Dylan Miller

Grounding, also known as earthing, is the practice of physically connecting with the Earth’s surface, usually by walking barefoot or sitting on the ground. This simple activity has garnered increasing attention for its potential health benefits, particularly in improving physical and mental well-being.

The Prevalence of Grounding and Health Impacts in the U.S.
In the United States, while grounding is not a mainstream health practice, there has been a growing interest in alternative health strategies, including earthing, among wellness communities. Many individuals are exploring this practice, especially as they seek natural methods to reduce stress and inflammation, improve sleep, and boost overall energy levels. Surveys show that a significant portion of the population—around 15%—regularly engages in some form of nature-based health activities, including grounding, as part of their wellness routine​.

What Symptoms Can Grounding Improve?
Grounding is associated with alleviating a variety of symptoms, particularly those related to inflammation and stress. Some of the common symptoms that grounding practitioners aim to address include chronic pain, fatigue, mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, and poor sleep quality. Additionally, grounding has been linked to improved heart rate variability, which is a marker of better autonomic nervous system balance​.

Physiological Mechanisms: How Grounding Affects the Body
So, what’s happening physiologically when you ground? Grounding works by allowing the body to absorb electrons from the Earth’s surface, which may have antioxidant effects. This transfer of electrons can neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. In fact, research suggests that grounding can affect the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and lowering the stress hormone cortisol​.

When & How to Ground Effectively

Did you know you can ground in basements or on sidewalks as long as there isn’t a barrier (like a liner) between the concrete and the earth? In most cases, typical builds don’t have such barriers, making it possible to ground anywhere with exposed concrete. Simply ensure that any part of your skin—whether it’s a toe, finger, or even your whole foot—is in contact with grass, dirt, water, or concrete to stay grounded.

You can ground while you exercise, read, watch TV, or even sleep! Here’s how I set up a simple grounding system in my basement: I purchased a 1/2″ x 4″ x 12″ aluminum block, placed it on the basement floor, and connected it to conductive speaker wire. Using a “Lay-In Connector,” I attached the wire to the aluminum block. Now, I can ground anywhere in the building by clipping my grounding bracelet to the wires that run from the basement floor!

Pro Tip: You might need to drill a small pilot hole in the aluminum block before securing the lay-in connector.

From the book: The Earth Prescription

Conclusion
Grounding is a powerful yet simple practice that taps into the Earth’s natural energies to promote healing and well-being. By regularly connecting with the Earth, whether through walking barefoot on grass, soil, or sand, or even by using grounding mats indoors, people can experience reduced inflammation, better sleep, and an overall sense of calm. Combined with specific nutritional support—such as magnesium-rich foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory herbs like Gotu Kola—grounding can become an even more potent tool for enhancing health naturally. As more research continues to emerge on the benefits of this practice, grounding may find its place as an essential component of a holistic wellness routine.

References

1. Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S. T., Oschman, J. L., Sokal, K., & Sokal, P. (2012). Earthing (Grounding) the Human Body Reduces Blood Viscosity—a Major Factor in Cardiovascular Disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(1), 83-88. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2011.0080
2. Oschman, J. L. (2007). Can Electrons Act as Antioxidants? A Review and Commentary on the Grounding Hypothesis. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2007, 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1155/2007/734304
3. Brown, R. (2013). The Science of Grounding: The Benefits of Direct Physical Contact with the Earth. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 10(12), 4921-4933. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph10104921
4. Sinatra, S. T., & Zucker, M. (2014). Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever? Basic Health Publications.
5. Antell, J. (2020). Adjuvant Protocols for Healing. Digital Reference Edition.