Level-Up: Cleaning Up Your Air
Air is vital to our existence—yet many of us overlook the quality of the air we breathe every day, particularly indoors.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be significantly more polluted than outdoor air, often containing a cocktail of allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter.
Filtering indoor air and taking steps to clean and purify our spaces is one way to do what we can with what is within our control to change the trajectory of our health, healing, and vitality.
Understanding Indoor Air Pollution
The sources of indoor air pollution are varied and often surprising. Common contributors include:
Toxic Household cleaning products that emit VOCs
Smoke from synthetic fragrances and candles
Dust, pet dander, and pollen that accumulates
Mold and mildew in damp areas
Formaldehyde from furniture, furnishings, and building materials
Many of these pollutants can remain trapped indoors, leading to an increased concentration of harmful substances.
Health Impacts of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Respiratory Issues: Pollutants in the air can exacerbate asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. Individuals may experience coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath as a result of poor air quality.
Increased Frequency of Illness: Poor indoor air quality can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses, infections, and allergies.
Cognitive Function Impairment: Studies have indicated that exposure to high levels of indoor air pollutants can negatively impact cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making skills.
The Benefits of Filtering Indoor Air and Air Purification
Improved Air Quality: A high-quality air purification system filters out particulate matter, allergens, bacteria, and some VOCs, leading to cleaner, fresher air.
Allergen Relief: For individuals with allergies, removing airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust can lead to significant relief, allowing for better focus and wellbeing.
Enhanced Respiratory Health: Clean air can improve overall respiratory health, reducing symptoms for individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Steps to Purify Indoor Air Effectively
Invest in a Quality Air Purifier: Look for air purifiers that include HEPA filters, which can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, thus effectively removing allergens and other harmful substances from the air.
Use Natural Cleaning Products: Reduce VOCs in your home by opting for natural cleaning solutions and avoiding harsh chemicals whenever possible.
Maintain Humidity Levels: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas to prevent mold growth and maintain optimal humidity, which can help minimize airborne allergens.
Fun tip: indoor plans are natural air filters and purifiers! So if you have a bit of a green thumb and a sunny corner, you now have a good reason to buy more plans!
Living in Clean Air
As we become more aware of the significant impact that air quality has on our health and wellbeing, taking steps to filter indoor air is creates a space for health and vitality.