It’s a fact of modern life that our exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR) is now greater than it’s ever been and still on the rise. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) position is that no adverse effects of exposure to low level radiofrequency fields has yet been proven, however WHO’s own International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) also declared, back in 2011, that EMF’s are possibly carcinogenic to humans.
Types of radiation
EMR is unusually divided into two categories, high level or ionising radiation, including ultra violet rays from the sun as well as x-rays from medical imaging machines which are considered harmful in high doses. In contrast, low level or non-ionising has historically been considered safe and which includes the radiation produced by microwave ovens, mobile phones, wi-fi routers, powerlines, and MRI’s.
More recent concerns about EMR are particularly focused on long-term exposure to the previously considered safe low-level radiation. It’s fair to say that we do not know the effects of accumulated exposure to the now ubiquitous low level EMR.
A polarising debate
Throughout evolution, humans have been subject to the effects of natural EMFs in the Earth’s environment. However, whilst natural sources of EMR are typically non-polarised, human made EMR is polarised. The significance of which is that polarised EMR is more active biologically than natural non-ionising EMR. In other words, man-made EMR has a more disruptive impact on human cell function. Whilst there are adaptive mechanisms that can cope with disruption to cell function, these mechanisms may not always be totally effective, and it is speculated that in times of stress, sickness, in childhood development or in old age, polarised EMR may initiate adverse health effects.
Sensitive issue
I have some clients who do report sensitivity to EMFs and I have no reason to disbelieve them. There are a number of symptoms that are reputed to be connected to EMF exposure including insomnia, headaches, depression, fatigue, poor concentration, dizziness, irritability, nausea and skin irritation. Viewed holistically, it would consider EMR as a potential irritant to healthy cell function just as some people are sensitive to pollens in spring, or dust mites in the home.
Reduce exposure, build resilience
Personally, I feel it’s sensible, in light of the potential for EMR to adversely affect wellbeing, to reduce exposure where possible. Simple changes like turning off your wi-fi router overnight, turning off your mobile phone or at least switch it to airplane mode at night, or even better don’t leave your phone, tablets or computers in your bedroom. There are devices that reputedly neutralise the harmful effects of EMR, so you might wish to explore these further if you’re concerned.
As far as building resilience goes, there is no secret that the principles of getting adequate rest, regular exercise, eating a diet rich in nutrient-dense foods and drinking pure water still hold true; along with finding meaning and purpose in your day and cultivating close loving relationships with friends and family.
If you take some measures to reduce your EMF exposure where you can and otherwise focus on building your resilience, you’re going to minimise any adverse impact from EMF exposure.
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