In an age where we’re increasingly tethered to screens, concrete, and busy schedules, the simple act of taking our shoes off and placing our feet directly on the earth can feel radical. But this practice—commonly referred to as earthing or grounding—is making a quiet comeback, backed by growing interest in holistic wellbeing and emotional health.
At Land of Serenity, we often explore ways to reconnect with our inner selves through mindfulness and journaling. Earthing offers a powerful and natural extension of that mission: a reconnection with the Earth itself.
What is Earthing?
Earthing involves physically connecting with the Earth's surface by walking barefoot on natural terrain—grass, soil, sand, or even rock. It can also involve lying on the ground or immersing oneself in water bodies like lakes or the sea.
The concept is based on the idea that direct skin contact with the Earth's electrons can balance the body’s electrical charge, potentially reducing inflammation, improving sleep, and enhancing emotional wellbeing.
Though this may sound esoteric at first, many who practise it regularly report feeling more centred, less anxious, and noticeably uplifted in mood.
The Science Behind Earthing and Mood
While more research is needed, early studies suggest that physical contact with the Earth may influence the body in the following ways:
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Reduction of Cortisol Levels: Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, has been shown to decrease after earthing sessions, helping regulate mood and anxiety.
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Improved Sleep Quality: By helping recalibrate circadian rhythms, earthing can support deeper, more restorative sleep, which plays a vital role in emotional regulation.
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Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation has been linked to anxiety and depression. The anti-inflammatory effects of earthing may contribute to better mental health overall.
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Enhanced Mood and Energy Levels: Many report feeling more positive, energised, and clear-headed after spending even just 20 minutes barefoot in nature.
These effects align beautifully with what we champion at Land of Serenity: daily rituals that bring clarity, calm, and connection.
The Emotional Benefits of Being Barefoot Outdoors
1. Connection to the Present Moment
Standing barefoot on the ground draws our attention downward—to the sensation of cool soil or dewy grass. This shift in focus pulls us out of our racing thoughts and into the present moment, much like a mindfulness practice. It’s a simple act that anchors us.
Pairing this with a mindful activity like using the Anxiety Journal can be powerful. Imagine sitting under a tree, grounding yourself with the Earth while working through gentle, structured prompts to soothe an overactive mind.
2. A Sense of Belonging
Spending time in nature can reduce feelings of isolation. Earthing creates a sensory connection to the world around us, reminding us that we’re part of something larger than our worries. This can be especially comforting during challenging emotional times, such as breakups or periods of grief.
When navigating heartache, stepping outside—shoes off, journal in hand—can be surprisingly healing. The Breakup Journal offers a space to reflect and release while the Earth beneath provides quiet reassurance.
3. Natural Dopamine Boost
Time in nature is known to raise dopamine and serotonin levels—the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitters. Coupled with the tactile feedback of earthing, this creates a mood-lifting effect that rivals your morning coffee or scrolling fix.
This feel-good state pairs beautifully with gratitude practices. Using the Positivity Journal while grounded in a sunny park or wildflower meadow helps magnify feelings of joy, thankfulness, and balance.
Making Earthing Part of Your Routine
Earthing doesn’t require a dramatic lifestyle change. In fact, it thrives on simplicity and regularity. Here are some easy ways to make it part of your day:
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Morning Grounding: Step outside for 5–10 minutes barefoot before you begin your day. Focus on your breath and the texture beneath your feet.
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Nature Lunch Breaks: Swap your desk lunch for a short walk in a park or nearby green space. Sit under a tree with your journal and reflect on the day so far.
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Evening Decompression: After work, step onto your lawn or garden with a cup of tea. Let the tension of the day flow into the Earth.
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Weekend Rituals: Visit a forest, beach, or countryside. Leave your phone behind. Walk barefoot, wade in a stream, or lie down on the ground and simply be.
Each of these practices works beautifully alongside journaling, whether it’s reflecting on your day in the Music Journal after listening to a calming album outdoors, or using the Manifestation Journal to set intentions with the grounding energy of the Earth beneath you.
Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to earthing, here are a few friendly pointers to make the most of your experience:
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Choose Safe, Natural Surfaces: Look for clean grass, beaches, riverbanks or forest paths.
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Start Small: Even 10–15 minutes of barefoot time can make a difference. It’s about consistency, not duration.
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Be Mindful of Weather: Damp earth or warm sand can feel especially soothing—but always dress appropriately and stay safe.
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Pair with Reflection: Bring a notebook or one of your Land of Serenity journals along. Grounding plus journaling equals double the calm.
Why It Matters in a Modern World
We’ve become so insulated—physically and emotionally—from the natural world. Shoes, buildings, screens, and schedules cut us off from the rhythms of the Earth. Earthing gently challenges that disconnection.
In doing so, it restores a lost intimacy: with nature, with stillness, and with ourselves. It’s free, it’s available right outside your door, and it can shift your emotional landscape in deeply positive ways.
So next time you’re feeling stressed, restless, or overwhelmed, try this: step outside, take a deep breath, and let your bare feet sink into the grass. Let the Earth do what it’s always done—hold you, soothe you, and remind you that you are not alone.
At Land of Serenity, we believe in simple rituals that nurture the soul. Whether it’s through your feet touching the ground or pen touching paper, the path to peace is always just a small step away.