Initiatives such as London\u2019s ULEZ can be a model for other cities. But even more could be done to save lives and protect us from deadly toxins in the air<\/p>\n
Breathwork is everywhere, whether it\u2019s in yoga studios, corporate retreats or self-help reels. We\u2019re told to \u201cjust breathe\u201d. Be mindful. Lower our stress levels. Inhale. Exhale. In the yogic tradition, bringing clean air into our lungs and our body (pranayama<\/em> in Sanskrit) is about purifying and detoxing, and then exhaling what we don\u2019t need. That all sounds great if you live on a remote island or in the middle of a forest \u2013 but what if that air isn\u2019t cleansing us, but making us sick?<\/p>\n According to the World Health Organization<\/a>, 99% of the global population is exposed to air-pollution levels that exceed its health-based guidelines and air pollution is now the world\u2019s single largest environmental risk, linked to nearly 7 million premature deaths<\/a> each year. This isn\u2019t an issue of future climate collapse or one that will affect future generations. This is about today \u2013 and the damage polluted air is doing to our hearts, lungs, brains and blood vessels.<\/p>\n Prof Devi Sridhar is chair of global public health at the University of Edinburgh<\/p>\n Fit Forever: Wellness for midlife and beyond<\/strong>
\n On Wednesday 28 January 2026, join Annie Kelly, Devi Sridhar, Joel Snape and Mariella Frostrup, as they discuss how to enjoy longer and healthier lives, with expert advice and practical tips. Book tickets here<\/a> or at guardian.live<\/a><\/p>\n