I don’t like to complain but I think everyone can collectively commiserate the fact that there is just “never enough time in the day.” We live in a fast-paced world where we have become completely dependent on coffee, alarm clocks, power naps, coffee and - did I mention coffee?

There are other solutions, however, to a more productive day than coffee alone. Of course, there’s a healthy diet, exercise and a good night's sleep – but a lesser-known remedy should also be in the mix. Clean air.

Inhaling polluted air throughout your 40+ hour work week might be the hidden culprit behind your headaches, brain fog, fatigue, sore throat and nasal congestion.

Contrary to popular belief, indoor air is not safe from air pollution. In fact, indoor air quality can be more than 5-10 times worse than outdoors.

It seems counterintuitive but it makes sense when you come to understand that your walls, floors, furniture, electronic gadgets and cleaning supplies all release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which can trigger allergy or cold-like symptoms. Unvented heaters, gas stoves, indoor fireplaces, and tobacco smoke can dramatically exacerbate this problem by elevating the level of particulate matter in the air, especially if your home or office is not properly ventilated.

If you frequently experience cold-like symptoms - it may be due to indoor air pollution. In this case, try tackling the source rather than self-medicating with coffee and ibuprofen.

Here’s what we recommend:

Better still - get your office aligned with a clean air objective. After all, it’s in their best interest. Studies have found that poor air can reduce office productivity by up to 10%. Meanwhile, properly ventilated offices typically experience 35% fewer short-term sick leaves.

Clean air may be the secret to higher productivity – but it should be no secret that it’s also the answer to improved health. Start monitoring the air you breath to achieve clean air solutions that work best for your home or office.

1. Purchase an air quality sensor to monitor your indoor environment and identify the air pollution source. Find the right air sensor for you.
2. On days where the outdoor AQI is lower than 80, open your doors and windows to let in fresh air.
3. Turn on indoor air filters when the pollution levels reach an AQI of 100 or higher.
4. Get houseplants that help clean the air. Find the right house plant for you.