What is Earthing (grounding)?
In Summary, the process of Earthing takes the free electrons from the Earth to bind with unpaired electrons in the body and consequently reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by free radicals. This is how the Earth’s negative charge bonds with the body’s (unwanted) excessive reactive charge (during imbalance, inflammation, oxidative stress) which results in a neutralizing/balancing effect.
Presently, the average modern human lifestyle keeps people isolated from the Earth’s energy with synthetic sole shoes and indoor lifestyle which make people vulnerable to illness and oxidative stress. Our ancestors spent more time naturally connected to the Earth and there were less diseases and disorders than there are today. We are sicker society then ever before.
Health Benefits of Earthing
1. Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is at the root of many chronic diseases, from arthritis to heart disease. Research shows that Earthing can lower inflammatory markers by neutralizing free radicals, helping the body heal naturally.
2. Improve Sleep
Grounding has a direct impact on cortisol levels, the hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle. Studies reveal that individuals who ground themselves report falling asleep faster and enjoying deeper, more restorative rest.
3. Mitigate Disease Processes
Emerging research suggests that Earthing may play a role in managing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, sleep disorders, and autoimmune disorders. By reducing oxidative stress and improving blood viscosity, Earthing supports overall systemic health. For instance, grounding has been shown to thin the blood naturally, which can reduce the risk of clot formation and improve cardiovascular function. Additionally, it helps regulate the immune response, potentially lowering the overactivity seen in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and many others. Grounding also reduces chronic pain, a hallmark of many long-term diseases, by calming the nervous system and lowering inflammation at the cellular level.
4. Promote Wound and Injury Healing
Research has demonstrated that Earthing can accelerate the body’s natural healing processes. By enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation, grounding facilitates the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to damaged tissues, which is crucial for repair. Studies have shown faster recovery times in individuals using grounding techniques after injuries or surgeries. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effects of Earthing help minimize swelling, pain, and scarring, making it an excellent complementary practice for those recovering from wounds or physical trauma. Relax and place the injured area directly on the Earth and spend time meditating under the sun!
5. Improve Skin Health
By reducing oxidative stress and neutralizing free radicals, Earthing helps protect the skin from premature aging. Many practitioners report improved skin elasticity, reduced redness, and a healthier complexion after regular grounding practices.
6. Enhance Overall Wellness
Beyond specific health issues, Earthing promotes a sense of calm and balance. Many practitioners report feeling more energetic, less stressed, and more connected to their surroundings. Walking barefoot on the beach, swimming in the lake or ocean, and playing barefoot in the backyard is so mentally and spiritually refreshing, however it is not just a mental relaxation effect, it is physiological!
Practical Tips for Getting Started
You don’t need fancy equipment to start Earthing. Here are some easy ways to integrate it into your life:
- Walk Barefoot: Take a daily stroll on the grass, sand, or dirt. Spending as little as 30 minutes a day barefoot can have noticeable effects on your mood and energy levels.
- Grounding Mats: Use these specially designed tools indoors to mimic direct contact with the Earth. They’re ideal for those living in urban areas or experiencing colder climates.
- Sit or Lie Down Outside: Spend time on a blanket or directly on the ground while reading, meditating, or enjoying a meal. Even short sessions can help recharge your body’s natural balance.
- Gardening: Work with your hands in the soil for a grounding experience. The physical connection to the Earth while tending to plants amplifies the benefits of Earthing.
- Outdoor Yoga or Stretching: Perform your favorite yoga poses or stretches outside on the grass. This combines the benefits of movement with the grounding effects of Earth contact.
- Swimming in Natural Bodies of Water: Swimming in lakes, rivers, or oceans also allows for grounding, as natural bodies of water are an excellent conductor of Earth’s energy.
For those who live in urban areas or colder climates, grounding mats and sheets for sleeping, grounding feet mats for under your work desk, and grounding yoga mats for indoors are excellent alternatives to maintain your connection to the Earth year-round. You can also use grounding patches for targeted relief on specific areas of the body. Products designed by Clint Ober can be found at Earthing.com and other products at Earthing Harmony online.
The Science Behind Earthing (Grounding)
At the heart of Earthing is the idea of electron energy exchange. The Earth’s surface is teeming with free electrons, which can neutralize harmful free radicals in our bodies.
Free radicals, often generated by stress, pollution, or inflammation, can damage cellular structures, leading to chronic diseases and premature aging. By grounding, these excess free radicals are neutralized, promoting cellular repair and reducing oxidative stress.
Grounding has a stabilizing effect on the autonomic nervous system, helping to regulate the balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses. This regulation can lead to reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and an overall sense of calm.
Scientific studies have also shown that grounding can improve cortisol rhythms. Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” plays a significant role in sleep, immune function, and metabolism. By normalizing cortisol levels, grounding helps synchronize the body’s natural circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep and recovery.
The Earth’s energy, also known as the Schumann Resonance, vibrates at a frequency of approximately 7.83 Hertz. When grounding (Earthing), we are grounding to that natural frequency, thus matching the body’s frequency with the Earth’s frequency and promoting vitality and balance–literally.
I personally would warn against using businesses that use products that adjust the frequencies (Hertz) because it does not always match the natural frequency of the Earth and therefore could cause imbalance in the body. Earthing and Ground products should ground to an outlet that is grounded to the Earth. It is NOT “electrical” but rather a vessel for Earth’s natural energy to flow to your body. Read more about safe grounding products at Earthing.com or any peer reviewed scientific studies found at The Earthing Institute.
This natural process isn’t just ancient wisdom—it’s supported by an increasing body of peer-reviewed scientific evidence, positioning Earthing as a vital, yet simple, tool for health optimization. It is also a well known ancient healing and wellness remedy in historical Native American culture.
Highlights from The Earthing Movie
The Earthing Movie takes viewers on a journey through the transformative power of reconnecting with nature. The film introduces Clint Ober, whose life’s mission is to bring awareness to this simple yet profound practice. Through compelling personal stories, cutting-edge scientific explanations, and detailed body imaging scans, the documentary provides a visual and scientific narrative of Earthing’s impact.
One of the standout features of the movie is its use of advanced imaging technology to show the physiological changes in the body before and after grounding. These scans reveal how grounding improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and restores balance to the body’s systems in real time, making the science behind Earthing both accessible and visually striking.
Clint Ober’s role is central to the film’s narrative. After a successful career in the cable industry, Ober discovered the profound effects of grounding through his own health journey. He dedicated his life to researching and sharing this knowledge with the world. The movie dives into his meticulous efforts to validate Earthing through scientific studies, collaborations with researchers, and the development of tools to make grounding more accessible for everyone.
One particularly moving story involves a mother who discovered Earthing as a way to manage her child’s severe health issues. By incorporating daily grounding practices, the family saw remarkable improvements. These stories, paired with scientific evidence, emphasize that Earthing isn’t just for those dealing with illness—it’s a tool for anyone seeking better health and balance.
Loving Mother Earth 
In a world increasingly disconnected from nature, Earthing offers a simple yet powerful way to restore balance and health. Take a step outside, feel the ground beneath your feet, and experience the healing energy of the planet. For a deeper dive, watch The Earthing Movie and explore the groundbreaking work of Clint Ober. Your body and mind will thank you.
Thank you for allowing me to share one of my favorite lifestyle medicine techniques with you.
For centuries, indigenous cultures around the world have honored the Earth’s healing power to treat illness and promote wellness. Our ancestors walked barefoot and maintained a deep connection with the Earth far more than we do today. This practice is not a new discovery but rather a rediscovered art of healing.
Let’s embrace the Earth’s energy, allowing it to nurture and heal us as we reciprocate that love and respect. Enjoy the experience, and make it a fun activity for the whole family!
The Earthing Institute has a wealth of information to help you get started as well as The Earthing Movie’s website to watch the documentary for free. Here is also a link to the trailer on YouTube. Happy Earthing!
Wishing you balance and vitality,
Jami Streyle
RN, MS, HWNC-BC, HNB-BC, Nurse Coach
Jami@bodyofgraceliving.com
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