Experts say the few scientific papers published about grounding – which can include walking barefoot outdoors or lying on the ground – lack scientific rigourSpend any time watching or listening to health and wellness content, and sooner or later you’re likely to encounter the practice of “grounding”. Google searches for the term have risen in the past year, as wellness influencers and podcasters have waxed lyrical about its supposed benefits. Distinct from its use in a parenting or psychology context (which can incorporate mindful breathing exercises), grounding or “earthing” involves walking barefoot outdoors or lying on the ground to realign oneself with the electric charge of the Earth. Continue reading...
The article discusses the practice of "grounding," or "earthing," which involves walking barefoot or using conductive materials to connect with the Earth's electric charge. Proponents claim it improves physical and mental health by allowing electrons to flow into the body, neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation. However, experts argue that the scientific evidence supporting these claims is lacking, with studies often being small, poorly designed, and lacking rigorous methodology. While grounding products are marketed, experts emphasize that simply spending time in nature, with or without shoes, has proven benefits for health.
