I first heard of “Earthing,” the concept of connecting to and gaining energy from direct contact with the Earth, several years ago. I learned that the ancient yogis and Christian mystics knew about this great source of power and for that reason developed practices that involved going out into caves or the desert and sleeping on the ground. It not only improved their meditations but reportedly healed sickness and extended longevity.

I bought an Earthing mat and for years I have used it beneath my desk to rest my feet on whilst I was writing and working on the computer. It decreased electronic interference from EMF waves while increasing my energy and ability to focus, but after several months I forgot about it being there. Then recently I re-read the book, “Earthing”by Clinton Ober, Stephen T. Sinatra, and Martin Zucker, and my interest in the subject was renewed. I practice Qi Gong daily and have added more meditation to my routine and the idea of “grounding” my body was important.

One night I decided to do my evening meditation with my feet on the mat. I meditated for about 20 minutes and then went to bed. After several nights, I noticed quite a profound difference: I realized that I slept very deeply, and for the first time in years did not have to get up to use the bathroom. It was if the calming effect had reduced my kidney energy flow in a beneficial way, much like soothing an inflammation which apparently this practice is known for. I felt deeply rested and yet able to remember my dreams more clearly.

I found it has been deeply healing and I heartily recommend the “Earthing” book or some other method of familiarizing yourself with the practice. In a recent article, Dr. Mercola wrote about the health benefits of grounding and featured it in the film “Grounded 2.

Click here for Dr. Mercola’s article on Grounding.