When Queen Mary of Denmark steps out into her private garden each morning with a cup of coffee, she's not just tending to the flowers.
The Australian-born royal has quietly become an ambassador for one of the wellness world's most debated practices—and it won't cost you a penny to try.
The 53-year-old Queen, who grew up in Tasmania before becoming Danish royalty through her fairytale romance, recently revealed during a Danish television interview that she starts each day by walking barefoot through the gardens at Fredensborg Palace.
This simple act, known as 'earthing' or 'grounding,' has captured attention far beyond Denmark's borders—particularly among Australians who see a bit of their no-nonsense outdoor spirit reflected in their former compatriot.
In this article
A morning ritual fit for a queen
'I really like coming out in the morning with a cup of coffee and bare toes and just walking around and seeing what's going on out here,' Queen Mary explained to Danish garden expert Søren Vesters during their televised garden tour.
Speaking in Danish with the fluency that has impressed locals for two decades, she described how this practice helps improve mood and reduce stress, improve sleep and prevent fatigue, and reduce inflammation.
For the Queen, who has navigated the pressures of royal life while raising four children, this barefoot ritual offers something precious: solitude.
'For me, it's just being able to be. Nothing or anyone expects anything from me,' she reflected. 'It gives me so much room to be able to reflect and notice my surroundings.'
Her comments came during a discussion about the 'wild' growth in her palace garden and the biodiversity it has cultivated. The Queen's appreciation for nature's healing power extends beyond her personal routine—she spoke of meeting 'many people with challenges in life who use nature to relieve' both mental health struggles and grief.
The science behind the barefoot trend
Queen Mary's morning routine reflects what researchers call a practice that 'stabilizes the physiology at the deepest levels, reduces inflammation, pain, and stress, improves blood flow, energy, and sleep, and generates greater well-being'.
The theory suggests that direct skin contact with the earth allows your body to absorb electrons, which may help neutralise harmful free radicals.
Source: @denmarksqueenmary / Instagram.
Recent research has revealed that electrically conductive contact with the Earth's surface produces 'intriguing effects on physiology and health,' with impacts on 'inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases'.
However, it's important to understand what we're actually dealing with. There's not much research on earthing's health benefits, and much of what exists is of questionable quality due to small sample sizes, poor study design, or flawed data analysis. Even good research on earthing remains too preliminary to base firm conclusions on.
'I really like coming out in the morning with a cup of coffee and bare toes'
That said, some studies have shown promising results. One study found a 273 per cent reduction in blood viscosity after participants relaxed for two hours while grounded. Another small study showed that massage therapists reported lower levels of pain, stress, depression, and fatigue after earthing therapy. Research has also indicated that just 20 minutes of grounding can improve heart rate variability, though these studies involved very small groups.
A word of caution for our generation
Before you rush outside to copy Queen Mary's routine, there's something important Australian seniors need to know: studies have reported that going barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, and wearing slippers are associated with increased risks for falls, particularly indoor falls.
Research found that nearly 52 per cent of elderly participants who reported a fall were either barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, or wearing slippers at the time. These people also reported more serious injuries, including fractures, sprains, dislocations, and pulled or torn muscles, ligaments or tendons.
This doesn't mean earthing is off the table—it means we need to be smarter about it. The elderly face increased risks due to reduced sense of pain and weakened immune systems, making them more vulnerable to injuries and infections.
Safety first: When barefoot walking isn't recommended
If you have diabetes or neuropathy that affects sensation
If you have balance issues or are prone to falls
On unfamiliar or uneven surfaces
In public spaces where infections are more likely
If you take medications that affect coordination
Safe earthing alternatives for seniors
The good news? You don't need to risk a tumble to potentially benefit from grounding. Here are safer approaches that still connect you with the earth:
Start indoors: Let your bare feet get used to safe surfaces in your house first, using indoor surfaces that are free of objects you could step on accidentally. Your own clean carpet or smooth flooring is ideal for initial barefoot time.
Choose your surfaces wisely: When ready to try outdoors, stick to less dangerous surfaces like turf, sandy beaches, and well-maintained grass. Avoid concrete paths, rocky areas, or anywhere you can't clearly see the ground.
Consider compromise footwear: Minimalist shoes offer benefits of barefoot walking without the risks, and are especially good for older adults who need to avoid barefoot walking. These thin-soled shoes still allow ground connection while protecting your feet.
Try seated grounding: You can practice earthing while sitting on a garden bench with your feet touching grass or soil. This gives you stability while still making earth contact.
Getting started safely with earthing
- Begin with 10-15 minutes in your own secure backyard
- Always inspect the area first for hazards
- Check your feet afterwards for any issues
- Consider grounding mats for indoor use
- Stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort
The Australian connection that makes it special
For Australians, there's something particularly appealing about Queen Mary's approach to wellness. Born Mary Donaldson in Hobart in 1972, she met Frederik (then Crown Prince) during the 2000 Sydney Olympics and has maintained her down-to-earth Australian sensibilities despite two decades of royal life.
'The Queen of Denmark understands Australia like no other Queen does,' said Australian ambassador Kerin Ayyalaraju. 'She'll know what we mean if we talk about sitting on a beach eating a melting Cherry Ripe, watching Neighbours and the Australian summer combination of sunburn, mozzie bites and magpies warbling. We know she gets us.'
This connection to the outdoors and natural approaches to wellbeing reflects something deeply Australian. Her parents emigrated from Scotland to Australia in 1963, and she grew up as the youngest of four siblings, developing the practical, unpretentious approach to life that many Australians recognise.
What it really costs (spoiler: nothing)
In a world where wellness trends often come with hefty price tags—think $200 infrared saunas or $50 meditation apps—earthing stands out for one simple reason: it's completely free. As researchers note, 'Earthing is a simple, profound lifestyle addition, requiring no effort or dieting'.
Compare this to other popular wellness practices:
- Personal trainer sessions: $80-150 per hour
- Yoga classes: $25-40 per session
- Wellness retreats: $500-2000 per weekend
- Earthing: $0
The only 'equipment' needed is a patch of earth and the willingness to take off your shoes. Even if you opt for grounding mats to use indoors (which range from $50-150), you're still looking at a one-time cost that's far less than most wellness trends.
A balanced perspective on the trend
While Queen Mary's endorsement adds royal credibility to earthing, it's worth remembering that grounding's health benefits remain unproven, and it should never replace medical treatment. Australian psychologist Shannon Webb, quoted in the original article, correctly notes that research is mostly anecdotal with just a few formal studies.
Medical experts suggest that earthing is safe for most people and may have positive impacts on physical or mental health, but it should always complement—not replace—evidence-based medicine.
Did you know?
Did you know?
The earth generates what scientists call Schumann resonances—an electromagnetic 'vibration' at 7.83 Hz that occurs roughly eight times per second due to lightning strikes around the globe. Some researchers believe this natural frequency may influence the electrons that earthing practitioners claim to absorb.
Making it part of your routine
If Queen Mary's morning ritual has inspired you to give earthing a try, start slowly and sensibly. Health experts suggest trying for 10-20 minutes of grounding per day, more if you can manage it safely. Some people notice pain reduction in as little as 30 minutes, though individual experiences vary widely.
Consider Queen Mary's approach: she combines her earthing with morning coffee and garden observation, making it part of a peaceful, mindful routine rather than another item on a wellness to-do list. The key is finding what works safely for your individual circumstances.
Remember, as with any new wellness practice, it's wise to chat with your GP first, particularly if you have diabetes, circulation issues, or balance problems. They can help you determine whether earthing is appropriate for your health situation.
Example Scenario
- Margaret, 68, from Brisbane, was intrigued by Queen Mary's routine but worried about falls. She started by spending 15 minutes each morning sitting in her garden chair with her feet on the grass while having her tea. After a month, she felt comfortable enough to try short barefoot walks on her lawn, always staying close to stable surfaces. 'I can't say if it's the earthing or just the peaceful time outdoors,' she says, 'but I sleep better and feel more relaxed.'
What This Means For You
The appeal of Queen Mary's earthing practice may lie not just in potential health benefits, but in its simplicity and connection to something larger than ourselves. In our increasingly digital world, there's something compelling about a wellness practice that requires nothing more than stepping outside and touching the ground—safely, mindfully, and with realistic expectations.
Whether you're inspired by the science, drawn to the simplicity, or just curious about what our Australian-born Queen is up to in her Danish garden, earthing offers a gentle way to explore the connection between our bodies and the natural world. Just remember to keep your feet firmly planted in both the earth and good sense.
What's your take on Queen Mary's barefoot morning ritual? Have you tried earthing yourself, or are you considering giving it a go? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we'd love to hear how you're staying connected to nature and wellness in your daily routine.
Original Article
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/...foot-wellness-trendly-growing-popularity.html
What Is Earthing and Is It Beneficial?
Cited text: Nevertheless, proponents claim that integrating earthing into your life can: Improve mood and reduce stress. Improve sleep and prevent or treat fatigu...
Excerpt: this practice helps improve mood and reduce stress, improve sleep and prevent fatigue, and reduce inflammation
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/earthing
Integrative and lifestyle medicine strategies should include Earthing (grounding): Review of research evidence and clinical observations—ScienceDirect
Cited text: Earthing (also known as grounding) refers to the discovery that bodily contact with the Earth's natural electric charge stabilizes the physiology...
Excerpt: a practice that 'stabilizes the physiology at the deepest levels, reduces inflammation, pain, and stress, improves blood flow, energy, and sleep, and generates greater well-being'
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550830719305476
The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases—PMC
Cited text: Multi-disciplinary research has revealed that electrically conductive contact of the human body with the surface of the Earth (grounding or earthing) ...
Excerpt: Recent research has revealed that electrically conductive contact with the Earth's surface produces 'intriguing effects on physiology and health,' with impacts on 'inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment…
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4378297/
What Is Earthing and Is It Beneficial?
Cited text: There’s not much research on the health benefits of earthing. And a lot of the research we do have is of questionable quality — sometimes because the ...
Excerpt: There's not much research on earthing's health benefits, and much of what exists is of questionable quality due to small sample sizes, poor study design, or flawed data analysis
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/earthing
What Is Earthing and Is It Beneficial?
Cited text: Even good research on the benefits of earthing is too preliminary to base conclusions on.
Excerpt: Even good research on earthing remains too preliminary to base firm conclusions on
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/earthing
Grounding—The universal anti-inflammatory remedy—PMC
Cited text: In our study, participants relaxed for 2 h while being grounded and there was an astonishing 273 per cent reduction in blood viscosity [9].
Excerpt: One study found a 273 per cent reduction in blood viscosity after participants relaxed for two hours while grounded
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10105021/
What Is Grounding and Can It Improve Your Health?
Cited text: After one week of earthing therapy and at a subsequent follow-up, participants reported lower levels of pain, stress, depression, and fatigue.
Excerpt: Another small study showed that massage therapists reported lower levels of pain, stress, depression, and fatigue after earthing therapy
https://www.healthline.com/health/grounding
Grounding: Techniques and Benefits
Cited text: One small study saw heart rate variability improvements after 20 minutes of grounding.
Excerpt: Research has also indicated that just 20 minutes of grounding can improve heart rate variability
https://www.webmd.com/balance/grounding-benefits
Footwear and Falls in the Home Among Older Individuals in the MOBILIZE Boston Study—PMC
Cited text: Studies have reported that going barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, and wearing slippers are associated with increased risks for falls (1—5), part...
Excerpt: studies have reported that going barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, and wearing slippers are associated with increased risks for falls, particularly indoor falls
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3250347/
Going barefoot in home may contribute to elderly falls | ScienceDaily
Cited text: The study found that nearly 52 percent of the participants who reported a fall were either barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, or wearing slippers ...
Excerpt: Research found that nearly 52 per cent of elderly participants who reported a fall were either barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, or wearing slippers at the time.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/06/100623085516.htm
Risks of walking barefoot in elderly
Cited text: Barefoot walking in elderly increases the risks of injuries due to reduced sense of pain and a weakened immune system, increasing vulnerability to inf...
Excerpt: The elderly face increased risks due to reduced sense of pain and weakened immune systems, making them more vulnerable to injuries and infections
https://www.happiesthealth.com/articles/ageing/barefoot-walking-in-elderly
Walking Barefoot: Benefits, Potential Dangers, How to Do It Properly
Cited text: Before you hit the pavement running, it might be a good idea to let your bare feet get used to the safe surfaces in your house. Misiura says the best ...
Excerpt: Let your bare feet get used to safe surfaces in your house first, using indoor surfaces that are free of objects you could step on accidentally
https://www.healthline.com/health/walking-barefoot
Walking Barefoot: Benefits, Potential Dangers, How to Do It Properly
Cited text: Once you’ve mastered the indoors, try walking on outside surfaces that are less dangerous, such as turf, rubber tracks, sandy beaches, and grass.
Excerpt: When ready to try outdoors, stick to less dangerous surfaces like turf, sandy beaches, and well-maintained grass
https://www.healthline.com/health/walking-barefoot
4 Benefits of Walking Barefoot and Risks to Consider—GoodRx
Cited text: Minimalist shoes are a good option for those who want the benefits of barefoot walking without the risks.
Excerpt: Minimalist shoes offer benefits of barefoot walking without the risks, and are especially good for older adults who need to avoid barefoot walking
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/musculoskeletal/benefits-of-walking-barefoot
4 Benefits of Walking Barefoot and Risks to Consider—GoodRx
Cited text: For older adults or those with diabetic neuropathy, minimalist footwear might be a better option than walking barefoot.
Excerpt: Minimalist shoes offer benefits of barefoot walking without the risks, and are especially good for older adults who need to avoid barefoot walking
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/musculoskeletal/benefits-of-walking-barefoot
Queen Mary of Denmark—Wikipedia
Cited text: Mary (born Mary Elizabeth Donaldson; 5 February 1972) is Queen of Denmark as the wife of King Frederik X. Mary met Frederik (then Crown Prince of Denm...
Excerpt: she met Frederik (then Crown Prince) during the 2000 Sydney Olympics
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Mary_of_Denmark
Australian-born Mary makes history as Denmark's new Queen
Cited text: 'The Queen of Denmark understands Australia like no other Queen does,' she told the crowd, standing next to the embassy's giant koala mascot. 'She'll ...
Excerpt: 'The Queen of Denmark understands Australia like no other Queen does,' said Australian ambassador Kerin Ayyalaraju.
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article...makes-history-as-denmarks-new-queen/db8s8ws8b
Queen Mary of Denmark | Life, Career, Royal Family, Charities, & Facts | Britannica
Cited text: Her parents, John Dalgleish Donaldson and Henrietta Clark Donaldson, had emigrated from Scotland to Australia in 1963. Mary Donaldson is the youngest ...
Excerpt: Her parents emigrated from Scotland to Australia in 1963, and she grew up as the youngest of four siblings
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Queen-Mary-of-Denmark
Integrative and lifestyle medicine strategies should include Earthing (grounding): Review of research evidence and clinical observations—ScienceDirect
Cited text: ... Earthing is a simple, profound lifestyle addition, requiring no effort or dieting.
Excerpt: As researchers note, 'Earthing is a simple, profound lifestyle addition, requiring no effort or dieting'
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550830719305476
Grounding: Techniques and Benefits
Cited text: But because grounding's health benefits are unproven, you should never use it in place of medical treatment.
Excerpt: grounding's health benefits remain unproven, and it should never replace medical treatment
https://www.webmd.com/balance/grounding-benefits
What Is Earthing and Is It Beneficial?
Cited text: Spoiler alert: Earthing’s safe for most people and may have a positive impact on your physical or mental health. But until there’s more research on th...
Excerpt: Medical experts suggest that earthing is safe for most people and may have positive impacts on physical or mental health, but it should always complement—not replace—evidence-based medicine
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/earthing
Grounding—The universal anti-inflammatory remedy—PMC
Cited text: This energetic phenomenon includes the Schumann resonances, an electromagnetic “vibration” (7.83 Hz, fundamental frequency) in the atmosphere as well ...
Excerpt: The earth generates what scientists call Schumann resonances—an electromagnetic 'vibration' at 7.83 Hz that occurs roughly eight times per second due to lightning strikes around the globe
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10105021/
Grounding—The universal anti-inflammatory remedy—PMC
Cited text: The fundamental frequency of the Schumann resonances vibrates at 7.83 Hz or roughly eight times per second.
Excerpt: The earth generates what scientists call Schumann resonances—an electromagnetic 'vibration' at 7.83 Hz that occurs roughly eight times per second due to lightning strikes around the globe
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10105021/
Grounding: Techniques and Benefits
Cited text: Another report advises that you should try to get 10 to 20 minutes of grounding a day—more if you can.
Excerpt: Health experts suggest trying for 10-20 minutes of grounding per day, more if you can manage it safely
https://www.webmd.com/balance/grounding-benefits
Grounding: Techniques and Benefits
Cited text: In one study, a participant started to feel pain subside in 30 minutes.
Excerpt: Some people notice pain reduction in as little as 30 minutes
https://www.webmd.com/balance/grounding-benefits
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person , only put something on if leaving my property, I guess I am a bushie at heart.