Getting Salty in the Workplace
By: Selena Savage, Professional Services Analyst
Himalayan salt lamps are becoming an increasingly popular form of décor in workplaces and homes alike, and MDT is no exception. Recently, two large salt lamps have made an addition to the ambiance of MDT’s Quiet Room – a peaceful place where employees can relax and de-stress in the Farmington Hills office. Salt lamps are believed to have other benefits in addition to their ambient, therapeutic glow and earthy appearance. Many people are unaware of the potential, vast health benefits the lamps may offer. By nature, salt is hygroscopic, which means it attracts water molecules to itself. An authentic salt lamp will attract water molecules that carry indoor air pollutants like bacteria, allergens, and mold. When the water vapor comes in contact with the salt lamp, the pollutants remain trapped in the salt and the purified water vapor is released back into the air. The heat produced by the bulb causes the salt to dry out and allows it to continue the filtration cycle, creating an effective air purifier. By removing these pollutants salt lamps perform much like air-purifying house plants.
Electromagnetic radiation in the form of unhealthy positive ions, are emitted by common electronic devices such as computers and cell phones. Continual exposure to this electrosmog is known to increase stress, cause fatigue, and weaken the immune system. Studies have proven that chronic low-level radiation exposure (like that emitted from cell phones) has been known to contribute to a variety of cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and heart disease. While the most effective way to increase exposure to healthy negative ions is to spend more time in nature, a salt lamp may be a great alternative. These lamps are said to emit negative ions which cancel out the positive ions. This neutralization of electromagnetic radiation aids in reducing the negative health effects of harmful electrosmog.
Himalayan salt has recently been used in inhalers to bring relief to asthma and allergy sufferers. Various clinical studies have concluded that some of the benefits of salt therapy include providing relief in cases of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis. In addition, salt therapy is also being utilized to treat Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The Lung Institute has determined that salt contains both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory health properties. Salt lamps offer a small scale version of salt therapy that can be utilized in both the home and office.
Himalayan salt lamps provide yet another health benefit by relieving symptoms of anxiety. Himalayan pink salt is an extremely pure salt that is rich in iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and copper. All of these nutrients are what give the salt its distinct pink color. The ambiance produced by the warm pinkish orange glow of a salt lamp creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere. The negative ions emitted by the salt lamp reach the bloodstream and are believed to produce biochemical reactions that can increase levels of serotonin. Serotonin aids in alleviating depression and stress and has been proven to boost daytime energy.
Thinking about jumping on the Himalayan salt lamp bandwagon? Here are some facts you may want to consider as you shop for a lamp of your own. Deep underground mines in Khewra, Pakistan, are the only source of true Himalayan pink salt, so look for the mention of Pakistan as the salt crystal’s country of origin. Himalayan sea salt is composed of dried remnants of the original primal sea dating back to the creation of Earth. Thus, these lamps by nature inherently absorb an abundance of water. When exposed to excessive amounts of moisture they are prone to sweating. Avoid placing them near household moisture sources such as dishwashers and showers as it can be dangerous if the salt begins leaking onto the lamp holder. The purification coverage of a salt lamp is determined by the size of the salt crystal. To effectively cleanse the air, on average, it would require one pound of salt rock for every 16 square feet. The use of Himalayan salt lamps provides ambient lighting and natural sources of fresh, clean air, on your desk, in your home, or anywhere you choose to place them. If you find yourself in the Farmington Hills office and are feeling salty, be sure stop by the quiet room and give them a try!