Did you know that in your home or place of work you can be exposed to natural and artificial forms of radiation?
The study of influence of the environment on the well-being of the occupants of a place is called geobiology. It explores the interactions between local energy, magnetic fields, telluric currents, and other natural elements. Some practitioners of geobiology claim that harmony with these natural forces can contribute to the health and well-being of people living or working in a given space, in contrast to unwanted radiation.
Geopathology is the term used for diseases caused by that exposure. They can range from arthritis and asthma to cancer. Some people have reported the development of electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) which can result in dermatological symptoms as well as tiredness, concentration difficulties and heart palpitations. Although the World Health Organization has stated there is no clear link between EHS symptoms and exposure to electromagnetic waves.
What are the causes?
There are a number of natural causes including:
- Magnetic fields: Some geobiology practitioners examine variations in the earth’s magnetic field at a given location. High levels or magnetic anomalies can be considered potentially influential.
- Telluric currents: It is sometimes believed that certain natural telluric currents (electrical currents flowing through the ground) can influence the energy of a place. Some practitioners suggest that crossings of these currents could have an effect on health or well-being.
- Underground water sources: The presence of underground watercourses is also being studied. Some believe that the quality of groundwater can affect the energy of a place, and that areas where these water flows cross could have implications.
- Hartmann and Curry networks: Some geobiology practitioners refer to the Hartmann and Curry networks, which are hypothetical networks of energy lines that cover the Earth’s surface. Some claim that these networks can influence health and well-being.
There are a number of artificial causes:
- High, medium and low voltage lines.
- Defective electrical installations in homes.
- Power stations.
- Nuclear power plants.
- Transformation posts.
More prevalent in everyday life are radio and television transmitters that power wireless devices such as mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, and radios. They emit radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EM waves) and over time the human body absorbs the energy. The effects depend on the frequency range and intensity of the individual’s exposure. In some circumstances people might be considered as unwanted radiation.
What are the differing approaches to unwanted radiation?
However, there is no conclusive evidence of the significant effects of non-ionising magnetic fields present in everyday conditions and normal levels of the Earth’s magnetic field are not generally considered as unwanted radiation, and certainly not as harmful to health.
Geobiology, as a discipline, is often criticised for the lack of a solid scientific basis for its claims. There are differing perspectives on the effectiveness of geobiological measures, and it is advisable to adopt a critical and balanced approach when evaluating these concepts. As a result, architectural professionals may have differing views on the incorporation of these concepts into building design. Some may adopt a more scientific approach and be sceptical about the concepts of geobiology in the absence of solid scientific evidence, or focus on concrete evidence based on established standards and peer-reviewed scientific research. Others may take a more nuanced approach, choosing to incorporate elements of geobiology selectively, for example by considering the building’s orientation to the sun or other environmental features or concentrate on occupant satisfaction and well-being with the aim of creating more pleasant living spaces.
Differing points of view often reflect differences in beliefs, scientific approach, and preference for more traditional or more innovative design methodologies in architecture.
How can we protect ourselves from unwanted radiation?
There are a number of ways we can protect ourselves against the perceived effects of magnetic fields including:
- Commission a geobiological survey to assess the energetic characteristics of the environment, including magnetic fields.
- Place resting areas, such as beds or relaxation areas, in places where the potentially harmful influences of magnetic fields are reduced.
- Use specific materials in building construction to reduce the effects of magnetic fields. However, these recommendations are not universally accepted in the construction field.
Architects can also consider optimising the comfort and health of the occupants by incorporating geobiological principles into the planning of buildings, taking into account, for example, the orientation of the building, the quality of the soil, or the presence of underground watercourses.
Solutions can be installed too, that deliver superior shielding performance such as WAVETRAP. The transparent glass product from WAVE by AGC prevents the transmission of unwanted electromagnetic radiation to indoor environments. Invisible to the eye and featuring high coating technology, it ensures best protection by preventing electromagnetic radiation from entering a building and reducing radiation pollution. It can be used indoors to provide shielding between separate spaces. It also blocks waves without losing light and does not affect the insulating or thermal performance of glazing.
There are other ways we can improve our protection and look after ourselves. For more information visit https://wavebyagc.com/en/wavetrap/.