Questions and Answers about Earthing Basics

Why is Earthing so important in an age of high technology?

Why does the Earths electric field transfer so easily to the body?
What is the difference between the Earths electric field and the electric field used to conduct
electricity in my home?
How much current is actually being transferred from the Earth's surface via the wire to a
grounding product?
What is the difference between Earthing and the use of magnets?
Can I wear any type of footwear and still be earthed?
Can I ground myself outside by wearing electrostatic discharge (ESD) footwear?
Can I ground myself by being barefoot on my concrete basement floor?
Does Earthing occur if I work, stand, or walk barefooted on a ceramic tile floor?
I live in a warm climate with hookworms and roundworms in the soil. I am reluctant to go barefoot.
Can Earthing protect me from cell phone frequencies?
If I sleep on the ground in a sleeping bag am I grounded?
I do not live in North America. Can I plug my Earthing product into a wall outlet?

Earthing Basics

Q. In a high-tech age, why is the concept of Earthing so important?

A. What is most profound about Earthing is that it is so natural and simple, and that it affects every
aspect of human physiology. When you ground yourself, the entire body readjusts to a new level of
functioning, the level, in fact, it seems to have been designed for throughout evolution. Many
people who have lived Earthed for some years say that they do not want to go back to living
ungrounded. They feel the difference. Living Earthed broadly elevates your quality of life to a level
that seems not otherwise possible.
James Oschman, Ph.D., an internationally-renowned expert on energy medicine and a member of
our board of advisors, describes the phenomenon thusly: Recently I attended a meeting on the
East coast. One of my colleagues came in from the West coast. She had a bad case of jet lag. I
told her to take her shoes and socks off and step outside on the grass for 15 minutes. When she
came back in, she was completely transformed. Her jet lag was gone. That is how fast Earthing
works. Anyone can try this. If you dont feel well, for whatever reason, just make barefoot contact
with the Earth for a few minutes and see what happens. Of course, if you have a medical problem,
you should see a doctor. There is nothing that comes close to Earthing for quick relief. You can
literally feel pain draining from your body the instant you touch the Earth.
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Q. Why does the Earths electric field transfer so easily to the body?
A. The body is mostly water and minerals. It is a good conductor of electricity (electrons). The free
electrons on the surface of the Earth are easily transferred to the human body as long as there is
direct contact. Unfortunately, synthetically-soled shoes act as insulators so that even when we are
outside we do not connect with the Earths electric field. When we are in homes and office
buildings, we are also insulated and unable to receive the Earths balancing energies.
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Q. What is the difference between the Earths electric field and the electric field used to
conduct electricity in my home?
A. The Earths electric field is mainly a continuous direct current (DC) producing field. Throughout
history, life on the planet has attuned our biology to this subtle field. By comparison, home wiring
systems in the U.S. use 60-cycle per second alternating current (AC). Unless at very low frequency
(less that 10 cycles per second) and/or low power, alternating current is foreign to our biology. AC,
and other forms of man-made environmental electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are being researched
as possible factors in a variety of stress-related responses. Many people are sensitive to EMFs.
Studies show an association, but not cause and effect, between living near power lines (or
exposure to EMFs on the job) and higher rates of health problems.
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Q. How much current is actually being transferred from the Earth's surface via the wire to
a grounding product?
A. There is no constant measurable current flow beyond the equalization charge that is instantly
transferred to the body when a person lies on a conductive sheet or makes contact with another
type of Earthing product. We are talking about numbers of electrons in the trillions and quadrillions.
Once the body is grounded, the rate of influx changes, and the body will only absorb that amount
of electrons needed to maintain the same electrical potential as the Earth and to restore what is
lost in the bodys metabolic processes. It may take many quadrillions to get the body stable. As
long as a person continues to be grounded, the body can use the Earth as a natural reservoir, or
power source, of electrons to maintain a topped up homeostatic level that compensates for any
attrition of internal electrons. With connection to the Earth, it would thus seem hard for the body to
develop any electron deficiency, and, theoretically, any chronic inflammation. The actual amount of
charge (electrons transferred) would vary significantly based upon location of the body above the
Earth (voltage) and any potential electrostatic charge that has built up on the body. The continuing
amount of electrons absorbed by the body to reduce metabolic and immune response free radicals
would also vary significantly between people depending upon their life style and activity. This is all
extremely difficult, if not impossible, to measure.
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Q. What is the difference between the Earthing technology and the use of magnets?
A. Although the use of magnets produce some therapeutic effects when properly applied, magnets
cannot provide free electrons, nor can they connect the body with the naturally balancing electric
frequencies of the Earth. Earthing technology used inside your home or office connects you with
the Earths electrons in the same way as if you were standing barefoot on ground outside.
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Q. Can I wear any type of footwear and still be earthed?

A. No. Standard plastic/rubber or composite soles do not conduct the Earths electric energy. Most
shoes today are made from those materials. You need leather or hide soles, which used to be the
primary footwear materials in the past. Leather itself isnt conductive, but the foot perspires and the
moisture permits conduction of the energy from the Earth through the leather and up into the body.
In addition, moisture from walking on damp ground or sidewalks could permeate up into the leather
soled shoe. Thickness of the sole can also be a factor, and specifically that a very thick leather sole
may not allow the moisture through. Moccasins are the best type of natural conductive footwear.
Leather isnt quite as good as bare feet on the ground but certainly much, much better than
standard soles that are insulating. Hopefully soon shoe companies will begin making grounded
shoes.

Q. Can I ground myself outside by wearing electrostatic discharge (ESD) footwear?

A. ESD shoes are primarily designed for discharging static electricity but to a degree they ground
the body beneficially. They are better than regular shoes but not as good as going barefoot. The
difference between grounding and static discharge is that grounding instantly equalizes your body
at Earths potential. Static discharge, generally called a soft ground or a dissipative ground, has an
inline 1 meg ohm resistor in the ground cord which is design to slowly bleed off static electrical
charges (contact and separation charges). These charges are created on the body by clothing and
shoes whenever you move your clothing with arm movement or walk or sit on any synthetic
material. The ESD industry uses dissipative grounding to prevent a rapid discharge of static
electricity that might otherwise blow an electronic circuit or sensitive chip.
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Q. I live in Chicago and my cement basement floor is cold, so I am reluctant to ground

myself bare foot on that surface. Could I get grounded there by using an un-insulated metal
container, filled with warm water and still get the same results?
A. If bare feet directly on the floor is uncomfortable, you can use a metal container as you suggest.
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Q. Does Earthing occur if I work, stand, or walk barefooted on a ceramic tile floor?
A. It depends on whether the tile floor sits on a concrete slab or on the ground. If directly on a slab
or ground, the energy could come through. If the tile sits on plywood or some other kind of wood,
plastic, or vinyl understructure, you are not likely to get any conductivity. It also depends on what
kind of tile. Ceramic tile with a glazed finish on the surface will, like glass, probably prevent
conductivity.
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Q. I live in a warm climate where we are reluctant to go out barefoot due to parasites in the
soil like hookworm and roundworm. The soil never gets cold enough for the parasites to die off.
A. If being barefoot outside is risky, Earthing sheets and mats allow you to be grounded inside. The
best opportunity to gain the many benefits of Earthing is to sleep grounded.
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Q. Can Earthing protect me from cell phone frequencies?

A. The protective potential of Earthing has not been tested yet on cell phone exposure. There is no
research indicating that Earthing will or will not protect a person from exposure to cell phones
signals, microwave radiation, or radio frequencies. What we know is that Earthing reduces
significantly the induced body voltages generated by simple exposure to common household 60 Hz
EMFs continuously emitted by all plugged-in electrical cords (even if the appliance is off), internal
wiring, and all ungrounded electrical devices in the home or office. Based in the cases we have
seen of people extremely sensitive to such EMFs it is prudent to be grounded as much as possible
in the home or office.
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Q. If I sleep on the ground in a sleeping bag am I grounded?

A. Some part of your body needs to be in direct contact with the Earth in order for you to get the full
benefit of Earthing. The skin of your body needs to come in contact with the skin of the Earth. It
can be a bare foot, or arm, for instance, sticking out of the sleeping bag in contact with the Earth.
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Q. I do not live in North America. Can I plug my Earthing product into a wall outlet?
A. We receive many questions about using Earthing products around the world. To assist you, we
have compiled some basic facts you will need to determine the best connecting options for you.
Earthing products are designed to be used with an Earthing ground rod placed in the soil outside
next to a window or door, or via a grounded wall outlet inside the home or office. Individual
conditions in your home, office, and country may dictate which of these options you use to connect
to the Earth.
The first thing you need to know is that Earthing products do not operate on electricity, so it does
not matter what the electrical current is in your country (whether 110 volts or 240 volts, etc).
Earthing products simply allow the natural, gentle energy from the Earth outside to be carried
inside. When you make physical bare skin contact with the Earthing product it is the same as
if you were standing or walking barefoot outside. This is what creates the benefits of Earthing.
Our preference is that the products throughout the world be connected to Earthing ground rods,
however many people like the idea of simply plugging them into an electrical outlet ground port in
their home or office. For people who live in tall apartment buildings (high rises), a ground rod may
not be feasible, and for people who do not have a grounded electrical system in their home or
office, the only option is the ground rod.
The following explanation covers two options for connecting Earthing products. The electrical terms
ground and Earth have the same meaning. In Spanish, the term is tierra.
Option # 1: Plug-In
There are many different outlet configurations around the world. Some are grounded (Earthed).
Others are not. For this reason, if you want to plug into a wall outlet you will have to determine first
whether your electrical system and outlets are indeed properly grounded. An electrician can
determine that for you or you can purchase a simple outlet ground checker at an electrical supply
or hardware store locally.
Outlets with only two holes and no Earth/ground strip or Earth/ground pin or hole means there is no
Earth/ground present. You must use a ground rod. This is quite common in older homes. Keep in
mind, however, that an outlet with three holes, or two holes and an Earth/ground strip or Earth/
ground pin or hole, does not necessarily mean that the Earth/ground is actually connected. The
individual outlet must be tested for correct wiring.

In the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean, the electrical systems in homes and
offices that have been grounded utilize what is know as Type B electrical wall outlets. To
determine what type of outlet is used in your country, go to the following web site: http://
electricaloutlet.org/ The cords that come with Earthing products are designed to fit directly into the
ground ports (third hole) of grounded Type B wall outlet or into the female receptor end of Earthing
ground rod cords used anyplace in the world. The Earthing cords will not usually fit into
international ground ports or contacts.

If your outlets are grounded, you will need to obtain a grounded outlet adapter for use with North
American appliances in your country. Earthing products come with a 15 foot long cord. One end
snaps onto the product and the other (male) end inserts into the ground (Earth) port of the
appropriate adapter that is then plugged into a properly grounded electrical outlet. Adapters are
available through our website under Accessories.
Do not buy a universal adapter. Some universal adapters look like they have the Earth/ground
connection but when tested they do not work. Others have loose intermittent connections that will
minimize the benefits you expect from Earthing.
If you do not have a grounded outlet, you will have to use a ground rod (Option # 2) or have an
electrician connect your electrical outlet(s) to the Earth.

Option # 2
Earthing sleep systems (sheets and recovery bag) come with a 12-inch long ground rod included.
The Earthing mats do not include the ground rod. If you want to use a ground rod for use with a
mat, it must be purchased separately. The ground rod costs $26.95 U.S.
The ground rods are inserted into the ground (dirt, garden bed) outside/below a window or door
adjacent to where the Earthing product will be used inside. It is very simple to do. If there is only
concrete and no adjacent Earth in which to put the ground rod then this is not an option for you.
The Earthing ground rod has a 40 foot (13 meter) cord attached to it. You can run the cord under a
window or door, just being careful not to sever the cord. The cord from the Earthing sheet or mat is
connected to the ground rod cord, male end into the female end. Again, very simple. This is how
you set up the ground rod.
The cords that come with each product can be connected to a grounded outlet (or outlet adapter,
as described in Option # 1) or a ground rod. If additional length is needed, Earthing extension
cords can also be purchased.
Available also are splitter cords, into which you can insert the cords from any two Earthing
products. The splitter connects either to a wall outlet (or outlet adapter) or to the ground rod cord.
All Earthing product connection cords contain a current limiting 100k resistor.
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Earthing Getting Started

I just started sleeping grounded and feel a bit strange. What could that be from?
I have noticed tingling in my feet for the first few nights Ive been sleeping grounded. Should I be
concerned?
Can I over-Earth myself? I sleep on a full body Earthing sheet and also at times use the Earthing
mat on the floor at my computer. I noticed that my toes and fingers have become very sensitive.
Last night I did not earth myself and my toes are fine.
Are there people who sleep grounded and dont feel anything, or for whom grounding doesnt
work?
I am one of those electro-sensitive people you write about in the Earthing book. I have started
sleeping grounded and the energy feels strange to me.
I dont want to spend any money for any grounding device when I can make one myself. All I have
to do it get a ground rod, some 20 gauge wire, and then wrap the wire around my ankle or foot at
night.
Why should I buy any grounding product, like a sheet or a mat, when I can simply go barefoot?
I started sleeping on an Earthing sheet and noticed that I feel warmer. Whats going on?
I want to sleep grounded. What is the difference between a bed pad, a half-sheet, and a fitted
sheet? Is one more effective than the other?
I enjoy the feel of plush cotton sheets. Can I put the Earthing sheet underneath my regular sheet?
Can I wear pajamas when I sleep on an Earthing sheet?
I like to wear socks to bed. Do my bare feet have to touch the Earthing bed sheet?
Can I wear socks when using an Earthing mat on the floor?

Earthing Getting Started

Q. I just started sleeping grounded and feel a bit strange. What could that be from?
A. Initially, some people may feel some temporary discomfort or even flu-like signs, pain or
achiness. In practically all cases, this experience is fleeting. We believe it is the result of a
normalization of the bodys electrical system. As the process gets underway, the bodys ability to
release accumulated toxicity may improve and you could feel that as transient discomfort.
Typically, after some initial adjustment, you start feeling better and more energized. The feeling
might last a few days at the most but it will go away. If you are uncomfortable, stop grounding
yourself for several days and then begin again, starting with shorter exposure and gradually
increasing the exposure. In the majority of cases, no discomfort is felt at the beginning.
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Q. I have noticed tingling in my feet for the first few nights Ive been sleeping grounded.
Should I be concerned?
A. Many people feel tingling in the beginning. Its a sign that the circulation is improving.
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Q. Can I over-Earth myself? I sleep on a full body Earthing sheet and also at times use the
Earthing mat on the floor at my computer. I noticed that my toes and fingers have become
very sensitive. Last night I did not earth myself and my toes are fine.
A. The question to ask is this: can you be barefoot on the Earth too much? The whole Earthing
experience indoors is a replica of being barefoot on the Earth outside. Keep in mind that humans
evolved walking, sitting, and sleeping on the Earth.
Different and strange sensations may occur in the beginning. We generally attribute them to a
normalizing, detoxifying, and energizing process. Many systems are adjusting to the Earths
energy, making all the gears and cogs more efficient, so to speak, and enhancing more efficient
removal of toxins. These processes take different forms, and can take longer or shorter, depending
on the individual.
If you are taking any medications, it is possible that the normalization process could be creating a
situation where the level of dosage has become excessive. The body is functioning better, so you
may need less of a particular medication. This is a definite possibility. If you suspect this to be the
case you should consult with your doctor and discuss the possibility of reducing medication. Please
refer to our Earthing reports on our website to read about Earthing and medication. The body takes
as many electrons from the Earth as it needs. It uses up electrons in many metabolic processes,
including the basic process of cellular energy production, so there is always a demand for more. If
you are grounding yourself on a routine basis, you are, in a sense, topping up your tank.
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Q. Are there people who sleep grounded and dont feel anything, or for whom grounding
doesnt work?
A. Everybody benefits in some way, but we are all different. The benefits can come quickly and
dramatically, such as less pain and better sleep, or subtly and gradually over time. Often people
who are very ill feel the difference most dramatically. Someone with radiant health and who sleeps
well may not feel any difference, however, connecting to the Earth is helping to preserve and
perpetuate good health. We regard Earthing as a natural form of anti-aging medicine, whether you
feel it or not.
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Q. I am one of those electro-sensitive people you write about in the Earthing book. I have
started sleeping grounded and the energy feels strange to me.
A. So-called electro-sensitive people report feeling strange energy in the beginning and some even
say they feel ill. The energy they feel when grounded is simply Earths natural energy.
We regard these sensations generally as part of an adjustment/healing/detoxification process as
the body normalizes and inflammation goes down. If the feeling is too uncomfortable, stop sleeping
or working grounded. Re-start your grounding by spending a half hour or forty minutes, or even
less, twice a day barefoot outside or in contact with an Earthing sheet, mat, or band inside your
home. Then very slowly increase your exposure. In this way, you may often be able to work your
way gradually to sleeping grounded for six to eight hours at night. Just go very slow and at your
own pace. Some electro-sensitive people have found that they receive positive benefits just from
minimum exposure to Earthing.
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Q. I dont want to spend any money for any grounding device when I can make one myself. All I
have to do it get a ground rod, some 20 gauge wire, and then wrap the wire around my ankle or
foot at night.
A. You can certainly do it. People have done it any times. However, it is not particularly
comfortable. You could possibly cut off circulation if you wrap the wire too tight around your
extremity. Secondly, a sharp end on a wire wrapped around the ankle could tear the sheet.
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Q. Why should I buy any grounding product, like a sheet or a mat, when I can simply go barefoot?
A. You are absolutely correct. Barefoot is the natural way to go. And also sleep on the ground. This
is the way humans evolved. In so-called developed societies, we wear insulating shoes and we
sleep on elevated beds. However, most people wont regularly go barefoot, if at all, or consider
sleeping on the ground, and certainly not in the cold winter months. So Earthing products were
created to address the issue of comfort, convenience, reality, and practicality. The products are
basically extension cords. They bring the Earths energy outside into the office and home inside
the equivalent of being barefoot outside while you are inside. They were developed to
accommodate the research process and to satisfy a continually growing demand of people wanting
to sleep, work, or relax grounded for all the reasons we present in the book.
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Q. I started sleeping on an Earthing sheet and noticed that I feel warmer. Whats going on?
A. Contact with the Earth appears to create warmth in the extremities and body as a result of better
circulation and relaxation. We have seen people quickly develop a rosier color in their skin. Many
people have also reported feeling some initial tingling in the extremities.
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Q. I want to sleep grounded. What is the difference between a bed pad, a half-sheet, and a
fitted sheet? Is one more effective than the other?
A. In the Earthing book, we used the generic term bed pad to describe a variety of Earthing sleep
systems developed by Clint Ober over the years. There are currently several different products
available for beds and they are all effective for sleeping grounded:
1) the bed pad, which is the term now being used to describe a half-sheet that fits across a part of
the bed,
2) a fitted sheet, and
3) the universal mat which can also be used on the floor or in the bed.
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Q. I enjoy the feel of plush cotton sheets. Can I put the Earthing sheet underneath my
regular sheet?
A. Sorry, but if you do you will not receive the benefits of Earthing. You want some part of your
body to be in direct contact with the grounded sheet: the skin of your body touching the conductive
sheet. That's how you absorb the energy from the Earth and how you get the benefits. If you have
a grounded half-sheet, put it over your regular bottom sheet. If you have a full-fitted Earthing sheet,
that serves as your bottom sheet.
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Q. Can I wear pajamas when I sleep on an Earthing sheet?

A. Yes, as long as some bare skin comes in direct contact with the sheet, such as your feet. If
some part of your body does not directly contact the sheet, it will require some moisture for the
direct current of the Earth to flow through the fabric into your body. For some people this occurs
naturally during the night when moisture from the body creates the necessary conductivity. Best,
however, is having bare skin contact. Some people have asked if there is any type of pajama fabric
that will not work with the sheet. The answer is that the fabric of the pajamas is irrelevant. The only
factor thats important is direct skin contact with the Earthing sheet.
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Q. I like to wear socks to bed. Do my bare feet have to touch the Earthing bed sheet?
A. It is best to have your bare feet in contact with the grounded sheet. The Earths energy is
conducted most optimally via bare skin contact. However, if you must wear socks, try to have some
skin bare legs or another body part touch the Earthing sheet. You can place the Earthing
product in your bed wherever it is most comfortable and effective for you. If you wear socks to bed
because of cold feet, you will often find that your feet warm up naturally from improved circulation
when you sleep grounded.
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Q. Can I wear socks when using an Earthing mat on the floor?

A. Yes, but direct skin contact is best. Feet naturally sweat and will hydrate socks, making the
socks somewhat conductive, the thinner the socks, the more conductive. Silk is not conductive.
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Earthing and Health

Please note that none of the answers given here constitute medical advice in any way or any claim
for cure or treatment of any medical condition. Always consult with your personal physician
regarding any personal health care issues.

How does Earthing help me feel better and my bodys ability to heal?
In your research, the physiological effects of Earthing have been almost immediate. How
does that happen?
Can Earthing add years to my life? Is it really an anti-aging strategy?
How much time do I need to be grounded in order to feel results?
How long will it take to relieve my symptoms?
I feel better when I sleep grounded. What happens if I stop sleeping grounded?
Ive got pain. How can Earthing help me?
Do Earthing products need to be applied directly where I have pain in my body?
I have two stents. Could sleeping grounded do any damage to the stents?
Can Earthing products be used by somebody who has a pacemaker?
Can you use the Earthing products if you have knee and hip replacements?
Can I get too much of the Earths energy by sleeping grounded every night?
I am not feeling any difference from Earthing. Could it be because I am very healthy
already?
I have battled with insomnia for a long time. I got the Earthing sheet, and during the first
week, I slept so much better, but then started tossing and turning again.
Can grounding help stroke patients?
Can grounding help blood pressure?

Earthing and Health

Q. How does Earthing help me feel better and my bodys ability to heal?
A. Pain and diseases other disturbances in our bodies are often caused by chronic inflammation.
Such inflammation is, in turn, caused by positively-charged molecules called free radicals. When
you make direct contact with the Earth, either by being barefoot outside or via a conductive sheet
or mat indoors, the negatively-charged electrons from the Earth are absorbed into your body and
reduce the free radicals and inflammation. This is our theory and it is supported by our research
and feedback from thousands of people who use Earthing products.
This benefit of Earthing is very important because medical research has found that many of the
chronic and debilitating diseases of our time have the same cause: chronic inflammation. Scientists
now realize that pain and disease arise in our bodies where an inflammatory response has taken
place, but the inflammation has not completely stopped after the healing process. A low level of
chronic inflammation can continue for years, damaging normal tissues and wasting energy.
The human immune system evolved over a long span of time during which we were in virtually
constant barefoot contact with the Earth. In our modern society, humans no longer walk barefoot.
We wear shoes that insulate us from the Earths energy. In recent decades the incidence of chronic
diseases, allergies, auto-immune conditions, and insomnia has skyrocketed in modern societies.
One overlooked reason for this situation is that the immune system began functioning less
efficiently as humans increasingly separated themselves from the Earths energy.
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Q. In your clinical studies, the physiological effects of Earthing have been almost immediate. Can
you explain this?
A. The body is a good conductor of free electrons. It is a repeated observation that Earthing
produces beneficial effects very rapidly. When people are grounded through the feet (either by
standing barefoot on the Earth or via grounded EKG patches in experiments), they sometimes feel
a tingling sensation moving up the legs. We associate this with the apparent movement of
electrons up into the body. In our research, we have clocked the speed of this activity. It takes
about 20 to 30 minutes to reach sites of pain and inflammation and then begin neutralizing the
inflammation. When a study participant says that pain has started to ease we regard this as a sign
that the electrons have arrived at the pain site and have started to go to work.
Electrons may even be attracted to those sites because electrons have a negative charge and free
radicals, involved in the inflammatory process, have a positive charge. Once the free radicals are
neutralized, we hypothesize that the destructive action on healthy tissues is abated, leading to a
reduction of pain, sometimes quite fast and dramatic.
As soon as a person comes in direct contact with the Earth the electrons inside the body feel the
effect of the ground potential of the Earths electric field. We discuss thisthe so-called straw-
bead effectin Appendix B of our Earthing book. The body settles and equalizes electrically to
the ground potential almost instantaneously. The information that a new potential has been
established in the body is transmitted, also almost instantaneously, to the autonomic nervous
system, which then responds by adjusting electrical activities throughout the body. Muscle
tension and skin conductance, and maybe also brain waves, are adjusted in a few seconds at the
most.
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Q. Can Earthing add years to my life?

A. We don't know the answer to that question, however Earthing does look promising as a powerful
anti-aging strategy. Many researchers have documented the deterioration of the immune system
as we age. The name for this is immunosenescence. A prominent medical theory states that one of
the causes of general deterioration during aging is free radical damage, technically known as
oxidative stress, and resulting in injury to cells. Since Earthing greatly reduces oxidative stress and
inflammation it is expected to increase life expectancy and improve health. There is no question
that maintaining a functionally young immune system is an excellent strategy for preserving the
quality of life and slowing senescence.
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Q. How much time do I need to be grounded in order to feel results?

A. When you come in direct contact with the Earth there is an immediate and natural shift in your
body. We have measured these changes in the laboratory and they clearly indicate that the body is
functioning better. People with pain often feel relief in varying degrees from a little to a lot, and
to even disappearance of the pain just by planting their bare feet on the ground outside for a
half hour or forty minutes twice a day. Sleeping grounded through the night produces many
beneficial results, such as better and deeper sleep, more energy during the day, and less pain.
Again, the degree of benefits run from slight to dramatic, from immediate to gradual. Some
chronically ill people benefit from additional grounding hours during the day, such as by being
barefoot or using an Earthing mat or body band. From the thousands of cases that Clint Ober and
others have observed over the past decade, the more severe the health problem the more
dramatic the improvement seen with grounding in general. Even in end-of-life situations associated
with pain, it has been reported that individuals generally have less pain.
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Q. How long will it take to relieve my symptoms?

A. Everybody is different and symptoms are different and with different causes. Earthing does not
cure anything. Contact with the Earth helps restores the bodys natural electrical balance and
reduce stress and inflammation. By doing these things, Earthing can have both short-term and
long-term effects, and sometimes quite dramatic and quick. We have had many reports of
improved sleep and decreased stress after only one or two nights of sleeping grounded. If the
cause of sleep difficulties is long-term insomnia with underlying health issues, improvement often
takes more time.
Medical thermal imaging has shown decreased inflammation in minutes after people are grounded.
In a study conducted by the California Institute for Human Science, instantaneous changes in brain
waves and muscle tension were documented when the Earth connection was introduced.
Clearly, lasting changes in stress, sleep, pain and body rhythms occur when we are connected to
the Earth for longer segments of time on a repeated basis. Nighttime sleep, when the body is most
receptive to healing, is the most beneficial time. In a general sense, just as you cant direct healthy
food, air, or water to create specific desired results in one function or part of your body, the body
takes in the natural energy of the Earth and uses it as needed. You may experience benefits for
certain issues you were not even expecting improvements in and there may be no change in other
areas. Generally, the longer you continue to use Earthing, the more benefits and vitality you can
expect to see.
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Q. I feel better when I sleep grounded. What happens if I stop sleeping grounded?
A. Over the years, we have heard from many people who experienced relief and improvements
and then stopped Earthing. Their gains began eroding. We advise people to make Earthing part of
a healthy lifestyle routine and keep grounding themselves. Dont stop. We all evolved connected to
the Earth. Staying connected may be the difference between feeling good and feeling bad.
Earthing is not just for regaining well-being, but also for maintaining it.
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Q. Ive got pain. How can Earthing help me?

A. Go outside and stand, sit, or walk on the ground barefoot for at least a half hour or so. In that
time you may notice that your pain is less. We believe this effect comes from the electrons that
flow into your body from the Earth. Inside the body they act to reduce inflammation. There are also
barefoot substitutes, Earthing products you can sleep on, work on, and sit on inside your home or
place of work. Think of them as extension cords connecting you in your house or office to the Earth
outside.
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Q. Do Earthing products need to be applied directly where I have pain in my body?

A. Our bodies conduct the Earths energy. If any part of your body is in contact with the earth, or an
Earthing product, all of your body becomes equalized with the energy of the Earth. We have
observed, however, that applying the Earthing product near the location of an injury or pain may
accelerate the decrease in local inflammation and pain.
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Q. I have two stents. Could sleeping grounded do any damage to the stents?
A. Not any more than sleeping or walking barefoot on the Earth would cause damage.
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Q. Can Earthing products be used by somebody who has a pacemaker?

A. There is no evidence that Earthing interferes with the function of a pacemaker. Earthing is the
same as walking barefoot on the Earth. Many people with pacemakers sleep grounded and
experience the benefits of their medical device and Earthing. To our knowledge, no one with a
pacemaker was advised not to walk barefoot outdoors. Just check with your doctor initially and
monitor yourself for any symptoms.
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Q. Can you use the Earthing products if you have knee and hip replacements?
A. No problem.
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Q. Can I get too much of the Earths energy by sleeping grounded every night?
A. Throughout most of history we walked barefoot and slept on the ground. We were directly
connected to the Earth almost 24/7. Thats what our bodies are used to. Our body knows exactly
what to do with what the Earth provides for us. When we connect to the Earth the amount of the
electrons we absorb is governed by the amount our body needs to balance the electrical charge of
our body. It is always the perfect amount.
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Q. I am not feeling any difference from Earthing. Could it be because I am very healthy already?
A. Most dramatic results are felt by those who are sick and depleted. For healthy folks, we regard
Earthing as a significant anti-aging strategy. But our investigations support the idea of staying
grounded not just to feel better, but for prevention and optimum health.
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Q. I have battled with insomnia for a long time. I got the Earthing sheet, and during the first week, I
slept so much better, but then started tossing and turning again.
A. Sleep is so subjective, and the quality is often related to lifes stresses. No matter how grounded
somebody is, stressful situations can readily impact sleep. Drinking a lot of caffeine or alcohol in
the evening could also interfere with sleep. Also too much computer time in the evening can wake
up part of the mind and keep on e awake.
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Q. Can grounding help stroke patients?

A. No studies have been done to determine this possibility. In a general sense, if you can increase
circulation and oxygen delivery in the body, you can get an improvement. Earthing research has
demonstrated improved circulation and oxygen uptake.
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Q. Can grounding help blood pressure?

A. Again, no specific studies on this have been done. Anecdotally, we have heard from many
people whose blood pressure numbers have improved, and who have better control of their blood
pressure, after starting Earthing. Some have been able to lower the dosage of their medication. If
you take medication and experience better control, you should inform your physician and ask about
the possibility of lowering your dosage.
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****

Earthing Products

I have used various therapeutic systems that simulate the frequencies of the Earth. How is this
different?
I dont want to spend any money for grounding products when I can make one myself. All I have to
do it get a ground rod, some 20 gauge wire, and then wrap the wire around my ankle or foot at
night.
Why should I buy any grounding product, like a sheet or a mat, when I can simply go barefoot?
I started sleeping on an Earthing sheet and noticed that I feel warmer. Whats going on?
I want to sleep grounded. What is the difference between a bedpad, a half-sheet, and a fitted
sheet? Is one more effective than the other?
I enjoy the feel of plush cotton sheets. Can I put the Earthing sheet underneath my regular sheet?
Can I wear pajamas if I am sleeping on an Earthing sheet?
I like to wear socks to bed. Do my bare feet have to touch the Earthing bed sheet?
Can I wear socks when using an Earthing mat on the floor?
Is it OK to use an Earthing sleeping product along with an electric blanket or on an electrically
heated mattress pad or waterbed?
How are the Earthing sheets different from an electric blanket?
How long will an Earthing sheet last before it wears out?
Is the Earthing sheet washable? What about care and cleaning?
Are the sheet threads really silver? Why?
Can you use an Earthing sleep system over a mattress pad that has magnets embedded in it?
We sleep on a futon. Can I put the Earthing mat under the bottom cotton sheet we use? What with
all this new barefoot walking our feet are not always as pristine clean as they were before.
My dog sleeps in my bed with me and sits at my feet when I am at my desk. Is it safe for him to
touch the Earthing product?
I sleep grounded at night but would like to ground myself during the day as well. What do you
recommend?
How do you clean an Earthing mat?
Are Earthing pillow cases made for the bed?

Earthing Products

Q. I have used various therapeutic systems that simulate the frequencies of the Earth. How is this
different?
A. There are many effective instruments available that use a variety of frequencies. Earthing
products simply conduct the actual frequencies of the Earth to your body without any simulation
and serve as extension cords from the Earth to you. The signal they carry includes all of the
subtleties inherent in Nature that our bodies have attuned to throughout history. Earthing is totally
natural.
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Q. I dont want to spend any money for any grounding device when I can make one myself. All I
have to do it get a ground rod, some 20 gauge wire, and then wrap the wire around my ankle or
foot at night.
A. You can certainly do it. People have done it any times. However, it is not particularly
comfortable. You could possibly cut off circulation if you wrap the wire too tight around your
extremity. Secondly, a sharp end on a wire wrapped around the ankle could tear the sheet.
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Q. Why should I buy any grounding product, like a sheet or a mat, when I can simply go barefoot?
A. You are absolutely correct. Barefoot is the natural way to go. And also sleep on the ground. This
is the way humans evolved. In so-called developed societies, we wear insulating shoes and we
sleep on elevated beds. However, most people wont regularly go barefoot, if at all, or consider
sleeping on the ground, and certainly not in the cold winter months. So Earthing products were
created to address the issue of comfort, convenience, reality, and practicality. The products are
basically extension cords. They bring the Earths energy outside into the office and home inside
the equivalent of being barefoot outside while you are inside. They were developed to
accommodate the research process and to satisfy a continually growing demand of people wanting
to sleep, work, or relax grounded for all the reasons we present in the book.
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Q. I started sleeping on an Earthing sheet and noticed that I feel warmer. Whats going on?
A. Contact with the Earth appears to create warmth in the extremities and body as a result of better
circulation and relaxation. We have seen people quickly develop a rosier color in their skin. Many
people have also reported feeling some initial tingling in the extremities.
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Q. I want to sleep grounded. What is the difference between a bedpad, a half-sheet, and a fitted
sheet? Is one more effective than the other?
A. In the Earthing book, we used the generic term bed pad to describe a variety of Earthing sleep
systems developed by Clint Ober over the years. There are currently several different products
available for beds and they are all effective for sleeping grounded: 1) the bed pad, which is the
term now being used to describe a half-sheet that fits across a part of the bed, 2) a fitted sheet,
and 3) the universal mat which can also be used on the floor or in the bed.
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Q. I enjoy the feel of plush cotton sheets. Can I put the Earthing sheet underneath my regular
sheet?
A. Sorry, but if you do you will not receive the benefits of Earthing. You want some part of your
body to be in direct contact with the grounded sheet: the skin of your body touching the conductive
sheet. That's how you absorb the energy from the Earth and how you get the benefits. If you have
a grounded half-sheet, put it over your regular bottom sheet. If you have a full-fitted Earthing sheet,
that serves as your bottom sheet.
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Q. Can I wear pajamas when I sleep on an Earthing sheet?

A. Yes, as long as some bare skin comes in direct contact with the sheet, such as your feet. If
some part of your body does not directly contact the sheet, it will require some moisture for the
direct current of the Earth to flow through the fabric into your body. For some people this occurs
naturally during the night when moisture from the body creates the necessary conductivity. Best,
however, is having bare skin contact. Some people have asked if there is any type of pajama fabric
that will not work with the sheet. The answer is that the fabric of the pajamas is irrelevant. The only
factor thats important is direct skin contact with the Earthing sheet.
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Q. I like to wear socks to bed. Do my bare feet have to touch the Earthing bed sheet?
A. It is best to have your bare feet in contact with the grounded sheet. The Earths energy is
conducted most optimally via bare skin contact. However, if you must wear socks, try to have some
skin bare legs or another body part touch the Earthing sheet. You can place the Earthing
product in your bed wherever it is most comfortable and effective for you. If you wear socks to bed
because of cold feet, you will often find that your feet warm up naturally from improved circulation
when you sleep grounded.
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Q. Can I wear socks when using an Earthing mat on the floor?

A. Yes, but direct skin contact is best. Feet naturally sweat and will hydrate socks, making the
socks somewhat conductive. The lighter the material, the more conductive. Silk is not conductive.
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Q. Is it OK to use an Earthing sleeping product along with an electric blanket or on an electrically

heated mattress pad or waterbed?
A. There is nothing wrong with using an Earthing sleep product with any electrical devices as long
as those devices are in good working order.
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Q. How are the Earthing sheets different from an electric blanket?

A. Earthing sheets do not run on electricity. Nor do they heat up as does an electric blanket. They
only conduct the subtle energy from the ground. They do not conduct the electrical energy that
flows in the electrical system of your house and powers your lights and appliances. If you want to
know about safety issues related to the use of electric blankets, visit the following website: http://
www.electricblanketinstitute.com/safety.html There are no additional safety issues regarding the
use of an electric blanket when sleeping grounded. Earthing product cords contain a current
limiting resistor that prevent any harmful effect should an electrical event such as a short develop
in an electric blanket.
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Q. How long will an Earthing sheet last before it wears out?

A. Sheets made with cotton, polyester, and conductive silver fiber have withstood rigorous testing
conducted by an independent testing lab. After 100 wash/dry cycles, the conductive silver fibers
show virtually no breakage or wear. When cared for properly, your sheet should last as long as any
good quality bed sheet. It is also recommended that no body lotions or creams be applied before
bedtime to any part of the body that will come in direct contact with the sheet. The reason for this is
that the creams can easily become absorbed into the sheets. The oils they contain become
oxidized by the air and can diminish the conductivity of the silver threads.
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Q. Is the Earthing sheet washable? What about care and cleaning?

A. Your sheet may be laundered just as you would wash other bedding, using a gentle wash cycle
and a mild detergent. Low-heat drying is recommended. However, NO chlorine bleach or fabric
softener should be used. When necessary, use hydrogen peroxide-based non-bleach to remove
stains and/or to whiten your sheet.
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Q. Are the sheet threads really silver? Why?

A. Any metallic material will conduct the flow of electrons. Earthing products utilize carbon or silver
as the conductive agent. Silver is highly conductive and very strong, allowing it to hold up well with
frequent use and washings. Moreover, it is inherently anti-microbial.
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Q. Can you use an Earthing sleep system over a mattress pad that has magnets embedded in it?
A. There is no problem with using an Earthing sheet over a magnetic mattress pad. The magnets
in the magnetic mattress pad produce a static magnetic field that would naturally go through and
extend beyond the surface of the Earthing sheet similar to the way it passes through a regular
sheet.
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Q. We sleep on a futon. Can I put the Earthing mat under the bottom cotton sheet we use? What
with all this new barefoot walking our feet are not always as pristine clean as they were before.
A. The mat will be of lesser value to you if you put it under your bottom sheet. You must have skin
contact for grounding to work. The grounding mats or sheets are washable.
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Q. My dog sleeps in my bed with me and sits at my feet when I am at my desk. Is it safe for him to
touch the Earthing product?
A. Yes. Animals naturally want to spend time in contact with the Earth. Most indoor pets share our
lifestyle causing them to be separated from direct contact with the Earth. People report that pets
indoors are attracted to grounding sheets and mats.
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Q. I sleep grounded at night but would like to ground myself during the day as well. What do you
recommend? I do not walk around barefoot outside (dogs!).
A. Depending on your activities, you might choose between body bands and the universal mat. You
can be more mobile with the bands. Put one around your wrist, or ankle, or knee. If you choose the
mat, you can use it on the floor (with bare feet in contact with it) while relaxing, reading TV, or at
the computer, or place it on your couch while sitting on it (but making bare skin contact with it), or
at your desk with forearm contact. Just think in terms of what your daily activity is and how either
the mat or bands would give you the most convenient grounding time.
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Q. How do you clean an Earthing mat?
A. Mats can be cleaned with ordinary dish soap and water.
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Q. Are Earthing pillow cases made for the bed?

A. Conductive pillow cases were made and sold some years ago. However, it was found that
because of the use of facial creams and lotions before bedtime the pillows would quickly lose their
conductivity. The oils in these topical produces were oxidizing the conductive silver threads in the
pillow cases and destroying their usefulness. Because of this we also strongly recommend not
applying such products on the body at bedtime if you sleep on an Earthing sheet.
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****
Earthing and Electrical/Connection/Conductivity Issues

How much current is actually being transferred from the Earth's surface via the wire to a grounding
product?
Could there be anything detrimental from the level of ground currents in an urban setting because
of high use of electrical grids? Do we have to worry about the electrical fields around us and the
impact of our environment on our physical body?
Before I buy any Earthing products, should I have an electrician come to my house first and see if it
is grounded properly?
Do Earthing products run on electricity?
Can I become electrocuted by an Earthing product?
My husband told me if there is a short anywhere in our home electrical system, all the electricity
would flow through the ground wire into the ground and that since we were using a grounded sheet
connected to that wire we would be electrocuted.
Do I have to be concerned about being hit by lightning during a thunderstorm if I am grounded in
my home?
How do I know if I need a ground rod or a plug-in connection?
If I place a ground rod in the earth outdoors is it OK if it gets rained on?
Who can I have drill holes in the wall for me so I can use a ground rod?
I live in an old apartment building without grounded electrical outlets and I cannot place a ground
rod outside in the Earth. What can I do?
How do I use the outlet checker that came with my Earthing system?
Once the Earthing product is plugged into a grounded outlet should I always leave it plugged in?
Are all the outlets in my home grounded if one of them is grounded?
Can I plug my Earthing product into a surge protector or extension cord?
Would it be considered Earthing to plug something into the ground port of a wall electrical outlet,
for instance, a wire and wrap it around my ankle or wrist?
In your book you mention that results were not as good with products which incorporated a 1
megohm resistor in the line. Is there a safety risk of being in contact with an Earthing system
specifically while using electrical or electronic devices?
Is there a safety risk of being in contact with an Earthing system specifically while using electrical
or electronic devices?
I live in a 20-story concrete apartment. Would you think that connecting to the outside concrete
wall, which I believe goes all the way down to the foundation without a break or any wood in
between, would give a similar effect to standing on the concrete basement floor?
My Earthing cord is tangled with a bunch of different computer, TV and other cords. Is this a
problem?
Can I plug my mat and sheet into one splitter cord without splitting the potential of Earthing in half
for each product?
I have read the Earthing book but still dont understand how the grounding mats can work in a car
since the car has rubber tires and is not grounded. I have read the Earthing book but still dont
understand how the grounding mats can work in a car since the car has rubber tires and is not
grounded. Can I really ground myself while driving the car? I drive a Prius. Does that change the
ability of the mat to ground?
It is hard to find a place to clip the auto mat onto. Any suggestions?
Do you have to put a grounding strap on a vehicle in addition to using the grounding mat?
Can you connect an Earthing sheet to the electric outlet on a cruise ship?
I live on a house boat. Can I use the outlets to ground myself?
I just began using an Earthing floor mat at my desk. I noticed that when I work with my laptop
computer and have my bare feet grounded on the mat I feel a kind of static electricity friction as I
move my hands over the computer. If there is any moisture on my hands they sting like a pinprick
when they touch the laptop. These things dont happen when I take my feet off of the pad! The
laptop is connected into the same wall outlet I use to ground the mat. The electric feeling as I work
with the laptop is not comfortable.

Earthing and Electrical/Connection/Conductivity Issues

Q. How much current is actually being transferred from the Earth's surface via the wire to a
grounding product?
A. There is no constant measurable current flow beyond the equalization charge that is instantly
transferred to the body when a person lies on a conductive sheet or makes contact with another
type of Earthing product. We are talking about numbers of electrons in the trillions and quadrillions.
Once the body is grounded, the rate of influx changes, and the body will only absorb that amount
of electrons needed to maintain the same electrical potential as the Earth and to restore what is
lost in the bodys metabolic processes. It may take many quadrillions to get the body stable. As
long as a person continues to be grounded, the body can use the Earth as a natural reservoir, or
power source, of electrons to maintain a topped up homeostatic level that compensates for any
attrition of internal electrons. With connection to the Earth, it would thus seem hard for the body to
develop any electron deficiency, and, theoretically, any chronic inflammation. The actual amount of
charge (electrons transferred) would vary significantly based upon location of the body above the
Earth (voltage) and any potential electrostatic charge that has built up on the body. The continuing
amount of electrons absorbed by the body to reduce metabolic and immune response free radicals
would also vary significantly between people depending upon their life style and activity. This is all
extremely difficult, if not impossible, to measure.
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Q. Could there be anything detrimental from the level of ground currents in an urban setting
because of high use of electrical grids? Do we have to worry about the electrical fields around us
and the impact of our environment on our physical body?
A. For a detailed answer to the question, read the Earthing Institute statement on Understanding
Earthing (grounding) In brief, there is a big misconception regarding ground currents. Some people
believe that the electricity that goes from the power plant to your house, lights your light bulb and
appliances, and then goes out the other side of the wiring (neutral) into the Earth and returns back
to the power company. Thats not true. The alternating current electricity that powers your home
and office actually doesnt go anywhere, and certainly not into the ground.
Ground currents are generated primarily by geophysical events, like lightning and when the sun
shines on the Earth. These events naturally electrify the Earth with a subtle ground current called
DC, for direct current.
Please keep in mind that the Earth is infinitely large. When you make direct physical contact with
the Earth, such as by being barefoot outside or sleeping on a conductive sheet inside that is
connected to the ground, you and your body become oneelectrically speaking. You are
conductive and you become an extension of the Earth.
The Earth is ground. Ground provides electrical stability worldwide for our grid systems and
everything electrical in our homes, businesses, and industry.
We live in an infinite sea of electromagnetic frequencies ranging from airplane communications to
garage door openers to cell phones and radio stations. They are all around us. When you are
insulated from the Earth, that is, ungrounded, all these frequencies can perturb the electrons of
your body and interfere with normal electron transfer activity going on in the body. When you are
connected to the Earth, you are at one with the Earth and have an infinite supply of electrons. The
man-made environmental frequencies cant perturb the Earthor, by extension, you. So you
reduce the perturbation of your own cells by connecting your body to the Earth.
If you are not grounded, it is a good idea to reduce your exposure to these kinds of frequencies.
Clear out unnecessary electrical devices and cords around you, especially in the bedroom. Some
people go to the extreme and turn off the power in their homes. Thats well and good, but not
practical. The key is to identify and reduce the exposure. If you arent grounded, at least de-
electrify your bedroom.
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Q. Before I buy any Earthing products, should I have an electrician come to my house first and see
if it is grounded properly?
A. (North America) If you have an older house, built before the 1960s, and all the outlets do not
have a third hole (ground port) then you will either need to use a ground rod or call an electrician to
do some updating on your electrical system.
In any case, Earthing products come with an outlet checker that is very simple to use. You just stick
it in your wall outlet and it lights up if you have a good solid ground. Then you are good to go with
the products. You just plug them right into the third hole and forget about it.
Outside of North America, you will also have to use a ground rod if your homes electrical system is
not properly grounded. If it is grounded, you will have to obtain a grounded North American adapter
for your outlets that will accommodate standard three-pin North American type electrical
appliances. We sell adapters for different countries on our website under Accessories.
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Q. Do Earthing products run on electricity?

A. No. They simply pick up the Earths energy through the ground port of a properly grounded
outlet or from a ground rod placed directly in the Earth. The energy passes through a cord to the
conductive Earthing mat, sheet, or band specially designed for human grounding. When your body
comes in contact with the Earthing product you absorb the Earths energy. Earthing products are
like barefoot substitutes, enabling you to receive the outside energy of the Earth inside your home
or office.
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Q. Can I become electrocuted by an Earthing product?

A. No. When you plug in the cord of an Earthing sheet or mat into an electrical outlet, the plug,
cord, and product are designed to only conduct the ground energy, from the ground port in the
outlet. It does not conduct the electrical power that operates your lights and appliances in the
house.
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Q. My husband told me that if there is a short anywhere in our home electrical system, all the
electricity would flow through the ground wire into the ground and that since we were using a
grounded sheet connected to that wire we would be electrocuted.
A. Not at all. If there is a short to the ground it would immediately trip all of the breakers on that
circuit. Furthermore, the ground cords on authorized Earthing products have a built-in safety
feature (a 100k ohm resistor) that prevents current from flowing through.
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Q. Do I have to be concerned about being hit by lightning during a thunderstorm if I am grounded

in my home?
A. Lightning is a massive natural phenomenon that is unpredictable and challenging to totally
protect against. It is poorly understood. Homes are rarely hit by lightning. When this happens, the
lightning usually takes the path of least resistance to the ground, such as large conductive systems
like the plumbing pipes, electrical wiring network, or telephone and cable TV lines, all of which are
directly grounded to the Earth.
The National Safety Council reports that the odds of dying from a lightning strike in one year are 1
in 6 million (www.nsc.org/research/odds.aspx). To put this in perspective, the chance of being hit
and killed by an automobile as a pedestrian in the same period is 1 in fifty thousanda risk 120
times greater. What these statistics suggest is that being hit by lightning is rather unlikely. However,
follow standard lightning safety guidelines as directed by National Weather Service
(www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov) if you live in a lightning-prone area. Disconnect your Earthing
device and dont use it during lightning and thunderstorms.
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Q. How do I know if I need a ground rod or a plug-in connection?

A. In North America, most modern homes have a functional electrical ground system that interfaces
with the Earthing plug-in cord. You just insert the prong end of the cord into the ground port (third
hole) of the wall outlet. If your home was built before the 1960s and has not been electrically re-
wired, you may require a ground rod or professional installation of a dedicated grounding
connection to the Earth. If you are unsure, have an electrician check your home for the presence of
a functional ground system or use a commercially available outlet checker.
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Q. If I place a ground rod in the earth outdoors is it OK if it gets rained on?

A. Totally OK. The presence of moisture increases the flow of electrons from the Earth. Thats why
its great to stand or walk barefoot in damp grass or in the surf or wet sand at the beach. If you live
in a very dry climate and are using a ground rod, try to place it in a spot where there is some
moisture, perhaps from sprinklers. You can even water the ground rod every week or so, if you like
to keep the soil moist.
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Q. Who can I have drill holes in the wall for me so I can use a ground rod?
A. A handyman or an electrician can easily drill a hole through the wall, and seal it properly, near
where you want to use your Earthing product. You then insert the ground rod in the Earth as near
as possible to the hole, making sure the ground rod wire is not located where someone can trip
over it. Then run the wire through the hole in the wall. Snap the other end onto the Earthing
product. If you don't want to go to the expense of having someone drill a hole for you, simply run
the wire from the ground rod outside under an adjacent window or door yourself.
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Q. I live in an old apartment building without grounded electrical outlets and I cannot place a
ground rod outside in the Earth. What can I do?
A. If you dont mind a wire running through your apartment, you could connect your Earthing
product to the cold water pipe under your bathroom sink. The pipe is part of the buildings water
supply system, which originates underground, and is thus grounded. Meanwhile, try to spend some
regular barefoot time out-of-doors if possible and consider using an Earthing mat in your office or
place of work if practical.
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Q. How do I use the outlet checker that came with my Earthing system?
A. In North America, insert the outlet checker into a wall socket that has a third hole (ground port).
Two orange lights on the outlet checker indicate the presence of a proper ground. If there is no
third hole, the outlet is not grounded. If you live outside of North America, insert the outlet checker
into an appropriate grounded adapter that fits into a grounded socket.
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Q. Once the Earthing product is plugged into a grounded outlet should I always leave it plugged in?
A. Yes. To clean or wash the Earthing product, you simply unsnap the cord from the product. There
is no need to remove the plug-in end of the cord from the outlet unless you want to use the product
elsewhere.
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Q. Are all the outlets in my home grounded if one of them is grounded?

A. No. In North America, all kitchens and bathrooms must have grounded outlets but the bedrooms
and other rooms in the house do not necessarily have a grounded outlet even if they have a three-
prong outlet. You must test any individual outlet for a proper ground if you plan to use it for Earthing
purposes.
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Q. Can I plug my Earthing product into a surge protector or extension cord?

A. Yes, as long as the surge protector or extension cord have an existing ground port (for the third
prong) which will connect with the grounding system in the home or office.
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Q. Would it be considered Earthing to plug something into the ground port of a wall electrical outlet,
for instance, a wire and wrap it around my ankle or wrist?
A. Dont do it! Unless you are an electrician or an electrical engineer, it is highly recommended not
to experiment with plugging something into a wall electrical outlet. First and foremost, it is
unsafe to plug a bare wire into an electrical ground in any case. An outlet should always be
checked to see if it is properly grounded. All the authorized Earthing products are specifically
designed for safe, biological grounding of people. They have a built-in resistor that limits the flow of
current in order to prevent the unlikely possibility that electricity would flow through the connecting
wire and possibly hurt someone. This allows the Earths natural energy to come through but not
any potentially harmful electricity. In this respect, the resistor acts like a kink in a hose, curbing
the flow. Earthing products for personal grounding have built-in protection similar to the systems
utilized in industry throughout the world to prevent electricity and static from damaging sensitive
electronic parts.
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Q. In your book you mention that results were not as good with products which incorporated a 1
megohm resistor in the line.
A. Your comment refers to grounding systems used in the electronics industry and other industries
to reduce or eliminate the risk of electrostatic discharge (ESD) in order to protect sensitive
electronic components. Our testing of those systems failed to totally reproduce the same effects as
a direct Earthing ground system. All ESD ground cords contain 1 megohm resistor. A 1 megohm
resistor allows 60hz EMF induced body voltage to drop by 90 percent. Earthing products have a
built-in 100K ohm resistor in all ground cords for safety and allows 60hz EMF induced body voltage
to drop by 99 percent. The objective of Earthing the body is to replicate standing barefoot on the
Earth and equalizing the potential of the body with the potential of the Earth. This occurs both with
either a 1 megohm or a 100K ohm resistor, the difference being a fraction of a second slower with
the bigger resistor. Bringing and holding the body at Earths potential restores the bodys natural
electrical state. This is the key factor regarding inflammation reduction. Reducing EMF induced
body voltages is more beneficial to the autonomic nervous system and to sleep.
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Q. Is there a safety risk of being in contact with an Earthing system specifically while using
electrical or electronic devices?
A. Earthing products are designed with built-in user safety. First, an electrical outlet tester is
supplied with each product to verify that an outlet is properly wired and that the outlet has a
working ground. The product ground cords are designed to provide a safe soft ground utilizing a
built-in (molded in) in-line current limiting 100kohm resistor. In the event that a short develops in an
electrical device that a person is in contact with while grounded the built-in resistor limits the
current flow to a safe level. The accepted safe current limit of 5-8mA is defined as sensation of
shock not painful; individuals can let go at will. The human body threshold of sensation is 1mA.
The electrical calculation is current=volts/resistance (I=V/R). R = Rresistor + Rbody. Typical body
resistance is 10k when wet and much higher when dry. However, to be conservative, using
Rbody=0, Rres=100kohm, V=130volts; then maximum current I=130volts/100,000ohm=1.3mA;
well below the accepted safety limit of 5-8mA and most likely barely perceptible.
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Q. I live in a 20-story concrete apartment. Would you think that connecting to the outside concrete
wall, which I believe goes all the way down to the foundation without a break or any wood in
between, would give a similar effect to standing on the concrete basement floor?
A. Connecting a grounding device to the outside concrete wall of your apartment would provide
some degree of Earthing conductivity but it would be significantly less than standing on concrete
situated directly on the Earth. The reason: concrete high in the air would be drier and less
conductive. Concrete directly on the Earth maintains a much higher moisture content. The best
way to access the Earths energy in your apartment would be with the use of the electrical ground
(third hole in power outlets), assuming the building has a proper electrical grounding system
throughout.
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Q. My Earthing cord is tangled with a bunch of computer, TV, and other cords. Is this a problem?
A. There is no problem with the ground cord being near TV, telephone or computer cables.
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Q. Can I plug my mat and sheet into one splitter cord without splitting the potential of Earthing in
half for each product?
A. The use of a splitter does not reduce the potential of Earthing at all for either product.
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Q. I have read the Earthing book but still dont understand how the grounding mats can work in a
car since the car has rubber tires and is not grounded. Can I really ground myself while driving the
car? I drive a Prius. Does that change the ability of the mat to ground?
A. In a nutshell, you have a relative grounding plane provided by the metal frame of the car. Any
car. When you clip the cord of the auto mat to the metal frame (such as part of the metal
understructure of the seat), you capture enough of a grounding effect to help eliminate some
fatigue along with tension that drivers develop in the shoulders and neck from the buildup of static
electricity on the body. The fatigue and tension is usually most noticeable when driving long
distances, and is, for instance, a frequent complaint of long-haul truckers.
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Q. It is hard to find a place to clip the auto mat onto? Any suggestions?
A. Some people have found very little bare metal under the car seat. The metal seems to be all
painted. If you cant find a bare spot, just take a file and file away some of the paint on any metallic
surface where you can fasten the clip end of the Earthing mat cord.
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Q. Do you have to put a grounding strap on a vehicle in addition to using the grounding mat? I just
read an article stating that there is no point in grounding the body to the metal cage of the vehicle
if the vehicle itself is not grounded to earth. The radiation will only be radiated back into the body.
Therefore it is important that the vehicle itself is grounded too!
A. The use of a grounded seat pad has nothing to do with radiation. Any electrical radiation would
exist on the body whether it was touching the vehicle or not. The body itself is a conductor and no
different than the auto in attracting radiation. Electrically, both are like antennas. The auto seat
ground pad has to do with reducing static charges continuously being created on the body while
driving. To determine just how much static charge is reduced when the body is connected to the
frame of the vehicle via the ground pad, simply add the mass of the metal vehicle and the mass of
the body together. Then divide by body weight. As an example, if the body is 200 lbs and the auto
metal 4,000 lbs, you have a total of 4,200 lbs. The body equals 2.1% of the total conductive mass.
Subtract that from the 100 percent total and you get a reduction of 97.9 percent. According to
truckers and other drivers mentioned in the Earthing book, they feel better when driving grounded.
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Q. Can you connect an Earthing sheet to the electric outlet on a cruise ship?
A. You may want to check with the cruise company first. It is likely that a cruise ship would be well
grounded and the use of in-cabin outlet grounds should work well.
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Q. I live on a house boat. Can I use the outlets to ground myself?

A. As long as the boat is connected to a shore power, an electrical outlet ground would be fine.
When a boat is not connected to shore power and running on a generator, the outlets may not be
grounded and you would have to ask the manufacturer. If your boat is in ocean (salt) water, you
can connect your Earthing device to a ground rod and dangle it over the side into the water. Sea
water makes a good ground.
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Q. I just began using an Earthing floor mat at my desk. I noticed that when I work with my laptop
computer and have my bare feet grounded on the mat I feel a kind of static electricity friction as I
move my hands over the computer. If there is any moisture on my hands they sting like a pinprick
when they touch the laptop. These things dont happen when I take my feet off of the pad! The
laptop is connected into the same wall outlet I use to ground the mat. The electric feeling as I work
with the laptop is not comfortable.
A. Ungrounded laptops (without a three prong power cord) can generate significant electric fields.
Some people will feel sensations while they are grounded and working on the computer. If the
feeling is uncomfortable, we recommend several options:
1. Dont ground yourself while using the computer plugged in.
2. Ground yourself only when the computer is operating on battery mode.
3. Place the laptop directly on the Earthing mat to ground the computer.
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****
Earthing Products Care

How long will an Earthing sheet last before it wears out?

Is the Earthing sheet washable?
How do you clean an Earthing mat?
Should I leave my sheet and mat plugged into the wall outlet all the time or unplug when not using
them?

Earthing Products Care

Q. How long will an Earthing sheet last before it wears out?

A. Sheets made with cotton, polyester, and conductive silver fiber have withstood rigorous testing
conducted by an independent testing lab. After 100 wash/dry cycles, the conductive silver fibers
show virtually no breakage or wear. When cared for properly, your sheet should last as long as any
good quality bed sheet. It is also recommended that no body lotions or creams be applied before
bedtime to any part of the body that will come in direct contact with the sheet. The reason for this is
that the creams can easily become absorbed into the sheets. The oils they contain become
oxidized by the air and can diminish the conductivity of the silver threads.
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Q. Is the Earthing sheet washable?

A. Yes. Your sheet may be machine washed using a warm setting, approximately 105 degrees
Fahrenheit (40 celsius). Tumble dry using a medium setting, up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65
Celsius).

DO NOT USE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ITEMS AS THEY CONTAIN CHEMICALS THAT CAN
DESTROY OR DEGRADE THE CONDUCTIVITY OF YOUR EARTHING SHEET:
NO chlorine bleach
NO detergent containing bleach
NO liquid fabric softeners
NO dryer sheets, gauze-like tissues about the size of a Kleenex, put into dryer to eliminate static
cling, soften clothes. and add artificial fragrance.
DO NOT DRY CLEAN YOUR SHEET OR EXPOSE IT T0 ANY SULFUR-CONTAINING
PRODUCTS.
When necessary, use hydrogen peroxide-based non-bleach to remove stains and/or to whiten your
sheet.
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Q. How do you clean an Earthing mat? ?

A. Mats can be cleaned with ordinary dish soap and water.
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Q.Should I leave my sheet and mat plugged into the wall outlet all the time or unplug when not
using them?
A. Just leave them plugged in at the outlet unless you are going to move them to another room.
When you wash them, just disconnect the cord from the sheet/mat, but leave the cord plugged in to
the outlet. Earthing products don't "run" on electricity. They aren't running up any bill when you
leave them plugged in.
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