Beginner's Guide to Earthing: Will It Actually Help You To Feel Calmer And More Grounded?

Earthing, a form of grounding, is gaining attention for its potential to reduce stress and improve well-being. The practice involves making direct physical contact with the Earth's surface, such as walking barefoot on grass or soil.

In this article, Vivere’s Head of Nutrition, Yusra Serdaroglu Aydin, a registered dietitian with a background in nutrition, food engineering and culinary arts, shares evidence-based insights into how earthing may support calmness, balance and physiological wellbeing. Her approach is rooted in science and a deep understanding of personalised nutrition and the human microbiome.

Earthing may help you feel calmer and more balanced by connecting your body to the Earth's natural electrical energy, which could support relaxation and physiological stability.

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this beginner's guide to earthing:

• Earthing involves physical contact with the Earth's surface to balance the body’s natural electrical charge.

• Studies suggest earthing may help reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality and enhance mood.

• Scientific evidence is still developing, and results vary from person to person.

• Earthing can be practised outdoors or indoors using grounding products.

• It is generally considered safe when practised correctly, though it should not replace medical treatments.

Earthing is the practice of connecting your body directly to the Earth's surface to absorb its natural electrical energy. This can be done by walking barefoot on grass, sand or soil, swimming in natural water, or using grounding devices designed to simulate the same effect indoors.

It is believed that the Earth's electrons can help balance the body’s internal electrical systems, which are affected by daily exposure to electronic devices and insulated living environments. The idea is that physically reconnecting with nature, we may restore a sense of calm, improve sleep and promote better overall health.

Earthing is based on the idea that direct contact with the Earth can reconnect the body to the Earth’s natural energy. When your skin makes direct contact with the ground, your body may absorb negatively charged electrons. 

Direct contact with the ground is thought to help neutralise free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause inflammation and cellular damage. 

This could potentially reduce oxidative stress, support immune function and improve the body’s ability to maintain balance.

Earthing is believed to encourage what is known as “physiological normalisation”. This means helping the body return to a balanced state after stress. By calming the nervous system, earthing may support a shift from the body’s “fight or flight” response to a more restful “rest and digest” mode. 

This shift is linked to lower cortisol levels, improved heart rate and reduced tension. These effects could explain why many people find earthing beneficial for managing stress, anxiety and fatigue.

Emerging research suggests several potential benefits. Some studies find that earthing may reduce inflammation and pain, improve sleep and support cardiovascular health.

• A review found evidence suggesting earthing could reduce inflammation and pain in adults with chronic health issues [1]

• Another study observed improved sleep quality and reduced stress levels among participants who used grounding equipment [2]

• Clinical investigations have also suggested improvements in blood viscosity, mood and energy levels following regular grounding practices [3]

• Furthermore, findings indicate that earthing may reduce delayed onset muscle soreness following exercise and improve recovery [4]

Although the scientific evidence is still developing, these studies highlight possible connections between earthing, improved physiological function and overall well-being.

While user experiences are mostly positive, many studies on earthing have small sample sizes. Much of the existing research has been conducted by proponents of grounding, which can introduce bias. There is also limited independent verification of these results. 

More high-quality, peer-reviewed research is needed to confirm whether earthing directly causes these benefits, or whether they occur due to other lifestyle factors such as time outdoors, mindfulness, or relaxation.

Practising earthing is simple. The most direct way is to make skin contact with natural surfaces. Walking barefoot on grass, sand or soil for 20 to 30 minutes a day is a good start. Sitting or lying on the ground while reading or meditating can also help create a calming connection with nature.

For people who live in cities or spend much time indoors, grounding products can provide similar benefits. These products often connect to the Earth through a plug socket’s grounding port. Examples include:

These products are designed to fit into modern lifestyles, offering practical ways to integrate grounding into daily routines.

There are many activities that can help promote a sense of calm and balance. 

• Mindfulness, meditation and deep breathing exercises are all effective for reducing stress and improving emotional well-being. 

• Spending time in nature, gardening or gentle exercises like yoga can also help regulate your mood. 

• Journaling, aromatherapy or connecting with loved ones provides a similar feeling of stability and belonging.

Earthing is generally considered safe, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment. 

1. Always practise it in a clean, safe environment to avoid cuts or exposure to contaminants. 

2. Avoid earthing during thunderstorms or near electrical installations, as these can pose a risk of electric shock. 

3. When using grounding devices indoors, follow the specific product’s instructions carefully to ensure they are correctly connected. People with chronic conditions or implanted electronic medical devices should speak with their GP before using grounding products.

Before incorporating earthing into your daily routine, consider your lifestyle, health status and personal comfort. Consistency matters more than duration. Even brief daily contact with the Earth can be beneficial. However, if you are looking for big improvements in sleep or stress, it may take several weeks of regular practice to notice changes. Practising earthing alongside a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and a consistent bedtime routine can enhance its potential benefits.

Although the concept of grounding dates back to early human life, the modern practice was popularised by Clinton Ober, who first introduced the term “earthing” in the early 2000s after studying its potential effects on health [5].

There is no strict rule, but many experts suggest starting with 20 to 30 minutes daily. Some people notice benefits with shorter sessions, while others prefer longer periods. The key is consistency and paying attention to what feels most natural for you.

Some products, such as earthing bed sheets, are designed to be used overnight during your usual sleep schedule.

Earthing offers an accessible and natural way to support wellbeing. While more research is needed to confirm its effects, many people find that reconnecting with nature helps them feel calmer, more balanced and more in tune with their bodies. As with any wellness practice, it should complement, not replace, other aspects of a healthy lifestyle such as a balanced diet, adequate sleep and regular movement.

Yusra Serdaroglu Aydin, MSc RD

Vivere helps you take control of your health with personalised insights from state-of-the-art gut microbiome testing, nutritional guidance, science-backed supplements, NAD+ injections and expert support. Sign up today and start living better, for longer.

[1] Integrative and lifestyle medicine strategies should include Earthing (grounding): Review of research evidence and clinical observations - Science Direct

[2] Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons - PMC

[3] Grounding – The universal anti-inflammatory remedy - PMC

[4] The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases

[5] Practical applications of grounding to support health - PMC