Clinical Ecology
Is your house making you sick?
The art & science of adapting your environment to create a safe, healthy space.
by Frances Birdsell
... You go to bed feeling just fine, but wake up feeling sluggish and drained of energy. Everyday, every night, the same. By mid-morning you are fine again. But it all seems to be dragging you down.
... You sneeze, several times in a row, every time you open that cupboard in the corner. There's only a few cleaning supplies in there: nothing harmful.
... You got a good deal on a new laundry detergent with a fresh floral scent. After the first wash you notice you daughter scratching herself under her t-shirt, but no one else is bothered. Wonder if the cat has fleas?
... You notice that every time the heat comes on your nose twitches. Why would that be happening?
... You're visiting at your friend's house. She's always tense lately, and can't seem to relax. Mind you, that bright red wall and new orange-rust carpet do seem a little overpowering...
The environment you live and work in has a direct affect upon your personal well being. Your house or office can make you sick! Clinical Ecology is the art of science of adapting your environment to create a safe, healthy space. I'm a Natural Therapist, Holistic Healer, and Clinical Ecologist who acts as a coach in a journey towards health and well being.
In 1986 I lost my health from working in an office with a print shop that didn't vent properly to the outside. I developed multiple allergies, my body ached all over, I had difficulty breathing, and I wore a mask to drive in downtown Vancouver (or got whirly - heads from the gas fumes). At the time I didn't understand what was happening to me.
My healing program included: a severely restricted four-day rotational diet: the elimination of all chemicals from my household; vitamins and herbal teas to detoxify and boost my immune system; a variety of natural therapies to assist in the healing process; a major changes in my bedroom to control air quality.
The 'bubble' of one safe room gave my body a space in which to heal. For the first time in my life I could actually breathe normally though my nose. Later, I altered the rest of my home.
Being exposed to toxic fumes and poor air quality in my workplace challenged my body past the point of being able to cope. Using natural methods I have healed myself of the debilitating effects of chemical sensitivities, and boosted my immune system and energy level back up to the top of the scale.
As a result, I have learned to pay very close attention to the suitable clues that our bodies give in response to the environment around us. That sneeze, itch, or twitch is worth your attention. What is the trigger? Why is it happening? Focus. Find the source, by process of elimination, or consideration of alternatives.
There may be dust mites in your pillow or mattress that a special slipcover could resolve. That lovely thick feather duvet might get changed for a washable non-allergenic one with dramatic results. Who would have thought that a scented candle on the bedside table could disturb sleep patterns?
Most cleaning supplies are very toxic, to mother earth, animals and humankind. Magic cloths, vinegar, Borax, and natural source products are a viable alternative.
Some people are more sensitive than others. Liken them to the canaries taken into the mines to warn of poisonous gases. If they feel it, you are probably affected too. You just aren't reacting. Yet. Try to avoid all perfumed products. Use unscented! If not for yourself, you'll be doing your neighbor/friend/sister a favor. Clingy items can be hung to dry. For perfume, use essential oils, which are natural aromatic substances which have related healing effects. And the cat may have fleas, but be careful of the toxic sprays that linger for weeks or months.
If your nose reacts every time the furnace forcer air to circulate in your house, you need to consider the following: cleaning the air ducts, changing the filter, checking the registers, evaluating air intake sources, looking for mould or contamination, and monitoring the dust/dirt accumulation on knick-knacks or in the carpet.
Each color has its own vibration and this influences us in different ways. There are calming colors, and vibrant colors, and ones that jangle the nerves. It depends on where you use the color, whether that is an appropriate or desired response.
The artwork/decorations used in a room, how high they are hung, lined up or not, all contribute to the energy felt in a particular space. That subtle energy in turn effects your body, and your physical/mental/emotional/spiritual response. As do the colors you choose to war, and the energy of the people with whom you associate.
There is no separation. Everything is interconnected.
If your health is less than optimal, try paying attention to your environment. Make some adjustments and see if it makes any difference. Complex sensitivities often need a detoxification program and some natural therapies to stimulate energy circulation and restore balance. A Holistic Healer or Clinic Ecologist can guide you on the path to wellness.
... You sneeze, several times in a row, every time you open that cupboard in the corner. There's only a few cleaning supplies in there: nothing harmful.
... You got a good deal on a new laundry detergent with a fresh floral scent. After the first wash you notice you daughter scratching herself under her t-shirt, but no one else is bothered. Wonder if the cat has fleas?
... You notice that every time the heat comes on your nose twitches. Why would that be happening?
... You're visiting at your friend's house. She's always tense lately, and can't seem to relax. Mind you, that bright red wall and new orange-rust carpet do seem a little overpowering...
The environment you live and work in has a direct affect upon your personal well being. Your house or office can make you sick! Clinical Ecology is the art of science of adapting your environment to create a safe, healthy space. I'm a Natural Therapist, Holistic Healer, and Clinical Ecologist who acts as a coach in a journey towards health and well being.
In 1986 I lost my health from working in an office with a print shop that didn't vent properly to the outside. I developed multiple allergies, my body ached all over, I had difficulty breathing, and I wore a mask to drive in downtown Vancouver (or got whirly - heads from the gas fumes). At the time I didn't understand what was happening to me.
My healing program included: a severely restricted four-day rotational diet: the elimination of all chemicals from my household; vitamins and herbal teas to detoxify and boost my immune system; a variety of natural therapies to assist in the healing process; a major changes in my bedroom to control air quality.
The 'bubble' of one safe room gave my body a space in which to heal. For the first time in my life I could actually breathe normally though my nose. Later, I altered the rest of my home.
Being exposed to toxic fumes and poor air quality in my workplace challenged my body past the point of being able to cope. Using natural methods I have healed myself of the debilitating effects of chemical sensitivities, and boosted my immune system and energy level back up to the top of the scale.
As a result, I have learned to pay very close attention to the suitable clues that our bodies give in response to the environment around us. That sneeze, itch, or twitch is worth your attention. What is the trigger? Why is it happening? Focus. Find the source, by process of elimination, or consideration of alternatives.
There may be dust mites in your pillow or mattress that a special slipcover could resolve. That lovely thick feather duvet might get changed for a washable non-allergenic one with dramatic results. Who would have thought that a scented candle on the bedside table could disturb sleep patterns?
Most cleaning supplies are very toxic, to mother earth, animals and humankind. Magic cloths, vinegar, Borax, and natural source products are a viable alternative.
Some people are more sensitive than others. Liken them to the canaries taken into the mines to warn of poisonous gases. If they feel it, you are probably affected too. You just aren't reacting. Yet. Try to avoid all perfumed products. Use unscented! If not for yourself, you'll be doing your neighbor/friend/sister a favor. Clingy items can be hung to dry. For perfume, use essential oils, which are natural aromatic substances which have related healing effects. And the cat may have fleas, but be careful of the toxic sprays that linger for weeks or months.
If your nose reacts every time the furnace forcer air to circulate in your house, you need to consider the following: cleaning the air ducts, changing the filter, checking the registers, evaluating air intake sources, looking for mould or contamination, and monitoring the dust/dirt accumulation on knick-knacks or in the carpet.
Each color has its own vibration and this influences us in different ways. There are calming colors, and vibrant colors, and ones that jangle the nerves. It depends on where you use the color, whether that is an appropriate or desired response.
The artwork/decorations used in a room, how high they are hung, lined up or not, all contribute to the energy felt in a particular space. That subtle energy in turn effects your body, and your physical/mental/emotional/spiritual response. As do the colors you choose to war, and the energy of the people with whom you associate.
There is no separation. Everything is interconnected.
If your health is less than optimal, try paying attention to your environment. Make some adjustments and see if it makes any difference. Complex sensitivities often need a detoxification program and some natural therapies to stimulate energy circulation and restore balance. A Holistic Healer or Clinic Ecologist can guide you on the path to wellness.