When I talk about brain protection, I’m not talking about playing for the NFL and getting concussed (although that does have profound implications for your brain health and memory, and preventative measures should be put in place). 

What I’m talking about is electromagnetic waves (EMWs). The motion of electrically charged particles produces electromagnetic waves which can impact the brain. They travel through space as well as through air and other substances. EMWs at low frequencies are referred to as electromagnetic fields, and those at high frequencies are called electromagnetic radiations. 

How do EMWs affect our health? 

Few individuals are aware of the possible health risks, particularly relating to the brain, presented by the gadgets we use daily. Our mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, computers and other Bluetooth devices send out a stream of invisible energy waves causing low-level radiation exposure. Although mild, it can have an impact on our brain health.  

Have you ever been in a situation when you’re sat next to a radio, and you hear a static noise a few seconds before a text pops on your phone? This is an example of an EMW, and it can significantly disrupt and affect the quality of our sleep. Other symptoms of coming into close contact could include fatigue, severe migraines, brain fog and lack of energy. 

How to protect yourself from EMWs

Extensive research has been carried out over the last 30 years to evaluate the potential adverse health effects of EMWs. The WHO concluded that the current evidence does not confirm any health consequences from exposure to low-level electromagnetic fields. However, there are some gaps in knowledge. 

The key takeaway today is that simply being aware of the potential risk and reducing your exposure where possible will help in the long term. Here are some of our top tips to reduce the impact on your health: 

1. Put your phone down when you aren’t using it. 
2. Leave your phone in another room when you sleep. At night, the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) is at work, and we are at our most vulnerable to the impact at this time. Did you know that a study in America found over 70% of teenagers sleep with their phones under their pillows! Please avoid this.
3. If you can’t leave your phone in another room, switch it to aeroplane mode and turn Wi-Fi off. 
4. Disable Bluetooth. 
   

Simply taking small steps to reduce your exposure to electromagnetic fields could help to improve your sleep quality. So what have you got to lose? Give it a try.

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