Grounding Practices

by Kara Sylvia and Kris Francefort

There are many types of grounding. All of them focus on reconnecting to the earth. This can be done through either direct or indirect contact with the earth.

For People with Outdoor Access:

Barefoot Walking: Have you ever been outside on a warm summer day and felt the urge to run barefoot in the grass? One of the easiest ways to ground yourself to the earth is to walk barefoot. Whether on grass, sand, or even mud, allowing your skin to touch the natural ground can provide you with grounding energy.

Lying on the ground: You can increase your skin-to-earth contact by lying on the ground. You can do it in the grass by the park  or on the sand at the beach. If you’re going to ground yourself in this way, be sure to take the proper precautions and never lie somewhere you could be injured and be careful of poison ivy and oak.

Submersing in water: According to advocates for grounding, water may be used to ground in the same way the physical earth  is used for grounding. They suggest simply wading in a clear lake or swimming in the ocean as a way to ground yourself. As  always, be sure to stay safe when swimming, especially in murky or deep waters.

Gardening: Gardening not only connects you to the Earth but also provides a  sense of purpose and relaxation. Digging, planting, and weeding can be  grounding activities.

Outdoor Yoga or Meditation: Practice yoga or meditation outdoors, preferably  on natural surfaces. Doing so can help you connect with the Earth while  benefiting from the fresh air and tranquility of nature.

Forest Bathing: Spend time in a forest or wooded area. Forest bathing, or  shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that involves immersing yourself in the  sights, sounds, and scents of the forest.

Camping: Go camping in natural settings where you can be in close contact  with the Earth. Sleeping on the ground in a tent can provide a strong grounding  experience.

For People with Limited Outdoor Access:

Indoor Plants: Bring nature indoors by keeping houseplants. Touching, caring  for, and even talking to your plants can create a sense of connection to the Earth.

Balcony or Rooftop Gardens: If you have access to a balcony or rooftop, create  a small garden with potted plants, herbs, or vegetables. This allows you to connect with the Earth even in urban environments.

Grounding Mats or Sheets: Grounding mats or sheets with conductive properties can simulate the benefits of direct contact with the Earth’s surface. You can place these on your bed or sit on them while working or relaxing.

Urban Parks: Seek out urban parks or green spaces in your city. Even small pocket parks can provide a natural environment for grounding activities.

Visualization and Meditation: If you can’t physically access natural surfaces, practice grounding through visualization or meditation. Imagine yourself  walking barefoot on the grass, feeling the Earth’s energy, and connecting with  nature.

Earthing Products: Some companies offer earthing products like shoes with conductive soles, socks, bands and patches or wristbands that can help you connect with the Earth’s energy even while in an urban environment.

Tips on giving ‘earthing’ a try:

If you’re interested in exploring earthing, use these simple steps:

1. Take your socks off.

2. Walk outside, even if it’s just on some soil or grass in your backyard.

3. Stand there for a moment and be quiet for three to 10 seconds.

4. Take three deep breaths from your solar plexus chakra, which about 2 inches above your belly button.

4. Simply sit, stand, or walk with your bare feet on the grass, dirt or concrete outside for at least 15 minutes  a day.

5. After consistently connecting to the Earth, notice how you feel. It may be a subtle tingling in your feet, or a calmer demeanor.