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How Grounding (AKA Earthing) Can Help You Feel Better Naturally

I've always felt a deep connection with nature. Even before I could talk, my mom would take me outside to show me the trees anytime I was cranky, and I would immediately stop fussing. To this day when I'm feeling down, my favorite thing to do is go for a walk in nature. Now I realize that this isn't everyone's cup of tea, but most people would do well to get more nature in their lives.

In our technology-driven world, we spend so much time indoors, surrounded by synthetic materials, electronics, and artificial lighting. It's easy to forget that we’re disconnected from something essential—the Earth itself. Grounding, or earthing, is a natural, simple way to reconnect with the Earth’s energy, and it may offer surprising health benefits.

Just being in nature can reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and cognitive function, enhance sleep quality, strengthen the immune system, and increase creativity. But if you want to take it a step further (no pun intended) you can try grounding.

What is Grounding?

You probably remember running around outside barefoot as a kid, on the grass in your front yard, or in the sand at the park. Feeling free - not a care in the world. Well, before modern shoes and artificial environments, it was also normal for adults to walk barefoot or wear minimal footwear, staying in direct contact with the Earth.

At its core, grounding is about re-establishing a connection between your body and the Earth’s surface. When you walk barefoot on the ground - whether on grass, sand, dirt, or even concrete (as long as it isn’t sealed)—your body absorbs the Earth’s free electrons. These electrons have been shown to have a balancing, healing effect on the body.

But earthing doesn’t just mean walking barefoot. With the help of grounding tools, like mats and bed sheets, you can still enjoy the benefits of earthing indoors. These tools are designed to mimic the natural electric charge you’d get from the ground, allowing you to stay grounded no matter where you are.

The Science Behind Grounding

Research on grounding has grown in recent years, and while more studies are needed, early findings are promising. The Earth carries a subtle negative charge. This negative charge can help neutralize free radicals in the body, which are linked to inflammation, aging, and various health conditions. By connecting with the Earth’s energy, you may help restore your body’s natural balance.

There's an excellent documentary called Earthing that dives deeper into the science and research of grounding, but here are a few of the benefits:

1. Reduces Inflammation and Pain

Chronic inflammation is linked to many health problems, from joint pain to heart disease. One of the most compelling benefits of grounding is its potential to reduce inflammation in the body. When you connect with the Earth, its free electrons may help neutralize the positively charged free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Many people report less pain and swelling in their joints after regular grounding sessions.

2. Improves Sleep Quality

If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, earthing might be the natural remedy you need. Studies suggest that earthing can help regulate your circadian rhythm by aligning your body with the Earth’s electrical frequency. This can help you fall asleep faster, experience deeper sleep, and wake up feeling more refreshed.

3. Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress

Feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Spending time connected to the Earth has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Grounding practices may promote a sense of calm and improve overall mental clarity. This might explain why many people feel a profound sense of peace after spending time outdoors or grounding indoors using a mat or other tool.

4. Supports Heart Health

Emerging research suggests that earthing may benefit heart health by thinning the blood and lowering blood pressure. By reducing blood viscosity (or thickness), earthing could help improve circulation and decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems over time. While more research is needed, the initial studies on this are promising.

5. Increases Energy Levels

With more restful sleep and reduced stress, many people report a significant boost in energy after incorporating earthing into their routine. This is particularly helpful for people who spend long hours in front of screens or under artificial lighting, which can disrupt our natural energy levels.

How Grounding Mats Can Help Indoors

While walking barefoot outside is the most direct way to practice earthing, it’s not always practical - especially if you live in a city or deal with extreme weather, or you just have obligations that take up your time. I often spend long hours working at my desk and don't always get as much time outdoors as I'd like. This is where grounding mats come into play. These mats are designed to replicate the Earth’s electrical charge, allowing you to stay grounded while indoors.

Here’s how grounding mats can be a game-changer:

• For City Dwellers: If you live in an apartment or urban area where green space is limited, grounding mats offer a convenient way to stay connected to the Earth’s energy. Simply plug the mat into a grounded outlet, and place it under your feet while sitting or on your bed while sleeping.

• During Colder Months: In the winter, when the ground may be too cold or covered in snow, grounding mats allow you to keep up the earthing practice all year long without having to brave the elements.

• For Office Use: Do you spend long hours at your desk? Grounding mats can be placed under your feet while you work to help counterbalance the effects of sitting for extended periods and exposure to blue light from screens.

Grounding Tools to Get Started

Aside from mats, other grounding tools like grounding bed sheets and pillowcases allow you to connect to the Earth’s energy while you sleep or relax. These tools are portable and easy to use, so you can experience the benefits of earthing even while traveling.

Ready to Try Grounding?

If you're ready to experience grounding for yourself, you can start with a grounding mat. These mats are an excellent entry point for anyone looking to experience the benefits right away. Click here to check out a highly-rated Earthing Mat.

Grounding is a simple, natural practice that offers a host of health benefits—from reducing inflammation and stress to improving sleep and heart health. Whether you’re walking barefoot outdoors or using a grounding mat inside, reconnecting with the Earth’s energy may help you feel more balanced and energized in your everyday life.