🧬 The Science Behind Grounding

(Links to studies provided)

Grounding, also known as “earthing,” is the practice of connecting the human body to the natural electrical charge of the Earth. While it might sound like a wellness trend, grounding is supported by over 20 years of published research highlighting its effects on inflammation, sleep, stress, pain, and recovery.

As modern humans, we spend most of our lives insulated from the Earth — walking on synthetic flooring, wearing rubber-soled shoes, and sleeping above ground. This disconnection may contribute to the rising levels of chronic inflammation, stress, and sleep disorders seen in the modern world. Grounding offers a simple, natural way to restore balance by reconnecting the body to the Earth’s surface electrons.

Grounding and Cortisol Regulation

One of the most cited studies on grounding was published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health (2012), titled “Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth’s Surface Electrons” by Chevalier et al. The study tracked cortisol rhythms in individuals before and after grounding during sleep. The results showed that grounded participants experienced a normalization of their cortisol levels — which helps explain reported improvements in sleep, reduced anxiety, and a better stress response.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Pain Relief

Inflammation is a root cause of numerous chronic diseases, from joint pain to cardiovascular issues. Grounding has been shown to significantly reduce inflammation through its antioxidant-like effect. According to research published in the same 2012 review, grounded individuals experienced reduced pain and inflammation, which was visibly evident through thermography and blood markers. One study demonstrated that even 30 minutes of grounding led to noticeable improvements in circulation and inflammation control.

Further studies confirm these findings:

  • Ghaly & Teplitz (2004) found that grounding during sleep reduced nighttime cortisol secretion, improved sleep patterns, and decreased stress.

  • Brown et al. (2010) observed that grounding reduced delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in subjects following intense physical activity. (Link)

Enhanced Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Alignment

In our overstimulated environments, grounding helps realign the body’s biological clock and circadian rhythm. Studies found that participants who used grounding systems during sleep experienced:

  • Shorter time to fall asleep

  • Fewer nighttime awakenings

  • Increased time in deep and REM sleep

This is believed to result from the effect of Earth's electrons on the autonomic nervous system, calming the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) response and enhancing parasympathetic (rest-and-recover) activity.

Reduction of Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Impact

Another area of interest is grounding’s effect on electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) from modern technology. According to the research, grounded individuals had significantly lowered voltage levels when measured against ungrounded controls. This means that the body is less “charged” by environmental EMFs, which may help explain improved sleep and lowered tension reported by grounding users. (Applewhite, 2005)

Applications in Wellness, Sports, and Rehabilitation

Grounding is now widely used by:

  • Holistic doctors and naturopaths

  • Athletes and recovery specialists

  • Physical therapists and chiropractors

  • People managing chronic pain, fatigue, or insomnia

Some hospitals and sports clinics have also begun exploring its applications in reducing recovery time and improving rehabilitation outcomes.

In Summary

The human body is bioelectrical — and when disconnected from the Earth, it can accumulate a positive charge that contributes to inflammation, sleep disturbances, and chronic stress. Grounding discharges this excess energy and recharges the body with negatively charged electrons from the Earth’s surface.

The science is clear: reconnecting to the Earth while you sleep can significantly impact your health.

The Recovery Sheet™ makes this possible — simply, safely, and from the comfort of your own bed.