AIR
Air is a mixture of gases comprising Earth’s atmosphere. On Earth, all life and growth is sustained by the natural processes of air exchange. This air exchange is called the respiratory cycle, and while necessary for all, differs in various lifeforms. For the human body, air is processed in the lungs. The body absorbs oxygen, while releasing carbon dioxide, which provides for aerobic metabolism. This process is harmonious with other life on Earth. Plants, for example, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.
Signs of Optimal Health & Wellness
Air is so critical to the human body, that life cannot be sustained without it. The simple act of breathing and being alive is an indicator that the body is receiving the air it needs. However, the quality of air is important to optimal health. Indicators the body is receiving the right amount of clean air include:
- Vibrancy and high energy
- Continuous blossoming and growth
- Clarity of mind and ease of respiration
- Deep breathing from the diaphragm
- Ability to laugh and change activity with ease and no impediments
- Ability to exercise and utilize the body’s full mobility capacity
Warning Signs
When the body is having challenges in receiving and processing air, it can lead to immediate challenges, and even death. However, subtle damages to the body caused by smoking and continuous breathing of polluted or toxic air can lead to long-term damage to the body, mind, spiritual and emotional self as well. These indicators and warning signs include:
- Decrease in energy
- Decrease in activity leading to overall unhealthy habits and poor overall health
- Shortness of breath
- Pain and/or dizziness when changing activities
- Persistent cough and wheezing
- Pain in the chest, lungs or airways
- COPD
- Sleep apnea
- Asthma
- High levels of anxiety
Fear of death
SELF EVALUATION
Inability to engage in desired physical activities, move about without shortness of breath, or constant fatigue or lack of energy can be signs the body is not receiving enough clean air. In addition, mental and emotional concerns such as high anxiety can also be caused by shortness of breath and lack of clean air. Often, engaging the respiratory system can help.
In addition, being active in supporting clean air legislation and requirements can help to ensure the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual self are working together to ensure clear air is available as a basic human need.
SELF-CARE
- Deep breathing exercises
- Laughing frequently
- Exercising and yoga
- Stopping smoking
- Being in natural, unpolluted settings
GET SUPPORT
Get help immediately if breathing is an issue. This includes any difficulty breathing, severe shortness of breath or when airways are blocked completely. It also includes chronic diseases, such as sleep apnea, COPD, constant coughing, or asthma. Learn more about lung health, breathing exercises, testing options and more.
EMERGENCY
If you or someone you know cannot breath or catch their breath:
- Dial 911; or
- Go the nearest hospital emergency room