Last Updated on 04/03/2025 by Jill Dumas

Grounding: Find Your Calm Instantly

Find your calm instantly with grounding. In our fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to feel disconnected – from ourselves, from nature, and from the present moment. I’ve seen first hand how this disconnect can manifest in our health, at the very least leading to heightened stress, disrupted sleep, and a general feeling of unease. Today, I want to talk about a simple yet profound practice that can help us reconnect and restore balance: grounding, also known as earthing, a potent form of nature therapy.

What is Grounding?

Grounding is the practice of making direct physical contact with the Earth’s surface. Think walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil, swimming in the ocean, or even simply sitting with your hands on the earth. The Earth carries a subtle negative electrical charge, and when we make direct contact, we absorb these electrons, which can have a powerful impact on our physiology.

Grounding and the Nervous System

Have you ever noticed how your shoulders drop and your breath deepens when you step into a forest or immerse yourself in the sea? That’s your nervous system responding to the grounding effect. The Earth’s electrons help neutralise free radicals in the body, which are implicated in inflammation and stress.

By reducing inflammation and calming the nervous system, grounding can:

1. Reduce stress and anxiety

It helps shift the nervous system from a “fight-or-flight” state to a “rest-and-digest” state.

2. Improve sleep

By regulating cortisol levels, grounding can promote deeper, more restful sleep.

3. Boost mood

It can enhance the production of serotonin and dopamine, our “feel-good” neurotransmitters.

4. Support immune function

By reducing inflammation, grounding can strengthen the immune system.

The Intuitive Connection

We all intuitively understand the calming effect of nature. It’s why we seek out green spaces and water when we need to unwind. Our bodies are designed to be in direct contact with the Earth, and when we are, we naturally feel more grounded and balanced.

The Importance of Feeling Your Feet

Grounding isn’t just about touching the Earth; it’s about being present in your body. Pay attention to how your feet feel on the ground. When we consciously engage our feet, we improve our proprioception – our awareness of our body’s position in space. This enhanced awareness helps us feel more rooted and stable. Feeling the feet on the floor helps you to be present. This is why going barefoot is so powerful. It allows for direct contact with the Earth and enhances our sensory awareness. Pay attention to the pressure of your feet on the ground, the temperature, and the textures you feel. This simple act can bring you into the present moment and deepen your connection to the Earth.

Practical Tips for Grounding

Walk barefoot: Spend at least 15-20 minutes a day walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil.
Swim in natural bodies of water: Lakes, rivers, and oceans are excellent grounding sources.
Garden or work with soil: Digging in the earth is a direct and effective way to ground.
Sit or lie on the ground: Simply spending time in contact with the Earth can be beneficial.
Be mindful of your feet: Throughout the day, take a moment to feel your feet on the floor, paying attention to all four corners of them.

Nutritional Support for Grounding

I also recommend supporting your grounding practice with a whole-foods diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods. Focus on:

Leafy greens: Rich in magnesium, which supports nervous system function.
Berries: Packed with antioxidants to combat free radicals.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, which help reduce inflammation.