Do We Really Spend 90% of Our Lives Indoors?
“The 90% Habit Destroying Our Energy We spend 90% of our lives indoors, but our biology hasn't changed. Our ancestors evolved moving through open spaces and breathing fresh air every day. This video looks at the history of human lifestyle shifts and the simple habit of getting back outside. Open a window, take a walk, and step out of the recycled air. Your routine will thank you. Disclaimer: This video discusses general wellness, lifestyle history, and environmental habits for educational and entertainment purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a certified healthcare professional or environmental expert regarding your personal health and lifestyle choices.”
Summary
Recent research and public health data indicate that Americans spend roughly 90 % of their time indoors, with studies reporting figures between 90 % and 93 %. While the exact percentage may vary slightly, the overall claim that the majority of our lives are spent indoors is well supported. The broader statement that our biology has not adapted to this indoor lifestyle is a general observation and is not contradicted by the available evidence.
Sources 60 searched
- Time-Location Patterns of a Diverse Population of Older Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis and Air Pollution (MESA Air) - PMC
On average, participants reported spending the majority (≥70%) of their time indoors at home (Table 2). After time indoors at home, the most time was spent at work/volunteer/school locations indoors; however, more than 50% of participants reported that they spent no time indoors at ...
- Time Spent Outdoors, Activity Levels, and Chronic Disease ...
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- Quality of indoor residential air and health - PMC - NIH
These agents may influence the risk of developing nonspecific respiratory and neurologic symptoms, allergies, asthma and lung cancer. We review the sources, health effects and control strategies for several of these agents. There are conflicting data about indoor allergens.
- Indoor Air Quality | National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
A study partially supported by ... short-term indoor and outdoor ozone was linked to increased blood platelets, a risk factor for clotting, and increased blood pressure....
- For the sake of our health, we need to kick the indoor habit | Vybarr Cregan-Reid | The Guardian
It is not so much that outdoor ... two decades ago a study published in Nature magazine concluded that the average American spent 93% of their time indoors....
- Lung Association Launches Healthy and Efficient Homes Project to Promote Healthy Indoor Air Quality | American Lung Association
On average, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors, so indoor air quality is critical to the health of families. Through the new Healthy and Efficient Homes campaign, the American Lung Association is promoting short- and long-term solutions ...
- We Spend 90% of Our Time Indoors. Says Who? | BuildingGreen
Photo: George Hodan Given the intense interest in the architectural community on health and wellness inside buildings, and in the related WELL building standard, you’ve probably heard someone tell you recently that we spend 90% of our time indoors.
- Chart: Americans Spend Less Than 8 Percent of Their Time Outdoors | Statista
In fact, during three quarters of their lives, Americans can be found inside at residences or at the office/factory, 13 percent of their time is spent at other indoor locations and 5.5 percent in vehicles.
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