Health
Michelle Treseler
Wildfire Smoke and Your Health: What You Can ...

Breathing large amounts of particulate matter from smoke can cause irritation of our mucous membranes (in our nose, sinuses, throat and lungs) and it can exacerbate underlying conditions, such as: asthma, heart disease, COPD, emphysema, etc. This year, we have the added challenge of a virus that can also impact our respiratory system. I have received a lot of questions as to how we can best navigate these challenges so, in this post, I am sharing what I have found to be physically beneficial when encountering wildfire smoke.

If possible, and I recognize the inherent privilege of being able to partake in the following, here are some ideas as to how to prevent excessive or prolonged exposure to smoke, protect our respiratory system, and promote well-being.

Wildfire Smoke and Your Health: What You Can Do Right Now to Reduce your Health Risk

Qigong

Alone is simply missing an "L": All One.

Alone is simply missing an "L": All One.

With Covid-19 and physical distancing, many of us are experiencing what it is like to be more physically alone. We may be physically separated from the ones we love. Or, if we are mindfully in each other’s presence, we may be no closer than 6 feet and wearing masks. The very real desire for physical human connection is within us all. I invite you to use this experience of being more physically alone as a practice. How can we re-frame this challenge as an opportunity?

Dive deep into the stillness of your own being

Dive deep into the stillness of your own being

Practice kindness to the self if one gets caught in the waves of disharmony.  Detach from the swirling of fear/anxiety and dive deep to the inner stillness within and take a moment to breathe - just one conscious breath is all that is required to rest and reset. 

Let us respond mindfully from inner stability and not be caught in reaction to the news or to each other. In this age of connectivity, voices of wisdom, discernment and constructive criticism are necessary for a functioning, healthy society. Your voice, coming from a place of inner harmony, may be needed now more than ever.