Moving House Checklist: Tips for a Smooth and Healthy Move

by | buildings and health, environmental stressors, healthy home, house hunting, indoor environmental health, moving, renovations, self-care

Moving House Checklist

Moving house can be an exciting and stressful experience. Apart from packing and unpacking, there are many things to consider. 

To help make your move as smooth and healthy as possible, I’ve compiled a checklist of tasks to complete at different stages before moving day.

moving house 1-2 months

Plan and Prepare

The first step to a successful move is planning and preparation. 

It's important to create a moving plan and decide on the moving date, book a reputable moving company, and reserve a parking space for the moving truck if necessary. 

You should also take the opportunity to declutter your home by going through your belongings and donating or selling items you no longer need or want. This not only reduces the amount of items you'll need to pack but can also help to create a healthier living environment in your new home.

It's also important to notify your utility companies and service providers of your move and arrange for services to be discontinued and transferred to your new address. 

Don't forget to change your address with the post office, banks, insurance providers, and any other relevant parties.

moving house 2-4 weeks

Pack and Protect

The next stage is to start packing and protecting your belongings. 

Gather packing supplies such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap, and use new boxes to avoid any potential mould or fragrance issues.

Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier.

And if you aren’t going to be there when the removalists unpack (yes, I had this happen when I moved interstate), be sure to provide a floor plan and label the boxes according to which room they need to be put in.

If anyone in your household has an allergy to house dust mites, it is important that they protect their health by wearing a mask and gloves when packing and cleaning.

1 week

Finalise and Confirm

As moving day approaches, it's time to finalise and confirm your plans. 

Double-check the date, time, and any special instructions with your moving company. 

Make sure everything is packed and ready to go, and do a final clean of your old home. 

Arrange for a deep clean of your new home before moving in to ensure it's a healthy and safe living environment.

Many of my clients find it helpful to have someone wash all walls and ceilings with sugar soap to get rid of the smells of previous residents.

It's also important to confirm your plans with family and friends and ensure everyone is aware of the moving schedule and has their own arrangements in place.

moving house 1 day

Final Preparations

Pack a box with essential items, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents, that you will need immediately upon arrival at your new home.

Confirm the arrival time of the removalist.

Make sure you have enough cash or you’re able to pay the removalist by card.

Clean your old home, making sure you haven't left anything behind.

In addition to packing your belongings, consider packing a “survival kit” that will tide you over for the first 24 hours. This could include:

  • The kettle and your favourite beverages
  • Cups or glasses
  • Purified water
  • Food you can eat as you unpack
  • Basic crockery and cutlery
  • A frozen pre-cooked meal you can heat up for dinner
  • If you have pets, make sure you have their water bowl, food bowls, food, medications and beds
  • I always like to have music on – so back in the day, I’d have my favourite CDs + stereo
  • Keep your air purifier with you, as you will likely want to put that on when you arrive
moving house moving day

Self-Care: Moving Day

Once you’re up and out of bed, wrap your mattress in a tarp and tie it so that it is well-protected while in transit.

Before leaving your old home, conduct a final walkthrough to check all rooms and storage areas to ensure nothing is left behind.

When you arrive at your new home, confirm all utilities are working, and begin unpacking and settling into your new home.

Keep your labelled boxes and important documents in a safe and accessible place.

The first 5 things to set up in your new home:

1) When I first moved out of home, Mum told me the first thing to set up was my bed. And she was right. At the end of a long and strenuous day, being able to hop in a shower then flop into bed is essential.

2) Set up your air purifier so you’ve got clear air from the get go.

3) Get your kettle and drinks set up – it’s so important to stay hydrated.

4) Make sure you get the basics of your kitchen set up – the fridge, and what you’ll need in the first 24 hours.

5) The stereo is next – or however you listen to music. I love music to keep me motivated.

Moving House is a big deal, but it can be smooth

Moving house requires careful planning and preparation, but with the above checklist, it can be a smooth and healthy experience. 

By following these tips, you can ensure that your move is stress-free and that your new home is a healthy and safe living environment for you and your family.

 

If you're looking for more tips on healthy living in rental properties, including how to protect your rights, health, and belongings as a tenant, be sure to check out my “Blueprint to Living in a Rental” course.

And if you haven’t found your next place yet, then “Looking for a New Place? Avoid the Pitfalls of the Uninhabitable” would be my recommendation.

Electromagnetic Energy Can Affect Your Health

by | dirty electricity, electric fields, electromagnetic energy, electromagnetic radiation, EME, EMF, EMR, environmental sensitivities, environmental stressors, grinding teeth, magnetic fields, radiofrequencies, sleep, smart meters, wireless technology

Electromagnetic energy (EME), also known as electromagnetic fields (EMF), emanates from wired sources and radiates from wireless devices.

It is a very ubiquitous environmental stressor that very few homes are free from.

From the hundreds of assessments of homes and workplaces that I’ve conducted over the last decade, I’ve seen again and again similar symptoms in people who are exposed to high levels of radiofrequency (RF) EME.

These symptoms include:

  • Disturbed sleep, with an inability to fall into a deep restful sleep
  • Busy dreams
  • Waking unrefreshed
  • Non-stop thoughts, I had a 6 year old once tell me that it felt like she couldn’t turn her brain off
  • A sense of buzzing similar to feeling caffeinated
  • Agitation and stress
  • Anger and sometimes rages
  • Feeling frustrated and irritable
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Grinding teeth (bruxism)
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

And what I wanted to share with you today is based on the occupants experiencing many of these symptoms in their new home.

More importantly, the reason for sharing is because the source was so surprising.

Surprising Sources

I recently conducted an assessment for my clients in the home that they were just moving into.

Being out of the city, I was expecting lower readings than what I see particularly in inner city homes.

However, apart from one source, the levels of the different types of electromagnetic energy (EME) were incredibly low – and very close to natural levels.

ELF AC electric fields, we aim for below 0.3 V/m. This place was around 0.1 V/m.

ELF AC magnetic fields 2, we aim for below 2.0 mG.  This place was close to 0.0 mG throughout.

RF EME, we aim for below 10 µW/m2. This place was below 2 µW/m2. This place almost everywhere was below 2 µW/m2… but there were levels well over 100 µW/m2 in the bedroom.

High Frequency Transient Spikes (aka “Dirty Electricity”) we’re aiming for below 100 mV. This place sat between 20-40 mV.

So it intrigued me as to the source of the sleep issues they were experiencing from the very first night they spent there. 

Outside their bedroom was the meter box and switchboard. The meter was a smart meter, so no surprises there… but the readings I got, and the pattern of spikes did not match what I’d expect from a smart meter.

Lo and behold, in the meter box was also something else!

It looked almost like a white computer mouse and was attached to the front of the meter and was sitting on the metal wall of the meter box.

It was an energy management system. 

This is what it looks like:

electromagnetic-energy-energy-management-system-Eco-Health-Solutions

They are designed to send information to an app on your phone so you can manage your energy usage.

Have you got one?

Electromagnetic Energy Findings from the Energy Management System

In this video, you can see the lovely low background levels.

The readings I got were really interesting. I recorded them for you to see and hear.

Every few seconds, you’ll hear a sound that is a bit like a metronome or clock ticking, that is the sound coming through the meter of the EME that it is detecting.

In these videos, you can see how high the readings were…

And it isn't even connected to anything!

What is Happening?

Whilst taking the readings, as you can see, the energy management system is not connected to anything.

When it was installed in the meter box, it was stuck on with double-sided sticky tape.

And that is normal – they are simply stuck on the meter.

They are then meant to be connected to an app on your smartphone via Bluetooth connectivity.

Whether or not a phone is connected to it, as you can see, it is continuously emitting RF EME every few seconds.

What Can You Do?

Check your meter box and remove the energy management system installed, if you've got one.

It may not look exactly the same as the one I’ve shown you here, so be sure to check carefully. 

If you’re in any doubt about what it is, take a photo of it and ask your electricity supplier.You can share it in our Facebook group.

If you're interested in finding out more about shielding your smart meter, check out this guide here.

What Was the End Result?

With the energy management system gone, I reassessed and found that every 5-10 minutes, there was a spike in RF readings. This was coming from the smart meter.

We installed shielding (shielding paint) and I measured the levels again – and the levels dropped down to what the rest of the place was – incredibly low levels around 2 µW/m2.

And, I’m happy to report that my clients are now sleeping well.

EMF 5 little known sources cover © Eco Health Solutions

Are you already familiar with EMF/EME? 

I've put together this Healthy Home Guide which focuses on the little known sources of EMF/EME.

You can download it for FREE here.

Winter Healthy Home Threats

by | air pollution, air quality, carbon monoxide, condensation, earthing, electromagnetic radiation, EME, EMF, environmental sensitivities, environmental stressors, healthy home, healthy home threats, humidity, indoor air quality, indoor environmental health, moisture, mold, mould, occupant activity, seasons, smart meters, ventilation, VOCs, wifi, winter, wireless technology

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.

    Book a Call Here

    Support Your Health by Creating a Healthy Home

    by | air pollution, buildings and health, environmental sensitivities, environmental stressors, grinding teeth, happiness, health, healthy home, indoor air quality, indoor environmental health, mould, self-care, sleep, stress, ventilation, VOCs, water damage, wireless technology

    Perhaps you’ve heard about “healthy homes” and wondered how a home could support your health?

    Or maybe you’ve wondered what you could do to create a healthy home?

    And, if you’ve been with me for a while, you’ll likely just be eager for more strategies to support your health.

    Please know, that no matter where you’re at, every step you take is a step in the right direction.

    Let's get started.

    Does Your Home Support Your Health?

    It could be! You don’t have to be bed-bound to be experiencing the effects of hidden hazards in your home – you might be fit and well but feel a bit off at times.

    Since there are so many signs and symptoms which may suggest your home could be hampering your health, and many of these may also have medical causes… The best thing to do is to start by observing.

    Here’s my key question: do you feel better when away from your home?

    From my experience with clients over the last 9 years, the vast majority have reported that when they spend time away from their homes, their symptoms become less severe. For some, it’s almost instant. For others, it is gradual.

    What are some of the common symptoms when your home doesn't support your health?

    Given we’re all different, these will vary from person to person. However, here are some of the more common symptoms.

    • Headaches
    • Sore and/or dry eyes
    • Poor sleep
    • Heightened levels of stress or agitation
    • Sore and/or tight muscles
    • Feeling not quite right (aka malaise)
    • Foggy or muddled head
    • Low energy
    • Vertigo or losing balance (only when at home)
    • Grinding or clenching teeth (aka bruxism)
    • Runny nose
    • Depression, anxiety, rage, angry outbursts

    Please remember, there can also be medical causes for some of these, and these should also be ruled out – as some of the medical causes could be sinister.

    Let me tell you about Beth and Jo

    Beth and Jo were renting, and not long after moving into their new place, they began to feel unwell. Things got worse day by day, and eventually they both needed time off from work.

    Alarm bells started to ring for them when they found they felt worse when resting at home.

    Jo spent the days outside weathering the cold Melbourne winter.

    Beth felt so bad at home, she opted not to take time off – the fact was, she felt better there anyway.

    When I attended their home, it was clear that they had some big issues with water ingress and mould. They decided to break their lease and get out of there A.S.A.P.

    For Beth and Jo the link was super obvious. However, for many people, the changes can be subtle and not so readily noticed.

    Let's consider some easy (and free) ways that you can get started on right away.

    Cap Screen Time

    Studies have established there is a variety of adverse health effects linked to screen time. Apart from the more obvious ones such as dry eyes, there can be a range of other effects.

    The effects of shortwave light (SWL) from the LED lights in screens was studied by Israeli researchers, Green, et al, in 2017. They discovered that 2 hours of evening device use resulted in increased wakefulness at night, low-quality sleep, and suppressed melatonin production.

    But wait – there’s more!

    The research team also noticed symptoms the next day, including an elevated level of sleepiness, a decrease in the capacity to concentrate, poor mood, and reduced performance levels when performing actions.

    What also came to light (excuse the pun!) was that dimming the lights on the screen didn't make much difference to the aftereffects that they had observed.

    Here’s what I recommend –

    Reducing screen time in the evening by setting a curfew. In my home, we started by selecting a time that worked for everyone to “down phones/devices.” For us, it's 7:00PM. Find a time that works for your household and stick to it.

    Clean Your Air

    Australians spend between 90 and 95 percent of their time indoors (State of Knowledge, 2001).

    Knowing this can help us to understand the important role which our homes (and offices) have in our wellbeing.

    I was shocked to discover that many people rarely open windows and doors, and that occupants rely on the heating and cooling systems to control the indoor environment.

    This means that the indoor air is rarely (if ever) exchanged, and the result is that indoor air contaminants continuously increase. Often, too, I’ve seen a decrease in oxygen levels and an increase in carbon dioxide. There are statistics around that show that indoor air can be 5-10 times more polluted than outdoor air.

    Ventilation is key and done regularly, will allow indoor air to be exchanged with and refreshed by outdoor air.

    The quickest and easiest way to do this is to do a lap of your home, opening every single door and window. It can take as few as 2 minutes to exchange the air in your home. It is ideal to do this hourly.

    Down the Device

    Various exciting technologies over the last 15 years have made it easier for people to be hooked on their devices. Have you noticed anytime you have a question, you reach for your device and search for an answer?

    We've already touched on the shortwave light from LEDs in screens, but there’s more to it than that.

    Our energy, emotional and mental health can take a whack with the constant pings and interruptions when we’ve got an email, SMS or a notification from an app or social media. Our sleep is easily affected when we’ve seen/heard something distressing right before bed.

    One of my guiding principles is “the precautionary principle.” This means that something has to be proven to be safe, and unless it has, then I limit use or access to it.

    So while the scientists re debating the semantics about health vs biological effects, I choose to minimise my exposure to wireless radiation.

    Apart from the potential health risks, there are the mental and emotional health risks that most have already experienced. On top of this, I value quiet time to reflect, form my own opinions, and rest my eyes from the eternal scrolls…

    Thus, I recommend choosing times in your day where you are without your devices.

    Instead, you could go for a walk in nature (and bring in the many health benefits of Shin-Rin Yoku, or “forest bathing”), read a book or magazine, play a board game, draw, dance, sing, play… I’m sure you can easily find joyful ways to spend your time.

    BONUS TIP: Have a look at your screen time (your device measures this) and multiply it by 365 to see just how many hours (or weeks!!) you’re spending with your device. Then ponder what else you could do with that time.

    Creating a Healthy Home Can Support Your Health and Wellbeing

    Create an oasis for yourself at home in which you can feel safe, nourished, and happy…

    Knowing that your home does support your health.

    You can do this!

    And if you want my help…

    Book a Call Here

    And if you'd like more tips, check this out.

    Shielded Canopies Considerations

    by | beds, earthing, electric fields, electromagnetic radiation, EME, EMF, EMR, environmental sensitivities, environmental stressors, grounding, health, indoor environmental health, sleep, wifi, wireless technology

    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.

    Book a Call With Me

    Lead Poisoning: Prevention is Better than Cure

    by | ageing, environmental stressors, health, heavy metals, indoor environmental health, lead, learning disorders

    Lead Levels and Lead Poisoning Prevention come to mind every October…

    Because #ILPPWA: International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action happens every year in the final week of October.

    And 2021 marks the ninth week – thanks to the work of Elizabeth O'Brien, from The LEAD Group.

     

    This year we have a lot to celebrate!

    And what better way than to team up with the go-to person for all things lead, Elizabeth O'Brien herself.

    Elizabeth has campaigned tirelessly for 30 years.

     

    She is the co-founder of The LEAD Group, which was formed by a trio of parents of lead poisoned children.

    This not-for-profit organisation has dedicated itself to preventing lead poisoning and spreading awareness about the risks.

    As well, they have created almost 100 fact sheets and an array of solutions sheets which are freely available to help consumers arm themselves.

    Which is unfortunately due to the shortfall of policy and guidance from federal government.

    lead levels petrol
    lead levels paint

    Today, we discuss some incredible progress that has been made –

    Real wins for health (and the environment).

    As well, we discuss WHY  you should care about lead…

    Because it isn't only about lowered IQ…

    And, of course, some action that you can take.

    Important Points to Consider

    • Despite lead now being phased out of petrol, lead dust can still be found around busy roads, in soil and in ceiling dust
    • As discussed, from 1st October 2021 no Australian manufacturer is allowed to add lead to paint (apart from the two exceptions of anti-fouling paints and anti-corrosion primers), paint containing low levels of lead may still be used as tradies and suppliers use up existing stock
    • The best place to start is always with a Blood Lead Level test (for every member of the household) – if the result is not below 1ug/dL, then lead-remediation action needs to be taken
    lead levels the toxic effects

    Links

    The Lead Education and Abatement Design (LEAD) Group Inc.

    Lead Safe World

    The Volcano Art Prize

    ADRA (Australian Dust Removalists Association)

    Green Painters Association

    I have written a comprehensive Action Pack
    called “Getting Ahead of Lead.”

    This is available to members of Detox Your Environment Group – a super-affordable membership program where you can access expert advice live!

    Join Us Here

    Other posts on #Lead

     

    Images:
    • Petrol – Arnaldo Motta on Unsplash
    • Paint – Taelynn Christopher on Unsplash
    • Toxic Effects of Lead – WHO
    • Ban Lead Paint – WHO

    Environmental Stressors Can Cause Blindness??

    by | air fresheners, air quality, babies, buildings and health, condensation, electromagnetic radiation, EMF, EMR, environmental sensitivities, environmental stressors, fragrances, gases, health, healthy home, indoor air quality, indoor environmental health, informed choice, lead, mold, mould, particulate matter, perfumes, water damage, wifi

    Environmental Stressors Can Cause Blindness??

    Say what? Environmental stressors can cause blindness????

    Yup.

    Let me illustrate this with a story about Billie.

    Billie (not her real name) is a young Mum who is super keen to ensure her bubba is safe. She’d heard about 5G and noticed some of the attention it was getting. So she asked Dr Google, she joined FB groups, she sought out information from everywhere.

    Out came Protective Mamma Bear.

    5G became an obsession. It consumed every available moment between changing nappies, feeding, washing, playing with bubba and sleep…. Well, to be honest, it even started to creep in there too – as she dreamed about #5G.

    Billie was so obsessed with 5G that she thought nothing of using her tablet while bubba slept, while it connected to the wi-fi.

    The humidifier in bubba’s room that was causing mould to grow on the ceiling didn’t even enter her mind.

    The perfume she spritzed on her body and clothes didn’t get a mention.

    She was so caught up in the one issue, that she saw nothing else.

    Not surprisingly, she was blinded by her obsession with one environmental stressor.

    Billie is not alone. Environmental Stressors are Hugely Important

    Billie’s story is not unique. I see this time and time again – be it around #SmartMeters, #fragrances, #lead, #mould… any #EnvironmentalStressor. 

    Whilst it is valid to be informed and proactive, there are quite a lot of issues with this kind of blinkered focus on one thing. 

    In a nutshell, the issues are:

    🤷🏽‍♂️ There is a lot of mis-information, hype and well-marketed nonsense. As a result, you can end up spending a lot of time and money on unnecessary things

    🔎 With all the mis-information, you might end up doing something that could make things worse

    🔍 Usually, when my team and I assess homes of people like Billie, we find all sorts of other problems that are much larger issues than the one they are stressing about… the blinkers need to come off to be able to address the bigger picture

    And yet, there is much more to this…

    It is one small word that has massive ramifications.

    🔎 It is #stress 🔎 

    Stress can cause a whole gamut of problems. It can:

    😡 Reduce your ability to #detoxify 

    😞 Negatively impact your #sleep (and as a result, your mood)

    😕 Cause a release of all sorts of chemicals in the body that ultimately reduce your #resilience 

    AND, this next one is the worst of all, in my opinion.

    😔 Stress can cause you to freeze up, become #overwhelmed and take NO action

    I believe strongly in taking #empowered action.

    There is always something you can do to make a difference.

    Even if it feels small, it is enormous! 

    So, I urge you to keep perspective, to open your heart to the wonderful things in life, and draw inspiration to take empowered action.

    One of my favourite recommendations is to put flowering plants in your garden (or balcony). This will help the birds, bees, insects and your loved ones. 

    Take a moment to imagine how the world would benefit if every single person did this? 

    🌻🐝🌸🐾💐🦉🌞🦆🌿