Grounding Your Body Reduces Stress and Improves Heart Health

Abstract 

Objective: To investigate the effects of grounding on heart rate variability and stress.

Context: Grounding may help regulate the autonomic nervous system and reduce stress, but high-quality evidence is limited.

Methods Used: A randomized controlled trial of grounded sleeping (conductive sheets) versus sham grounding for 8 weeks in adults with elevated stress levels.

Data Collection: Measured heart rate variability, cortisol, and self-reported stress levels at baseline and biweekly.

Researchers' Summary of Findings

Impact on Health: Grounding significantly increased heart rate variability and reduced cortisol versus sham, indicating reduced stress and increased autonomic regulation.

Health Implications: Simple grounding techniques may improve autonomic function and resilience against stress. Larger studies on long-term cardiovascular impacts are warranted.

DOI: 10.1089/acm.2015.0347