Down To Earth

Dedicated celeb fans can’t get enough, but what is earthing and does it really work?

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Gwyneth Paltrow is a fan, so is Paris Jackson. And with claims it can treat a host of ailments from stress, inflammation and insomnia, it’s also become popular among some of our most elite athletes including surfer Sally Fitzgibbons. But what is earthing and how does it work?

Also known as grounding, it’s based around the theory we can all improve our wellbeing by making direct physical contact with the earth’s surface. Like all living things, our bodies are made up of atoms that carry positive, negative and neutral charges. Followers of earthing believe that when we touch conductive surfaces like sand, soil or concrete, those charges become neutralised.

HOW TO DO IT

The simplest way to become ‘earthed’ is by going for a walk outside – barefoot, as nature intended. However, modern innovations such as buildings, flooring and synthetic-soled shoes means many of us may have lost this connection.