Earthing, or grounding, is the practice of making direct physical contact with the earth’s surface. It’s believed that this connection allows electrons from the earth to transfer into the body, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Here are three research-based benefits of earthing.
1. Reduces Inflammation and Pain
Research has shown that earthing can significantly reduce inflammation and pain by neutralizing free radicals — demonstrated by lower inflammatory markers and reduced chronic pain associated with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
2. Improves Sleep Quality
Earthing has also been found to improve sleep quality. Research found that grounded individuals reported better sleep, apparently due to the stabilization of nighttime cortisol levels.
3. Improves Blood Flow
Earthing also appears to improve blood flow, and preliminary research suggests it can reduce blood pressure by as much as 20%.
How to Practice Earthing
Walk barefoot on natural surfaces such as grass or sand for 20 to 30 minutes daily, or use grounding mats indoors if direct outdoor contact isn’t practical.
For more tips on natural health, download the free eBook Health Secrets at peacediet.org.
About Dr. Terry Shintani, MD, JD, MPH
Dr. Terry Shintani is a Harvard-trained physician and nutritionist, named a Living Treasure of Hawai’i and recipient of the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Award for Excellence. He is the creator of the Peace Diet and the landmark Waianae Diet — published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and cited over 137 times — and the author of 16 books on natural health and nutrition, drawing on more than 35 years of clinical practice in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Learn more about Dr. Shintani’s work and recognition: NLM Native Voices
Sources:
- NIH/PubMed — Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnection with the Earth’s Surface Electrons
- NIH/PubMed — Grounding the Human Body and Its Effect on Sleep and Cortisol
- NIH/PubMed — Earthing and Cardiovascular Markers: A Pilot Study