If you’ve ever crossed multiple time zones, you know the struggle—grogginess, insomnia, and an out-of-sync body clock that makes even the simplest tasks feel exhausting. While there are countless remedies claiming to ease jet lag, from melatonin to blue light therapy, one natural solution is gaining traction among frequent travelers: grounding (also known as earthing).
What is Grounding?
Grounding is the practice of direct physical contact with the Earth’s surface, typically by walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil. The theory behind it is that the Earth carries a natural electric charge, and connecting with it can help neutralize free radicals and balance the body’s systems.
For a deeper dive into grounding science, check out The Science of Grounding: Its Benefits and Techniques.
Anecdotal Evidence: Travelers Who Swear by Grounding for Jet Lag Relief
Although scientific research on grounding and jet lag is limited, many world travelers, wellness experts, and biohackers claim it works wonders. Here’s what they have to say:
A Life-Saving Moment After a Long-Haul Flight
One traveler shared their experience with the Earthing Institute: “I came off a long-haul flight feeling dreadful. My body was telling me to sit on the Earth, so when I reached my destination, I sat on the lawn of my friend’s garden. I can hardly describe the relief I experienced. So healing.”
A Frequent Flyer’s Secret Weapon
Jim Bagnola, a motivational speaker who travels the world for work, has made grounding a routine practice: “When I arrive at foreign destinations and check into my hotel, I walk barefoot on grass wherever I can find it. Sometimes it is right in front of the hotel or in the courtyard. I do 20 minutes, and sometimes people will come up to me and ask what I am doing. I attempt to tell them about grounding and jet lag, and they look at me as if I am crazy. I also sleep grounded. This works for me better than all the treatments, remedies, and gadgets I have tried previously to counteract jet lag.”
Relief for Exhausted Parents and Business Travelers
One woman, who frequently flies between South Africa and the UK, described her simple yet effective solution: “I just take off my shoes and dig my toes into the lovely green lawn once home, and I can feel all the stress and jet lag leaving my body. It is almost as if Mother Earth absorbs the tiredness and stress.”
Biohackers and Celebrities Are on Board
Even high-profile figures in the wellness world embrace grounding for jet lag recovery.
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Dave Asprey, the founder of Bulletproof and a well-known biohacker, credits grounding with helping him recover from jet lag and improve mental stamina.
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Celebrities like Naomie Harris and Gwyneth Paltrow have also been reported to swear by earthing as a natural remedy.
Grounding While You Sleep
For those who don’t have easy access to a patch of grass, some travelers turn to grounding mats. One user from Barefoot Healing said: “I’m a pretty erratic sleeper in the first place, so the jet lag was always tough for me. Somebody told me about sleeping grounded. Skeptical, I tried the mat. Surprisingly, I was over jet lag within three days. I couldn’t believe it!”
Learn more about How to Use Grounding Sheets for Optimum Results.
How to Try Grounding for Jet Lag
Want to see if grounding works for you? Here are a few simple ways to try it:
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Walk barefoot – As soon as you reach your destination, find a park, beach, or garden and walk barefoot for at least 20 minutes.
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Sit or lie on natural ground – If walking isn’t an option, sitting with your bare feet or hands on the ground can still be effective.
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Use grounding mats or sheets – If you’re in a city or traveling frequently, grounding mats simulate the effects of natural grounding while you sleep or work.
If you're interested in trying grounding products, check out Best Earthing Sheets of 2023 and Best Grounding / Earthing Mats of 2023.
The Bottom Line
While scientific studies on grounding and jet lag are still lacking, the sheer volume of anecdotal evidence suggests it’s worth a try—especially if you’re a frequent traveler looking for a natural, side-effect-free remedy. Whether you’re flying for business, visiting family, or embarking on an adventure, reconnecting with the Earth might just be the simple yet powerful solution to your jet lag woes.
For more on grounding, visit Uncover the Health Benefits of Earthing.
Experience the Benefits of Grounding Today!
If you're looking for an easy way to incorporate grounding into your daily routine, consider using a grounding sheet while you sleep. Grounding sheets allow you to stay connected to the Earth's energy no matter where you are, helping to improve sleep quality and reduce stress.
Shop the best grounding sheets now: GroundLuxe Grounding Sheets Collection
Have you tried grounding for jet lag? Share your experience in the comments below!