Why Supplements Alone Do Not Always Fix Poor Sleep
Magnesium supports muscle relaxation. Herbal remedies calm the mind. Melatonin influences circadian rhythm. But many sleep disruptions are driven by:
• Chronic low-grade inflammation
• Elevated night-time cortisol
• Nervous system dis-regulation
• Environmental stressors
When cortisol remains elevated at night, the body stays in a subtle fight or flight state. This often leads to early-morning waking between 1am and 4am.
If your nervous system does not feel safe, your body will not fully enter restorative sleep.
This is where grounded sleeping becomes powerful.
The Science Behind Earthing for Sleep
Earthing, also known as grounding, refers to direct skin contact with the Earth’s surface or a conductive system connected to the Earth.
The Earth carries a natural negative electrical charge. When your body connects to it, electrons transfer into the body.
According to research highlighted by the Earthing Institute, these electrons may act as natural antioxidants, helping neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation.
One of the most cited studies on grounding and sleep measured cortisol levels in participants before and after eight weeks of grounded sleeping.
Key findings:
• Cortisol secretion profiles normalised
• Participants reported better sleep
• Pain levels reduced
• Stress levels improved
Ghaly M, Teplitz D. The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain and stress. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2004.
A broader review examining grounding research concluded that reconnecting the body to the Earth’s surface electrons may improve sleep, decrease pain and positively influence the autonomic nervous system.
Chevalier G et al. Earthing: Health implications of reconnecting the human body to the Earth’s surface electrons. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012.
This is not about sedation. It is about regulation.
How Inflammation and Cortisol Disrupt Deep Sleep
During healthy sleep cycles, cortisol should drop at night and rise gradually in the morning. Inflammation can interfere with this rhythm. When inflammation remains elevated:
• The nervous system stays alert
• Micro-waking increases
• Deep sleep shortens
• Recovery declines
Research exploring grounding and inflammation suggests that electron transfer from the Earth may help reduce inflammatory markers and support recovery.
Brown R et al. Effect of grounding on delayed-onset muscle soreness. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010.
Reducing inflammation supports more stable sleep architecture and deeper repair.
Why Modern Life May Be Disrupting Your Sleep
Historically, humans slept directly connected to the Earth. Today we are insulated by:
• Elevated beds
• Synthetic flooring
• Rubber-soled shoes
• Artificial light exposure
• High EMF environments
This disconnect may contribute to nervous system dis-regulation and poor sleep quality.
Earthing or grounding mats are designed to restore that lost electrical connection while you sleep indoors.
They connect to the grounding port of a standard outlet, allowing your body to receive the Earth’s subtle charge safely throughout the night.
For many people, this becomes the missing link in their sleep routine.
Grounding Sheet Benefits: What to Expect
While individual experiences vary, many people report:
First 1 to 2 Weeks
• Falling asleep faster
• Less restlessness
• Reduced night-time waking
Weeks 3 to 4
• Improved morning energy
• Less stiffness and pain
• Greater emotional calm
Long-Term Use
• Better stress resilience
• Reduced inflammation-related discomfort
• More consistent sleep patterns
Like any foundational wellness practice, benefits compound over time.
Improve Sleep Naturally by Restoring Connection
If you are searching for how to improve sleep naturally without relying solely on supplements, grounding offers a simple, science-backed solution.
At Barefoot Healing, we have been Australia’s trusted home of authentic Earthing™ products since 2009. Our grounding sheets and mats are the original, and are backed by over 20 years of research and testing, and are designed to integrate seamlessly into modern living.
Because deep sleep is not created by force. It is created by safety, regulation and connection.
