Grounding, also known as earthing, refers to the practice of being in direct contact with the earth’s surface electrons by walking barefoot outside or using grounding products. Advocates claim it reduces inflammation, improves sleep, decreases stress, and more. But what does the Bible say about grounding? Let’s explore this topic in-depth.
What is Grounding?
Grounding involves direct skin contact with the earth’s surface electrons. These electrons contain negative charge and flow into our bodies when we’re grounded. According to grounding proponents, this flow of electrons neutralizes damaging free radicals in our bodies linked to chronic inflammation and disease.
Some of the proposed benefits of grounding include:
- Reduced inflammation
- Better sleep
- Decreased stress
- Increased energy
- Relief from chronic pain
- Faster healing
- Protection against electromagnetic radiation
However, not all these benefits have been scientifically confirmed yet. Some preliminary studies show grounding reduces inflammation markers and improves heart rate variability. But more research is still needed.
How to Get Grounded
There are a few different ways to ground yourself:
- Direct skin contact with the earth – Walking barefoot outside, sitting or lying on the bare ground, swimming in natural bodies of water, and gardening with bare hands and feet.
- Grounding mats and sheets – These connect to the earth via a grounding cord and plug. Place them on your bed or where you sit/stand.
- Grounding pads – Attach these pads to parts of your skin with bands. They also ground through a cord.
- Grounding shoes – Shoes with conductive leather or rubber soles to ground while walking.
The best times to ground are in the morning before getting out of bed, during exercise, and at night before bed. Start slowly at first. Grounding every day for 30-60 minutes is ideal. Avoid grounding during storms due to lightning risk.
Is Grounding Biblical?
The Bible does not specifically mention grounding. However, we can analyze the principles behind grounding from a biblical perspective. Here are some key considerations:
1. Connecting with God’s Creation
God created the heavens and the earth for mankind to inhabit and enjoy (Genesis 1:1, Psalm 115:16). Being in nature allows us to connect with and appreciate God’s wondrous works (Psalm 8:3-4, Psalm 19:1). Walking barefoot grounds us both spiritually and physically to God’s creation.
Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.”
2. Caring for Our Bodies
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). As such, we should care for them and keep them healthy. If grounding improves physiological functioning and decreases inflammation, it could be viewed as a way of caring for the body God gave us.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
3. Seeking Natural Healing
Natural methods of healing that don’t contradict Scripture can be used biblically. God created plants, herbs, food, water, sunlight, and the earth itself for our benefit (Genesis 1:29). If grounding provides healing effects naturally, it does not appear to contradict biblical principles.
Genesis 1:29 – “And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.”
4. Rejecting Empty Rituals
Some practices of grounding border on New Age rituals or mysticism with no sound scientific basis. As Christians, we are to reject human traditions and meaningless rituals that have no true spiritual value (Colossians 2:8). Any form of grounding for mystical or ritualistic purposes should be avoided.
Colossians 2:8 – “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”
5. Moderation in All Things
The Bible promotes moderation and self-control in all areas of life (1 Corinthians 9:25, Titus 2:2). While occasional grounding may offer benefits, becoming obsessed with it daily could lead to extremes. As with anything, moderation is wise.
Titus 2:2 – “Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness.”
Overall, grounding does not inherently contradict biblical values if practiced moderately and with the right mindset. But more research on its effects would be beneficial. Any form of “earthy spirituality” associated with it should be avoided.
Potential Dangers of Grounding
While grounding proponents claim it is entirely safe, there are some potential dangers to consider:
- Electric shock – Grounding during lightning storms increases electric shock risk. Grounding rods and wires can also cause shock if improperly installed.
- Skin irritation – Direct skin contact with soil could potentially expose you to bacteria, chemicals, or allergens that irritate the skin.
- Tripping hazard – Walking barefoot, especially outdoors, increases risk of stubbing toes or tripping on debris/obstacles.
- Parasitic infections – Hookworm and other parasites could potentially enter through the skin of bare feet outdoors.
Proper precautions should be taken to minimize these risks. Avoid grounding in unsafe weather conditions or contaminated environments. Inspect grounding areas for sharp objects. Use common sense when grounding yourself directly.
Better Alternatives to Grounding
If you’re skeptical about potential grounding benefits and risks, there are some alternative practices to consider instead:
1. Spending Time in Nature
Get outside daily and enjoy God’s creation. Go for a nature walk, listen to the birds, feel the breeze, or sit peacefully observing flowers and trees. You don’t need direct skin contact to reap mental and spiritual benefits.
2. Exercising Outdoors
Do yoga, tai chi, calisthenics, or meditation outdoors in the open air and sunlight. Bare skin contact with the ground isn’t necessary. Just be active outside.
3. Eating Fresh, Whole Foods
God provided plants, herbs, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts for our nourishment (Genesis 1:29). Eat fresh produce picked straight from your garden or farmers market to infuse your body with natural vitamins and minerals.
4. Staying Hydrated
Drink plenty purified water and herbal teas. Hydration enhances health and flushes toxins from the body.
5. Reducing Inflammation Naturally
Follow an anti-inflammatory diet with healthy fats, spices like turmeric, and natural supplements like fish oil. Get good sleep, manage stress, exercise moderately, and maintain a healthy weight.
So if you have doubts about grounding, focus instead on proven lifestyle measures to enjoy God’s creation, nurture your body, and practice biblical self-care.
Key Bible Verses About Grounding
Here are some relevant biblical passages to reflect on:
Genesis 1:29 – “And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.”
Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”
Exodus 3:5 – “Then he said, “Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.”
Psalm 23:2 – “He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.”
Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
Colossians 2:8 – “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”
1 Timothy 4:4-5 – “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.”
While not directly about grounding, these verses remind us of God’s creation for our benefit, the holiness of the earth, caring for our bodies, and avoidance of meaningless rituals. Grounding practices should align with scriptural wisdom.
Conclusion
Grounding has potential benefits but lacks conclusive scientific evidence so far. While not directly addressed in the Bible, moderate grounding practices don’t inherently contradict biblical values if not taken to extremes or practiced legalistically. As with any health trend, wisdom and discernment are needed regarding potential spiritual influences and obsession. Natural self-care aligned with scriptural principles is always the most biblical approach.