Love Diwali, Hate The Pollution: 5 Ways To Help Your Lungs Cope

Diwali is here! And while some of us might be celebrating by meeting our family, stuffing our mouths with sweets, exchanging gifts and best wishes - some might actually be busy self-destructing. Yes, really.

The supreme court recently banned the sale and purchase of firecrackers in Delhi, NCR. However, do not underestimate the power of us Indians to actually get hold of crackers even amidst this ban. Here's the thing, though, this situation is exactly what could send your lungs into panic mode.

There are a few ways to prevent that from happening and help your lungs cope with all the pre and post-Diwali pollution. Save yourself from the ordeal of visiting the doctor and try implementing some of these things in your life:

1. Make Way For Air Purifiers

Air purifiers might be slightly expensive, but trust us, your lungs will thank you for this investment. They might not be able to purify all the air around you, but they definitely help in keeping the air you breathe inside your home or office a lot cleaner. Plus, in a country like ours, an air purifier would come in handy all year round.

2. Get Yourself An Anti-Pollution Mask

You might think it looks funny and a little bit over the top, but it's honestly worth it. You can't lock yourself indoors when the air outside is almost unbreathable. It is then that an anti-pollution mask really comes in handy.

The market is flooded with these masks, starting with the N95 mask being the most basic and easily available. If you are ready to spend a little more on these masks, definitely try the 3M air mask or the Vogmask.

Don't be shy to wear them in public! It's better to look funny now than to be severely sick later.

3. Shift Your Workout Indoor

Your everyday 'morning exercise routine' is rendered useless if you do it in a polluted environment. Try going to a gym or working out at home. There is just no point of inhaling polluted air first thing in the morning.

4. Try Some Yoga

In times when your lungs call out for help, give yoga a try. You can start by doing Pranayama, which is a deep breathing exercise. If you live in a place where the air pollution levels are high, you can't stop breathing, obviously. However, Pranayama could help improve blood circulation and make your lungs stronger.

5. Be Aware And Spread Awareness

The only way to curb pollution is by stopping activities that create pollution. This can only be achieved by a collective community program. People still believe that firecrackers don't pollute the environment. Try making them understand how self-destructive these firecrackers can be. Make them aware of how this pollution doesn't just affect the environment but their loved ones too.

Have a happy and safe Diwali - and say no to firecrackers!