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The Truth About ‘Salt Stepping,’ According to a Doctor

Standing barefoot on coarse salt may feel calming, but a doctor says the benefits likely come from sensory focus, not the salt itself.

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If you’re into holistic health at all, you’ve likely heard of the term “grounding,” or “earthing,” which involves activities that connect you and your body to the Earth. For example, you might stand barefoot in soil, on grass, or on a sandy beach to absorb its electrical charge and practice mindfulness.

But don’t worry if you can’t head outdoors before bed each night: according to many wellness fanatics on social media, you don’t need to engage in actual “earthing” to regulate your nervous system and prepare for sleep. No, all you need are your bare feet and some coarse salt for the latest wellness trend: “salt stepping.”

Out of all the wellness trends out there, salt stepping seems like one of the least appealing to me.........

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