Grounding and Cancer - Should You Try Grounding Mats?

If you’ve been following along for a while, you may know that I'm a big proponent of exploring alternative, complementary therapies to support your healing journey. Today’s post is all about the topic of grounding and cancer, to help you determine if grounding mat therapy might be a good fit for you. 

In recent years, grounding (sometimes also called earthing) has gained attention for its potential to support overall wellness. Many people are curious about grounding mats in particular and wonder if they might be worth trying as part of a holistic cancer recovery plan.

In this post, we’re taking a closer look at what grounding mats are, how they work, and whether they might be a good option to work into your therapy plan.

First, How Grounding Mats Work

Grounding mats are made from conductive materials, often copper or silver threads. When you sit, stand, or lie on one with bare skin, the mat connects your body to the earth’s natural electrical field through a grounded outlet.

The earth is electrically active, and proponents of grounding believe that because we no longer spend much time barefoot or directly connected to nature, our bodies may build up static electrical charges. The idea behind grounding is that when you’re in contact with the earth’s ground, electrons flow from the earth’s surface into your body, helping neutralize those electrical charges.

Grounding mats are designed to “reconnect” you with the earth’s current and restore your body’s electrical balance. 

While scientific research on grounding is still limited, many people report feeling calmer, sleeping better, and experiencing less pain or inflammation. 

For those living with a cancer diagnosis, I always recommend finding the complementary practices that feel right to you. Whether that’s gentle exercise, journaling, meditation, yoga, or grounding.

[If you’re new to this idea, you might like my earlier post, Earthing and Cancer: How This Practice Can Help You. In it, I review some earthing techniques that utilize nature, rather than a product like a grounding mat.]

Grounding and Cancer: How to Use a Grounding Mat

Grounding mats are simple and flexible to use. You can:

• Sit or lie on them while relaxing or meditating.

• Use one under your feet while reading or working at your desk.

• Try a grounding yoga mat—some companies make mats specifically for earthing-based movement.

  
  

There are lots of options, so choose a setup that feels best for you and your daily life. 

Potential Benefits of Grounding Mats

Although research is still emerging, many people who practice grounding report benefits such as:

• Reduced inflammation

• Pain relief

• Better sleep

• Improved heart health

• Lower stress and anxiety

While there aren’t any major studies yet on how grounding relates specifically to cancer care, the effects of it on your overall well-being (particularly on improving inflammation) are beneficial to patients with cancer. 

Grounding and Cancer: What to Know Before You Try It

If you’re navigating cancer or survivorship, it’s natural to wonder whether grounding mats are safe or helpful. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Talk to your doctor first. Grounding mats aren’t recommended for people with pacemakers or similar implanted devices, so with any new therapy, it’s always important to consult with your medical team first.
  

• Use them safely. Grounding mats are generally considered safe, but you should avoid using them during storms or near water, and always follow manufacturer instructions.
  

• Keep your expectations realistic. Grounding mats aren’t a cancer treatment or preventive tool, but they may help reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and support emotional balance.

  
  

Researchers have studied links between inflammation and cancer, so anything that helps reduce inflammation or promote rest can support your body’s healing process. If your doctor approves, grounding mats may even help ease post-surgical or treatment-related pain.

Should You Try Grounding Mats?

If the idea of grounding mats piques your interest, and your doctor gives the green light, there’s no harm in trying one for yourself. Personally, I plan to give it a try!

Healing after cancer isn’t just about medical treatment; it’s about caring for your mind, body, and spirit. Gentle, supportive practices like grounding can help you feel more connected, balanced, and at ease.

Cancer Counselor 

If you’re looking for additional ways to care for yourself during your cancer journey, I’d love to help. As a therapist, personal trainer, and cancer survivor, I offer customized counseling, nutrition, and exercise guidance to help you navigate treatment and recovery.

You can schedule a complimentary consultation to learn how we can build a wellness plan that supports you holistically. 

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