The human lungs are an amazing organ. They bring life and energy into the body with each inhale, and remove toxins and unnecessary dust, pollen, dander, and other unwanted particulates with each exhale. We calm ourselves by taking a deep breath. We propel our bodies further, faster, by breathing harder, faster. And yet, the air around us, for some reason, seems to often be less than desirable.
I love the west coast of Canada. I love the mountains, the forest, the ocean, and campfires, or a fire in my fireplace at home. I love splitting dry cedar kindling, experiencing the aromas it releases, having it crackle and pop when it burns. The ambiance is something magical that we are all familiar with.
I know, though, that it is not the healthiest option. Todays’ modern forced air HVAC systems are unbelievably efficient and effective at providing clean air to every room in a home, most of the time at whatever temperature the homeowner desires, filtering and purifying the air at the same time, meeting or exceeding ASHRAE recommendations.
Over the last few years, it has become obvious to me, (and indeed should be to anyone in North America) forest fires occur every summer. This is not speculation or opinion, it is a fact. The smoke from these fires covers our skies, bringing ash, soot, and all kinds of contaminants and particulate matter.
Particulate is measured in micrometers, or microns, and they are miniscule in size. They are not visible to the human eye, they cannot be detected without sophisticated equipment. However, it is when they get to this size that they actually begin to do the most harm. The nose and lungs are able to filter a lot, and indeed they are amazing at it, but when we inhale bacteria, mold spores, or viruses, they are able to get past all of our bodies natural defenses and enter directly into the bloodstream. This happens at 2.5 microns or smaller! Much smaller than even a single human hair!
My cousin, years ago, told me that I only had two eyes, and I should protect them. Thus, I decided to invest in a proper pair of sunglasses, to protect my eyes from the suns’ harmful rays. I’ve decided my lungs need to be treated similarly. I only have one set of lungs, and I need to take care of them, and my childrens’ lungs as well. I would encourage you to do the same. Our bodies can only handle so much, and when I hopefully one day make it to retirement, I want to be able to breathe.
