A daily German term: Zugluft (draft or draught)
In the heart of Europe, a unique cultural phenomenon has taken root: the management of Zugluft, or cold air drafts in buildings. This concept, particularly well recognized and managed in German culture, is an important factor in maintaining indoor comfort and health.
Zugluft is made up of the words Zug (train) and Luft (air), a fitting name for the cold air drafts that sneak into buildings like a stealthy train. Germans tend to be very aware of Zugluft and actively take steps to minimize it, as it is considered undesirable because it can cause discomfort and contribute to colds or other health issues.
In rental contracts in Germany, the mandatory airing out of rooms (Lüften) is written. This practice, while essential for air circulation, must be done carefully to avoid creating Zugluft. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the key focus was on the regular ventilation of rooms.
Compared to other countries, Germans are often more attentive to Zugluft because of climatic conditions and traditional building designs that emphasize insulation and airtightness. While cold drafts are also recognized and managed in many colder-climate countries, the German approach is typically systematic and integrated with standards for ventilation and energy saving.
In contrast, in some warmer countries, cold drafts may not be considered as problematic and thus receive less attention culturally or architecturally. Ventilation strategies there might prioritize airflow for cooling rather than elimination of drafts.
Germans perceive Zugluft as a notable discomfort and health risk, leading to proactive management in buildings, which is more pronounced than in many other cultures, especially those in milder climates. The phrase "Er hatte von der Zugluft im Korridor eine Erkältung bekommen" means "He caught a cold from the draft in the corridor."
To avoid Zugluft, Germans employ various strategies. Some methods include installing a Zugluftstopper for doors or using thermal curtains. On winter days when the temperature drops below zero, Germans still require that rooms be air-aired out.
Despite their fear of drafts, Germans love fresh air. The phrase "es zieht" is commonly used in Germany to refer to a draft or drafty conditions. The German phrase "Schnell, mach das Fenster zu! Es zieht!" means "Quick, shut the window! There's a draft!" It is not scientifically proven that drafts of air cause colds, but there is a ton of advice available in magazines and online on how to avoid Zugluft.
In many countries, including Germany and elsewhere in Europe, children are warned against drafts of air. The phenomenon known as Zugluft in Germany is an unpleasant air movement in buildings, similar to a draft or draught. The art of airing out a room is taken seriously in Germany, reflecting a general cultural emphasis on healthy indoor climate and energy efficiency.
- In the realm of health and wellness, Germany places significant emphasis on managing cold air drafts, known as Zugluft, due to potential discomfort and health risks associated with it.
- Alongside thermally efficient building designs, Germans often incorporate fitness and exercise, skin care, and nutritional practices into their workplace wellness routines, seeking to maintain an optimal balance between indoor comfort and overall health.
- Moreover, Germans use various therapies and treatments, such as installing Zugluftstopper for doors or using thermal curtains, to create a healthy indoor environment that reduces the risk of cold-related health issues and further supports well-rounded health and wellness.
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