Breathe Easy at Home With Four Essential Elements

3 million people a year die prematurely from poor air indoor air quality, according to the World Health Organization. We spend 90% of our time in our homes and offices, yet the air in these environments can be more polluted that outdoors. It’s because they’re filled with things that contain and release chemicals, from our furniture and furnishings to air fresheners and detergents. These chemicals can be detrimental to our health causing skin and eye irritation, breathing problems, fatigue, sickness and (when they accumulate over time) more serious conditions such as stroke or cancer. Connect with nature by using the four elements as ways to purify the air in your home for a healthier environment.
breathe easy at home

1. Earth Element – Find a Home for Houseplants

As well as looking lovely, houseplants can improve the air quality in your home. Part of the photosynthesis process (how plants generate energy to grow) involves absorbing carbon dioxide gasses through their leaves. A handy byproduct of this process is that) they also soak up harmful toxins found in plastics and everyday items in the home. Introducing house plants can relieve symptoms of asthma, sickness and general fatigue as well as some more serious conditions such as cancer. Clean the leaves of your plants to rid them of dirt and boost their effectiveness.

2. Wind Element – Aerate to Decontaminate

Ventilation (or removing humidity from a building) can lessen the accumulation of mold and mildew – a contributor to common allergies and especially breathing problems. If you live near green space then flinging open the windows will allow clean air to circulate, but on a main road or built up area this could introduce even more pollutants. Use fans and vents to help air circulate whilst filtering what’s entering the home.

3. Water Element – Make Water a Feature

Water is one of the most effective elements when looking to cleanse an indoor environment. Keeping the house clean using natural water will help to reduce pollutants but water fountains are also beneficial in many ways. Often used as air purifiers, they can even help you sleep. Whether it’s a small water feature or a full wall fountain, running water attracts dust particles from the air. All these tiny dirt particles carry a tiny electric charge which is attracted to the running water. The filter in the fountain then cleanses the water and the cycle begins again.

4. Fire Element – Burn the Candle at One End

A beeswax candle is a natural alternative to synthetic candles that will only add to the pollutants already in your home. Ionizing the air and neutralizing toxins, a beeswax candle will burn slowly for hours and hours before needing to be replaced. If you’re worried about leaving an open flame unattended then a Himalayan salt lamp can be just as effective and can even be left on overnight.

Summary

Indoor air pollution is a very serious problem that’s being recognized as a major contributor to ill health but by connecting with nature through the four elements, homeowners can cleanse their environment and avoid the effects of pollution.

Author

Cassandra Johnson