January Reflections

Day 03 Granting Ourselves Three Wishes for Healthier Homes 

At Healing Buildings, we believe that small, intentional changes can transform the spaces we live in. Today, on Day 03 of this journey, we’re granting ourselves three wishes for healthier homes. These wishes aren’t far-off dreams—they’re actionable ideas we can all embrace to improve our health, comfort, and well-being. 

Our homes are more than just shelters; they shape our lives in profound ways. The air we breathe, the moisture levels we live with, and our connection to the natural world all have significant impacts on our physical and mental health. Yet, these aspects are often overlooked in favour of aesthetics or convenience. 

So today, I’m wishing for three things: better understanding and improvement of indoor air quality, more attention to managing moisture and humidity, and finding ways to bring more of nature into our living spaces. Here’s how we can start making these wishes a reality. Oh and can someone tell me why its only three wishes..... not four or five???? 

Wish 1: Understand and Improve Indoor Air Quality 

The Survival Rule of 3 The Survival Rule of 3, or “rule of threes”, is a well-known rule of thumb that describes the basic survival rules using the number three. The rule says that you can survive: 

3 minutes without air 

3 hours without shelter 

3 days without water

3 weeks without food 

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is something we rarely think about—but it affects us every moment we’re inside. Studies show that poor IAQ can lead to respiratory issues, headaches, and even long-term health problems. Pollutants like dust, mold, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and even cooking fumes accumulate in our homes, often without us noticing. 

What can we do today? 

• Ventilate better: Open windows whenever possible to circulate fresh air, especially while cooking or cleaning. If outdoor air quality is poor, consider investing in an air purifier. 

• Switch to low-VOC products: Choose non-toxic paints, adhesives, and cleaning supplies to reduce chemical exposure. 

By taking these simple steps, we can make the air we breathe healthier—an invisible yet vital improvement to our daily lives. 

Wish 2: Pay Attention to Moisture and Humidity 

Moisture is a double-edged sword: too much can lead to mold, while too little can cause dry air and discomfort. Yet, most of us don’t think about humidity levels until there’s a visible problem, like condensation on windows or peeling paint. Ideal indoor humidity falls between 30% and 50%, but achieving that balance requires attention. 

What can we do today? 

• Invest in a hygrometer: This inexpensive tool measures humidity, helping you understand whether your home is too damp or too dry. 

• Control sources of moisture: Fix leaks promptly, use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and ensure gutters are directing water away from your home. 

• Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed: In winter, a dehumidifier can  keep excess moisture at bay. 

Managing moisture is essential not just for comfort, but also for the health of your home and its occupants. 

Wish 3: Bring Nature Indoors 

Humans are hardwired to thrive in natural environments, yet we spend most of our time indoors. Incorporating natural elements into our homes—known as #biophilicdesign (we will cover this on Day 15 when we talk about the 15 Biophilia Principles)—has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and even boost productivity. This isn’t about turning your living room into a jungle, but about small, thoughtful ways to invite nature in. 

What can we do today? 

• Add indoor plants: Start with easy-to-care-for options eg a spider plants. These not only look great but can also improve air quality. 

• Maximize natural light: Open curtains fully during the day and consider rearranging furniture to make the most of sunlight. Try living #seasonally (we will cover this tomorrow Day 04 – The 4 seasons) 

• Use natural materials: Incorporate wood, stone, or even water features into your décor to evoke a sense of the outdoors. 

Bringing nature indoors isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space where we feel grounded, inspired, and at peace. 

Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact 

Healthier homes don’t require grand overhauls or expensive upgrades—they start with awareness and small, intentional steps. By improving the air we breathe, balancing moisture, and fostering a connection to nature, we can create living spaces that truly support our well-being. 

These three wishes are within everyone’s reach, whether you rent or own, live in a flat or a house. The journey to healthier homes is about progress, not perfection. So today, let’s begin by opening a window, testing our humidity levels, or placing a small plant on the windowsill. Every action brings us closer to a home that heals. 

What are your wishes for a healthier home? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re transforming your space. 

Learn: Join our workshops and CPD programs to deepen your understanding of healing design. 

Collaborate: Partner with us to design or consult on your next project. 

Explore: Visit our new webpage to learn more and connect with our mission here. 

Let’s create a world where buildings don’t just exist—they heal.