Anxiety, stress, emotional problems are some of the major issues we face today. There are many habits and many recommendations regarding how to improve these aspects, and one of them is grounding. If you have never heard of grounding before, don't worry, in the following post we will explain everything about this practice.

What is grounding and what is it used for?

Grounding, also known as “earthing,” is a practice that involves connecting our body directly with the Earth’s surface, either by walking barefoot, touching the ground with our hands, or using devices designed to simulate this connection. The premise behind this technique is that the Earth has a natural electrical charge that can interact with our body, helping us restore energy balance and improve our health.

Direct connection to the Earth is primarily intended to promote physical and mental well-being. Many people turn to grounding to reduce stress, relieve chronic pain, improve sleep quality, and balance their energy system. In addition, there are preliminary studies suggesting that grounding may positively influence inflammation and strengthen the immune system.

How does it work?

Grounding is based on the principle that our body can absorb negative electrons from the Earth when we are in direct contact with it. These electrons act as natural antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that generate inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

The process itself occurs when the skin on our feet comes into contact with conductive surfaces such as grass, sand or dirt. The contact allows electrons to flow into our body, balance our electrical charge and promote a state of general well-being.

In addition to this electrical exchange, the practice of grounding has an impact on the nervous system. When we connect with the Earth, relaxing responses are activated in our body that help reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This not only promotes relaxation, but also contributes to better rest and a sense of calm.

What does science say about grounding?

Science has only recently begun to pay attention to grounding and its potential impact on health, so this is still a developing field. So far, several studies have yielded promising results supporting the benefits of this practice.

One of the most notable studies, published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health in 2012, examined the effects of grounding on chronic conditions such as pain and stress. Participants who practiced grounding reported significant reductions in their pain and inflammation levels, as well as improvements in mood on a daily basis.

Another review in 2015 suggested that grounding-based therapies could be helpful in combating sleep problems and insomnia, suggesting that the practice may influence nervous system regulation. Research published in the Journal of Inflammation Research also explored how grounding could help control the body's inflammatory response and support the immune system.

We would like to clarify again that research is still being conducted to fully understand the scientific mechanisms behind grounding.

What are the benefits of stepping on the earth?

Walking barefoot on the ground is one of the simplest and most effective ways to practice grounding, and it is credited with physical and emotional benefits, such as:

• Stress reduction: The sensation of grass, sand, dirt or stones on your feet reduces anxiety and stress.
• Better rest: Contact with the Earth seems to help regulate circadian rhythms, promoting restful sleep.
• Pain Relief: Preliminary studies have shown that grounding can reduce inflammation, a major cause of chronic pain.
• Energy balance: Stepping on the earth allows us to absorb negative electrons, helping to balance the body's electrical charge.
• Connection with nature: Beyond the physical benefits, the act of walking barefoot reconnects us with the natural environment, providing a feeling of peace and mental revitalization.

How is grounding practiced?

Since the goal of grounding is basically to be in contact with the Earth in some way, there are several ways to practice it. We will tell you about them:

• Walking barefoot: This is the most basic and natural way to practice grounding. You can do it in a park, on the beach, in your garden or on any natural surface such as grass, sand or dirt.
• Sitting or lying on the floor: In addition to walking, sitting or lying directly on the floor allows the rest of your body to come into contact with the Earth. Make sure to choose a comfortable and clean place.
• Use grounding devices: If you do not have access to natural spaces, there are products designed for grounding, such as sheets, mats or conductive strips, which are connected to the ground using special cables.
• Doing outdoor activities: Combining grounding with activities such as yoga, meditation or simply reading in a natural place can enhance its relaxing and revitalizing effects.

How long is it recommended to do it?

There is no hard and fast rule on how much time to spend on grounding, but some people claim that even a few minutes a day can make a difference. The general recommendation is to practice grounding for 20-30 minutes a day for optimal benefits.

If you can't do it every day, try to do it at least 2 or 3 days a week. The important thing is to be consistent, as the benefits appear little by little, gradually.

Others suggest that for beginners, it may be more helpful to start with short periods of 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase them, thus allowing for an adaptation period that will allow grounding to become a sustainable habit.

How to integrate grounding into your daily routine?

We assure you that making grounding a part of your daily life is easier than it seems. With small adjustments, you can incorporate this practice into your routine naturally and without complications. Our recommendations to achieve this are:

• Start your day with grounding: Spend the first few minutes of the morning walking barefoot in your garden, balcony or a nearby park.
• Pair with exercise: If you like to do yoga or stretch, do these activities outdoors and without shoes to integrate grounding while you exercise. Check out our line of sustainable activewear .
• Take breaks at work: If you work from home or have access to an outdoor space, take advantage of your breaks to go outside and connect with the Earth for a few minutes.
• Relax in the afternoon: After a hectic day, sitting on the grass, walking barefoot or, when the weather is nice, having a snack/dinner in a park, is an effective way to reduce stress and disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle.
• Create a grounding space at home: If you don’t have access to nature, invest in tools like a grounding mat or sheet to enjoy the benefits while you work, rest or sleep.

What if you can't practice grounding outdoors?

As we briefly mentioned in the previous section, it is not always possible to go outdoors to connect directly with the Earth. Limitations such as living in cities, the climate or available time often make this practice difficult. Fortunately, there are alternatives that allow you to enjoy the benefits of grounding without leaving home.

Grounding devices

These are products specifically designed to connect your body to the Earth's energy through wires or conductive materials. Among the most popular devices are:

• Grounding sheets and blankets: Perfect for use while sleeping or resting, as they are equipped with conductive threads that connect to a grounded plug.
• Grounding mats: Ideal for placing under your feet while you work or watch television.
• Conductive bracelets or bands: Small accessories that you can wear while carrying out your daily activities.

Barefoot or conductive sole shoes

Although walking barefoot is the most effective form of grounding, barefoot shoes or shoes with conductive soles are a great alternative for those who need protection or are unable to remove their shoes. These shoes are designed to simulate the experience of walking barefoot, allowing for a closer connection to the Earth.

Tips for getting started with grounding at home

This is the last section of this post. And if what you have read so far has convinced you to practice grounding, but you want to start practicing it without leaving home, these tips will help you create a suitable environment and get the best results:

• Find a suitable space: Identify a quiet area in your home where you can relax. This can be a balcony, terrace or a room that allows you to use grounding devices.
• Invest in grounding devices: If outdoor access is limited, consider purchasing grounding mats, sheets, or straps. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for properly grounding them.
• Create a natural environment: Surrounding yourself with natural elements such as plants, stones or wood will help you recreate the feeling of being outdoors and enhance the experience.
• Wear comfortable, barrier-free clothing: To maximize the benefits, wear lightweight clothing and avoid synthetic materials that can interfere with energy conduction. Wear barefoot shoes and sustainable organic cotton barefoot socks that do not restrict your foot and allow you to walk barefoot comfortably.
• Establish a routine: Integrate grounding into your daily activities, such as working, reading or meditating. Just 5 minutes at the beginning will be enough.
• Be consistent: The key to enjoying the benefits of grounding is consistency. Even if you don't notice immediate changes, over time your body and mind will begin to perceive the positive effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grounding is an accessible and effective practice to help you begin to reduce your anxiety and stress levels. Whether you choose to walk barefoot in a park, incorporate grounding devices into your home, or simply dedicate a few minutes a day to reconnect with nature, you can do so.