Mould sensitivities are more common than most people realise.
If you're a regular here at Eco Health Solutions, it is highly likely that you have mould sensitivities or other environmental sensitivities, know someone who does, or know enough about them to want to prevent them… If you're new, then feel free to peruse this and other posts on environmental sensitivities.
I wanted to bring you a different, and more technical, perspective on mould and health – so invited my friend Tim Law, an architectural scientist with a strong interest in this topic to share his insights with you.
Grab a cuppa and pen and paper and settle in for this great read.
I am an architectural scientist, one who uses the principles of physics, biology and chemistry to understand buildings.
On the positive side I try to make buildings perform optimally, and on the flip side I explain why they fail.
If you are reading Lucinda's website, you are most likely aware that conventional medicine has a very limited understanding around the health implications of mould in water-damaged buildings.
This article is written to help you understand that even though your physician may not be familiar with mould sensitivities you should not feel alone. There are many others like you.
Fungi, the fifth kingdom. Ubiquitous, prolific, little understood. They are the great recyclers, decomposing trees, recovering its nutrients, nourishing the soil. They are selectively symbiotic, and at times territorial.
But once they sporulate in water-damaged buildings, they become unequivocally unhealthy to humans.
You are not alone in your home.
There is an entire ecosystem of microorganisms waging biological warfare. Quite different from human warfare, there is no morality in this war, no good vs evil, no heroes or villains, it is simply what fungi do.
It turns out that mould does not live a solitary existence. They form colonies. The word ‘colony’ has been well chosen.
Mould can team up with other organisms such as bacteria to form biofilms — a kind of fortified city wall to protect the organisms within its confines.
More significantly, mould colonises. It is opportunistic, dormant until the conditions are right, then invades and proliferates. Like any colonist, mould does not like to share. It is hypothesised that mould sends out mycotoxins (mould toxins) to eliminate its competition.
The strategies largely fall in two methods: arrive early and multiply quickly, or arrive late and carry some big guns.
Microbiologists divide the continuum as primary, secondary and tertiary colonisers.
They also follow the same neat order of water activity (or wetness of a porous material): primary colonisers germinate when the material is moderately damp for a few days, and tertiary colonisers when it is very damp for a long period of months.
The Might of Mould
Human ingenuity has turned these mould metabolites into medicines — a vast range of fungal antibiotics are derived from mould.
Humans also figured that we could isolate and weaponise mycotoxins. In the stuff of nightmares, trichothecenes can be derived from the common tertiary coloniser found in water-damaged buildings, Stachybotrys chartarum, that gram for gram, exceeds mustard gas in toxicity.
Stachybotrys chartarum has received superstar status in the media and is commonly referred to as “toxic black mould”. This turns out to be a rather unhelpful description since mould has different colours depending on the substrate it feeds on, and changes colours across its life cycle, just like trees do across seasons.
Koji growing on white rice
Yet not all moulds are hazardous. Some moulds are brilliantly delicious. Koji (Aspergillus oryzae) creates umami-charged cuisine.
Impressively, one could marinate raw meat with shio-koji and let the process continue for days unrefrigerated without bacterial overgrowth, according to Jeremy Umansky, author of Koji Alchemy.
One wonders if this can be applied to buildings. And indeed this idea is not far-fetched. Japanese Koji houses are dedicated fermenteries — no other ferments are permitted in the facility so as to minimise cross contamination.
Before fermenting is commenced, the Koji master goes through the ritual of scattering Koji spores all around the timber building structure to essentially stave off any other moulds from colonising.
Mould in Buildings
We should attend to our buildings with a similar care, seeing how most of Australian domestic construction is dominated by cellulose material.
From timber frames to engineered timber products like LVLs (laminated veneer lumbers) and plywood, to particle board flooring, MDF (medium density fibre) boards, to paper-faced plasterboard wall and ceiling linings — virtually everything we build with in a typical Australian house is mould food, you just have to add water.
Adam Holmes (16 Oct 2019)
Moisture
It should be pointed out that mould is not the only problem with dampness.
Water supports life of a host of micro-organisms besides mould, it is just mould that is the most visible due to its mycelial structure.
To keep mould and other microorganisms away from houses, it is as simple as keeping moisture out.
Simple, but not easy.
If it were easy moisture-related defects would not be repeatedly the highest reported source of problems for apartments by the NSW Office of the Building Commissioner occurring in 53% of reviewed apartment buildings.
In Victoria, surveys conducted by the Australian Apartment Advocacy show water-related defects as a group of defects are well ahead of any other classification.
Regardless of state/territory and climate zone, there was a fairly consistent average that a third of these new buildings were estimated to have condensation problems.
If we add to this the water-related defects such as failures in plumbing, roofing, cladding, water-proofing and damp-proofing, then a building free from water damage is in the minority.
ABCB (2016)
Condensation provisions were only introduced into the National Construction Code in 2019, meaning to say that houses and apartments built prior to this could be deemed to be code-compliant, and yet have unmitigated condensation, together with the mould and bacteria that invariably follows prolonged dampness of building materials.
Mould Sensitivities
When the micro-organisms proliferate, not only do they produce toxins to gain a competitive advantage, even their cell walls become a source of toxins.
These toxins are collectively referred to as biotoxins and create a range of maladies, broadly categorised as allergenic, pathogenic, toxicological and inflammatory.
In essence, it can be very broad, systemic, affecting multiple organs and expressed through multiple symptoms.
Early symptoms often include brain fog and chronic fatigue.
On prolonged exposure to water-damaged buildings, mould-sensitive patients eventually also develop chemical, light and electromagnetic hypersensitivities.
New Research into Mould Sensitivities and Biotoxin Illnesses
On top of that, in an Australian first, the NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council) is funding research into biotoxin illness. I am one of the investigators and am optimistic that recent advancements in data mining, next-generation sequencing, transcriptomics and metagenomics will enable us to tackle this complex problem which has hitherto been too complex to analyse.
There is almost a poetic irony that interconnected disciplines are required to unravel the interconnected symptoms of a patient suffering from interconnecting micro-organisms.
Thus, if you find yourself in a water-damaged building, remember you are not alone. There are many Australians in a similar predicament that you will be able to connect with.
Keep seeking for answers and keep applying pressure on the government (local, state and federal) to improve the quality of buildings we live, work and school in.
Keep connecting with like-minded people and build your support network.
There is a lot of information and misinformation about mould as science is working to understand it and its effects on health and wellbeing. Here are my Mould Dos and Don’ts to help clear things up. Before we dive in, let’s acknowledge some facts about mould.
Mould is Majestic
If you haven’t seen this video, please take a moment to watch fungi (mould is fungi) before continuing… It’ll make it clear why I say mould is majestic.
Mould plays an important role within our planet. However, we don’t want it in our homes.
Just like a caterpillar is amazing, but not in our salad!
Mould is Mighty
Mould is mighty in that it has well-developed strategies to survive multiple forms of attack and to keep its species going.
The main strategy is to release spores any time it feels threatened.
You could say that it’s a bit highly strung, because it feels threatened any time any of the following are changed.
Moisture
Temperature
Air movement
Light
If you’re a note-taker – then jot that down. 😉
Mould is Monstrous
Mould can cause incredible damage to our buildings – as by nature, its role is to break down materials.
And, it’s very good at this.
It has also been linked to an array of health issues.
Mould is a Moisture Problem
Mould needs something to grow on, food (simplest for them are cellulose-based materials such as wood, paper, fabrics) and moisture.
Moisture can come in the form of rain, a burst pipe, condensation, increased humidity levels, a spill, and so on.
Mould Dos and Don’ts #1 – Don’t fall for the quick-fix of just cleaning mould off a surface
I get it – cleaning mould off a surface is much easier (emotionally and financially) than replacing plasterboard and more.
However, unless it’s only superficial mould, this isn’t going to address the problem.
What do I mean by “superficial mould”?
What I mean here is that the mould is literally only on the surface – it hasn’t gone deep and is not growing IN a substrate or material.
An example of this would be mould on a window pane, having formed because of condensation. Or mould on the ceiling of the bathroom that’s caused by poor ventilation – this would be in the early stages only.
In these cases, cleaning mould off a surface is acceptable.
And from there, you need to prevent the area being wet – so drying off the windows each day, or installing an extractor fan that dumps the hot moist air from your shower outside your building.
Yet in many cases, mould isn’t superficial.
And therefore, the cause needs to be addressed, and the mouldy material needs to be properly cleaned or replaced.
Mould Dos and Don’ts #2 – Don’t Use Vinegar OR Bleach to “Clean” Mould
I’m often asked, especially by journalists, to comment on vinegar (or bleach) as the go to clean mould off a surface…
And as I tell them, it’s not about the product, it’s the technique.
In a recent article, journalist Livia Gamble quoted me like this:
“I can’t emphasise enough the cleaning technique is what works best – not a product,” she says.
“However, it is the use of microfibre cloths and vacuum cleaners with true HEPA filters that can remove the mould.”
~ Lucinda Curran, quoted by Livia Gamble in Better Homes and Gardens
What’s wrong with vinegar?
The vinegar we can buy is very dilute, and then people often suggest a further 70:30 dilution. Basically, you end up adding more moisture to the mouldy area – which makes no sense when you know that mould is a moisture issue.
What’s wrong with bleach?
Bleach is to be avoided at all times.
All bleach does is whitens mould – so you can’t see it for a while, usually a few weeks.
It also is carbohydrate-based, so provides a food source for mould.
So what do you do?
Mould Dos and Don’ts #3 – Do Use a Detergent Solution to Clean Mould
Dip into the soapy solution using microfibre cloths square* and wipe down the surface. After you have used each square on both sides to remove mould, Lucinda says to throw it out. This is to avoid cross-contamination and causing the mould to spread.
*To clarify –
I recommend buying some cheap microfibre cloths from the hardware store – as they are going to be treated as “single use items.”
Cut each one up into smaller piece to minimise waste.
Use both sides of one smaller piece (or square) – without double-dipping, and then discard it.
A key point is not to cross contaminate.
“Always keep cross-contamination in mind – as it is easy to spread mould from one area to another, and cause it to release spores which will help it to spread.” (Gotta love it when the really important messages make it into an article!)
This is also why we’re not double-dipping and we’re disposing of each square of cloth that is used.
Mould Dos and Don’ts #4 – Don’t Put Additive in Your Paint
I’ve seen fungicides and “mildewcides” recommended to deal with mouldy ceilings.
This is a massive no-no.
Please don’t do it.
Anything that ends with “-cide” means it is designed to kill.
Fungicides are designed to kill fungi – mould is a fungi.
“Mildewcide” would be designed to kill mildew – which is mould, which is fungi. So another word for the same thing.
What’s wrong with these?
Simply put, these are like antibiotics… and can result in the mould equivalent of “superbugs.”
Mould is tough enough on our health, our buildings and to get rid of without having it mutate further into resistant strains…
So, address the issue, don't just paint over it.
Where’s the moisture coming from?
What’s been wet?
Is everything dry?
This is a complex area, and that’s why there are IICRC-trained mould remediation professionals.
Mould Dos and Don’ts #5 – Do Ventilate Your Home, Daily!
Ventilation dilutes indoor air contaminants, exchanging the air, and bringing fresh clean air into your home.
You may have seen statistics saying that indoor air can be 5-10 times more polluted than outdoor air. This is often due to a lack of ventilation.
(On that note, having an air purifier running 24/7 is NOT a substitute for ventilation.)
While it is an amazing thing to do, it won’t solve mould issues, instead it will help you to manage them.
What’s the best way to ventilate your home?
Simple!
Go around your home opening every single door and window (internal and external). Wait 2 minutes, then close them again (if you choose).
Do this as often as possible.
Mould – Just the Facts
So there you have 5 Mould Dos and Don’ts.
Whilst I know there’s a lot to digest here, there’s so much more to it…
And if you’re keen to go deeper and learn about how to clean up your belongings (YES you can clean many things, not everything has to be turfed out), then enrol in my Dealing With Mould course for just $147 AUD – this is a game-changer, and is full of practical tips for you based on my training and experience in the field.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Have your gas appliances checked by a licensed gas fitter every autumn so that they are ready for use in winter.
Ventilate your home often – as discussed above.
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
Avoid using wood fires.
Rug up and/or be physically active – this is a great time of year to get big gardening jobs done.
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
Monitor the levels of relative humidity with a hygrometer – we’re aiming for 45-55% RH; 50% RH is ideal.
Use extractor fans when cooking, bathing or laundering.
If your extractor fans don’t vent to the outside, or you don’t have efficient ones, then a dehumidifier can be useful.
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.
Applying a little foresight and forward planning can help to prevent renovation health hazards. Through the past decade, I have found that many of my clients have experienced health issues due to factors in their homes, I call these hidden hazards.
In order to equip you with information and strategies while renovating your home, I am going to share with you 5 of the common hazards… and give you strategies on how you can tackle them safely and effectively.
Mould
I'd say mould is a “complex beast.” Here are some key points in a nutshell:
Ultimately, mould is a moisture issue. If there’s mould, there has been moisture. Conversely, if something is wet for long enough (48 hours) you can have mould.
There are over 100,000 different types of mould, it comes in many colours and has many different moisture requirements.
It’s a myth that mould only grows in cold, dark places. Mould spores are present everywhere and can become active when there is enough moisture present.
Mould can be actively growing, yet be invisible and/or have no odour.
It’s also a myth that only mould that is black can cause problems to health.
Not everyone reacts the same way to mould. People can be allergic to it, or become sensitised over time. Others may have an immune system that can deal with it without them even realising it!
Mould can grow in all sorts of places – even in areas that you can’t see.
The biggest factor when it comes to renovation health risks is that any time you disturb mould, it releases spores. This means any changes to moisture levels, light, temperature, air movement, as well as physically disturbing it, can result in mould releasing spores.
Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of water, mould or damage: wood with “wood rot” (a.k.a. “water damage”), a “high tide mark” in the subfloor and on the stumps, brown stains (typically on ceilings and walls), paintwork that is peeling, cracked or bubbling, and swollen wood (door jambs, cabinetry, kickboards).
If you spot any of these, get in touch so I can advise on how to best manage the situation.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a material that most of us have heard of. I am sure you also know of the health risks, like mesothelioma that can result from asbestos exposure.
However, it is important to know that asbestos does not pose any health risk if it isn’t damaged or disturbed. Which means, you can live in a 1950s home and have no asbestos-related issues if you don’t make holes in the walls or renovate. This is great news – except if you do want to renovate.
Here are some facts about asbestos.
It’s strong, heat resistant and durable
It was used in a vast range of materials for many decades,
The peak usage of asbestos was 1950s-1970s,
Asbestos was banned in 2003, and
It is impossible to know if a material contains asbestos simply by looking at it.
Apart from “Hardie Boards”, cement-lined asbestos pipes and roof tiles, asbestos was used in electrical cable casing (this is the braided one), window sashes on hung windows, slagging, old laundry tubs, carpet underlays, tiles, bakelite materials and so many other materials.
If your home was built before 2003 and you are planning on a renovation, engage a licensed asbestos inspector to conduct a “demolition survey.”
Lead
Lead has also been widely used in a number of products, and was only phased out from use in paint as recently as 2010. Whilst leaded paint, like asbestos, when it isn’t disturbed poses little risk – if it is sanded or peeling, it can be particularly hazardous to health.
There are often no symptoms of lead poisoning for some years – and common long term effects of lead poisoning include loss of libido, reduced sperm count, lowered IQ, Alzheimer's Disease, hearing loss, joint pain, stroke, and has been linked to many “diseases of ageing.”
Lead can be present in our homes in paint, solder, flashing (which can get into tank water), lead dust (from busy roads and industry) which can get into the soil or roof space, and even lead lighting.
What is important to know with lead is that the “spot tests” that you can get at hardware stores are extremely unreliable. It is for this reason that they are not something that I recommend. Instead, you can get samples analysed by an accredited laboratory.
If you suspect lead might be present then take extra care:
wear a respirator,
gloves and coveralls,
avoid dry sanding,
avoid removing paint with heat guns,
manage the dust to prevent secondary contamination, and of course,
keep pets, pregnant women, young children and the elderly away from areas being renovated.
For more information on lead, a top resource is LeadSafeWorld.
Dust
Dust is certainly something you can certainly expect in any renovation.
But is dust safe?
I always err on the side of caution, and I would say, “no.” Better safe than sorry, right?
Two places where dust pose the biggest risks are carpets and the roof space.
Any time you are doing anything involving the ceiling or roof space be sure to have the dust removed prior. This could be installing insulation to cutting out a piece to installing downlights, and so on.
For carpets, I recommend that you spray them down with water, cut them into strips, roll each strip, wrap in a tarp and take it out to the skip. This will prevent dust becoming airborne as well as reduce the risk of spreading it through other parts of your home.
And of course, personal protective equipment is always recommended!
Plan Ahead and Avoid Renovation Health Hazards
Whilst we know how easy it is to get swept up in the vision and planning… However, you are now armed with important information to protect yourself and your family from the most common renovation health hazards.
If you’d like advice on your particular situation, please book a call with me.
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…
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.
Today, we're joined by guest Raymond Alonzo who shares his tips about building materials for different climates.
Raymond is studying journalism in Phoenix, Arizona. He's interested in learning more about how our actions affect our environment.
Based in the US, his concepts can be applied to our corresponding climates.
If you are a part of my community or have been following me for a while, you'll know how important our built environments are in terms of our health.
This post contains important points to consider.We can take all of these ideas to greater heights when we consider health hazards and risks, such as condensation, off-gassing and indoor air quality.
When you’re imagining what your new home will look like, you’re probably not putting much thought into the building materials being used. The types of materials that you choose will affect the long-term integrity of your home. Depending on the type of climate you live in, there are certain materials that will work with the environment instead of against it. Keep reading for materials that will work best with the different types of climates.
Building Materials for the Desert
The hot climate of a desert can be very damaging to homes. High evaporation rates, shifting temperatures and little precipitation all can contribute. Here are some materials to consider for your desert home:
Adobe exteriors – Will reduce the absorption and transfer of heat, as well as water absorption.
Tile/concrete floors – These floors have a high thermal mass and will reduce the buildup of dust and keep a steady, comfortable temperature.
Metal roofing – Metal roofs help with temperature control, keeping your home cooler during the hot summer months.
Vinyl windows – These windows reduce UV rays that are damaging, they also create an air-tight seal.
In addition, xeriscaping your lawn and planting drought-tolerant plants can keep your lawn low-maintenance and environmentally friendly.
Rainy Areas and Materials to Consider
The storms and precipitation that a rainy climate brings doles out a number of risks. Flooding, mould and warping wood are all issues that you may face living in a rainy environment. These materials will help alleviate these issues:
Engineered hardwood – Engineered hardwood will keep out water and prevent any warping.
Metal or asphalt roofing – These roofs will reduce the buildup of mould and mildew.
Paperless drywall – Along with the roofing material above, paperless drywall can also reduce mould buildup in your home.
Vinyl siding – A vinyl siding will keep rainwater moving away from your home.
Severe storms and water buildup can of course be damaging. Remember to make sure you aren’t building your home on a floodplain.
Building Materials for Cold Climates
In some parts of Australia, cold weather and snow is an inevitability. It’s no secret that snowfall and winter storms can be disastrous for homeowners, so here are some materials to help keep your home safe and secure:
Carpet – Carpets increase heat retention, keeping your home warm throughout the colder months.
Brick siding – The high winds of cold climates can be damaging, brick siding will withstand these high winds and also increase heat retention.
Snow guards – Snow guards will stop snow from falling off your roof, preventing possible injuries.
Multi-pane windows – Multi-pane windows will increase insulation and lower your utility bills.
Frozen pipes and a caved in roof from snow are real concerns, and the materials listed above will keep your home secure and environmentally friendly.
Building Materials for Windy Areas
High-speed gusts of wind, storms and unpredictable weather are all problems that people living in windy climates face. In windy environments, the materials used in home construction are especially important due to the damage high winds can cause. Here are some to consider:
Concrete/steel parapet – Roof uplift is a serious concern in windy environments, a concrete or steel parapet will reduce uplift.
Fibre cement siding – A siding made out of fiber cement will stand up to high impacts and winds, strengthening the integrity of your home.
Rebar – To help secure wall materials to your house’s frame consider installing rebar.
Steel framing – Steel framing can help your home stand up to high wind speeds.
In a windy environment, simply ensuring the structural integrity of your home is one of the best ways to protect the environment. If any pieces of your home go flying, they may damage plants and wildlife that are around.
These are the main types of environments that homes are being built in. Remember to choose your building materials, location and homeowners insurance carefully. Your home and its construction will affect more than just yourself.
If you're keen on learning more about this, and how you might consider these for your build (or reno), then let me know.
We can take these great foundational ideas and match them to suit your needs and climate, all the while planning for your building to support your health.
And we see an array of health issues come about as we age, and this can be due our bones becoming more porous, and therefore stored lead and other toxicants can be released…
Lead is implicated in lowered IQ, fertility issues and the “diseases of ageing.”
I was pondering this as I was deciding what my entry into this year's Volcano Art Prize (hosted by The Lead Education and Abatement Design (LEAD) Group Inc. and Lead-Safe World) – a competition that endeavours to spread lead-safe messages through art.
So what's the link between Lead and Sound Healing?
We have all been exposed to lead (and other toxicants) in our lifetimes.
Our bodies store many of these toxicants… until it can naturally detoxify.
Stress impairs our ability to detoxify.
So, since Sound Healing triggers relaxation, this can result in lowered stress levels.
This in turn frees up the body to detoxify.
Which can all result in lowering our toxic load – and this could include lead.
