Winter Healthy Home Threats

Winter Healthy Home Threats Occur in Every Home

Winter with its cold and often wetter weather presents unique healthy home threats that differ from other seasons throughout the year.

What is a healthy home threat?

A healthy home threat is something that challenges our efforts in creating a healthy home. It might be something that undermines what we’ve done, or perhaps something that needs to be considered to prevent issues.

Which Challenges Does Winter Bring?

I like to start with looking at the way that our behaviours change with the seasons, as well as the climatic conditions. 

The drop in temperatures, the increase in rain in many parts of the country, the advent of snow in the ranges, and the shorter daylight hours tend to see us:

  • Be indoors more of the time
  • Use heating
  • Perhaps light the fire, especially for date night 
  • Close windows and doors to keep the cold out and heat in
  • Draw curtains and blinds for more hours due to the earlier sunset
  • We wear more layers of clothing
  • Our clothes are thicker 
  • We may need to dry our clothes inside due to inclement weather
  • We often eat soups, stews and roasts – making the most of our ovens
  • Some people bathe more often or take longer and hotter showers to warm up

 You may be surprised to discover that all of these behaviours can create healthy home threats.

 Let’s take a look at the threats and what can be done to reduce any issues.

frost on green leaves - winter healthy home threats

Reduced Indoor Air Quality

When we “close up” our homes (closing windows and keeping doors shut) to keep the heat in, we’re reducing the number of times that the air is exchanged. This means that the air doesn’t get diluted often, if at all, which can result in reduced indoor air quality.

What happens is that VOCs, gases and other contaminants build up in the air. Oxygen levels often are reduced and carbon dioxide can increase – leading to feelings of sleepiness.

Ventilation is key.

SOLUTIONS

  1. The simplest thing to do is to leave windows open just a tiny bit, as long as it is safe to do so, can dilute the air well.
  2. Regularly opening windows and doors several times throughout the day will exchange the air, and I recommend that this is done at least 3 times a day, and preferably every hour or two.
  3. If it isn’t possible to do this 2-3 times a day, then an air purifier would also assist.

Carbon Monoxide Build-Up

There’s a big difference between carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. 

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the gases that we exhale. 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that comes from combustion – gas appliances are one of the biggest contributors to CO levels within our homes. Cars are another big source, which is why I don’t like people idling their cars in their garages or driveways.

Since we’re using gas appliances more during winter – heating, cooking, hot showers – there’s an increased risk.

SOLUTIONS

  1. Have your gas appliances checked by a licensed gas fitter every autumn so that they are ready for use in winter.
  2. Ventilate your home often – as discussed above.
  3. Avoid idling your car in the garage or driveway.

Poor Outdoor Air

The levels of outdoor air pollution can become very high in areas where people rely on wood fires for heating.

The smoke produced by wood fires can contain formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, chemicals (some of which are known carcinogens) and fine particulate matter. 

According to the Environment & Human Health Inc. (n.d.) wood smoke “interferes with normal lung development in infants and children… can depress the immune system… [and, according to the WHO] can cause coughs, headaches, eye and throat irritation in otherwise healthy people.” 

Whilst enclosed wood fires, such as Coonaras, don’t release the pollutants indoors, they are still released outdoors, and can readily affect your neighbours, particularly who are sensitive and/or have asthma or other respiratory complaints.

SOLUTIONS

  1. Avoid using wood fires.
  2. Rug up and/or be physically active – this is a great time of year to get big gardening jobs done.
  3. Invest in an air purifier to help clean your indoor air.

Increased Moisture Levels

Did you know that “occupant activity” is one a big factor in indoor moisture levels?

The obvious ones are bathing, drying clothes, and stovetop cooking. However, occupant activities that increase moisture also include using gas appliances, breathing and sweating (or perspiring).

Given we tend to not only wear more layers in winter, but also the layers are thicker, they take longer to dry. As a result, many people dry them inside near a source of heat, or pop them in the clothes dryer.

Combine our tendency to be indoors in winter with these activities, then add to it the closed windows and doors, you can see how quickly moisture levels can increase.

SOLUTIONS

  1. Monitor the levels of relative humidity with a hygrometer – we’re aiming for 45-55% RH; 50% RH is ideal.
  2. Use extractor fans when cooking, bathing or laundering. 
  3. If your extractor fans don’t vent to the outside, or you don’t have efficient ones, then a dehumidifier can be useful.
    clothes dryer and shelves - winter healthy home threats

    Mould on Windows & Curtains

    In the cooler months, many people report condensation on windows and glass doors especially in the mornings.

    This happens because glass changes temperature quickly, and moisture in the air condenses out of it, forming condensation on this, and other, cold surfaces.

    It is due to the presence of this moisture that mould can readily form on blinds or curtains that touch the glass, and even on the glass itself.

    SOLUTIONS

    1. Dry your windows daily with a dry bamboo microfibre cloth.
    2. Dry glass that is high up using a flat mop.
    3. Leave your windows open a little to equalise the temperature.

    Increased Exposure to EMF/EME

    Spending more time indoors can also increase your exposure to EMF/EME if you have wi-fi or use wireless devices.

    Wireless technology is used in smart meters, Bluetooth equipment, smartphones and tablets, 3G, 4G & 5G, phone towers, home stereo systems, and more.

    SOLUTIONS

    1. Head outdoors to “discharge” and “ground.”
    2. Do without wi-fi and other wireless devices.
    3. Turn the wi-fi and wireless devices on only when you need them, ensuring they are off while you sleep.

     

    home office - winter healthy home threats

    As you can see, 

    Winter Healthy Home Threats Occur in Every Home – to Varying Degrees

    I trust that you are feeling empowered to take the relevant action in your home.

     

    If you’d like to get some advice on this, then please book a call.

    How Working From Outside is Beneficial to Your Health

    This post was written by Griffin Parrish, an intern at Siege Media. He's drawn on reputable sources to back up his work and what he's written for us is so inspiring.

    Of course, I would also add cautions around wireless technology, and encourage everyone to connect to the internet via ethernet (cables).

    Enjoy!

    Lucinda

    Health Benefits of Working From Outside

    With an increasing number of people working from home, some are taking it to the next level by working from outside. With a variety of mental and physical health benefits, taking your work outside is a great way to improve your daily life. Whether you take your laptop to a park or work from your backyard or balcony, there are many ways to transform your work life for the better.

    What Does It Mean to Work From Outside?

    Working from outside (WFO) is a new trend in working from home – where you can complete your daily work outside in a natural environment. WFO is especially easy for those who already work from home. Without being tied down to a specific office building, you can easily find a place to work without being trapped indoors.

    Examples of WFO locations include:

      • Coffee shops with outdoor seating
      • Parks
      • Backyards
      • Balconies
      • Pergolas, porches, patios

    By working outside in nature, you can reap the benefits of being outdoors without falling behind in your job.

    What Are the Benefits of Working From Outside?

    In a traditional office setting, many workers spend all day stuck indoors. It is estimated that the average person spends 90% of their time inside

    Spending all day sitting inside without any exposure to sunlight or fresh air can be detrimental to your mental and physical health. 

    Read along to learn how swapping your indoor office for an outdoor workspace can positively impact your health and wellbeing.

    Increased Energy Levels

    By exposing yourself to fresh air and sunlight when WFO, you can naturally increase your energy levels. Rather than relying on stimulants like coffee or energy drinks, moving your workspace outside is a great way to naturally feel more energetic

    With the natural energy you gain from working outside, you won’t have to worry about a caffeine crash later in the day.

    Reduced Feelings of Anxiety

    Spending time outdoors is linked to several mental health benefits. One of the major benefits of WFO is reduced feelings of stress and anxiety

    Whether you take a short outdoor walk between meetings or move your computer outside for the day, being out in nature is a great way to feel calm and elevate your mood.

    Decreased Exposure to Indoor Air Pollutants

    In an indoor environment, air pollutants are two to five times more common than in the outdoors. 

    Consistent exposure to indoor air pollution can lead to various negative health effects, including:

      • Eyes, nose, and throat irritation
      • Headaches
      • Dizziness and fatigue
      • Respiratory diseases
      • Cancer 

    By WFO and limiting your time indoors, you can decrease your exposure to these harmful pollutants, therefore decreasing your risk for health issues.

    plastic free

    Boosted Feelings of Creativity

    In addition to spending time WFO, walking outside can also lead to improved brain function. By taking short walks periodically throughout your workday, you can experience an estimated 60% increase in creativity and problem-solving skills. 

    To maximise these benefits, try walking to your favorite outdoor work location instead of driving.

    Increased Happiness

    When trading your indoor office space for the great outdoors, you will notice an increase in your happiness levels. Even if you’re only outside for as little as 30 minutes per week, it has been proven that it can decrease your depression by 7%

    With an improved mood, the workday will be more enjoyable and go by faster.

    Lower Blood Pressure

    In addition to increased levels of happiness, spending 30 minutes outdoors per week can also decrease your risk of high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to many adverse health effects including:

      • Headaches
      • Vision problems
      • Fatigue
      • Heart palpitations
      • Shortness of breath

    By reducing your time spent indoors, you can help decrease your risk of heart disease and other high blood pressure symptoms.

    Natural Pain Relief

    When compared to those who spent their time indoors, people who regularly spent time outside had reduced levels of inflammation

    Rather than spending your time inside and continually reaching for pain medication, WFO can provide you with natural pain relief.

    Better Cognitive Function

    While WFO, you may notice yourself becoming more productive. This is no coincidence, as spending as little as an hour outside has been linked to a 20% improvement in memory and attention span. 

    By WFO, you are not only improving your mental and physical health, but also your performance.

    Tips For Creating an Outdoor Workspace

    Now that you know all of the benefits that WFO can provide, you may be wondering how you can successfully work from your outdoor space. 

    Check out this helpful infographic from Angi to learn more about how you can create a comfortable and effective WFO space.

    Work From the Outdoors

    Infographic by Angi.com

    References

     Included directly via hyperlinks.

    If you'd like more information on how to set this up safely
    – avoiding hidden hazards, then book a call with Lucinda today.

    Shielded Canopies Considerations

    Shielding and Shielded Canopies are something that I am often asked about – and why I list only a few shielding products for the building on my website.

    The reason for this is that shielding needs to be done with great care – and is unique to each site.

    For me, providing shielding of any sort is a duty of care, which is why assessment and consultation is necessary.

    Shielded Canopies – What Are They?

    Shielded Canopies are canopies that are generally hung over and around beds to address electromagnetic fields/energy (EMF/EME) from various sources. They can be used over desks, couches, and anywhere else that you spend time.

    They can be a fabulous option to reduce levels of different types of EMF/EME when planned and installed correctly.

    I wanted to share three of the biggest considerations when thinking about getting a Shielded Canopy.

    Shielded Canopy Considerations

    1) Natural Radiation and Faraday Cages

    The very first consideration is the important of exposure to natural radiation from the earth and from space. These natural sources of radiation are extremely important for health.

    Many people decide that they need to be in a Faraday Cage – this is not something I recommend. This is because being in a Faraday cage, means to be cut off all forms of electromagnetic radiation or electromagnetic fields.

    Studies have been done that demonstrate that rats and mice when placed into a Faraday cage – and cut off from all radiation, including natural – lived extremely short lives.

    To reiterate, being exposed to natural radiation is good for us.

    That said, there are some instances where shielding is a really great option. However, as mentioned, it needs to be done very carefully. If you do go with a canopy, you will need to spend time outside maintain some level of exposure to natural levels of radiation.

    2) Sources of EMF/EMR/EME

    Now the second thing is to consider the sources of electromagnetic fields or electromagnetic energy (EMF or EME).

    Shielding tends to address two types of EMF/EME.

    a) Wireless technology (RF) – such as phone towers, wi-fi routers, wi-fi from neighbouring buildings, smart phones, and similar.

    b) AC ELF Electric Fields (EF) – which comes from wiring, cables, appliances, powerlines, transformers, and so on.

    It's essential to determine where the sources are.

    This is crucial, because when we refer to the first consideration – the need to be exposed to natural radiation, it becomes clear that it’s preferable to only block the sources, and not create a Faraday Cage.

    Once the sources have been identified, the planning and placement of shielding needs to be done with great care so that it doesn’t increase your exposure.

    If placed in the wrong position, your shielding canopy could result in other sources bouncing off it and at you.

    It is important to realise that shielding fabrics work on both sides.

    Therefore, it is essential to consider and understand where the sources are so that you can get it right.

    This is where getting expert help is advised – and I can help you with that.

    3) Choosing the Right Fabric

    Finally, the third consideration is equally important – and that is getting the type of shielding fabric right.

    There are a multitude of different fabrics designed to shield EMF/EME.

    Some will work at low levels with the source being close and others may work at high level.

    And in some cases, layering is important as this may increase its effectiveness.

    Another part of this is to be clear on which type of EMF/EME the fabric addresses.

    Does it shield electric fields as well?

    In which case, grounding the fabric is not negotiable. That said, I do recommend the grounding all shielding fabrics that are near you.

    I've been to several places where somebody installed a shielding canopy over their bed and although it did deflect the radio frequencies very well, it was attracting the electric fields to it. The result was that the levels of electric fields on the bed were about 30 or 40 times higher than what they were when you were away from the canopy.

    As you can see, it’s important to understand the type of fabric and how it works. 

    Shielding is a complex area – a science and an art form.

    If you would like advice on Shielding Canopies, let’s talk.

    Time for New Habits

    The end of the year is a time when we look to create new habits.

    We reflect back on the year that we have had.

    And decide what we would like to do differently.

    Do you do that?

    I do.

    I love this practice and tend to do it way more often.

    Here’s are 5 new habits that support health!

    New Habit 1: Turn Off the Tech

    Research shows that evening use of devices containing LED lights in their screens can have a large effect on our wellbeing.


    Research out of Israel by Green, et al., discovered that 2-hours of evening exposure to these screens resulted in:

    • Increased waking through the night,
    • Poorer quality sleep, and
    • Suppressed melatonin production.

    The effects were also seen the following day, with:

    • Increased sleepiness,
    • A decrease in the ability to concentrate, and
    • Reduced accuracy

    Sleep in incredibly important not only for your mood and ability to concentrate, but also for your health and ability to tolerate environmental stressors.

    So, when can you turn off the tech?

    Habit #2: Easy & Breezy

    Did you know that the air inside our homes can be 5-10 times more polluted than outdoors?

    This is due to all sorts of reasons, from what we bring into our homes, to what our homes are made of, how we cook and what our pots and pans are made of…

    And that is just for starters.

    When we add pesticides, cleaning products and scented reeds into the mix, we are really cooking up a storm!

    Then we’re there.

    Breathing, eating, using the bathroom…

    Sweating (or “perspiring” 😉 for those who don’t sweat), cooking, sleeping…

    Everything we bring into our homes can affect the quality of the indoor air.

    If our home is nicely energy efficient, it is very likely that it is well-sealed, keeping the indoor air in, and the outdoor air out.

    This can lead to a build-up of volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, house dust mites, mould spores, combustion gases and more.

    To make matters worse, if you never exchange the air in your home…

    It never gets diluted.

    And –

    That is how the indoor air can be so much worse than the outdoor air.

    Where in your day can you open your windows and doors?

    eco-health-solutions-nature

    Habit #3: Healing Naturally

    I always see nature as our baseline…

    The ideal to which we strive…

    The harmony and balance of nature is so supportive and healing.

    The Japanese embrace this through their practise of Shinrin Yoku – or “forest bathing.”

    The idea is that you wander out into nature, ideally under a canopy of trees, and sit or lay there for at least an hour.

    I see so many benefits of this…

    1. You get to breathe fresh natural air, instead of indoor air
    2. Being in nature in this way can allow you to discharge accumulated EMF – it is a form of grounding
    3. I suspect that the air you breathe is full of natural antimicrobials – let’s face it, trees survive in a forest because of their natural antimicrobials
    4. If you do this free from devices, it can be deeply relaxing, which can be incredibly healing
    5. It can help us to reconnect with nature – which traditionally we have always been well aware of

    I have seen research some years ago now, that found that the benefits of one-hour of forest bathing last for 7 days.

    So even if you live in the city, you should be able to carve out an hour a week to do this.

    Where can you create some time to be in nature?

    Habit #4: Be a Labels Sleuth

    Whilst there is a lot to learn about reading labels, there is a lot you can learn by doing this.

    If you took a moment to review the labels of products as you pick them off the shelf, you might be surprised at what you see.

    If I could encourage you to eliminate one ingredient…

    It would be fragrance (also listed as perfume or parfum).

    By cutting out fragrances, you could reduce your daily chemical exposure dramatically because…

    Fragrances require so many chemicals to make them!

    There are loads of other ingredients you can omit, too…

    But fragrances are the best place to start.

    Also, some products don’t necessarily have an ingredients list…

    So, this is where you can put your nose to use and have a sniff of it.

    Tip: toilet paper and sanitary products are often fragranced…

    Instead, you may choose to focus on an ingredient in food.

    Which ingredient are you going to target?

    eco-health-solutions natural

    Habit #5: Need or Want?

    When you are about to make a purchase, stop and think:

    Do I actually need it?

    If not, then consider why you want it.

    The goal here is not to accumulate too much “stuff.”

    Accumulating can lead to issues in terms of safety (trip-hazards), pests, dust (and house dust mites) and may even become a hygiene issue if cleaning becomes difficult.

    We created a rule many years ago that you might like to adapt or adopt…

    For every item that we buy, we need to pass on three to charity.

    When I do this, I tend to really get into it, and often can fill a large garbage bag with goodies that would benefit from a new home.

    It is surprisingly liberating to pass things on to charity…

    What can you put in place, so you remember to ask, “Do I really need it?” when making a purchase?

    5 New Habits

    There you go – there are five new habits to propel you towards a home or workplace that supports your health.

    Let me know how you go with them!

     

    Would You Like More Help? Book a Hidden Hazards Hotline Call here >>

     


    References:

    A. Green, M. Cohen-Zion, A. Haim & Y. Dagan (2017): Evening light exposure to computer screens disrupts human sleep, biological rhythms, and attention abilities, Chronobiology International, DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2017.1324878

    Smart Meters – What Can Be Done?

    Smart meters have been rolled out in many parts of the country, have you got one?

    Given I am so immersed in this kind of technology, I am always surprised when someone hasn’t even heard of them. 🙂

    So, let's start with what they are.

    What are Smart Meters?

    A smart meter is a relatively new type of electricity meter.

    We all had analog ones. These new ones are digital, and the majority of them transmit information back to the power companies.

    Please note, that not all of them do.

    The move to smart meters in Australia has at least several reasons that I can figure out:

    • They don't need to be manually read, as the data can be transmitted – saving the power companies money;
    • It was decided that they would be rolled out in Victoria after the terrible fires we had some years back that were caused by power lines coming down. If smart meters were installed, they could shut down the power and it is hoped that this would then prevent this from happening again; and
    • As part of the bigger picture of the Internet of Things (#IoT) and #5G, they can talk to devices and turn them on and off…

    What is So Different About a Smart Meter?

    In a nutshell, smart meters transmit information wireless (thus utilising radiofrequency EMF).

    This is both the benefit AND the issue.

    What is Wrong with Smart Meters?
    Aren't they Smarter?

    No, they are not. When they first came out and sensitive people began experiencing symptoms, many of us were calling them “Dumb Meters!”

    Smart Meters emit four different types of electromagnetic fields (EMF).

    1. Radiofrequency EMF – as already mentioned, this is the wireless technology. This can pass through walls and travels quite long distances.
    2. “Dirty Electricity” (High Frequency Transient Spikes) – due to the fact they contain an inverter. This type of EMF is on the wiring, but can emanate into a room through the walls.
    3. Magnetic Fields – from the wiring. This also passes through walls, but levels drop off very quickly with distance.
    4. Electric Fields – from the wiring. Although this type of EMF can pass through walls, it is seeking the fastest route to earth. So, it may easily bend to reach earth if a good conductor is nearby. (Think of lightning hitting the tallest tree.)

    eco-health-solutions-home

    Any issue with that?

    All of these types of EMF are at far higher levels than what we are looking for from a health perspective.

    When ours was first installed, the power company offered to send me their literature to allay my concerns. Having waded through the 100-ish pages, I found that smart meters emit magnetic fields at 17 mG. From a health-perspective, we are looking at 2 mG for daytime exposure and 0.2 mG for bedrooms.

    The power companies claim that they only transmit wirelessly up to six times a day. Whilst it may be true that the information is only received up to six times a day, they are emitting 24/7 and spike (rapidly reach a much higher level) frequently.

    Instead of helping, my concerns were heightened!

    Early in my career as an Indoor Environmental Health Consultant it became very clear that the levels emitted, and the fact that EMF is being emitted 24/7 (and we can't turn it off), many people I encountered had reached their tipping point. This has resulted in* these people to develop a heightened sensitivity to EMF, with symptoms varying from insomnia, muscle tension, vivid dreaming, grinding their teeth (bruxism), ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and so on.

    *These symptoms are anecdotal – I have accumulated this list from what has been reported to my by clients.

    My stance is that it is never one thing that causes heightened sensitivities, but it can easily be one thing that “breaks the camels back.” That said, it is vital that we reduce all environmental stressors, particularly for when we are asleep.

    What Can Be Done?

    1. Not get one – if you have the chance to not have one installed, please avoid doing so.
    2. Have it removed – in some areas, people have been able to have them removed. Occasionally, they have to pay more per year someone manually needs to read them. (Worth it, I think!)
    3. Have the chip removed so it can't emit wirelessly – this will solve the issues of one of the four types of EMF.
    4. Move the aerial – if you contact your energy provider, they may be able to put the aerial on the roof.
    5. Have your power company “power it down” – smart meters can function quite well at around 5% (or less in some cases) capacity… and they are installed and set at 100%. Note, that not all smart meters can be turned down.
    6. Shielding – done with care can be a simple and effective solution. In most cases, it should be able to be done for less than $300.

    What If I Am Renting?

    No problem, shielding can be effectively installed in such a way that you can take it with you.

    Can't We Just Buy a Cage or Wrap Smart Meters in Aluminium?

    NO!

    Both of these options can result in the meter working harder to get the signal out. This results in much more “force” being required to get the signal out, causing it to emit at higher levels.

    So How Can I Shield it Properly?

    I get asked that a LOT… so I have made this easy-to-follow guide packed with expert tips for homeowners AND renters.

    #smartmeters #EMF #radiofrequency #electricfields #magneticfields #dirtyelecticity #shielding

    EMF Bombardment Three Simple Steps to Cope

    #EMFexposures #EMFBombardment

    No matter where we go these days, we tend to be surrounded by free wi-fi, phone towers… Those that are aware of the harmful effects (whether they experience them or not) often ask, “What can I do to keep myself safe?”

    There is the temptation to buy something that will magically set up a forcefield that blocks out all radio frequency electromagnetic energy (RF EME).

    There is a level of desperation for those who suffer in the presence of it.

    There is the urge to stick something on the phone to make it safe. But none of these make any measurable difference.

    Instead, here are three steps that can make a considerable difference.

    1) MAKE YOUR HOME A SAFE PLACE – free from wireless technology

    This is the #1 most important step of all because this the place you spend time when your body is healing and detoxifying. Whilst you cannot control what happens out there (and gee, I wish I could!!) you can control your home and what happens in it. Take action there.

    2) SPEND TIME IN NATURE

    Go barefoot in the garden, on the beach, or “forest bathe.” All of these will help you to “discharge” and earth. As well, there is research that shows that spending 1 hour in the forest has health benefits that last for a whole 7 days!

    eco-health-solutions-nature

    3) MINIMISE your exposure

    The greatest risk with buying a sticker for your smartphone, or a piece of plug-in plastic, or wearing a pendant with rainbow swirls is that it can make you feel safe, and therefore instead of reducing your exposure, you INCREASE it.

    If you have to go somewhere where there are high levels of wireless technology, then keep the time capped and head off into nature straight afterwards.

    I have to LOL while I write this as it sounds very closed-minded… I have an open mind to what MAY help, but I also see so many people suffer that I need to be clear with this. While I cannot show any measurable difference with any of these things, I cannot recommend them. Building Biology Brain means precaution all the way.

    If you do decide to get a piece of jewelry, a plug-in, a sticker, a rock… whatever it is, please consider this “an added bonus.” If it helps, bonus! If it doesn’t do anything, then at least it wasn’t too expensive. The main thing here is to do no harm.