According to Wikipedia, “An electromagnetic field (EMF) is a physical field produced by electrically charged objects. It affects the behaviour of charged objects in the vicinity of the field. The electromagnetic field extends indefinitely throughout space and describes the electromagnetic interaction. It is one of the four fundamental forces of nature (the others are gravitation, the weak interaction, and the strong interaction).”

Everything electrical produces EMFs, from power lines to appliances to power outlets. With the recent exponential growth in technology, our lives are more exposed to EMFs than ever before. Cell phones, Wi-Fi, microwave ovens, home theatre — we share our homes with all of these modern conveniences. We also share the EMFs they produce.

How do EMFs affect the human body? Are they harmful? It doesn’t appear there is much conclusive evidence that answers these questions.

However, with the advent of newer technology with stronger EMFs, many experts feel they adversely disrupt the body’s cellular function. These EMFs are definitely affecting cells, especially those of children. We just don’t know to what extent.

This is where I subscribe to the “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” line of thinking. Logic dictates EMFs can adversely affect our bodies. While we don’t know all the implications, why not take action today to minimise exposure to this potential hazard.

Start in the bedroom where you spend up to one-third of your life. Have anything electrical on your nightstand? An alarm clock? A lamp? A charging cell phone or tablet (or both)? If so, you are exposing your brain to EMFs for 8 hours every day of your life.

The solution? Move all electrical devices at least four feet away from your head. Charge your cell phone and iPad in another room. And here’s a must — don’t let your teenager sleep with his/her smart phone, with Wi-Fi waves floating around his/her body all night long.

If you sleep with an electric blanket, turn it on before bed and off just as you jump under the covers.

If your bed is near an appliance like an air conditioner or an electric heater, move the appliance or move the bed. Be aware of what is on the other side of the wall of all bedrooms. Locate beds as far away as possible from electrical panels and fuse boxes that might be in the room next door.

Like many things in life, EMFs are a paradox — they add value to our lives, but can adversely affect us. A few preventative measures with EMFs go a long way to minimising their impact.