Written By: Muskan Gupta | Published : October 15, 2025 4:12 PM IST
As winter arrives, Delhi's air quality has once again dropped to the 'poor' category, with an AQI (Air Quality Index) of 201. There is dust and vehicle emissions as well as smoke of stubble burning that form the heavy layer of smog hovering over the city. This unconditioned air not only causes the sky to become hazy but also endangers the health of people, particularly the lungs to a great extent.
All people are exposed to poor air quality, but children, the elderly, and those with asthmatic heart problems are even more vulnerable.Coughing and wheezing, throat irritation, and breathing difficulty are the possible complications of long-term exposure to polluted air.It may also be weakening the lungs with time and increasing the possibility of respiratory diseases being persistent.
The level of pollution is normally at the early mornings and towards the evenings. Instead, do it inside the house such as doing yoga, stretching or skipping.
In case you have to go, put on a certified N95 or N99 mask. These masks will aid in filtering the tiny dust particles and minimise the pollution of the air you inhale.
Although it is essential to receive fresh air, one must not open the windows at high AQI points, which are generally between 6 am and 10 am and between 7 pm and midnight.
Buy a decent air purifier in the bedroom or the living room. It would be able to minimise dust, smoke, and other pollutants which get into your home.
Naturally, plants such as peace lily, snake plant, and areca palm may be used to clean the air. They are not hard to keep and also bring greenery to your premises.
Eat fruits and vegetables which contain antioxidants, including oranges, apples, carrots, and spinach.These assist your lungs in countering the polluting effects.
Water is also important as it aids your body in the excretion of toxins. Warm fluids such as green tea, tulsi tea or plain hot water can heal your throat.
Deep breathing can help strengthen your lungs.Practice some pranayama or diaphragmatic breathing for a couple of minutes a day.
Clean and mop floors often to get rid of dust. Do not use incense sticks or mosquito coils which contribute to indoor pollution.
The applications or the websites of the government can help determine the air quality in the area you plan to do any outdoor activity before you do it.
With a little awareness and following these lifestyle changes, you can protect your lungs and breathe a bit easier even when the air around you is not ideal.
