The greatest health catastrophe is one that is all around us everyday. It can rarely be seen, occasionally smelled, and ignored when heard. The biggest threat to our health is our environment. Pollution dissipates through the air we breath. Outdoor air pollution from vehicle and building emissions fills our lungs during every breathe with carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, and other toxic compounds. Industrial processes release even more toxic particulate matter to be inhaled into our bodies. So what about avoiding the outdoors and staying inside? It may be even worse. Indoor air pollution is more concentrated and the number of sources are difficult to control. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) off-gas from paint, carpet, and furniture. The same can be said from all the plastic materials bought and stored in our buildings. Cleaning products contain harmful chemicals like chlorine and ammonia, just to name a few. And even the pleasant-smelling air fresheners contain phthalates. All of these sources together produce dangerous levels of exposure to formaldehyde and benzene. Let not forget to mention the exposure to mold and asbestos. What are all of the effects of these pollutants? As you can guess, a variety of negative health consequences ranging from cardiovascular disease, asthma, heart disease, stroke,chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung disease. New research is now showing correlation between air pollution and neurological disease and cognitive ability. So what can we do and where can we go to limit and reverse these effects? There is only one place, nature.

Nature, known for its aesthetic beauty, will also soon be known for its health benefits. Trees and other plants are able to absorb air pollution and filter out particulate matter and gases in the air, while at the same time producing pure oxygen. These clean green environments are what can heal the body and are the ideal places for exercise. But the cleansing air isn’t all that nature has to offer health-wise. Studies have shown that just being in nature has the ability to boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress. Its cognitive effects can improve focus, enhance your mood, and increase energy levels. Psychologically, the sights and sound of nature have proven benefits to help fight depression and anxiety. With all of these powers, it hard to believe how we became so nature deficient.

StrengthEcology brings people back to nature, integrating it’s ability to heal to restore the body to its natural state.