How To Do Earthing (Plus When Not To)

Earthing (also called grounding) can be a controversial topic. Many report improved well-being and fantastic health benefits, including better sleep and less pain. However, critics emphasize the need for more solid scientific studies supporting this practice. Let’s delve into the evidence.

What is Earthing?

Earthing or grounding involves putting the body into direct and uninterrupted contact with the earth. This means the skin needs to touch soil, sand, water, or conductive material on the surface of the earth.

Clint Ober brought attention to the concept in 2010 with his book Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever! He discovered the benefits of getting grounded after his health declined after years of working as a cable installer. He knew the importance of grounding from his career and decided to apply this knowledge to his own body. He essentially pioneered the modern Earthing movement.

From a scientific perspective, the idea is that the earth has a mild negative charge. Over time, especially in modern life, our bodies build up a positive static electric charge. This positive charge creates oxidative stress in the body. Direct contact with the earth’s surface can even out this positive charge and return the body to a neutral state.

Unfortunately, most of us don’t have regular contact with the earth anymore. It’s leading some experts to wonder whether this contributes to today’s rising health problems. We wear rubber-soled shoes and live indoors so can go years without directly touching the earth.

When this positive charge builds up over time, it can lead to health problems. That’s where reconnecting to the earth through earthing mats or sheets comes in. Earthing products help us get grounded, which refers to connecting electrical devices to the earth for safety purposes.

What is Earthing vs Grounding?

Earthing and grounding are often used interchangeably, however they have subtle differences.

Earthing refers to deliberately making physical contact with the Earth for health benefits.
Grounding can refer to the electrical safety process or grounding our bodies.

You can ground indoors by using earthing products. Whether you’re walking barefoot outside or getting grounded inside, you’re essentially doing the same thing.

Earthing Science 101

Here’s a bit more on how it works:

Our bodies naturally produce free radicals. We need a certain amount of free radicals to attack and eliminate bacteria and viruses. They’re also involved in the inflammatory response, which is part of healing.

However, too many can contribute to chronic inflammation, leading to pain, chronic illnesses, and accelerated aging. While free radicals are necessary, having too many can be harmful.

These molecules can be damaging because they’re unstable and lack electrons. One way to stabilize or neutralize them is to supply the missing electrons by consuming antioxidants. Some natural sources include vitamins A, C, and E and polyphenols from green tea, cacao, pomegranate, etc.

However, our diet isn’t the only source of electrons–earthing can also help. When the body carries a positive charge, electrons flow into it. The Earth is an everflowing source of free electrons that can reduce excess free radical activity as well as inflammation. So, what does earthing do to the body?

What Does Grounding Do To the Body?

People often try earthing as a way to reduce pain, improve sleep, or speed healing. According to emerging research, earthing may help the following:

Reduce Inflammation

Because it combats oxidative stress, grounding can have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. As a result, it can reduce symptoms associated with inflammation, including:

Reducing pain from injury
Relieving muscle tension
Lowering the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines (I noticed this)
Reducing joint pain
Reducing back and neck pain

These symptoms may be the most immediately noticeable. However, grounding regularly may improve symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions over time.

A 2015 study confirmed that grounding reduced the five cardinal signs of inflammation (redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function). It also lowered circulating chemical markers of inflammation.

Researchers found those with lupus and other autoimmune conditions benefitted greatly from grounding. Their immune systems calmed down, pain levels decreased, and they generally felt better.

Improve Sleep

I can vouch strongly for this! Earthing can support a restful night’s sleep in several ways:

Lower stressful feelings
Reduce high cortisol levels
Normalize circadian rhythms
Improve insomnia and other sleep disorders
Reduce snoring
Decrease inflammation and pain

Grounding at night noticeably changes day-night cortisol secretion, promoting a normal circadian rhythm. Those who grounded while sleeping had noticeable improvements in sleep, pain, and stress symptoms. While most of us don’t camp every night, earthing sheets or mats can help us stay grounded while sleeping indoors.

Earthing can also help when traveling. Those who travel across time zones report that earthing reduces jet lag and helps them align with the new local time.

Increase Energy (I Noticed This Also)

Earthing may increase energy levels by balancing the body’s electrical charge and reducing stress. It may help:

Reduce internal stress and mental health issues
Lower inflammation
Support adrenal health
Enhance blood flow and oxygenation
Balance cortisol and hormones
Improve sleep quality
Restore electrical balance

Earthing may reduce chronic fatigue by lowering stress and inflammation and improving sleep. Improved oxygen delivery to blood cells can also improve energy levels.

Support Cardiovascular Health

Earthing may also support a healthy cardiovascular system. It’s known to reduce inflammation and stress levels, but it may also work through other pathways:

Normalizing blood flow and blood pressure
Reducing blood viscosity and risk of blood clots
Lowering stress and cortisol levels
Restoring electrical balance
Normalizing Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

HRV measures the variation in time between heartbeats. It’s often used as a biomarker for heart health, as a higher HRV is linked to better cardiovascular fitness.

Support Hormone Balance

Earthing may help support women’s hormone balance by reducing stress, improving sleep, and influencing our natural rhythms. Here are some ways earthing might impact hormones:

Lowering cortisol, which can interfere with estrogen and progesterone balance
Improve biological rhythms like menstrual cycles
Promote restful sleep, which impacts hormone balance
Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress linked to estrogen dominance and other hormone conditions
Take stress off the thyroid

Support Healing

Earthing supports a balanced nervous system. It helps take the body out of fight-or-flight and return it to rest and repair. That alone may help to speed healing and recovery. However, it may also work by:

Lowering inflammation and oxidative stress
Reducing pain by lowering inflammation
Enhancing sleep quality
Supporting a healthy immune response
Improving circulation, improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues
Shortening recovery time from athletic activity, as it reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (or DOMS)

The Earthing Institute put together an extensive list of testimonials with conditions listed from A to Z.

Scientific Evidence for Earthing

This is where the controversy begins. Critics claim there isn’t any evidence to back up this practice and that it could even be dangerous. Proponents cite anecdotal evidence and a few small studies. So, who’s right?

A few small-scale studies looked at examined the effects of earthing or grounding. One study examined 60 people with chronic pain and sleep troubles. Half the participants slept on a grounded sheet to simulate earthing. The other half slept on a placebo sheet.

Grounded participants reported reduced chronic pain, respiratory problems, arthritis, sleep apnea, and hypertension. The control group did not experience those improvements.

Another small study found that earthing reduced blood viscosity, a cardiovascular risk factor. Other studies are showing positive effects of grounding on cortisol levels and inflammation.

A 2023 study used earthing for 71 people infected with COVID-19. The study participants grounded themselves for at least 15 minutes or up to six hours daily. All but two patients fully improved within 11 days after starting earthing.

Without a placebo group it’s hard to draw conclusions, but earthing seemed to reduce their inflammation and improve breathing.

Grounding and Inflammation

What fascinates me most is the testing done in thermographic imaging. These heat patterns can signal where there’s inflammation in the human body.

This thermographic image is of a woman who complained of stiffness and chronic pain. The first picture was taken before earthing, and the second after just 30 minutes of earthing. You can see how much less red and orange (inflammation) there is on the second image.

The possibility of grounding or earthing resolving inflammation is exciting. So many chronic diseases cause and stem from chronic inflammation in the body.

My Experience with Earthing

The idea that we’re designed to connect with the earth regularly makes sense.

At the same time, I was skeptical that something so simple would be so effective. I ran the idea by some electrical engineer friends and a friend who’d done research in the biomedical field. They all confirmed that earthing could indeed be beneficial.

Have you ever noticed you sleep better on a beach vacation after spending time on the sand or in the ocean? One theory is that the sand and ocean water are both naturally conductive materials. So, both help ground the body and remove excess positive electrons.

To test the theory personally, I decided to make an effort to ground myself outside often and even use an earthing sheet while sleeping. At first, I was skeptical but figured I had nothing to lose. I made a point to walk barefoot outside and purchased an earthing sheet to use while sleeping, as this is the body’s peak repair time.

My Grounding Results

To my surprise, the first night I used the earthing mat, I fell asleep much more easily. I also had no trouble falling back asleep after waking up to nurse the baby. Of course, one night of results could have easily been a placebo effect.

After sleeping great for about a month, I was tossing and turning one night and couldn’t fall asleep for hours. The following morning, I realized the earthing sheet had disconnected from the wall!

During the daytime, I use an earthing mat under my arms while sitting at my desk using a desktop computer. When on my laptop, I also use a DefenderPad to protect my body from EMFs.

Blood tests confirmed my cortisol levels also improved over the six months I used an earthing sheet and spent time outside barefoot. Just being outside in nature is also a stress reducer!

Reactions to earthing/grounding can vary drastically. Some people notice a difference immediately, while others take a few days or weeks. Others won’t feel any changes, but cortisol levels will show improvement. In general, the more inflammation one has, the more difference grounding could make.

I’m Not the Only One…

Many on the Tour de France supposedly used an earthing recovery bag to speed recovery and increase sleep quality during this endurance race. Various Olympic swimmers, runners, and triathletes have reported using Earthing, and other professional athletes have also used Earthing methods.

How to Try Grounding/Earthing

Grounding or earthing is simply about making direct skin-to-earth contact. So, walking outside barefoot is obviously the easiest and cheapest way to get grounded. Just be sure you’re walking somewhere you won’t encounter sharp rocks, ticks, or other dangers.

You can also lie or sit down on the earth. Have a picnic in the park or lie down in the backyard to watch for shooting stars.

If you’re near a body of water, you can also access the earth’s energy by swimming or wading. You can get grounded all summer long by lying on the beach and cooling off in the lake.

For earthing to work, the skin must be in direct contact with rock, dirt, or water. The beach/ocean is possibly the best place as not only are sand and salt water extremely conductive, but salt water is also high in magnesium. This may be why many people sleep better while vacationing at the beach!

Earthing Indoors

Those who can’t or don’t want to spend time outdoors can accomplish some of the same results indoors. There are various grounding products to make it easy to connect to the earth inside.

An earthing mat can be used under your arms or feet while on a computer to reduce the amount of EMFs you’re exposed to. It’s also easy to bring when traveling.
A half-sized earthing sheet works on any bed size.

I use an earthing mat on my computer (it’s under my desk) and an earthing sheet on my bed. Since beginning this routine, I’ve definitely noticed positive changes.

The earth’s natural electrons flow through the ground wire and onto the mat. It even works if you live or work in a high-rise. The mat comes with an outlet tester. You just plug it in to see if the outlet is properly grounded.

How Long Should You Ground Each Day?

There are no strict guidelines for how long you should ground each day. However, many experts suggest starting with 20 to 30 minutes to get potential benefits.

Consistency is key. Earthing daily, even 10 or 20 minutes, may be more beneficial than hour-long, infrequent sessions. However, committing to an hour a day might be better for those wanting to address chronic issues like inflammation, pain, or insomnia.

The benefits of earthing may build over time. Even 10-15 minutes a few days a week can help. Ultimately, whether you’re using direct contact or earthing tools indoors, the goal is regular use. Incorporating it into your daily routine improves your likelihood of noticing benefits.

When NOT To Try Earthing/Grounding

Several years ago, I interviewed EMF expert Dr. Libby Darnell of Revived Living on the topic of EMFs and grounding. She explained one serious caution about earthing that many people don’t consider: ground current.

If there’s a strong ground current it’s possible that attempting to ground oneself could create more health issues. In theory, this is most problematic in large cities where overwires run in the ground. Her podcast episode talks about how to test for this in your area.

Additionally, don’t practice earthing during thunderstorms with lightning. Direct contact with the ground during those times can increase your risk of being struck by lightning. The Earth conducts electricity, so it’s safer to avoid grounding during electrical storms.

Those with electronic devices like pacemakers and insulin pumps should also be cautious. It’s best to consult with your doctor before using grounding products in these cases. The electrical interaction between the device and the earthing tool may interfere with its function.

In general, it’s wise to practice earthing in clean, safe environments and avoid it during times of potential environmental risks.

Earthing: Bottom Line

This is a controversial topic and more research is needed. That said, in most cases (when there isn’t a strong ground current), it’s ideal to spend time barefoot outside or use a grounding sheet. Going barefoot has many benefits, and there aren’t side effects or downsides.

Keep track of how you feel and note any improvements. I like using my Oura Ring to help with this.

Have you tried earthing or grounding? Did you notice any improvements in your sleep or pain levels? Share with us below!

This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Ann Shippy, who is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and a certified Functional Medicine physician with a thriving practice in Austin, Texas. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.

Sources

Oschman, J. L., Chevalier, G., & Brown, R. (2015). The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of inflammation research, 8, 83–96.
Chevalier, G., et al. Earthing: health implications of reconnecting the human body to the Earth’s surface electrons. Journal of environmental and public health, 2012, 291541.
Oschman JL. Can electrons act as antioxidants? A review and commentary. J Altern Complement Med. 2007 Nov;13(9):955-67.
Brown, R., Chevalier, G., & Hill, M. (2015). Grounding after moderate eccentric contractions reduces muscle damage. Open access journal of sports medicine, 6, 305–317.
Chevalier, G., Patel, S., Weiss, L., Chopra, D., & Mills, P. J. (2019). The Effects of Grounding (Earthing) on Bodyworkers‘ Pain and Overall Quality of Life: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Explore (New York, N.Y.), 15(3), 181–190.
Ghaly, M., & Teplitz, D. (2004). The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 10(5), 767–776.
Mousa H. A. (2023). Prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection by earthing. Biomedical journal, 46(1), 60–69.
Sokal, K., & Sokal, P. (2011). Earthing the human body influences physiologic processes. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 17(4), 301–308.
Oschman, J. L., Chevalier, G., & Brown, R. (2015). The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of inflammation research, 8, 83–96.
Sokal, P., et al. (2013). Differences in Blood Urea and Creatinine Concentrations in Earthed and Unearthed Subjects during Cycling Exercise and Recovery. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2013, 382643.
Kubota, Y., et al. (2017). Heart rate variability and lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. Annals of epidemiology, 27(10), 619–625.e2.
Ober C. (2000). Grounding the human body to neutralize bioelectrical stress from static electricity and EMFs. ESD Journal.
Kattner A. A. (2023). Down to earth – A new type of hygiene. Biomedical journal, 46(1), 1–7.

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About Katie Wells

Katie Wells, CTNC, MCHC, Founder of Wellness Mama and Co-founder of Wellnesse, has a background in research, journalism, and nutrition. As a mom of six, she turned to research and took health into her own hands to find answers to her health problems. WellnessMama.com is the culmination of her thousands of hours of research and all posts are medically reviewed and verified by the Wellness Mama research team. Katie is also the author of the bestselling books The Wellness Mama Cookbook and The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox.

Comments

347 responses to “Earthing & Grounding: Legit or Hype? (How to & When Not To)”

Lisa

February 1, 2013

Very interesting! I’ve never heard of this, but it’s supportive of barefoot walking, so that’s awesome! =)

Reply
Cathleen

January 18, 2013

I have really been getting some good rest on my recently purchased mat. Although I have to say when it is way below freezing I am very restless. I have been experimenting and it may be my imagination, but I toss and turn when its below 30 degrees, possibly because the earth is cold?!?!

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  January 18, 2013
  
  Hmmm… maybe. It hasn’t been cold much where we are, but I wonder if that would have an effect…
  
  Reply
agoss

November 21, 2012

Thanks…..he doesn’t sleep ‘shirtless’….any recommendations?

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  November 21, 2012
  
  under his arms area or lower legs? could also go on the pillow…
  
  Reply
2. Katelyn
  
  April 29, 2013
  
  My handyman dad did a conductivity test on his sheets while they were covered with a cotton fitted sheet and says they still conduct through that layer. If your hubby’s pjs aren’t super-thick he still should get benefit it seems.
  
  Reply
agoss

November 21, 2012

It needs to be skin-to-skin contact? How do you best insure that? I’m thinking of getting this for my skeptical husband who moves all over the house trying to find a good spot to sleep.Thanks!

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  November 21, 2012
  
  Even if you move, you will still have contact… I move a lot in my sleep also, but as long as he sleeps shirtless and it is under his torso area, he will get contact…
  
  Reply
Melissa

September 6, 2012

The overall concept of connecting to the earth makes a lot of sense, and I will definitely try this. But how can electrons be positive? That part doesn’t seem to make sense.

Reply
1. Rebekah
  
  September 13, 2012
  
  All electrons are either positively or negatively charged. The balance in the charge of the electrons determines the charge of the atom. Sometimes electrons travel on their own and that’s when they can be detrimental to our health.
  
  Reply
  1. Pat
    
    September 22, 2012
    
    Electrons are negatively charged. Protons are positively charged. Ions are atoms/molecules that can be either positively charged or negatively charged, depending on whether they have more protons or electrons.
    
    Reply
    1. Saraswati Patel
      
      January 9, 2021
      
      Pat is correct. This is basic high school Physics.
      
      Reply
    2. Andre
      
      June 2, 2023
      
      Electrons have a ‘negative electrical charge’ but have a ‘positive effect’ (on health).
      
      Reply
Jana

September 6, 2012

I don’t know if it’s quite the same but I sleep on wood. As you mention, I always enjoyed sleeping outside in a tent or on a meadow but my night rest on my mattress was always exhausting. I was fed up with it and so this winter I tried sleeping on the floor. I used two camping mats covered by a thick cover. It was working for a while but after a few weeks I started feeling something around my kidneys so I assumed it’s too cold to sleep on the floor. I have a solid wood base of my bed so I just took the mattress of the bed and covered the wood with a camping mat and a thick cover over it. I’ve been sleeping on it since then, nearly 8 months now and there is nothing better. At the beginning, for the first week when I was still sleeping on the floor it was uncomfortable for the first three nights because my muscles were tense. Mostly I felt slightly sore pelvis muscles which became completely relaxed after a week. Quickly all the muscles in my body relaxed and I don’t suffer back pain anymore. I sleep soundly and I’m rested when I wake up. I can say much about the menstrual cycle or other cycles because I started paleo diet at the same time. Everything improved but I think it was a combination of the changed sleeping habits and the diet. I could say that one of my missions in life became to avoid sleeping on mattresses as much as I can.

Reply
Brooke Coleman

August 14, 2012

Thanks for all of this! I’ve been thinking about this a lot and I feel in my body that contact with the earth is necessary and you just helped explain the WHY of it–I also never thought about the magnesium in the ocean before. Thanks for connecting some of these dots! I work in women’s health and I think of the importance of earth energy for women and wonder about how urinating on the earth and opening themselves to the earth energy at their root affects their pelvic health. I’m also wondering if humans can ground each other? My kids sure want to sleep on me and I am a part of the earth! Have you seen anything about humans as earthlings/grounders?

Reply
Kwise

August 7, 2012

How long do these mats last?

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  August 7, 2012
  
  Supposedly the mat lasts indefinitely and the cover lasts through at least 100 washes. I’ve been using it for months and it hasn’t shown any wear at all…
  
  Reply
Ion

July 25, 2012

When I was a child I used to run and walk without shoes. At that time I was spending a lot of energy, because I needed to help my grand father and there was a lot of work to do. Of course I didn’t have any problems falling asleep.

Today I live in a city in an apartment. I do less activity and this affects my sleep. However, I don’t have problems falling asleep.

Probably, I feel skeptical about the theory of Earthing.

Reply
1. Jeff
  
  September 24, 2014
  
  Hmm… I’m not certain why so many people are skeptical about Earthing, when it is truly is supported by basic science and a number of scientific studies.
  
  My advice to anyone who is yet unconvinced, or is sitting on the edge, is to first watch the video documentary entitled “Grounded”, by Kroschel Films (available at Amazon or $16). This is a National Geographic style video (74 minutes) that is both compelling and convincing. This documentary tells the tale of an Earthing “newbie”, and the experiences of other residents of Haines, Alaska. You’ll also follow the film-maker on a globe-trotting adventure in his pursuit of answers to the Earthing debate.
  
  I had personally ordered an Earthing Sheet and Mat, but my wife really had minimal interest in the products. The video had come in my Earthing “Starter Kit” and I thought why not pop it in the DVD. My wife was doing a bit of homework with my 7 year old son, and as the documentary progressed, they both became intrigued by the film: my son loved watching the scenery and wildlife (moose, bears, wolverine, etc.), while my wife became totally captivated and entranced by the evidence based film that taught her about a health concept that was so simple, and yet so powerful. As the documentary concluded, her comment to me was “Everyone on Planet Earth needs to watch this film”!
  
  After watching the film, go one more step and read the book entitled “Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever!” The documentary film, and this Earthing book are really a one-two punch that are extremely convincing in terms of the evidence presented.
  
  There’s not enough room to list all of the evidence in these two resources, but if you want to have a true understanding of the benefits of Earthing, you simply must invest $30 or so, watch the Film, and read the Book. Don’t listen to anyone’s comments about this topic who hasn’t!!
  
  I’m quite certain that these resources will calm your skepticism!
  
  Reply
  1. brittany
    
    January 24, 2016
    
    The film is available on Hulu, and I found the book in my local library, if anyone wants to save there as well.
    
    Reply
Tiffany

July 24, 2012

My I suggest that is its uncomfortable to sit outside and you dont want to buy a mat….would filling a pot with fresh soil and doing a “footsit” in it work maybe. Worth a shot.

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  July 24, 2012
  
  For it to work, the dirt has to be touching the actual ground/soil or the grounding effect won’t happen… so unless the pot was conductive as well and sitting on the ground, I don’t think it would have the same effect…
  
  Reply
Kortney Bewley

July 23, 2012

I do grounding usually everyday, outside while meditating or doing movement meditation while hoopdancing.

Reply
1. John shorman
  
  July 6, 2023
  
  I was hurt in a compartment syndrome accident and would like to try grounding
  
  Reply
Kerry Westbury

July 21, 2012

this is really interesting I have been studying this and from what I have read and researched I think a great place to start is to stand on the ground in bare feet each day, try doing it before bed, as close to the earth is best, bitumen is better than concrete. We store electromagnetic energy in our bodies and need to displace this as best as possible. the other way to do this is to have a shower, even washing your hands in running water is useful. Please also check the electrical appliances that are near you when you sleep, clock radios, cordless and mobile phones, don’t sleep near meter boxes that can be on an outside wall near your bed! Best to remove all of these from the sleeping areas in your home. Turn off electric blankets at the wall. Kerry

Reply
1. Virginia
  
  August 16, 2019
  
  So doesn’t the earthling mat plug in and give electromatic energy. I read this and thought wait what? Take out electrical appliances but you’re sleeping on one.
  
  Reply
  1. Kelley
    
    January 24, 2022
    
    Don’t worry because the mat or sheet is not plugged into the electricity – only the grounding line. <3
    
    Reply
Miggie

July 21, 2012

Makes sense. I live in the deep South, so the only concerns I have is that the website mentioned
not using the mat during thunderstorms. “Down here”, we don’t have much control over sudden
storms that might arise during the night. Any thoughts on that?

Miggie, Mississippi

Reply
1. Martin Zucker
  
  July 23, 2012
  
  Lightning is an unpredictable phenomenon. The chances of a house getting hit by lightning is extremely remote. In any case, and just as a precaution, we advise folks to unplug their Earthing mats or sheets during a thunderstorm. We talk about lightning in Appendix A in the Earthing book.
  Cheers
  Martin Zucker, co-author of the Earthing book
  
  Reply
  1. Wellness Mama
    
    July 23, 2012
    
    Hi Martin! Thanks for commenting…
    
    Reply
Dena Smith

July 20, 2012

I am really enjoying your blog. Thank you for sharing your information with us.   The following comments are NOT in any way, “dissing” you; but I feel each person needs to do their own “due diligence” before purchasing ANYTHING. I am happy you’re noticing some results…please keep us updated.

Let me just say, right up front, I have not purchased or tried one of these.   I have fibromyalgia (for over 35 years), which causes severe migrating muscle and joint pain, headaches/migraines, muscle cramping, sleep disorders, and a multitude of other issues; and I have severely ripped ligaments and tendons in both feet (for ten years, now.) I’m allergic to all pain meds, so I am constantly searching for natural alternatives to help ease the pain. Needless to say, I am always interested in hearing what “respected others” have to say about alternative therapies, etc.

I googled reviews for earthing mats; and I think everyone else should, too, before purchasing.   Amazon has some very detailed reviews on it…read them all, please. I’ve just come across so many things that have said they would do this and that, and they ended up being scams/shams at the expense of our finances. So, I’m a little gun-shy with things like this.

I hope you continue to have positive results, and hope everyone (on your blog) that buys one has marvelous results, too. Please post your results here for all of us, to enable the furtherance of our individual “due diligence”. I really hope this could be “the” ticket for me. Thank you.

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  July 21, 2012
  
  I’ll definitely keep you posted and I completely agree… everyone should definitely do their own research too! Personally, even if I wasn’t getting the sleep benefits, I’d still use it for the EMF blocking benefits though 🙂
  
  Reply
  1. Peggy
    
    February 29, 2016
    
    Hi Katie, I’ve been reading mostly good reviews, but others that say that in a more grounded state we actually attract more electricity from surrounding areas (from lamps, clocks, computers etc.). I trust you so I’d like your opinion. I may now have phrased it correctly above. Also, that grounding into an outlet (even a grounded outlet) is an ‘equipment’ ground, and not the same? I cannot run a wire to an outside ground and would need to use an outlet. Help?
    
    Reply
  2. Kate
    
    December 22, 2020
    
    Because of Covid-19 I wore shoes very little since we all switched to Zoom. Even now I don’t and if I can, I take them off outside. That’s been my practice for 20 years so I’m well grounded and sleep fantastically.
    
    Right?
    
    Whoops. I have fibromyalgia but I can take meds for pain relief (hilarious when know-it-all narcissist & her newly minted RN daughter dx me as a “drug addict”), and I do take meds for pain relief. I guess maybe I shouldn’t have a foundation to my bedroom and sleep on the earth.
    
    Be skeptical of authors declaring “the most important health discovery ever”. Check out the rigor of those “studies”. Double blind? No. Subjects invested in the outcome? Yup. Peer reviewed? But why?
    
    It was magnets, it’s been copper and crystals. Kellogg did scary electrical baths. Give me samples, I’ll try it. Ask for money? Nope. Real medicine isn’t about the money.
    
    Reply
    1. Mark
      
      April 8, 2021
      
      .. not sure what your point is, the person criticizing you for taking meds really isn’t relevant here is it? Nobody is saying it cures any disease. I think at least some people understand vested interests in research and the concept of peer review.
      
      Reply
    2. Janis
      
      July 12, 2021
      
      I’m not sure what you’re really complaining about. I didn’t see her asking for money and you can do grounding for free by standing on the grass or dirt in bare feet.
      
      Reply
    3. Della
      
      August 18, 2022
      
      Hi, Kate, I also have fibromyalgia, I was unable to tolerate Drs medications but I found it very helpful to remove all wheat & legumes (including herbs like fenugreek found in most curry powder & liquorice.) If I inadvertently eat any of the above I get a serious flare. All the best on your healing journey.
      On the subject of earthing I had earthing sheets a few years ago but with weekly washing they didn’t last long. They were also plugged into the earth plug. I’m keen to try a bed mat with an outside probe as I only had small improvements with the sheets & didn’t know about legumes at that time. I believe Anything natural that lowers inflammation is worth a try.
      
      Reply
      1. pam
        
        May 11, 2023
        
        hi della, i too have had fibromyalgia for many yrs, 40+ yrs and i didn’t know legumes might be a problem, or fenugreek. i tried turmeric for pain relief and each time i used it i got severe jaw pain. i seem to be allergic, or have sensitivities to everything these days., including 99% of drugs they try to give me. i have tried all the earthing mats, etc. for the home, n while i feel they help, i find i feel the best grounding is when i put my feet in the grass. i like to put a ground rod outside instead of using the grounded part on the outlet at night to plug into my mattress grounding pad to see if that would help me more with pain control. i feel a lot of the pain is due to foods, like milk, wheat, eggs, sugar so i tried to stay away from those types of things and anything with preservatives, and additives. i have found the list each year gets longer and longer of the foods i can’t eat. hopefully someday soon, they will have an answer to our pain from fibro. good luck on your quest to find pain relief, pam
  3. Amanda
    
    April 16, 2021
    
    Late reply sorry, but how do you check for those ground currents to make sure it’s safe to earth?
    
    Reply
2. Beth Michaels
  
  February 26, 2014
  
  Dear Dana, After reading your comment, I could immediately tell that you probably suffer from the same condition that I do – namely fluoroquinolone toxicity syndrome. Look this up online. This syndrome mimics Lyme Disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatique, and can cause severe joint and muscle pain, torn tendons, neuropathy and other peripheral and central nervous system disorders and lead to other conditions such as food intolerances, electromagnetic sensitivities and multiple chemical sensitivity. Most likely you took a fluoroquinolone antibiotic sometime in the past. These include Cipro, Levaquin, Avelox, etc. There isn’t much you can do, but knowing you have it can help you avoid exposure to fluoroquinolone antibiotics and other substances that exacerbate the condition such as aspirin, gluten, dairy, soy and countless others… There are support groups online where one can find advice how to live with this syndrome. I hope I was able to help.
  
  Reply
  1. Rene
    
    August 14, 2016
    
    Uh, Respectfully there is a lot that a person can do regarding Flouroquinolone injuries. Having both Lyme disease and then harmed severely by 3 tablets of Cipro…….with Faith in God, I slowly slowly made my way to being able to stand, walk, and even exercise. It took several years, but the gains I made were well worth it!!! So with that, I only mean to encourage anyone that what is possible is not always seen, or felt in a time frame that we want, but to stay faithful and keep on learning, and stepping forward in the face of what looks impossible is a worth while path. The internal spirit, heart, mind are often the obstacle in the way or improvement. Faith is life. Faith in life, in God has me grateful and in awe of his power to heal, and make me whole. That was the grounding, the nutrient, the electron that gave the life force to all the holistic methods, remedies, and life style I have been living.
    
    Reply
3. Anjulita
  
  April 27, 2014
  
  I started looking at this website only yesterday, and my suggestion for your fibromyalgia would be to look at an alternative therapy. Others posting on this website have more experience with the benefits of earthing, I cannot say this yet as I virtually have zero experience. But I read a book by John Sarno some 5-6 years ago, I think it was called ‘The Epidemic of mind body disorders’. From what I have read, the therapy originated in the US and access to therapists is easier there than elsewhere. Please take a look at the book (there are others too), it may be that following that therapy can heal you. I have no first hand experience of the therapy, but a friend of mine and I followed a training course together. He took on board the various suggestions, and was able to cure his aching knees (which meant he had not been able to cycle) within a few weeks. Sincerely hope this therapy may help you.
  
  Reply
4. nik
  
  August 13, 2014
  
  I have not heard (yet) about the syndrome mentioned above, but I too was concerned and sympathized over your health. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia but never saw it as really knowing what was wrong, as fibromyalgia must have some sort of cause. I believe that many are misdiagnosed and have what I have- chronic Lyme disease. Even if you do the research and don’t think you have Lyme, the protocols may help you greatly, as more than likely you have various chronic infections (EBV, Cyto, Herpes 6, etc etc). Things such as taking oregano oil, lauracidin, etc , going gluten/dairy/sugar free, etc may really help you. I never saw progress until those things. I am now just starting a strong antibiotic and herbal protocol. I’d recommend looking at the trailer or movie “Under Our Skin” on youtube, checking out Dr. Mercola, and if you pursue testing, using a Lyme-literate lab such as IGenex in California. All the best to you, feel better
  
  Reply
5. Jan H
  
  August 29, 2014
  
  I too was skeptical of Earthing when I read about it a year ago. Then I began to read the research studies done and slowly opened my mind to the possibility it may help. I began by ordering the rubber mat but to be honest I wish I had ordered the plush pad in place of the rubber mat because the rubber mat has begun to peel. It still WORKS but I don’t like the fac that it is peeling. That said, the rubber mats were never meant to be slept with for this reason–they peel easier. If you want to sleep with any Earthing product, I would strongly recommend either a half sheet or a fitted sheet. There is a difference in price so you would need to figure out what you can afford. If both of those are still too expensive, try the plush pad which can be slept with and is actually far more comfortable to lay your feet on than a rubber mat even though the mat comes with a covering. As for what has it done for me? Oh my goodness. Like I said, I was a skeptic so I did not expect anything to occur. Therefore, when I woke up one morning with no pain after a day’s activities and high inflammatory foods the day before which should have put me in bed that next day, I was shocked when I woke up with little to no pain! Has it eliminated the pain? No. For some it does. I think it depends on how chronic your condition has been and for how long. I have had rheumatoid arthritis since the age of 15. I am now 62. Back to the product at hand–I then purchased the earthing half sheet and regretted not doing so sooner. It has made a world of difference in my sleep quality and in maintaining levels of pain and inflammation. Furthermore, I was on thyroid medication for two decades. Earthing has normalized my thyroid hormone levels and I am now officially off of all my thyroid medication. I was hypothyroid. Because I poo-pooed it on the thyroid, I did not notify my doctor and I became overdosed on the thyroid medication and experienced excessive thyroid until one day I realized after I had heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, profuse sweating, mood swings, and more, that I was probably hypERthyroid. I went off of the medication and did great but i do not recommend doing that without working with your doctor. I had no choice because I could not get into see my MD despite the symptoms (scary) and had to make a difficult decision but it is not something I recommend. So if you are on any medications (blood thinning, thyroid, meds for diabetes, inflammation–be sure to check with your doctor to monitor your levels so you don’t wind up experiencing what I did. when I did get to see a new Endocrinologist he confirmed that my levels were normal after being off of thyroid meds for one month. They have remained normal since then and that was six months ago. Amazing stuff. It also healed a sore on my foot that I had for years and could not heal through conventional means. A week after I began sleeping Grounded, that sore began to heal up. There definitely is something to this which I can’t explain as I’m not a scientist or doctor. But I can testify to the effects it has had on me, along with hundreds, maybe thousands of people. If you can try it, I would do so. I have since educated others about it all who have purchased products and they too have seen benefits. Some more than others. Just remember that if your condition has been long-term, it may take longer to see benefits from this as I did with my rheumatoid arthritis inflammation. Now, I ground as often as I can. I notice a difference when I’m not. It also has a calming effect that I can’t describe. If I’ve been anxious, I go into my room, plant my body on my half sheet and within 30 minutes or so, I begin to feel calmer. Oh, one last thing… if you grind your teeth at night, this has been known to stop that (also snoring from other testimonials). I do grind my teeth–always have–and yes, it did in fact, stop me from grinding at night. when all is said and done — is it a panacea? No. A cure-all? No. But it is powerful, more than any other product out there, imho. I will never be without an Earthing device again. I would encourage you to check out their website https://earthinginstitute.net and read the articles that have been published in medical journals reporting on the clinical trials they have done and reported on. And for what it’s worth, people with fibromyalgia have been known to improve. I can’t say all have but I have heard that those with fibromyalgia has benefited. Hope that helps.
  
  Reply
  1. Mila Fox
    
    December 21, 2018
    
    Same thing has happened to both myself and my Aunt. Decades of thyroid dx. We both tried grounding/ earthing. We both became hyperthyroid! Our meds have been decreased and we are now normalizing. I have Addison’s dx too. My overall sense of well-being has dramatically improved and the constant body pains have lifted. I don’t care how it works…I feel like a new person!
    
    Reply
6. Sophie
  
  March 16, 2019
  
  Dena,
  
  I hope you may find some useful things to consider, and here’s another: there have been truly scientific studies that show a beneficial impact on Fibromyalgia symptoms from clinical EFT, or ‘Tapping.’ Check out thetappingsolution.com and eftuniverse.com, where there are free resources specific to Fibromyalgia you can use for free to do Tapping on your own. 🙂 Sophie
  
  Reply
7. Lisa
  
  December 11, 2019
  
  I guess I am super late to the subject but most of the reviews I see online are POSITIVE particularly with helping people get better sleep. Perhaps as they gain popularity there is a large pool of people reviewing.
  
  Reply
8. Better Naler
  
  June 10, 2023
  
  I, too, have fibromyalgia and have tried many things. In desperation to get good quality sleep and pain relief, I decided to try an Earthing pad. I have used it for about a week now. My sleep has definitely improved. I’m hoping prolonged used will alleviate pain and muscle soreness. It would be wonderful to also get relief for hip, knee and back pain due to degeneration. I’m grateful for ANY help it may provide. Time will tell.
  
  Reply
Ckensora

July 20, 2012

I am not a spontaneous purchaser ****EVER**** but I trust you wellness mama and I just went for it! I will let you know as soon as get it. 🙂

excited!!!!

Reply
Jamie

July 20, 2012

Just curious, because of the link, what do you think of the Bulletproof coffee idea/recipe. Ever tried it? I haven’t ….yet.

Reply
1. Wellness Mama
  
  July 21, 2012
  
  I actually love it! I adapt a little… just add grassfed raw butter and coconut oil and add a little vanilla. It’s actually really good!
  
  Reply
  1. Angela
    
    March 18, 2015
    
    That’s how I make mine!
    
    Reply
Karah Spahn

July 20, 2012

Wow, that is fascinating! Thanks for sharing–it makes so much sense, doesn’t it?

Reply
Tonja Field

July 20, 2012

Just bought one… I am sure there are many variables as to why I RARELY (if ever) wake up feeling rested. This is worth a shot!

Reply
Cathy

July 20, 2012

I’ve tried just simply sitting outside for 30 minutes a day with my bare feet on the ground in my garden area. I feel much calmer after doing this, so I think there really is something to it. However, with the summer heat, I haven’t done the past few weeks. Need to start doing it first thing in the morning to get it in, I think.

Reply
1. Esther Washington
  
  December 2, 2015
  
  Oh heavens, it seems this article is old (but not stale!)
  
  Regardless, your comment about sitting outdoors with bare feet reminded me I was recently advised to assure full compliment of Vitamin D3, by sitting in morning sunshine, sans sunscreen, for a 30 minute session daily. Obviously you can’t do that in middle of winter, and I confess I’ve found scheduling it even in good wether almost impossible. Part of our Modern Lifestyle, I guess. Anyway, one result of actually getting your “Sunshine Vitamin” (D3), is improved mood. So I can’t help but wonder if that is actually at least partly the source of *your* positive observations.
  
  Worth noting, I finally got a Vitamin D3 test done(check out VitaminDCouncil.org for a test kit and more info), and it revealed I have an extremely low level of D, so now I’m taking vitamin D3 and will test again in a few months. Apparently low D is quite common in America (and elsewhere), it is worth reading about the WHY we should be concerned. I decided to get myself tested when my doctor was not interested. (while taking medicine known to affect bone strength!)
  
  Reply
Jeanette

July 20, 2012

Thank you for this. I have been wondering for a few days if I should get one, and now I have placed my order. Had to go to a different webshop, though, as I live in Norway, but anyways, it’s soon on its way. And I’m really looking forward to it! 🙂

Reply
1. Elizabeth Kvammen
  
  July 22, 2012
  
  hi! we’re in Norway too – please can you tell me where you got your mat from? thanks 🙂
  
  Reply
  1. Allison
    
    December 18, 2017
    
    Norway here as well do you sell the mats here as well? Thanks
    
    Reply
2. Gabriel
  
  November 21, 2014
  
  There is no such thing as a positive electron. And if there were, it would have nothing whatsoever to do with free radicals. Nothing you do affects the number of electrons in your body. The static charge you may build up exists only on the surface, just like electricity flows only over the surface of any conductor, not through it.
  Furthermore, you are far better electrically connected to ground every single time you take a bath or shower or touch a tap or radiator than you are when walking barefoot.
  Many people who work with electronics wear grounding bracelets all day. Unlike merely taking off your shoes, these bracelets are wired to ground properly. These people experience no health benefits from this whatsoever.
  You don’t need a false reason to go barefoot. Do it because it’s more comfortable, and teaches you to stop striking the ground with your heel.
  
  Reply
  1. Scott
    
    November 22, 2014
    
    I will be the first to admit that we do know all that makes up this wonderful creation and are learning more everyday it seems, but knowing what we do know makes it easy to dismiss certain claims. A quick science check and immediately I have some problems with your article Mama. Electrons are ALWAYS negatively charged.
    Protons are ALWAYS positively charged.
    You have both protons and neutrons in atoms. As long as the number of each are equal (5 protons and 5 electrons for example) the atom is electrically neutral.
    But when there is an imbalance between the two, then the atom is considered to be an ION.
    Here is the important thing: ONLY electrons (NEGATIVE) can be lost or gained in normal chemical reactions.
    Thus negative ions are created when a neutral atom gains additional electrons. The charge of the ion will be the difference between the two. (5 protons and 7 electrons will create an ion with a -2 charge).
    To get positive IONS an atom must lose electrons so there aren’t enough left to counteract the positive charge of all the protons. (5 protons and 3 electrons will create an ion with a +2 charge).
    
    Note the protons (which define the element and are POSITIVE) never change. Only the number of electrons changes. But in your article above your statement that “Positive electrons in the form of free radicals” and “Reducing inflammation by defusing excess positive electrons” by direct contact with the ground to balance this out as it is a negative grounding charge would be impossible as we currently understand.
    My concern is that if you are presenting authoritatively that there is new theory based on a book you read and that alone is your basis for this and many of your articles, then I can’t help but feel a loss of credibility and must advise others to seriously question your site (and I have enjoyed it for quite awhile).
    
    Reply
    1. Carlos
      
      April 13, 2015
      
      Earthing works!stop trying to demonize something that works! I tried it and many friends and family members are on earthing and have reported reduced pain and better sleep just to be brief.so Mamma is doing good to her public.
      
      Reply
      1. garuda
        
        April 21, 2015
        
        Correlation is not causation. Example: I wake up at 5 AM, then the sun rises; therefore the sun rises because I wake up at 5 AM.
        
        Placebo effect. Example: My Mom says that royal blue is a relaxing color. When I see royal blue, I become more relaxed because I expect to be more relaxed.
      2. Judie
        
        June 14, 2015
        
        Carlos – yes it does work! Many people thought the flying contraption called an airplane couldn’t work either. And quite frankly if I got great results from the placebo effect I say bring it on ! If you’re open minded many things can make you feel wonderful but if your negative and want to find problems with new concepts & research then I guess you won’t get the positive effects no matter what.
      3. Kate
        
        April 13, 2019
        
        Hi Katie,
        
        I just read a response refuting the supposed problem of ground current on the website earthinginstitute.net and was wondering if you had read it. I have only just started looking into this because I saw minimalist grounding sandals so know practically nothing about it.
        
        Thanks,
        
        Kate
      4. Saraswati Patel
        
        January 9, 2021
        
        What Scott explained above about electron and protons is correct. It’s basic Physics. Where I work we handle Electrical sensitive devices and have to wear a strap to ground. The article has some incorrect information about how charges work. Which should have been reviewed properly.
        
        I am not saying grounding doesn’t work. I ground myself when I can.
    2. Erik
      
      March 18, 2016
      
      (Reply to Scott) I’ve been looking into this (And myriad other “alternatives”. While I do believe some of this is true (as I’ve done alot of alternatives considered quackery) but,not in the scientific premise stated here. The whole pos/neg electron hing and a few other stated scientific “truths” don’t jive with PROVEN (with scientific method). I love your articulation in your comment and wish people would not “attack” simply on the premise that you are trying to say they are wrong.. One way or another,whether (lets just say) it works or not,it is based on proven (not pseudo) science. It is IMPERATIVE the facts are straight..Thank you for bringing that well articulated knowledge to bear sir!!.. Good day to you.
      
      Reply
    3. Justin
      
      March 24, 2016
      
      Actually, it’s possible to lose a proton ! If you studied well in your chimi cours, you’ll know that.
      
      Reply
    4. Marie
      
      May 16, 2016
      
      Although some of the facts are incorrect in this article, there are scientific articles that support grounding. Reasearch before speaking negatively!
      
      Reply
    5. martin
      
      April 7, 2020
      
      yes, please do explain the positron (positive electron) theory of free radicals.
      
      ln all of my studies l have never bumped into the particle physics aspect of grounding!!!
      
      Was this a mistake? did you mean to say positive ions or some similar name for a reactive oxygen species?????
      
      Reply
  2. Tommy
    
    May 6, 2015
    
    I don’t usually comment and I’m not really because here’s some critical and beautiful ‘western science’ (for all the above belittling comments) which is about thousand years behind the people who are connected to Gaia with bare feet! It seems easier for most people to judge and point fingers instead of just pushing past a distorted perception! 😉 Namaste.
    
    Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth’s Surface Electrons
    
    Abstract
    Environmental medicine generally addresses environmental factors with a negative impact on human health. 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. This paper reviews the earthing research and the potential of earthing as a simple and easily accessed global modality of significant clinical importance.
    
    Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3265077/
    
    The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
    
    Abstract
    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. The purpose of this report is two-fold: to 1) inform researchers about what appears to be a new perspective to the study of inflammation, and 2) alert researchers that the length of time and degree (resistance to ground) of grounding of experimental animals is an important but usually overlooked factor that can influence outcomes of studies of inflammation, wound healing, and tumorigenesis. Specifically, grounding an organism produces measurable differences in the concentrations of white blood cells, cytokines, and other molecules involved in the inflammatory response. We present several hypotheses to explain observed effects, based on current research results and our understanding of the electronic aspects of cell and tissue physiology, cell biology, biophysics, and biochemistry. An experimental injury to muscles, known as delayed onset muscle soreness, has been used to monitor the immune response under grounded versus ungrounded conditions. Grounding reduces pain and alters the numbers of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes, and also affects various circulating chemical factors related to inflammation.
    
    Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25848315
    
    Charge transfer in the living matrix.
    
    Abstract
    The living matrix is defined as the continuous molecular fabric of the organism, consisting of fascia, the other connective tissues, extracellular matrices, integrins, cytoskeletons, nuclear matrices and DNA. The extracellular, cellular and nuclear biopolymers or ground substances constitute a body-wide reservoir of charge that can maintain electrical homeostasis and “inflammatory preparedness” throughout the organism. Recent research has emphasized the significance of charge transfer in relation to the scavenging or neutralization of free radicals delivered to sites of injury during and after the oxidative burst. Evidence comes from studies of the role of electrons in mitigating the consequences of inflammation when living systems are connected to the earth (earthing). The phenomenon helps explain how bodywork and movement therapies can facilitate the resolution of acute or chronic injuries, and how patients with inflammatory conditions may “deplete” a therapist during hands-on treatments. It is suggested that barefoot contact with the earth as well as hands-on and hands-off therapies facilitate healing by stimulating the migration of charges into sites of acute or chronic inflammation. One hypothesis to explain the effects of earthing is that charges from the ground substance reservoir prevent “collateral damage” to healthy tissues in the vicinity of an injury. A second hypothesis is that earthing allows electrons to replenish charge in the ground substance reservoirs, making electrons available throughout the body.
    
    Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19524846
    
    The neuromodulative role of earthing.
    
    Abstract
    Neuromodulation is a process of inhibition, stimulation, modification and regulation or therapeutic alteration of activity, electrically and chemically in the peripheral, central or autonomic nervous systems. Direct electric current or electric field alternates the function of nervous system. Coupling the human organism with the Earth directly or via a wire conductor changes the electric potential not only on the surface of the body but also inside it, changing the potential of electric environment of the human organism. Earthing refers to a direct contact with the Earth with bare feet or contact with the Earth with the use of conductive wire attached to the human body during sleeping, or daily activities. During earthing this electric potential equals to electric potential of the Earth and the value of it depends on location, time, atmospheric conditions, moisture of the surface of the Earth. The earthing which changes the density of negative charge in electric environment of the human body influences physiological processes. Our medical hypothesis states that contact with the Earth (earthing) directly or via a conductive wire plays role as a neuromodulative factor, probably primary, which enables the nervous system to be better adapted to the demands of organism and ambient environment. It helps to restore natural, electrical status of the electrical environment of the organism and thus the nervous system. Earthing generates immediate changes in electroencephalography (EEG), surface electromyography (SEMG), and somato-sensory evoked potentials (SSEPs). We hypothesize that earthing through its complex action on bioelectrical environment of human organism and alternations in electrolyte concentrations regulates correct functioning of the nervous system. Earthing significantly influences on the electrical activity of the brain.
    
    Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21856083
    
    Earthing the human body influences physiologic processes.
    
    Conclusions: Earthing the human body influences human physiologic processes. This influence is observed during night relaxation and during physical activity. Effect of the earthing on calcium-phosphate homeostasis is the opposite of that which occurs in states of weightlessness. It also increases the activity of catabolic processes. It may be the primary factor regulating endocrine and nervous systems.
    
    Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21469913
    
    Can electrons act as antioxidants? A review and commentary.
    
    Abstract
    A previous study demonstrated that connecting the human body to the earth during sleep (earthing) normalizes the daily cortisol rhythm and improves sleep. A variety of other benefits were reported, including reductions in pain and inflammation. Subsequent studies have confirmed these earlier findings and documented virtually immediate physiologic and clinical effects of grounding or earthing the body. It is well established, though not widely known, that the surface of the earth possesses a limitless and continuously renewed supply of free or mobile electrons as a consequence of a global atmospheric electron circuit. Wearing shoes with insulating soles and/or sleeping in beds that are isolated from the electrical ground plane of the earth have disconnected most people from the earth’s electrical rhythms and free electrons. The most reasonable hypothesis to explain the beneficial effects of earthing is that a direct earth connection enables both diurnal electrical rhythms and free electrons to flow from the earth to the body. It is proposed that the earth’s diurnal electrical rhythms set the biological clocks for hormones that regulate sleep and activity. It is also suggested that free electrons from the earth neutralize the positively charged free radicals that are the hallmark of chronic inflammation. A relationship between cortisol and inflammation was established in the pioneering work of H. Selye published in the 1950s. Current biomedical research has led to an inflammation hypothesis that is establishing chronic inflammation as the culprit behind almost every modern chronic illness. The research summarized here and in subsequent reports provides a basis for a number of earthing technologies that restore and maintain natural electrical contact between the human body and the earth throughout the day and night in situations where going barefoot on the earth is impractical. It is proposed that free or mobile electrons from the earth can resolve chronic inflammation by serving as natural antioxidants.
    
    Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18047442
    
    Reply
    1. Hannah
      
      June 12, 2015
      
      Thanks for doing the research for me, Tommy! Mama may not know her scientific jargon, but there IS credible medical literature to back up earthing. On an anecdotal note, I have personally found it very helpful in balancing my sympathetic/parasympathetic nervous system responses, tremendously helpful to my anxious/uptight feelings and adrenal fatigue. I now almost exclusively wear leather soled moccasins and I garden like crazy (check out KingsTrailLeather shop on Etsy – they make a great moc!).
      
      Reply
      1. Terry
        
        March 21, 2016
        
        PLEASE read and understand the reference articles you’re posting. This is an issue of scientific literacy… the articles you’ve posted are “review” articles… they are NOT empirical. These articles simply outline and describe the details of hypotheses. These articles do not detail direct observations, and there is no actual testing of methods. Scientific journals group articles into types of submissions: Original contributions (i.e., the results of new experimentation and results), Editorials (i.e., anecdote and opinion, usually about original contributions), Review articles (i.e., summaries of other research and opinion). To be clear, none of the posted articles on earthing detail actual experiments. The articles posted here are opinion pieces that expound on models, suppositions, and hypotheticals. Take-home lesson: Just because it’s published doesn’t mean it’s scientific or empirical. Know your sources and understand them.
      2. Gareth
        
        May 26, 2018
        
        In a believer.. Love the critics to sit down and explain how water devine works also ( i do use it !) Lots of funny things under the sun on our great earth. Nb. Great site.Gareth
    2. Jenna
      
      August 31, 2018
      
      Those articles were written and studies conducted by the same individuals who wrote the book, the same people who sell the product. NIH, (national institute of health) did not conduct those studies or publish those articles. NIH is an extremely credible source. All of your above references are cataloged periodicals/articles. They (nih) keep record of every publication. The publication that published all above articles is not a credible source. They publish studies etc for a fee, regardless of it’s authenticity. The link is meant to offer sense of false security, the reader sees NIH, NCBI, and .Gov & believes it’s a credible source. I’m not arguing the claims, I actually came to this site to read others experiences. A friend let me borrow his plug in patch thing, just wanted to research it first. I’m not dismissing it, at one time the Earth was flat, wind didn’t exist, & Pluto was a planet. Just want to make you & other readers aware, those references you’re citing are bogus. Now, I’m about to go plug myself into a wall, wish me luck!
      
      Reply
      1. Reshaun Webb
        
        May 7, 2019
        
        You are going to love the benefits of earthing.
      2. Marie
        
        September 19, 2019
        
        Hi. Thanks for your article, but the links appear to be outdated. I’m trying to find a reputable product to buy.
      3. Katie Wells
        
        October 10, 2019
        
        What links aren’t working for you?
      4. Jed
        
        December 27, 2021
        
        I didn’t know this and I’ll need to review various conclusions I’ve reached about medications I am taking. Is there a straightforward way when I come across a paper online to understand whether it is legitimate? Thanks for taking the time to post your comment.
  3. Paul
    
    May 16, 2016
    
    Are you saying I’m a Faraday cage?
    
    Reply
  4. Christi
    
    September 30, 2016
    
    She’s referring to positive and negative ions, not positive electrons.
    
    Reply
  5. Gina
    
    March 6, 2020
    
    Wow.. I find your comment offensive. I think the only thing that you stated correctly was there are no positive electrons. Thats right . They’re just electrons.
    As far as the rest of what you said .. It’s sounds like you think you know what you’re talking about, however is any of it based in actual fact? I think not. It’s your OPINION!.
    Which we all know what they say about opinions.
    Go out and get a voltage meter and test it. You can see the proof yourself. .
    I would list exactly how to use the meter but I’m certain you already know. Since you’re an expert and all..
    
    Reply
  6. Ken
    
    March 12, 2021
    
    Tell that to one of the leading highly credentialed cardiac specialist in the world,Steven Sinatra , who totally believes there in massive value in grounding.
    
    Reply
3. russ toews
  
  June 11, 2016
  
  My own personal belief is that the actual and physical earthing bond is not as important as the mental aspect of ‘knowing’ you are connected to Mother earth. Physical products like an earthing mat or other physical thing is mainly just a focusing prop.
  
  Reply