What does EMF stand for?

Introduction: In today's digital era, our environment is completely inundated with copious amounts of electronic devices emitting electromagnetic fields (EMF). These invisible-to-the-eye energy fields have become an integral part of our daily lives, whether we like them or not.

From smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, power lines, solar systems, smart TVs, fridges, and even toasters! Why the heck do we need 'smart' toasters! 

But what precisely does the term EMF stand for, and what implications could this constant and ever-increasing exposure to our body have for our long-term privacy, health, and well-being? 

With this guide, we'll explore the world of EMF, unravelling its different types, sources, health considerations, and practical strategies for eliminating or minimising exposure.

Understanding EMF: EMF, short for electromagnetic fields, represents a form of radiation generated by electrically charged objects. These fields encompass two primary categories: ionising and non-ionising. Ionising radiation, like X-rays and gamma rays, possesses sufficient energy to dislodge tightly bound electrons from atoms, resulting in ionisation. In contrast, non-ionising radiation, including radiofrequency (RF) waves and extremely low frequency (ELF) fields, features lower energy levels and is generally perceived as less hazardous to human health overall, but it's still very well worth taking control of our exposure to us and that of our children.

Exploring EMF Types:

1. Ionising EMF: Ionising radiation is commonly associated with medical imaging techniques such as X-rays and CT scans. While invaluable for diagnostic purposes, prolonged exposure to ionising radiation carries significant health risks, including an elevated risk of cancer and DNA damage.
2. Non-Ionizing EMF: Non-ionising radiation, spanning a broad spectrum of frequencies, emanates from numerous sources in our surroundings. These encompass power lines, electrical infrastructure, household gadgets, Wi-Fi routers, cell phones, and Bluetooth devices. While non-ionising EMF is typically deemed safe at low levels, concerns have been raised regarding potential health repercussions associated with prolonged exposure. Unfortunately, our world is becoming 'electrified' at a staggering pace. I don't know how our bodies are meant to get a break!

Health Considerations: 

The debate surrounding the health impacts of EMF exposure remains contentious. While some studies have suggested a correlation between EMF exposure and adverse health outcomes such as cancer, infertility, sleep disturbances, and neurological ailments, others have failed to establish conclusive evidence of harm. Despite the absence of consensus, many experts advocate for adopting precautionary measures to minimise EMF exposure, particularly for susceptible groups such as children and expectant mothers. I can tell you from being around this space for a few years now the number of people making the connection between ill health and EMF is increasing. I have even heard some local doctors telling their patients that reducing their exposure in the workplace and at home would be a good idea. 

What EMF protection steps can you take?: 

To mitigate EMF radiation exposure and potential risks, you should

• Maintain a safe distance from electronic devices, mainly when they're operational (using power), as this is when their EMF field is at its highest.
• Use a speakerphone or headphones for calls to minimise direct cell phone contact. Even leading phone manufacturers recommend never putting a phone within 10mm of your body!
• Power down Wi-Fi routers overnight to curtail exposure during periods of rest. Turn them off or grab yourself a Wi-Fi cover to help reduce the extremely high EMF coming from these devices.
• Invest in EMF protection products such as shielding apparel, Faraday bags, Blackout hat, blackout t-shirts, and phone cases engineered to block EMF radiation.
• Audit—Go carefully through the spaces you spend the most time in, such as bedrooms, lounges, and workspaces, and identify sources of electromagnetic radiation. Once identified, think about how to eliminate the source entirely. If you can't eliminate the electromagnetic radiation entirely, can you minimise it by distance or using shielding? 

Some tips to get you started:

1. Turn off your Wi-Fi router, especially at bedtime and when not in use, to minimise exposure to wireless radiation.
2. Practice cell phone hygiene by keeping your phone on airplane mode when not actively using it and using speakerphone for calls.
3. Grab some air tube antiradiation headphones that stop cell phone emf from travelling into your head. 
4. If youre like me and your partner still insist on having a home phone so Nana can call, go for a corded landline phone over cordless ones, as cordless phone base stations actually are one of the worst for emitting high levels of wireless radiation 
5. Hard-wire your office and home with an Ethernet connection and ditch the Wi-Fi.
6. If you use a keyboard and mouse a lot like me, go for the old-school wired connection. Emf exposure to the fingers all day might lead to problems down the road. 
7. Consider using an EMF meter to monitor your exposure. They are easy to use in most cases, and even the 'entry-level' EMF testers will provide good insight into your spaces. I definitely recommend testing in and around the beds and kids' beds to make sure when they sleep, they are not being bombarded with EMF. 
8. Avoid wearables like wireless watches, headsets, and fitness devices or at least take them off at night. Sleep is the most essential part of the day!
9. If you have a baby sleeping in a separate room, skip wireless baby monitors and opt for wired alternatives.
10. Practice electricity hygiene by unplugging powered devices at night and, if possible, turning off bedroom circuits at the meter board.
11. Leave the cell phone out of the room!
12. Consider shielding technology such as EMF blankets and bed canopies to reduce exposure. Check out www.Groundedkiwi.nz 
13. Minimise dirty electricity sources like dimmer switches, compact fluorescent bulbs, and smart meters.
14. Avoid metal bed frames and components in mattresses. These can act as an antenna for stray electrical voltage looking for 'Ground.'
15. Sleep on an Earthing mattress such as this one from Grounded Kiwi. 

In Conclusion, In summary, EMF denotes electromagnetic fields, which are omnipresent in our modern, electrified new world. While the health ramifications of EMF exposure continue to be a subject of debate, it's crucial to stay informed and adopt proactive measures to curtail exposure where feasible. It's important to listen to your body and be conscious of any signs that you may be experiencing symptoms relating to EMF radiation (covered in another blog). By proactively embracing emf-reducing measures, we can navigate the digital age with heightened peace of mind and safeguard our well-being for the long haul.

Please keep checking back for more blogs and guides. We want to make a positive difference in the world by bringing knowledge and empowering you to take back control of your privacy, health and well-being. 

 

Feel free to reach out to the team - Email hello@SCRT.nz