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Nature has given us everything that we might need. But our unending demands have made us ask for more and get creative to meet our needs. Though much of our creativity has resulted in a comfortable life, it has negatively affected nature to affect human health negatively. Air pollution is one such concern which is a direct result of our modern lifestyle. Though the particles that pollute air have different sources, including natural incidents like volcano eruption, emission from industrial activities etc., motor vehicles affects the air quality more than anything. Air pollution not only adversely affects humans and animals, but it also affects the whole environment, which in turn leads to further damage to human health. The use of pollution control measures and barriers such as anti-pollution masks helps in staying safe from pollutants. Particle pollutants and their effect When it comes to air pollution, particle pollutants are a mixture of particles that can cause trouble to the living being and the environment. The size of these pollutants ranges from PM 2.5 to PM 10. These are mostly associated with cardiac and pulmonary-associated mortality and morbidity. The size of the particle we inhale with the air is related to the onset of the diseases and the progression of heart and lungs ailments. Smaller particles easily reach the lower respiratory tract having the potential to affect the heart and lungs. We need to wear the best anti pollution mask as a preventive step to keep our lungs safe from the pollutants in the air that we breathe. Research shows that people with lung or heart diseases can be affected with decreased lung function, aggravated asthma, nonfatal cardiac arrests, cardiac dysrhythmias, and even premature death due to air particle pollution. The severity of the disease depends on the exposure to these pollutants. The clinical symptoms of respiratory infections due to pollutants are breathing problems, dry mouth, coughing and wheezing. Due to prolonged exposure to particle pollutants, life expectancy might get reduced as diseases like lung cancer and cardiopulmonary conditions are caused by these pollutants. Even children get affected by diseases like COPD and asthmatic bronchitis. Wearing high-quality pollution masks can help us avoid exposure to this particle pollution and keep our lungs and heart healthy. Ground level ozone Ozone, a principal constituent of the atmosphere, is a colorless gas. This is present in both the upper atmosphere level as well as the ground level. This GLO or ground-level ozone is a chemical reaction product between VOCs emitted from natural sources and human activities and oxides of nitrogen. As a powerful oxidant, it leads to weakened cellular function by increasing DNA damage. Not only the human body, but O3 or Ozone can cause deforestation by reducing carbon assimilation. Carbon monoxide Just like O3, Carbon Monoxide or CO is a colorless gas without any odor. This gas is produced due to the burning of fossil fuel. Mild to severe poisoning can occur depending on the length and concentration of exposure to this gas. The symptoms of CO poisoning include vomiting, nausea, dizziness, headache, and loss of consciousness. Using pollution masks may help to stay safe to some extent from CO poisoning. Sulfur dioxide This highly reactive colorless gas is one of the most hazardous pollutants. It is a product of industrial and volcanic activity as well as fossil fuel consumption. It is not only harmful to human beings but also animals and plants. Children and older people, especially those suffering from lung disease, may suffer from lung and skin related ailments if exposed to SO2. Nitrogen dioxide It is a traffic-related air pollutant as it is emitted from motor vehicle combustion. The risk of respiratory infections increases when one is exposed to this gas. The symptoms are irritation in the throat, nose and eyes, dyspnea, headache, fever, and pulmonary edema. One of the best anti-pollution masks that ensures greater air filtration is Airific masks, India’s first anti-viral masks. They help filter out airborne particles such as PM 0.3, PM 2.5, PM 10, dust, allergens, germs, odors, scents, and other contaminants, and you breathe a purer air. More importantly, it also provides you with better protection against viruses and bacteria in the air, especially the COVID virus.

It is not news to anyone that breathing polluted air can be extremely detrimental in the present circumstances. All over the world, air pollution is one of the leading causes of public health concern. In our country, we see a rapid increase in the harmful effects of air pollution each year. Every person is exposed to the harmful effects of air pollution, which makes it an urgent concern. Not everyone may be affected in the same way, but it remains hazardous. Adopting personal safety measures, such as wearing a good quality mask has become crucial. But do we understand the extent of air pollution causes and effects? A primary reason for long-term health conditions is inhaling pollutants in the air. It is essential to be aware of the diseases caused by air pollution to fight them. Diseases Caused By Air Pollution Wearing an anti-pollution mask became common practice due to other reasons this year. But it brought to light the benefits provided by different masks against air pollution. For instance, you are better equipped to fight against air pollution causes and effects by putting on an N95 pollution mask when you go outside. However, the diseases caused by air pollution are not only because of breathing polluted air outside. It has recently come to light that indoor pollution may be just as dangerous to your health, if not more. According to WHO, one in eight global deaths is due to air pollution exposure. As helpful as the pollution masks can be, you must be aware of other air pollution causes and effects. It can be anywhere from mild irritation of the eyes, nose, and mouth to more serious medical conditions. Let’s discuss some of the diseases caused due to outdoor and indoor pollution. Respiratory Diseases It is a well-known fact that the harmful effects of air pollution include respiratory diseases. There is a higher risk of developing acute respiratory infections, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung diseases, when you inhale polluted air. In many metropolitan cities, there is a rise in respiratory conditions among children and the elderly. That is why more people are using anti-pollution masks in their daily habits. Note that a rise in indoor pollution also facilitates such respiratory conditions. According to the World Health Organization, around 22% of indoor air pollution-related deaths are due to COPD. Ischaemic Heart Disease Air pollution also results in some cardiovascular issues, one of which is ischaemic heart disease. It is known as coronary heart disease, where the person suffers from recurring chest pains. It is a condition where a part of the heart does not receive sufficient blood. Lung Cancer The pollutants in the air include certain carcinogens that can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as lung cancer. There can be an uncontrolled growth of cells in one or both the lungs, which impacts the functioning of the lungs and can result in complete malfunction. Though the severity of the disease depends on several factors, it makes sense to use an anti-pollution mask to reduce infection chances. Stroke People may suffer from a stroke when the blood supply is interrupted to a part of the brain. It is a severe medical emergency that can have significant implications. Not many people may be aware of this, but air pollution can cause strokes among people due to prolonged exposure. Birth & Immune System Defects Although each of us is affected by air pollution, some may be in more danger. It can cause a weakening of the immune system or a lung disorder to a pregnant woman and her child. There has been much conversation around the harmful effects of air pollution and ways to curb them. While we make efforts to reduce the level of pollution in the air, it is vital to take safety measures in the meantime. If you reside in a part of the country that suffers from particularly bad air pollution, an anti-pollution mask can considerably reduce your exposure. At Nirvana Being, we offer face masks such as Airific 2.0, which is certified as a Community Mask in the European Union as per CWA 17553:2020. It also blocks more than 96% of the air particles successfully. It has been tested with a VFE, BFE >95%by Nelson Labs, USA, to provide maximum protection. By wearing a trusted and suitable N95 pollution mask, you can introduce healthier habits into your lifestyle.

As the air quality has worsened over the years, there’s an increasing need to find ways to deal with it. According to studies made in the recent years, indoor air pollution is as much of a concern as outdoor air pollution. In fact, people are exposed to indoor air for a longer time relatively hence, the risks may even be greater. So what can you do to fight against it? You can use an air quality monitoring device to determine the quality of air inside your house. But, to do that, you should understand what good air quality means here. In general, these are the main things that indicate good air quality: There is proper ventilation in the house to ensure adequate distribution of air, inside and outside. Identifying the contaminants in the indoor air and controlling them. The temperature and the humidity of the indoor air remain at comfortable levels. Now, let’s understand what an air quality monitoring device is and how it works to help in achieving that: What is An Air Quality Monitor? A standard air quality monitoring device for home measures the particulate matter to determine the level of contaminants. It has different meters to assess the air quality on various parameters. For instance, the concentration of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other hazardous gases. The air pollution monitoring device has a sensor that detects the presence of a particular pollutant and its levels inside the house. Based on this, the device provides a reading of the air quality. Today, there are various types of air quality monitoring device for home available in the market. Technological innovation has made it more hassle-free and accessible for people. If you are looking for a suitable air quality monitoring device for home, remember to check off these points before purchasing it: Accuracy The sensor of the air quality monitoring device is responsible for detecting the pollutant levels. Hence, it is most important to find a product that has a reliable sensor. If you end up buying the device on just the basis of cost, you may end up disappointed with it. A good quality air pollution monitoring device will have a sensor that relies on: Precision – The device should be able to deliver consistent outputs. Resolution – In case there are minute changes in the measured parameter, the device should have appropriate sensitivity to it. Calibration – It should allow adjustments to be accurate if the environment is changed. Convenience of Use An air quality monitoring device may sound complicated when you hear about it for the first time. But, there are some devices that use superior technology to make it convenient for the user. When you are looking for one, make sure to consider the accessibility and ease of use. Air quality inside your home will affect you and your loved ones. Hence, it should be uncomplicated to use the air quality monitoring device and examine the air quickly. The display and design of the product play a crucial role in creating a simplified user experience. Portability The portability of the air quality monitoring device entails the ease of carrying it around. This is important to consider for two reasons: You do not stay in one spot of the house all the time. If you intend on using the device in multiple rooms of the house, portability is an important factor. In this case, you should look for an air quality monitoring device that is lightweight and compact-sized. You can determine the suitable shape and size of the air quality monitoring device depending on the size of your house. Another thing to check for is the battery life of the device. If you require an air quality monitoring device for home that runs for a prolonged period, you should know how long it will last before you need to charge it again. Features The desired features of an air quality monitoring device depend on your requirements. However, we can boil it down to these key features that improve the control and function of the device: Time Taken: It is always favourable to have a sensor of the air quality monitoring device to get quicker results. Connectivity: Most of the appliances inside a household are digital in today’s world. You want a device that is compatible with your smart home so that you can access it conveniently. Noise – The monitor may be left running all night to test the air quality as you sleep. But, that doesn’t need to interfere with a night of sound sleep. If you are planning to place it in the bedroom, make sure you find an air quality monitoring device that creates as little sound as possible.

The quality and condition of the air that we breathe has been steadily declining over the years. It has become an urgent concern because of the increasing health problems arising due to the intake of bad quality air. Although there are specific cities in India that suffer from the severest air quality, we need to look at the problem from a broader perspective. Breathing clean air has become alarmingly uncommon, especially so in big cities. The air quality index pollutants in the rapidly developing cities such as Delhi have reached dreadful heights. Each year, the residents face growing problems because of it, notably so during the winter season. However, this does not mean that air pollution is only a problem in one or two cities. Even the cities with the best air quality index in India does not ensure healthy quality of air. Knowing about the significant air quality index pollutants can be helpful to determine the necessary measures to reduce its impact. But, first, let’s understand how the national air quality index works. What is Air Quality Index? The national air quality index is a measurement of the air quality index pollutants on any given day. It is calculated on a daily basis to help understand the impact on the local population. Depending on the country, different parameters and scales are used to report the air quality index pollutants. There are five major air quality index pollutants according to which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calculates the national air quality index. These are: Ground-level ozone When you hear ozone layer, you think of the protective layer in the atmosphere that protects us against the damaging ultraviolet rays from the sun. But, you may be surprised to know ozone at ground-level is among the worst air quality index pollutants. Smog is mainly made up of ground-level ozone, which is the product of sunlight and vehicular emissions. During the summer months, it is readily created and remains at the highest concentrations in the afternoons. It can be detrimental to health, even at low levels. Particle pollution/particulate matter (PM2.5/pm 10) Particulate matter refers to minute solid particles or liquid droplets present in the air. It can include a variety of components such as soil, metal or dust particles, organic compounds, nitrate, sulfates, etc. Their impact on health depends on the size of the particulate matter, i.e., PM 2.5 or PM 10. The smaller the particle, the easier they can reach the lungs or even enter the bloodstream. Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide is formed when the carbon in fuels doesn’t burn completely. The main sources of such air quality index pollutants are motor vehicles, industries, wood-burning heaters, bushfires, etc. They are highly present in the air during colder weather and can cause harmful effects on a person’s health. It reduces the amount of oxygen reaching different parts of the body. Sulfur dioxide These are the air quality index pollutants which are by the combustion of fossil fuels and industrial facilities. Some natural processes such as decomposition also contribute to it. Prolonged exposure to it can result in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Nitrogen dioxide This is another air quality index pollutant formed by emissions from vehicles, industries, and gas-heaters. There is a significant amount of it present on busy roads. Like the other air quality index pollutants, it can lead to respiratory problems in people. In India, we follow the 500 point scale to record the air quality index pollutants. Here’s how it works: Good (0–50) – The impact is minimal. Satisfactory (51–100) – It can lead to minor difficulties in breathing in people who are sensitive to it. Moderately polluted (101–200) – If the air quality index pollutants rate within this bracket, it can lead to more serious breathing problems in people who suffer from respiratory issues such as asthma or heart diseases. Poor (201–300) – A rating within this bracket can cause breathing issues and discomfort upon prolonged exposure. Very Poor (301–400) – This may result in the development of respiratory disorders among people if they are exposed to it for long. People suffering from heart problems or lung diseases are at a greater risk. Severe (401-500) - If the air quality index pollutants fall in this bracket, it can lead to respiratory diseases in healthy people and a more pronounced impact on people with lung or heart problems.

An antiviral-cum-anti pollution mask is the way to go; the helmet for your wellbeing The COVID-19 is here to stay for a long time, and each one of us across the globe needs to take necessary precautions in order to stay protected. However, the bad times are about to get worse for those residing in Delhi and neighboring cities as the air pollution season is soon to be upon us. In the coming weeks, air pollution is expected to hit a choking peak in New Delhi; more so due to the ominous paddy burning season approaching. Each year India’s rice farmers burn the stubble of the harvested crop, contributing to an annual haze that damages the health of those in and around the capital. Typically, the north westerly winds hit Delhi between mid and late October and everything turns grey up till the winter as smoke tends to linger in the colder months. And with more labour available and a good monsoon this time round, we should surely expect a better crop yield, and consequently, farmers in Punjab, Rajasthan and Haryana will have more crops to burn. The moment the north westerlies hit us, we are trapped. A typical winter in New Delhi involves toxic air quality levels, itchy throats, heaving chests and burning eyes. Also, we have the impact of fireworks, candles and diyas during Diwali, which makes it a pretty poisonous cocktail full of black carbon nanoparticles, arsenic and metals! Therefore, it is imperative for all of us, as responsible and educated citizens of the country to buy and wear masks which are not just antiviral but also anti-pollution. Any mask you buy from this point on should be reusable and washable in order to last you through the coming months. Also considering wearing a mask is the ‘new normal’, your mask must also have a low breathing resistance to make it more breathable to wear for long periods of time. Additionally, it should be lightweight and made from all-natural fabrics to provide a snug and comfortable fit and feel. In other words, you need a CE certified FFP2R pollution mask with an N99 activated carbon filter, where the R stands for reusable and washable and lasts you 4 months or more to get you through the season. The most cost-effective way to protect ourselves from air pollution and Coronavirus ill-effects is an antiviral-cum-anti pollution mask. Wearing a mask in India, and especially if you are living in a metro city is no longer an option, but a necessity.

It is summer time once again and the mercury is already touching 40 in Northern India. The summers as always are difficult to bear in the northern plains where it gets really hot. So as the summer time is around people start packing their bags and head north to enjoy the cool climes of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. However, the hills over the years have also changed, where once it was clean unpolluted air are today facing the worse kind of pollution – the pollution from diesel engines of commercial vehicles and cars that ferry tourists to these places. Since the air in the hills is heavy the pollution stays at a low level and floats around. This becomes so unbearable sometimes that the asthma patients and old people, in particular, find it worse than the air pollution in the plains. Besides, as most people not only just to stay there but for indulging in some sort of fun activities, the pollution quotient becomes one of the biggest deterrents. Many people can be heard saying that it was better back home, why did we come to this place to choke ourselves. When Pure Air Is Hard To Get But this then would be a bad idea; why should someone lock in one’s house because the air in the hills is polluted with diesel smoke. Though the government would do well to ensure that the clean fuel is used and the sanctity of the pure oxygen-rich mountain air is preserved, you will have to ensure that you and your family do not miss either the excitement of visiting the hills without suffering the consequences of diesel laden air there. The best way to do is to have a pollution mask and wear it as long as you are on the road with a multitude of taxis and trucks. These particles from the exhaust directly enter the human body undetected and cause irreparable damage and diseases like kidney problems, heart problems, and even cancer. Vogmask is promoted and marketed by Nirvana Being the company which has made a name for itself in gadgets fighting pollution. Vogmask is the premier filtering face mask, and it is loaded with N99 filter, active carbon and exhale valve. It is stylish and reusable and even washable. The Water Challenge Yet another challenge for the people going to the hills is safe and clean drinking water. Here again, Nirvana Being can come for your help. It sells carbon filter water bottle “Bobble” which can be your life safer on the trip. This is plastic bottle fitted with a carbon filter which can convert the ordinary tap water into clean & safe drinking water in minutes. These bottles have become very popular due to their sheer utility and cost-effectiveness while a liter of mineral water comes for Rs. 15 you get an unlimited supply of safe drinking water without paying for each bottle. Bobble has an integrated silicone carry cap for an enhanced experience. Bobble has a carbon filter & it is designed to remove the taste and odour of chlorine from municipal tap water, resulting in a cleaner, crisper taste. Its filter cap is Soft-touch and bottle itself is free of BPA and PVC. Nirvana being imported this bottle from the USA and markets it in India. The bottle comes in 18.5oz / 550mL. While the filter lasts for approx 2 months or 150 liters, the bobble can be used again and again, and each filter lasts for 300 refills. Also, this is sustainable as opposed to leaving plastic waste from using dozens of mineral water bottle in the hills. Stay Safe To Enjoy The Hills! Another issue that was nonexistent in the hill stations has slowly crept in. Anyone who has been visiting the hill stations would vouch for the failing law and order situation there. While earlier people left their homes unlocked when they went out but not anymore; not only the crime rate has steadily risen over the years but even the women safety has also become a major cause of concern. Many young girls go to hills for adventure sports, camping and other activities and they have to go deep in into jungles and remote areas. This then puts them at serious risk and they must think about their safety and security first before venturing into areas which are remote and have a scarce police presence. Indeed it is always a good idea to go to such places with a local guide and in a group which ensures better safety. When you engage an adventure company makes sure you check its credentials and reputation before doing so. Many times unauthorized agencies jump into this business to make a fast buck in the tourist season, they neither have proper permissions or expertise to make your trip safe and secure. Indeed it is always a good idea to have something with you which can come handy should a situation arise. The pepper spray has emerged as a very reliable and functional device to help you in a threat situation. It is highly recommended by security experts and has been found very effective the world over. The self-protection pepper spray is a can of a highly irritating compound which can be sprayed on an assailant from as far as 10 to 15 feet. When it is sprayed on the face, eyes, and nose, in particular, it causes excruciating pain and the attacker is instantly immobilized for at least 15 minutes, time enough for you to escape the situation and call for help. It comes in a spray can which can be easily kept in a bag. The best part is that you don’t need any training to use it; just aim and shoot without warning to take the assailant by surprise and run from the scene. However, it is a good idea to practice it if you are buying it for the first time so that you understand its range and how to use it quickly. It is completely legal in India and does not require a license here. You must keep it with you all the time while traveling because you never know when you might need it. Keep it in a place where you can reach it is quick. Another device that has now become a standard the world over is personal security alarm. It is indeed a noisy device but its noise can make you safe. When pressed it raises an alarm which can be heard from a distance. It works on two levels one it attracts people nearby who could come to your help and secondly it un-nerves the assailant who feels that if he doesn’t run from the scene he would be caught and his chances of getting away would be very small. A handheld personal security alarm is like a security system for your body. It is just like keeping an alarm in your house to warn against intruders. You can keep this personal body alarm concealed in your palm when you need urgent help. Whether it’s the key ring that you always have when you’re on the go or any other design personal alarms help you reach out for help right when you need it most. Personal alarms for women, children, and others available on the market today are a good option as they are cheap and effective. Thanks to their compact size, high functionality, and quality design, they offer great value for money as they are convenient and trustworthy. They come in all sizes and shapes - from a sport and safety horn to a keychain alarm - personal alarm devices are easily available in the market. It would be important to note that these personal safety alarms must be used with utmost care. They complement your safety plan but are not enough. So you could buy it with a pepper spray for maximum protection. Do invest in personal alarm before you head to hills; it can help you attract attention and deter attackers in dangerous situations in remote areas.