The Air Feels Heavy—Here’s How to Lighten the Load (written 06/22/2025)

If you’ve noticed a haze outside or a tightness in your chest, you’re not alone. Smoke from wildfires in Canada has drifted across large parts of the U.S. and Canada again, significantly reducing air quality and making it “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” 

This includes people managing chronic conditions—especially those linked to infection or inflammation. When your system is already working harder than usual, environmental toxins like wildfire smoke can add a new layer of stress on your system, making daily tasks feel even more taxing.

If this is you (or someone you care about), a few small steps that are part of our PEDAL™ approach can help tip the balance back in your favor:

Pacing: Filter Your Air
Use air filters in rooms where you spend the most time—especially where you work and sleep. Even a portable unit can make a difference.

Alignment and Loosen: Move with Intention
Gentle movement helps boost circulation, ease inflammation, and build nervous system resilience. A few minutes a day can help create space in your system.

More Pacing: Dial Down Other Stressors
Limit exposure to other environmental stressors that you are able to control when air quality is poor - this can include toxins in your home, alcohol, and processed foods. This reduces the load your body is already trying to manage.

At ThriveNinety, we know recovery isn’t just about what’s happening inside your body—it’s also shaped by what’s happening around you.

Be kind to your system this week. These moments of care make a real difference.

Warmly,  
Katie & Andrea

P.S. Want to try a few of our favorite gentle movement resets? Click here to access our free recovery tools.