REPAIR YOUR AIR
Ensure your quality of air is topnotch and reap the benefits
If we learned anything from the shocking bushfires in recent years, it’s that air quality has a serious effect on our health and wellbeing. But how much do we need to worry about air quality at home, and how can we improve it?
COMMON FACTORS
“Generally speaking, we have good air quality in Australia, and our air pollution levels are very low compared to many other countries,” says Professor Bin Jalaludin, environmental epidemiologist at UNSW, and Lung Foundation Australia spokesperson for air quality. “However, we know that even low levels of air pollution can lead to some health effects.”
Outdoor air quality is affected by factors like fuel burning, bushfires, smoke, dust and pollen. At home, tiny particles and chemicals from gas cookers, wood heaters, smoking, cleaning products, new furniture and IT equipment can cause poor air quality.
HEALTH RISKS
“Certain groups may be sensitive to the effects of air pollutants including young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and the one in nine Australians who suffer from respiratory health conditions such as asthma, hay fever or bronchitis,” explains Professor Sotiris Vardoulakis, Professor of Global Environmental Health at ANU, who works with Dyson.
He says some people may immediately feel the effects of indoor air pollution, which include irritated eyes, nose and throat, sneezing, headaches and fatigue. Asthma sufferers may also notice their symptoms flare up if they’re triggered by poor air quality.
Professor Jalaludin adds that exposure to poor air quality can also have concerning long-term effects. It has been linked to heart disease, lung disease and diabetes.
KEEP IT CLEAN
“Natural ventilation is important for reducing the levels of indoor pollution, but it is not always possible to keep the windows open due to noise, bad weather or outdoor pollution,” Professor Vardoulakis explains. “Air purifiers with HEPA and active carbon filters can be very effective in improving indoor air quality in a home.”
He suggests vacuuming with a fully sealed filtration system. Increase ventilation by opening windows, use a range hood or extractor fan when cooking, avoid smoking and burning incense or candles, and clean regularly with environmentally friendly products.
“Indoor plants, in the process of photosynthesis, will absorb and reduce the amount of carbon dioxide,” says Professor Jalaludin.
“They may also trap fine particles and reduce the concentration of fine particles in the air.”
Rollerskating has had a resurgence recently and it’s not hard to see why – it’s fun, accessible and a fantastic workout. Stacey Short and her team at Rollerfit explain all you need to know about getting started, or trying again if it’s been a while!
THE BENEFITS
Rollerskating used to be popular in Australia in the 1970s to 1990s when there were roller rinks, and now that it’s becoming trendy again, people who skated back in the day might be ready to put their skates on again.
“As an adult, rollerskating can evoke a childlike joy and exhilaration,” Stacey and the Rollerfit team say.
“We have seen how skating builds confidence, creates lasting social relationships, and transforms health and wellbeing.”
Rollerskating can benefit your cardiovascular health, fitness, flexibility and balance. It’s also very gentle on the joints, making a great alternative to jogging.
However, it may not be suitable for people with a health condition that makes them susceptible to broken bones, or prevents them from doing aerobic exercise. Chat to your GP about it before trying.
GETTING STARTED
According to the Rollerfit team, it’s not a matter of if you fall but a matter of when. This is especially true at the beginning, so it’s critical to invest in a helmet and protective gear for your knees, elbows and wrists. If you have proper equipment, you shouldn’t let the chance of falling deter you from trying rollerskating.
“Consistency is the key to gaining confidence on skates,” Stacey notes. “If someone is spending regular time on their skates (three or more times per week), they could start feeling more confident after a month or two. Others who aren’t able to skate as frequently might find it takes three to six months or more to find their feet.”
LEARNING SKILLS
The first thing to master is how to fall correctly, so you can reduce the chance of hurting yourself.
“If falling backwards, aim to land on one side of your bottom rather than just straight back, as this could hurt your tailbone,” says Stacey. “If falling forwards, bending your arms and absorbing your fall while protecting your head and face is best. If falling at high speed, rolling can even be helpful.”
There are plenty of ways to level up your rollerskating skills when you’ve handled the basics. Classes, clubs and online communities will teach you proper techniques and, when you’re ready, fun tricks.
“Everyone’s learning journey is different so it’s important to focus on your own experience and journey,” adds Stacey. “Information is so accessible... Just go on Instagram or Youtube to learn the basics, a dance move, or how to do a trick in the skate park.”
Additionally, anything that improves your aerobic fitness will help you improve your performance on skates. Yoga can help with flexibility and strength, while dance and gymnastics can assist with balance, coordination and rhythm.