Want better vibes? Plant trees and breathe deeply
(August 16, 2024) — Really, all you need is air.
While on a recent vacation in Costa Rica, I had the opportunity to experience a leisurely boat ride down the River Tarcoles towards the end of an impressive crocodile tour. As we floated past a forest of mangrove trees, our guide casually mentioned that this species produces more oxygen than most other trees. A quick fact-check confirmed they do—each tree satisfying the oxygen needs of up to four people! Beyond that, they are champions of carbon storage.
There are several global efforts to preserve and enhance mangrove forests, which are easily found with a quick Google search and worthy of support. Breathing air so kindly provided by the mangroves spurred contemplation of the more insidious effects of polluted air.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines air pollution as “the presence of one or more contaminants in the atmosphere, such as dust, fumes, gas, mist, odor, smoke, or vapor, in quantities and duration that can be injurious to human health.” When we breathe in these particles, they cause oxidative stress, inflammation, impaired immune system function, and even cellular changes. Although the lungs, as the entry point, are especially vulnerable, smaller particles (less than 2.5 microns) called Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.
According to the WHO, diseases most closely linked to exposure to environmental air pollution include: “stroke, ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, pneumonia, and cataracts (household air pollution only).”
Recent research has also demonstrated a disturbing link between mental health and exposure to airborne environmental toxicity. PM2.5, when found in concentrations exceeding 5 microns per cubic meter, can make its way through the olfactory nerve and enter brain tissue directly, causing significant damage.
Research indicates that five years of exposure to high levels of air pollution can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Exposure to excessive air pollution is also associated with an increased risk of dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and autism. The risks from PM2.5 are especially high for children as their young brains develop. Poor air quality may also elevate the risk of developing bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and Axis II disorders.
Indoor air with elevated PM2.5 may also be linked to lower performance on cognitive tests, and studies point to a connection between children exposed to poor indoor air quality at school and deficits in math and reading comprehension tests. Driving less, using nontoxic cleaning agents, and advocating for responsible city planning are some actionable steps we can take to make a difference in Contra Costa County, whose PM2.5 levels are sometimes in excess of healthful levels. We can also plant and cultivate trees, which often leads to a renewed relationship with nature. Consider joining the local Garden Club (Clayton’s is wonderful!). Meet a mandrake and appreciate that sometimes all you need is the air that you breathe…
Please send comments and question for Nathalie Montijo to newwavenightingale@gmail.com.
Nathalie Montijo
Nathalie Raven Archangel-Montijo holds a rather interesting array of degrees and certifications, including master’s in nursing and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). She has post-master certification as an adult geriatric primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP) and a license to practice acupuncture in California (L.Ac). To round all that out, she is certified in infection prevention and control (CIC) and as an advanced certified Hospice and palliative care nurse (ACHPN).
She also performs in the outlaw country band, Nineteen Hand Horse.