Ground force

PEOPLE OFTEN praise the mental and physical effects of walking in the countryside or on the beach as feeling ‘connected with nature’, an experience, which can be sadly lacking in towns and cities.

But there might be more to that connection than meets the eye, beneficial though fresh air, exercise and beautiful views are.

It seems that the earth has a subtle electrical charge, from which we are normally cut off, but to which we can re-connect by simply going barefoot. The emerging science behind the phenomenon, known as ‘earthing’ or ‘grounding’, includes pilot studies showing results including stronger immune systems, better sleep, reduced inflammation, and benefits for the heart.

“These are systemic, profound effects,” say the authors of a wide-ranging in 2019.