutrient deficiencies, and gut dysbiosis.

Of course, when the body’s energy supply is undermined, immunity suffers dramatically. This is likely why chronic fatigue, hypothyroidism, aging, and pathogenic activity are so interrelated.

A lack of electrons can also de-saturate the electron transport chains in mitochondria, leading to chronic fatigue and slowing the cellular migrations and other essential activities of the cells of the immune system

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/

Consider, again, that the body steals electrons from food.

What if your gut health is compromised? Electrons cannot be efficiently harvested from the diet, but will instead feed pathogens in the gut (which then release endotoxin into the blood stream, causing chronic inflammation).

Oh, how the weakened body needs pure electricity — free electrons — without the price it pays when it attempts to digest food.

Enter a potential solution: free electrons from the Earth. They enter directly through your skin — you can supply the very energy your body works so hard to extract from food.

This energy the body can receive from the environment — capable of cooling inflammation, rapidly healing the body, boosting immunity, deepening sleep, and making us resilient — is available to you without the toxins and inflammation produced by a dysbiotic gut. Simply by Earthing.

And of course, a steady and strong supply of free electrons will improve the gut microbiome, too — improving gut health and all the biological and metabolic activity that depends on it.

The health implications of accessing the Earth’s free electrons are vast — and apply to the entire population.

For instance, cardiovascular health is of particular importance as we age — cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the US.

Unsurprisingly, free electrons have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, and could even reduce the need for blood thinners like Warfarin:

Grounding increases the surface charge on RBCs and thereby reduces blood viscosity and clumping. Grounding appears to be one of the simplest and yet most profound interventions for helping reduce cardiovascular risk and cardiovascular events.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576907/

My Experiences

I’ve done “hacks” such as grounding for nearly fifteen years. I’ve tried some pretty ridiculous ideas!

Many of them, especially when focused on diets and silver bullet theories, were largely fruitless. Unfortunately, some were harmful to my progress, and many distracted me — for much too long — from what matters for health.

Yet, I can unequivocally say that focusing on free electrons — especially when done wisely, to maximize their effect — has been one of the most impactful “hacks” I’ve ever done. Few things come close.

My only challenge with sharing this information has been that most people I speak and work with do not have access to nature and free time to pursue touching the Earth — at least not enough to change their lives. This is why I’m so excited to have the Revitive in my own arsenal; it opens the door to share these concepts with a population who will legitimately be able to act on this information.

For years, I’ve personally noticed tremendous improvements in inflammation, muscle strength and endurance, cognition (a major reduction in brain fog), deeper sleep, better digestion, and better vitality overall. These results were not achieved in mere minutes per day — free electrons don’t work that way.

Rather, it’s wise to recognize that 60-90+ minutes (or, two hours per day of Earthing, as the research suggests) is a reasonable threshold for the major, full-body improvements we seek — whether touching the Earth, submersing in bodies of water, or using a device like Revitive.

Down the road, I’m excited to share with you a few other methods I love for receiving free electrons. They, too, have been major boons to my health — propping me up when I lived in sick buildings, and hastening my recovery once in a healthy space.

My hope for you is that you can find the boost you need to hasten your progress — whatever your goals might be, whether they be improved gut health, cooling of chronic inflammation, deeper sleep, pain relief, or a clearing of brain fog.

I believe in you, and I know your body is strong. You can do things that will amaze you, by giving your body what it needs.

Interested in learning how to implement the Revitive device in your routine?

REVITIVE: How to Get Started
A few more pertinent studies:

Some 20 studies to date have reported intriguing evidence of wide and significant physiological improvements when the body is grounded vs. non-grounded. 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31831261/

Multi-disciplinary research has revealed that electrically conductive contact of the human body with the surface of the Earth (grounding or earthing) produces intriguing effects on physiology and health. Such effects relate to inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25848315/

However, emerging scientific research has revealed a surprisingly positive and overlooked environmental factor on health: direct physical contact with the vast supply of electrons on the surface of the Earth. Modern lifestyle separates humans from such contact. The research suggests that this disconnect may be a major contributor to physiological dysfunction and unwellness. Reconnection with the Earth’s electrons has been found to promote intriguing physiological changes and subjective reports of well-being. Earthing (or grounding) refers to the discovery of benefits—including better sleep and reduced pain—from walking barefoot outside or sitting, working, or sleeping indoors connected to conductive systems that transfer the Earth’s electrons from the ground into the body. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3265077/

This body of research has demonstrated the potential of grounding to be a simple, natural, and accessible clinical strategy against the global epidemic of noncommunicable, degenerative, inflammatory-related diseases.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28987038/

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Big Picture Light Product Reviews Sleep Thyroid

Recreating Sunlight Indoors

In the long winter months — or even during summer days — our bodies need healthy, light.

Healthy lighting includes broad-spectrum frequencies of light, in smooth natural output curves.

Clearly, sunlight — as a “blackbody radiator” (it emits a continuous spectrum) — is the best source of natural spectrums of light.

Yet, we don’t want to mimic sunlight perfectly — that would include too much UV and be too intense. After all, sunlight provides roughly 1000 watts of light on our body, alone, often with enough UV to cause serious burns.

Instead, we need indoor lighting to be:

  • full-spectrum
  • safely balanced
  • in reasonable doses

…so that it can encourage:

  • alertness
  • hormonal balance
  • great digestion
  • thyroid function
  • circadian alignment
  • digestive well-being

Let’s quickly explore the components of healthy indoor lighting.

First, blue and red wavelengths need to be balanced, in at least a 1:1 ratio, — if not 2-3x more red than blue.

Incandescents typically have much more red than blue, while fluorescent and LED bulbs are typically the opposite — LEDs have 2-3x the blue of red.

Incandescent bulbs are, therefore, despite poor energy efficiency, a nearly-optimal foundation for healthy indoor lighting. Yes, halogens are a type of incandescent and are thus nearly always a good alternate option, as well.

Second, sunlight produces healing infrared frequencies that are restorative for the human body. Incandescent bulbs produce massive amounts of invisible infrared light.

While this is wasteful from a lighting and efficiency perspective, these frequencies encourage health in the body. LEDs and fluorescents produce very little infrared. Therefore, incandescents are preferable for healthy indoor lighting.

Third, sunlight does not flicker — it is a smooth, continuous source of healing light.

On the other hand, LEDs and fluorescent bulbs flicker several hundred times per second — in part, to save electricity. Half the time during use, these bulbs are entirely or nearly off. LEDs flicker is virtually completely on/off — saving literally half the power required to run the bulb.

This flickering light has been shown to have detrimental effects in humans and other species.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4038456/

By contrast, incandescent bulbs don’t flicker at all — they mimic sunlight in their smooth, continuous radiative energy. Again, this is more ‘wasteful’ from an energy efficiency perspective, but likely healthier for the humans living and working in a space.

Fourth, sunlight changes throughout the day, based on the amount of atmosphere it must traverse to reach the ground.

Warm reds begin each day, building with greens, and bright blues, and peaking with full UV power at midday.

Thus, using these four characteristics:

  • red/blue balance
  • infrared
  • non-flickering
  • change throughout the day

…we can successfully recreate sunlight and enjoy the benefits of healthy indoor lighting.

Let’s discuss just how easy it can be.

1

The Foundation

Red + Infrared

The best source of red and infrared light is clearly the traditional incandescent light bulb.

Sadly — at least for human health reasons — incandescents have been phased out around the world, prohibited from being sold as normal light bulbs. However, they are still available in many online retailers, and can often be sold when marketed as “specialty” bulbs.

Clear incandescents are usually best, with no filter to alter their spectral output.

Nearly any wattage can be appropriate — from 15 watts for night-time use, to 40 watts for Zoom call lighting (on the face), to 60 watts for daytime room lighting, to 150-300 watts for strong daytime room lighting or therapeutic dosages.

Incandescent BulbBest for:
15 wattsNight-time use
40 wattsZoom call lighting
60 wattsGeneral purpose; Daytime room light
150+ wattsStrong daytime room light; Therapeutic light
Incandescent bulbs are easily screwed into clamp lamps for easy customization of light placement.

15 Watts

Clear Incandescent

(click to view)

40 Watts

Clear Incandescent

(click to view)

60 Watts

Clear Incandescent

(click to view)

150 Watts

Clear Incandescent

(click to view)
(click image to view)

Sometimes, especially in winter, heat lamps can be very appropriate for either room lighting or therapeutic light.

At 125 or 250 watts, they are simply incandescent bulbs on steroids — overloaded with infrared and red, and very limited in the shorter blue spectrum. However, they are missing so much blue that they need supplemental blue frequencies to successfully recreate sunlight.

Bright, clear incandescent bulbs are appropriate from sun-up to sundown.

Lower-powered incandescent bulbs (40w and lower) are safe to use even until an hour or two before bedtime.

The One LED Bulb that can Almost Replace a Clear Incandescent

Consider their SUPERWARM™ 1700K Flicker-Free A19 10W LED Bulb and its spectral output:

The SUPERWARM boasts an incredible amount of red light, with very little blue — creating its warm, 1700K color temperature. An excellent option before bed.

This bulb almost perfectly recreates clear incandescent light, with two differences:

  • Full-spectrum, red-rich frequencies
  • Zero flicker

The only downside is this bulb produces zero infrared. However, this may be acceptable in summer, when combined with another infrared-producing bulb, or at night.

In other words, the infrared produced by clear incandescents is extremely valuable to the human body, but the SUPERWARM bulb by Waveform is an incredible substitute.

This bulb’s light is attractive, appealing, and warm. Use wherever incandescents are appropriate. Especially appropriate for morning and evening use.

Just know that, theoretically, this bulb is missing infrared — which would be superior.

2

Add Some Blue

Non-Flickering LED

In reality, most incandescents alone struggle to produce enough blue to mimic sunlight — only the 150w bulbs produce any notable blue.

Even still, those stronger bulbs don’t produce nearly enough blue light to mimic sunlight.

  • Enter a new company I discovered earlier in 2021 called Waveform Lighting.

Waveform Lighting specializes in LED bulbs that are flicker-free and full-spectrum.

Just like the SUPERWARM (mentioned above), Waveform also offers bulbs at virtually every color temperature: 1700K, 3000K, 4000K, 5000K — and it makes sense to use one of these in addition to the incandescent. Why? To better mimic sunlight.

Blue light is essential for many biological functions:

  • informing the body when it’s daytime
  • suppressing daytime melatonin,
  • keeping us alert
  • activating dopamine
  • and much more

We are certainly exposed to too much isolated blue light in modern environments. But that doesn’t mean blue is unnecessary — we need it to function.

In fact, with a foundation of lots of red/infrared, the body can properly benefit from the right amount of blue.

Therefore, it’s wise to supplement a higher color temperature bulb — such as this non-flickering 4000K daytime LED — with our incandescent bulb.

Click to visit this Waveform Lighting product (no affiliation).

Three options are available from Waveform Lighting — with varying amounts of blue/red:

4000K

CENTRIC DAYLIGHT
A warm, balanced version of daylight.

5000K

CENTRIC DAYLIGHT
A decent amount of blue, some red.

6500K

CENTRIC DAYLIGHT
Lots of blue, little red.

I recommend the 4000K bulb for most situations, but the 5000K and 6500K provide lots of blue — perfect for larger spaces or with higher wattages of incandescent light.

These blue-rich LED bulbs are appropriate to use beginning later in the morning (9 am or so) until about 6 pm.

So far, we’ve added two non-flickering, full spectrum light bulbs:

  • Incandescents — delivering heaps of red/infrared
  • Waveform Lighting LEDs — delivering full-spectrum light, including rich blues.

Sunlight also includes UV — should you consider adding this, too? Let’s find out.

3

UV?

Sperti Lamp -vs- ‘Reptile’ Bulbs

UV plays an important role in circadian, hormonal, digestive, immune, and cognitive health.

Many are beginning to champion the critical effects UV has on the body, via Vitamin D3 production and other avenues.

However, caution is advised when it comes to ultraviolet frequencies — less is more. There is no need to ever sunburn.

There are two methods to reap the benefits of indoor UV light:

  1. As a background frequency in work spaces — perhaps for several hours around midday (and mostly for circadian benefiets via the eyes) — by placing a small UV bulb 10+ feet away, and shining away from the body
  2. A therapeutic dose on the full body, at 2 feet away, in only a few minutes per day.

When UV light is present in a workspace, folks often notice better mood, more alertness, and more energy.

Whether aiming for background lighting or a full-body therapeutic dose, it’s best to combine the UV bulb with your red/infrared bulb. The longer frequencies (red/infrared) nourish and help protect skin from negative effects of UV — especially before UV exposure.

The tanning bed could be a very natural and simple solution for getting weekly UV exposure — and this works extremely well for many people during during winter months. But tanning salons have become hard to find, and using them safely is complicated. In general, shoot for:

  • “medium-pressure” beds,
  • once per week for only 5-6 minutes (for most people).

If using a tanning bed, be sure to get red/infrared therapy before or after the tanning session.

In-Home Therapeutic UV Options

There are two basic options for in-home UV:

  • the infamous medical device Sperti Lamp
  • bulbs designed for pet reptiles

Surprisingly, these two are — essentially — the exact same thing, except for one difference:

  • Reptile bulbs provides 13-26 watts
  • Sperti Lamp provides 300 watts

Let’s analyze the pros/cons of these two options.

(1) Sperti Fiji

Sperti Fiji bulb
THE SPERTI FIJI LAMP — The Fiji is superior to the standard Sperti due to its higher UVA content, which is still only 3:1. (Amazon)
(click to open)

(2) Reptile Bulbs

ZooMed ReptiSun 5.0 -- 13 watts
REPTISUN 5.0 (13 watts) — A better UVA-UVB ratio of 6:1. (PetSmart)
(click to open)
ZooMed ReptiSun 5.0 -- 13 watts
REPTISUN 5.0 (26 watts) — Also the better UVA-UVB ratio of 6:1. (Amazon)
(click to open)

Which is more appropriate for you?

Most people who buy the Sperti eventually realize two things:

  • How difficult it can be to expose the entire body to such a small lamp
  • How powerful it is — it only takes a few minutes to 1) burn, or 2) raise Vit D levels too high

These are real risks with the Sperti. It’s a quality device, for sure, but far too many people buy them, only to have to stop using them.

The biggest problem with the Sperti is its low UVA output. UVA output controls Vitamin D production in the body, too — and too little can cause Vit D levels to rise too high.

Therefore I only recommend a Sperti (even the Fiji device) if you fully understand these risks, how powerful its UVB output is, and are ready to supplement additional UVA.

I’m a bigger fan of the low-key, unassuming reptile bulbs.

They produce very similar light, though these particular ZooMed bulbs (above) produce a better UVA-UVB ratio (6:1). Compared to the Sperti, these bulbs are:

  • gentler
  • less likely to cause problems
  • able to raise Vitamin D levels much more slowly
  • less likely to burn you
  • smaller, less in the way

You can dip your toes with the 13 watt bulb, or get the stronger one with 26 watts — it’s stronger than you’d expect. Which demonstrates just how (too) powerful the 300 watt Sperti is.

Consider spending 3-5 minutes per day in front of a reptile bulb, mid-day, preferably after a shower or other exposure to heat and red light. Protect your eyes from UV: don’t look at the bulb while on, and wear eye protection. Alternating days is a great idea; observe how you feel on days on versus days off.

Btw, there are intriguing new LED products coming on the market that will replace mercury-filled fluorescent reptile bulbs.

I plan to try these soon, but in the meantime here is one product I’ve got my eyes on.

4

Additional UVA?

Black lights.

As we’ve mentioned, most bulbs marketed for UV light are primarily designed to deliver UVB — and don’t provide sufficient UVA to mimic sunlight.

This can lead to multiple problems in your body — including Vitamin D regulation — especially with the immensely powerful Sperti lamps (and low-pressure tanning beds).

Let’s first understand what the sun’s UV spectrum looks like. How much UVA does it contain — relative to UVB?

What is the sun’s natural ratio of UVA to UVB?

  • In space — (20:1 ratio)
    • Before sunlight travels through the atmosphere — solar radiation contains 20X more UVA (than UVB).
  • On earth — (500+:1 ratio)
    • UVB is filtered out by the atmosphere.
    • Typical sunlight, on earth, has 500-100,000X more UVA than UVB — for much of the year, and most of the day.
    • This UVA-rich light what humans are adapted to.
    • We need much more UVA than we do UVB.
    • An optimal UVA/UVB ratio keeps Vitamin D levels from rising too high.
  • Bulbs — (much lower ratios)
    • Sperti (classic) is 1:1
    • Sperti (Fiji) is 3:1
    • ZooMed bulbs I recommend (above) are 6:1.

So do we need more UVA than most “UV bulbs” provide? We probably do.

It is possible to get UVA during winter! However, this would require exposing lots of skin to sunlight — outside — during potentially cold weather. This can be an option, a very healthy option, for many.

For others, we’ll need a bulb that creates a decent stream of UVA light.

Here is the best option I’ve found so far:

The highest quality UVA light I’ve found. From Waveform Lighting. The 395 nm model is perfect, and better priced.
(click to open)

If you get the Waveform realUV black light, you’ll need to stand a minimum of 2 feet away during light therapy, if not a bit further. It’s a strong light. It’s also strong enough to be across the room and immerse the room in quality UVA light — which can be good for health.

5

Get Started

CREATING A PLAN at Home

You’ve got the components: infrared, red, blue, UV. Now let’s put them together in a way that helps you re-create sunlight.

Let’s begin with a simple light setup at your desk or workspace.

A 40 watt incandescent bulb (clear) with a 4000K Centric Daylight bulb from Waveform Lighting.

First thing in the morning, and when working after dinner, I’ll leave the Daylight bulb off — and use the 40 watt incandescent by itself.

On cold days, you might especially want more heat, infrared, and red light. Turn on a heat lamp, 3-5 feet behind you, to mimic summer sunshine while you work:

Add a heat lamp (125 watt or 250 watts) behind your — or off to the side — to enjoy more warming, restorative infrared/red frequencies.

With the heat lamp, the Daylight bulb (and 40 watt incandescent in front of you), the only frequencies lacking — to recreate sunlight — are in the UV range.

Add in a reptile bulb to introduce some UV into the room.

Being far behind you (and if you’re clothed), this UV will not provide therapeutic light, but instead signal “daytime” to your brain and help keep you alert.

Now add a reptile bulb for UV, off in the background, to fill the room with extremely gentle, UV light.

Finally, if you’d like a more therapeutic, intense dose of these frequencies, utilize two or more heat lamps (250 watts each), a reptile bulb, and a black light.

Keep in mind that real sunlight provides about 1000 watts on the typical human body. This setup provides just over half of that.

Red LED products can be easily added into this setup — taking the place of one heat lamp.
The Joovv Quad 3.0 Kit — $5,645

Where do red light LED products fit into this?

  • Generally red light LEDs are best used for therapeutic purposes: Intense, full-body light for 10-30 minutes at a time.
  • Red LEDs do not mimic sunlight, and are inferior to heat lamps.

My Experience

When I was living in sick buildings — and hadn’t realized their detrimental effect yet — I fell in love with light therapy. Recreating sunlight helped me feel wonderful when nothing else could.

Over the years, I worked up to ten 150 watt clear incandescent bulbs and used them for a long time. Impressive was the ability to warm, induce sweat, improve digestion, immunity, and sleep, and energize the mind — even in a sick building.

I’d do a 20 minute session before work, and then a longer session when I got home in the evening. On breaks, I’d go outside for fresh air and sunlight. I wore blue-light reducing glasses inside, under the fluorescent light.

Healthy, restorative light became a big part of my life — and my recovery.

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Gut Microbiome Product Reviews

Mouth Health

On one hand, the gut microbiome enjoys recognition as the primary hub of the body’s microbiome.

After all, each of the body’s different microbiomes — the mouth, nose, ears, throat, stomach, skin, and vagina — are all directly influenced by the microbes that live in the gut.

However, as important as the gut microbiome is, it’s deeply influenced by another microbiome: the oral microbiome.

Gateway to the Gut

The mouth is the primary entry point for all microbes that enter the body.

Seeing that the mouth is moist, exposed to the air, and rich with nutrients, it should be no surprise that the mouth’s microbiome is rich and diverse — brimming with microbial life at all times.

The oral cavity has the second largest and diverse microbiota after the gut, harboring over 700 species of bacteria. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6503789/

It’s not just bacteria, too. Viruses and fungi are also present in the mouth and, quite often, strong pathogens such as protozoa.

Each day, trillions of microbes are swallowed — directly influencing the microbial populations in the gut.

This daily exposure to endless microbes can overwhelm a weak immune system and populate the gut with hostile microbes.

The Entire Body Is Affected

Left unchecked, microbes in the mouth can chronically activate the immune response — leading to system-wide inflammation in the body and even many systemic diseases:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Adverse pregnancy outcomes
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Digestive diseases
  • Alzheimer’s disease

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213453018301642

The cause of Alzheimer’s might be microbes living in the mouth.

These oral microbes create acids to ward off other species of microbe. However, the mouth’s immune response to oral microbes is to create acids that are much more damaging to the teeth (and fillings) than the pathogens’ own acids. Therefore, a mouth full of unchecked microbes will lead to disastrous tooth decay.

The ongoing presence of stubborn pathogens in the mouth creates a toxic sequence of events that inflames the body, rots the teeth, and, ultimately, leads to systemic disease. Microbes enter the bloodstream via the gums and then travel all around the body, activating the immune system and causing inflammation.

A pernicious cycle develops over time as infection, inflammation, dental decay all cause each other, creating compounding symptoms and disease states.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30204780-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-patients-have-alterations-in-their-oral-microbiome-composition-and-function/

A Potential Weak Link

The teeth, themselves, can be fragile in youth as well as in aging.

But, it’s often overlooked that teeth are especially vulnerable in chronic illness.

Dental plaque and the surface of the tongue are among the densest microbial habitats on Earth. Bacteria are pretty much wall to wall in there.

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/studying-mouth-bacteria-scientists-hope-learn-secrets-microbiomes-180973509/

Decaying, damaged, or poorly repaired teeth represent an opportunity for microbes to hide, reside, and thrive indefinitely.

When the body is weak, teeth can become both shelter and food for pathogens. Decaying, weak teeth are a source of nutrients for microbes.

The Path Forward

To give the body its best chance for health, recovery, and longevity, it’s important for the following steps to occur:

  • Teeth must stay clean
  • Pathogens must have nowhere to hide
  • Chronic immune system activation must be reduced

When oral health has suffered, it’s important to protect and improve the mouth’s microbiome throughout the day, every day.

Your Oral & Dental Routine

1

Rinse After Any Food

It’s not common to clean one’s teeth after every meal.

However, in chronic illness and aging, it’s critical to do just that.

Of course, it isn’t always convenient to brush your teeth after each meal and snack. But it can be very easy to rinse and swish for 60 seconds (or longer) — almost anywhere you go.

A small, travel-size bottle of tooth powder can be a gamechanger, leaving you always ready to clean your mouth after you eat.

Tooth Powder

Rather than leaving the mouth coated with food particles — which feed and grow microbes — a good tooth powder refreshes, sanitizes, and even repopulates, depressing microbial activity in the mouth and, in the case of this product, replenishing with a strain of beneficial bacteria.

If we can’t fully remove all food particles from the mouth — which is only possible via brushing and flossing — we must keep the microbial activity in the mouth suppressed until we can fully clean the teeth, tongue, gums, and other oral surfaces.

Uncle Harry’s Tooth Powder

View Christopher’s Herbal Tooth & Gum Powder on iHerb.

TheraNeem Tooth Powder

Also available on iHerb.

A quality tooth powder is, essentially, an all-natural toothpaste with solid ingredients including antimicrobial herbal extracts, Vitamin D, minerals, and even oral probiotics.

It’s good to keep a bottle in the car, at work, and perhaps in a few places around the house (such as the kitchen), where having the ability to quickly clean the mouth might prove useful.

Rinse After Snacks, Too

Keep a tooth powder bottle handy — in your purse, car, or desk at work — so you can rinse and swish after snacks, too.

A snack can introduce just as much organic matter into the oral cavity as a full meal.

Rinsing and swishing isn’t as effective as fully brushing and flossing — but it can protect the enamel from microbial fermentation of your food, and limit the need for an immune response in your gums (which is incredibly damaging to teeth).

Cleaning Throughout the Day

With a bottle of tooth powder nearby, we can easily swish and rinse following all meals and snacks, anytime.

You can also create your own mouth rinse using charcoal, ozone, essential oils, and other compounds — as we’ll discuss further.

Swish for 1-5 minutes after each meal or snack.
2

Bedtime

A Full Routine

Brush + Floss + Swish

Before bed, combine multiple steps to thoroughly remove all lodged food, plaque, and microbial biofilms from the mouth.

Three Steps For An Effective Evening Routine

  • Floss
  • Brush
  • Swish

An evening routine can be additionally be used in the morning, though it shouldn’t be a replacement for the evening.

STEP 1

Flossing

It’s easy to forget about flossing — but it’s the only way to remove trapped food particles and plaque in between the teeth.

Floss before brushing the teeth. Be gentle on the gums while flossing — don’t overdo it by causing damage to already-inflammed tissues.

Floss Picks

Also available on iHerb.

WaterPik

STEP 2

Brushing

Brushing further scrubs away microbial biofilms, plaque, and food particles.

It’s important to scrub the tongue, gums, roof of the mouth and inside of the cheeks with the toothbrush.

Then brush with tooth powder or your favorite toothpaste.

Uncle Harry’s Tooth Powder

View Christopher’s Herbal Tooth & Gum Powder on iHerb.

TheraNeem Tooth Powder

Also available on iHerb.

You can both rinse and brush with these amazing, amazing tooth powders.

STEP 3

Gum Oil or Mouthwash

(Optional, but a good idea)

Essential oils and mouthwash discourage microbial activity throughout the mouth.

In fact, they are shown to be as antimicrobial as fluoride when topically applied. Essential oils are a main reason Listerine is so antimicrobial (although the drying-effect of alcohol in Listerine makes it a subpar choice, long-term).

This antimicrobial effect seems to last for some time in the mouth, giving the immune system a breather and making life hostile for opportunistic pathogens. Essential oils even penetrate the gums and gumline, helping sanitize deep into the tissues of the mouth.

There is considerable evidence that essential oils have potential to be developed as preventive or therapeutic agents for various oral diseases.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4606594/

After brushing the teeth:

  • Apply 1-2 drops of oil to toothbrush, or apply to the gums with finger.
  • Brush and/or swish for a moment, then spit out.
  • Do not aggressively rinse, let a hint of the essential oils to keep refreshing the mouth.

Theraneem Tooth & Gum Oil

Also available on iHerb.

Some essential oils (clove, neem) are renowned for improving dental health, as well as for having some therapeutic value in a dental crisis.

Many mouthwash products include questionable ingredients, such as carrageenan or glycerin, which are purported to counteract other positive effects of the product.

3

Charcoal

Exceptional for swishing. But for Brushing?

Charcoal is becoming an extremely popular ingredient for oral health. It’s quite effective for polishing and removing stains on the teeth.

This is, in part, because charcoal has a strong negative charge, enabling it to remove plaque (which is positively-charged) from the negatively-charged teeth.

Charcoal is also antimicrobial and adsorptive, meaning it readily soaks up anything it comes into contact with in the mouth: endotoxins, tartar, and pathogens.

However, there is little evidence demonstrating that charcoal is safe for regular brushing — and some health professionals worry that prolonged brushing with charcoal might erode enamel.

Therefore it’s most likely best to use charcoal only as a mouthwash — swishing after meals or at night during the evening routine.

The good news, charcoal is incredibly effective when being used exclusively as a rinse — without brushing.

Anthony’s Activated Charcoal

View Country Life Activated Coconut Charcoal Powder on iHerb.

Enhancing With Charcoal

Upgrade your nightly routine by creating your own charcoal powder. Consider adding other powdered ingredients.

Powders to include in a charcoal rinse:

  • Neem powder — antimicrobial, antioxidant
  • Sea salt — antimicrobial, reduces acidity
  • Xylitol — antimicrobial (also sweetens)
  • Erythritol — antimicrobial (even more effective than xylitol)

Pre-Made Charcoal Products

Rinse

Tablets

4

Fluoride?

On one hand, it’s certainly possible that fluoride is likely harmful to internal bodily tissues, potentially leading to calcification of joints and flesh among other problems — including promoting the accumulation of heavy metals in humans and disruption of bird habitats around lakes.

On the other hand, fluoride is also incredibly antimicrobial against microbes in the mouth. Fluoride disrupts pathogens’ enzyme receptors and weakens microbes’ resistance to acids.

Is there a difference between drinking — ingesting via tap water — fluoride into the body (with its effects on the gut microbiome, joints and tissues)…

…and applying it topically in the mouth?

After nearly a decade of personally avoiding fluoride in both drinking water and oral products, I now consider that it might be a good idea to use a fluoride rinse 1-2x/week, simply to boost hostility of the mouth toward pathogens. It can also strengthen enamel in the right doses (daily or weekly topical applications, not drinking).

Fluoride may not be a make-or-break ingredient for your mouth health. But it’s nice to have a safer way to take advantage of its benefits (topical swishing rather than drinking it in tap water) without incurring too much risk.

ACT Total Care Fluoride Mouthwash

A glass of city water usually has about the same amount of fluoride as a small serving of fluoride toothpaste.

Fluoride may not be necessary for optimal oral health — if you’re willing to put in extra work. Remember, many essential oils are just as antimicrobial as fluoride.

If you do wish to use fluoride topically (rather than ingesting it), it can most likely be done safely, even if only used as a rinse several nights per week.

If Desired, swish 1-2x/week for 30 seconds to increase hostility against microbes in the mouth.
5

Ozone

Ozone is rapidly becoming a component of holistic dentistry.

Dental ozone use has a good amount of preliminary research into its clinical efficacy. Consider this passage from a 2019 study:

At the dentist’s office, several methods exist for applying ozone to the teeth and gums, but the most typical is insufflation where ozone gas is applied to the dental arch.

Ozone is also sometimes injected into cavitations — abscesses which can result from infected tooth extractions.

Ozonated Water

Ozonated water can be made in minutes with a specialized ozone generator.

Freshly prepared ozonated water showed a statistically significant reduction in [Mutans Streptococci] counts after an interval of 7 days and 14 days when compared to Chlorhexidine.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5583811/

The standard for killing most microbes is 0.3 ppm ozone with 3 minutes of exposure — although this standard varies based on the smoothness of a surface.

Swishing with ozonated water makes an excellent additional step in any evening routine.

A2Z Ozone Aqua-6 Multi-Purpose Ozone Generator

Ozonate water for 3-5 minutes in a glass. Then, swish in the mouth for 2-3 minutes.
6

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling produces excellent results for some people but consistency and time is required.

Several studies demonstrate that oil pulling does, in fact, have some antimicrobial properties.

When oil mixes with saliva it emulsifies and produces some compounds with saponification properties — also known as soap.

Therefore, there’s no reason not to oil pull as often as is convenient, even if the toxin-removal effects are only limited (we really don’t know one way or the other).

Be sure to spit into a trash can instead of the sink.

Oil pulling can be augmented by including a drop of gum oil in the mixture.

Pur03 Ozonated Oil w/Peppermint

This ozonated oil is fantastic for the mouth — it leaves the mouth feeling clean and fresh, even through the night.

The effects are most likely due to the presence of the essential oil and the ozone as much as the oil.

Swish olive oil or coconut oil for 5-10 minutes. Add essential oils (1-2 drops) to the mixture as desired.
7

Toothbrushes

It’s important to replace your toothbrush (or electric brush head) very frequently — every 2-3 months, minimum.

It doesn’t make sense to reduce pathogenic presence in the mouth, only to reintroduce it with each brushing.

Cleaning A Toothbrush

To reduce microbial life on your toothbrush, soak it once per week for about 10-20 minutes in one of the following solutions:

A toothbrush should still be replaced on time, even with regular weekly sterilization.

Clean toothbrush weekly. Replace Every few months.
8

Conclusion

The health of the mouth is a key component of gut health as well as the function of the entire body.

Oral and dental health commonly suffers in chronic illness and aging.

In both scenarios, it is imperative to support the body’s immune system by continually improving the microbial health of the mouth — to keep it clean.

RECAP: The steps for sustainably improving oral health

  • Tooth powder swishing after each meal or snack is a potent first step toward better oral health.
  • A solid, multi-step evening routine that includes 1) flossing, 2) brushing, and 3) swishing is essential. This routine is also useful in the morning.
  • Creating your own charcoal swish (possibly with neem powder) can be a fantastic step to augment your regimen.
  • Using ozone or fluoride several times per week (or both) could improve the oral microbiome drastically — especially in the more compromised mouth typically seen in severe immunosuppression or aging.

Nutrients For Oral Health

3 Rules of Nutrient Supplementation

The fat-soluble vitamins are vital to the health of the teeth and gums, as is Vitamin C.

Minerals are also foundational to the health of the teeth, and as with all nutrients, they must be in balance with each other as well.

It’s important to understand how to obtain these nutrients in a balanced and thoughtful way. Overnutrition and imbalance can be just as detrimental as nutrient deficiency.

Read more.

Dental Professionals

Of course, dental professionals and regular checkups are entirely necessary to fix any broken teeth, dental fillings or prosthetics.

Root canals essentially leave dead material inside the mouth, and as such is very prone to rotting. Decay indicates the presence of pathogens — always — and this means infection and illness.

Because microbes and pathogens so easily work their way inside existing dental work it is paramount to diligently keep the mouth exceptionally clean.

Ask pertinent questions of your dental providers. Respectfully get a feel for their competence. Improperly installed dental work can lead to infectious issues down the road — and all the chronic diseases that come with infection.

Uncle Harry’s Natural Remineralization Kit

If you’re looking for a starter pack — this is an excellent brand to check out. Several of my clients have reported excellent results.

(click to return to home page)

Related Articles

Categories
Movement Product Reviews

REVIEWS: Strength Products

There is no better, more holistic, and safe way to build upper body strength than bodyweight exercises.

Bodyweight exercise develops vital core strength, re-synchronization of the nervous system, and synergy between muscle groups.

Bodyweight exercises are the premier option for both teenagers getting started and middle-aged folks looking to maintain muscle mass and youthful vigor.

But that’s not all — bodyweight exercise is also the best approach when recovering from chronic illness.

Even the simplest bodyweight movements can improve and restore your body’s upper body strength, no matter your physical challenges.

Check out bodyweight movement expert Ido Portal’s inspiring video:

1

Pull-Up Bar

(amazon)

(TitanFitness.com)

(TitanFitness.com)

I’m extremely impressed with Titan Fitness products. (I’m not affiliated with the company, I’ve just purchased multiple products and love the quality and prices).

Among the most healing motions you can make is hanging — from something above you.

While branches and cliffs may have been nearby in times past, in the modern world — and as societies became more “civilized,” it’s become difficult to find something, anything, to hang from!

Enter: the chin-up bar.

A solid, reliable bar to hang from is essential for the health of your spine, back, neck, and shoulders — even if you never attempt a pull-up.

In fact, many fitness-minded folks focus too much on the strength-building qualities of the pull-up/chin-up — and neglect the equally-restorative attributes of simple hanging.

TIP: Try to hang for at least 60 seconds a day.

PROS:

  • Improve your neck, back, spine, and shoulder musculoskeletal balance
  • Correct muscle imbalances that lead to pain
  • Elongate tissues in the entire upper body, leading to better blood flow, lymph drainage, and digestion
  • Strengthen nearly every muscle in the upper body, with the exception of the triceps

CONS:

  • None

RATING: 12/10

It’s hard to overstate how important it is to hang — and to be able to, because you’ve got the right equipment.

This product is super high quality. I installed it over 12 months ago in the garage at home, and it’s amazing. The thought has crossed my mind to put one in my office, too.

2

Lebert Parallettes

(amazon)

Parallete bars are incredible for movement and building strength in the core and upper body.

Parallete bars are a small, portable, home-size replacement for real parrallel bars (which are 4 feet tall and 10+ feet long).

Always be careful, especially if trying to do inversions (feet up in the air).

PROs:

  • Super high quality
  • Two color options
  • Supports up to 400 lbs

CONs:

  • The feet/pads have a nasty rubber smell that takes a while to off-gas

RATING: 8.5/10

The only reason this product is not a 10/10 is that the rubber feet took a while to offgas.

3

Olympic Rings

(amazon)
(TitanFitness.com)

Don’t let the word “olympic” fool you. Everybody can benefit from a few minutes a day with the rings.

There’s no better way to build upper body strength than with the rings. They are absolutely at the top of the list for developing upper body muscle, fitness, tone, and overall balance.

Even if you’re saying “no way, not me” — trust me, you can benefit from rings. Even a few minutes a day, even with extremely simple, easy motions.

You don’t even have to know how to use them. Just pulling and leaning into the rings synchronizes your nervous system, improves your core strength, and puts you in the mode of “play.” As you become stronger, you’ll find yourself making natural motions that build your strength.

PROs:

  • Durable, high quality
  • Affordable
  • Extremely secure

CONs:

  • Wooden rings are easier on hands

RATING: 10/10

There is no better avenue to increase upper body strength than the Olympic rings.

Related Articles

Categories
Big Picture Movement Product Reviews

REVIEWS: Balancing Exercise Products

Balancing exercises are some of the most restorative movements you can make — for the mind and body.

This is the reason various mind-body disciplines — such as yoga — have always utilized balancing postures: they synchronize the mental and the physical better than most other activities we can engage in.

Here are some favorite tools to help encourage and take advantage of the benefits of balancing.

By improving your balance — in both lower and upper body — you can improve the health of your entire system.

1

BOSU Ball

(amazon)

BOSU NexGen

(Dick’s)

(amazon)

BOSU PRO

(Gaiam.com)

(amazon)

BOSU Original

(Walmart)

The BOSU Ball is a staple of the modern gym and training session.

Creating an unstable surface to stand on — by putting the round side face-down (feet standing on the flat side) — the body has to constantly adapt and improve its balance. This strengthen’s the body’s joints (including the ankles, knees, and hips), core muscles, tendons, and leg muscles, while also synchronizing the nervous system.

You can also use this for upper body work, by doing pushups and planks with either hands or feet on the ball. The BOSU Ball is known for being well-built and durable, and is the standard among gym equipment of this type.

  • The ORIGINAL model was the first of its kind, and still is absolutely perfect for home use.
  • The PRO model is designed for use in gyms, and is capable of withstanding even higher traffic and use.
  • The NEXGEN is a new offering, built with supremely high quality and improved grips for more extreme training.

PROs:

  • Well-designed, improves user’s balance
  • Durable — especially the PRO Model
  • Industry-leader
  • PRO Model is even more durable

CONs:

  • A bit pricey — but worth it

RATING:
8.9/10 (Original), 9.3/10 (PRO), 9.7/10 (NexGen)

2

Balance Disk

(amazon)

Simply inflate with air, and you’ve got an unstable surface to practice your balances.

This little balance disk is surprisingly helpful for being so cheap.

It’s not super tiny, but it is much more portable than a BOSU ball. It won’t give you nearly the range of possibilities a BOSU ball does, but it could be a quick “warm-up” before you head out the door — or an introduction to balancing.

I recommend the balance disk for beginners, or for experienced movers who want a portable option or variation from other, more challenging balancing tools.

PROs:

  • Pretty decent amount of stimulation to balance
  • Smaller, more portable
  • Well-made, durable

CONs:

  • Not as versatile or challenging as the BOSU ball
  • Very portable when deflated — (but re-inflating takes a few minutes)

RATING: 6.2/10

This is amazing as a quick, portable balancing tool. It’s absolutely better than nothing. However, if you can spend more on something more challenging (like a BOSU ball), you should. I enjoy owning both.

3

Lebert Parallettes

(amazon)

Parallete bars are incredible as a movement trainer.

They’re also excellent for building strength in the core and upper body. I consider them an essential component for building your core, shoulders, and entire upper body with balance between all parts.

PROs:

  • Super high quality
  • Two color options
  • Supports up to 400 lbs

CONs:

  • Smelly rubber feet/end caps.

RATING: 9.3/10.

These would be a 10/10 if the rubber end caps didn’t offgas so much. Remove them and let them offgas in the garage, or outside for a while.

At the time of this posting — the yellow set is quite a bit more affordable than the chrome. They must have had difficulty selling the yellow color.

4

Revolution Balance Board

(amazon)

This board allows you to mimic surfing, as you slide left-to-right, this really takes your balancing skills to the next level. The motion is limited to left-right motion (no forward-back), but nevertheless requires you to incorporate forward-back balancing to avoid falling either direction.

DIY — Make Your Own

You can make your own version of this for very, very cheap with two items from a hardware store: a $7-10 30 inch laminated wooden board (laminated is stronger) and a PVC pipe (they’ll often cut it for you — 16 inches should be about right). You might want to sand down the edges so they don’t scratch the floor.

PROs:

  • Convenient
  • Fun
  • Excellent trainer

CONs:

  • Pricey
  • You can make your own for under $20
  • Won’t last a lifetime

RATING: 8/10

I’d seriously consider making your own for much cheaper. You can always “upgrade” down the road if you really love the concept!

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