Wellness Within Your Walls® has produced a practical educational series featuring The Healthy Living System™, a 10-step approach to building and designing healthier living environments. The Healthy Living System™ is designed to complement residential construction projects resulting in lower toxin levels and better health for homeowners.
The Healthy Living System™
Recent scientific evidence indicates that air quality in homes tends to be significantly more polluted and harmful than outdoor air. People spend up to 90% of their time indoors. Analysis of indoor air and proper design of ventilation systems — with consideration given to available technology, climate zones and naturally-occurring toxins — can significantly improve this issue. Indoor air quality is especially important for at-risk groups such as the young, elderly, and chronically ill. A number of options exist to remedy these issues such as building with air-purifying drywall, whole-home air purification systems and even well-placed house plants.
Hydration is paramount to human health. The water we consume plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy body and mind. Over 300 chemicals of concern have been identified in municipal tap water. Analyzing water for contaminants — through a consultant, local extension office, or public interest group database — is essential. Equally important is selecting the proper whole-home or personal water purification system to remove undesirable chemicals, biological contaminants, suspended solids and gases.
Exposure to natural light provides the body with vitamin D, lifts moods, improves concentration, aids sleep, reduces signs of dementia and improves overall health. Our bodies rely on the daily cycle of natural light to synchronize circadian rhythms. Designing homes to capture and optimize natural light maximizes health while delivering energy-saving benefits. In the northern hemisphere, south facing rooms receive the most sunlight; rooms should be positioned to the sun’s rotation. Artificial light should be considered after natural exposure has been maximized.
DO THE RIGHT THING. Build your business by getting certified and committing to The Healthy Living System™. Learn how you can reduce the level of toxins in the homes and products you build to reach today’s health-conscious consumer. And, certify your homes and products to create awareness of your commitment to consumer health, like the ABC Green Home 4.0 photographed above.
