Author Counselor Advocate

Do you love taking a deep breath at the ocean or on a wooded path? I love dense foliage near creekbeds, and am willing to admit nearly hyperventilating trying to breathe in misty air at the beach. I can't ever get enough. Let's talk about why fresh air helps and how to get more of it.

Our bodies need clean air. It allows us to heal, limits the toxins that enter our bodies, and also benefits our mental state by pleasing our senses. There are several ways to easily create more clean air all around you, so pick what works for your lifestyle and enjoy the benefits right away.

Plants

This is my personal favorite. There are hundreds of houseplants to choose from that will match your style. Whether you want window herbs for cooking, a snake plant to neglect, or a modern, showy tropical plant, there is something out there just for you.

Here are some of the best plants as far as filtration and low maintenance go:

Snake plant
Spider plant
Monstera
Philodendron
Creeping Charlie
Bromeliad

NASA recommends one plant per 100 square feet to properly clean the air, so hit up your local nursery and take some beauties home with you. (Note: some plants are toxic; always know what you are getting and whether it is safe around children or pets).

Air Purifiers

I have two air purifiers from Costco that work really well. They are quiet, have multiple settings, and a layered HEPA filtration system. I run them on high pollen days, whenever anyone is ill, and when I burn up whatever I'm baking in the oven (this actually happens a ridiculous amount of the time).

Diffusers

These little devices pack a big punch when it comes to purifying the air. I have them placed in the bedroom, living room, near the kitchen, and in the bathroom. For my room, I really love using a blended essential oil called "Breathe Ease" that I get at my locally owned health foods store. In the living room and kitchen I usually just use pure lemon essential oil, and in the bathroom I use lavender. All of these oils have healing properties such as being antibacterial and antimicrobial. Studies also show that smells can change our moods, so use citrus for a cheer up and lavender to calm down. Check out the posting on Using Essential Oils for Health to learn more.

Humidifiers

I use a cold steam humidifier when the woodstove dries out the air or if pollen counts are high. I also use it if anyone has a respiratory infection to keep the air a little more moist. Other options are to leave a teapot on the stove or to boil a pan of water with sliced lemons or cinnamon sticks in it. Your house will smell sooooo good.

Changing Air Filters

I know climbing up on a stool or ladder to reach a dusty house filter that should have been changed four months ago isn't on the list of fun things to do, but it is important. Set a reminder on your phone (I use Google calendar) to chime an alert every 3-6 months depending on the type of filter and amount of use. I also buy the 3 packs so that I have a spare or two out in the garage when I need it.

I hope these tips bump up both your immune system and relaxation levels. Everyone loves taking a deep, cleansing breath of purified air.

Love and blessings,

Dax