Can Grounding Help You Sleep Better?
Yes, grounding has been linked to better sleep. Some studies suggest that grounding can help regulate cortisol levels, reduce stress, and improve circadian rhythms. Cortisol is a hormone that controls stress and alertness. If your levels are too high at night, it’s harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
People who practice grounding often say they fall asleep faster, wake up less frequently, and feel more rested in the morning. Some report that their dreams become more vivid or that they wake up with more energy. While personal experiences vary, there is some research that backs up these claims.
What Does Science Say About Grounding and Sleep?
Research on grounding and sleep is still developing, but a few studies show promising results:
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A 2004 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that sleeping on a grounded mat improved sleep and reduced night-time cortisol levels. Participants reported waking up feeling more refreshed.
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Another small study reported that grounding reduced night-time awakenings and helped participants reach deeper sleep stages.
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Some research suggests that grounding helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, which controls relaxation and stress responses.
More studies are needed to fully understand how grounding impacts sleep, but early findings suggest it can help regulate the nervous system, which plays a major role in sleep quality.
How to Practice Grounding for Sleep
If you want to try grounding for better sleep, you have two main options:
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Outdoor Grounding: Walk barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, soil, or sand for at least 20–30 minutes daily. Sitting or lying on the ground can also be effective. The key is to make direct skin contact with the Earth. Learn more about how to properly ground yourself to the Earth.
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Indoor Grounding: Use grounding sheets or grounding pillowcases while sleeping. These products connect to an outlet’s grounding port, mimicking outdoor grounding effects. You can sleep grounded all night without changing your routine.
Some people prefer outdoor grounding because it feels more natural, while others find indoor grounding more convenient.
Both methods have been reported to improve sleep.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Results vary from person to person. I notice better sleep after just one night of grounding, while others may need a few weeks. Factors like stress levels, overall health, and lifestyle play a role in how quickly grounding works.
Many people report feeling more relaxed within the first few days of grounding, and improvements in sleep tend to build over time. If you don’t notice a change right away, it may help to track your sleep patterns and compare before and after.
Other Sleep Benefits of Grounding
Grounding doesn’t just help you fall asleep faster—it may also improve overall sleep quality in several ways:
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Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Grounding has been shown to calm the nervous system, which can help you unwind before bed.
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Balances Melatonin Production: Some researchers suggest that grounding may help regulate melatonin, the hormone that controls sleep.
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Decreases Pain and Inflammation: Chronic pain and inflammation can make sleep difficult. Grounding has been linked to reduced inflammation, which may help with conditions like arthritis or muscle pain.
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Enhances Deep Sleep: Some reports suggest that grounding may help you reach deeper stages of sleep, leading to more restorative rest.
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Improves Circulation: Grounding helps promote good circulation and supports oxygen flow, which can improve relaxation and deeper sleep.
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Supports Recovery: If you exercise regularly, grounding may help with muscle recovery, reducing soreness that could interfere with sleep.
Final Thoughts
Grounding is a simple and natural practice that may improve sleep quality by reducing stress, regulating hormones, and supporting the body’s natural rhythms.
If you struggle with insomnia or restless nights, grounding could be a worthwhile addition to your routine. The best way to know if it works for you is to try it and see how you feel over time.
References
- Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S. T., Oschman, J. L., Delany, R. M., & Dart, A. J. (2020). Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity—a major factor in cardiovascular disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 26(1), 76–84. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2019.0270
- Chevalier, G., Sinatra, S. T., Oschman, J. L., Sokal, K., & Sokal, P. (2024). Earthing proven by RCTs to work-improves sleep, reduces blood viscosity, etc. Update.
- Ghaly, M. & Teplitz, D. (2004). The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 10(5), 767–776
- Park, H. J., Lee, G. R., Kim, Y., Kim, J., Sohn, M., Kim, S. H., ... & Shim, I. (2025). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the improvement of sleep quality with Earthing mat. Advances in Integrative Medicine.
