The air in São Paulo today feels thick and heavy, like stepping into a crowded kitchen after a long day of cooking. Breathing it in leaves a slight scratch in the throat, and the sky has that washed-out, hazy look that never really lifts. It’s the kind of afternoon where you notice the air more than you’d like, and it sits a little stubbornly in your chest.

This is not a great day for a long run or a bike ride along the avenues. If you can, keep the windows shut and let the fan do the work, especially during the busier hours when traffic builds up. A short walk to the corner store is fine, but I’d skip any serious outdoor exercise until tomorrow morning, when the breeze usually freshens things up.

Children and older folks, as well as anyone who deals with asthma or a heart condition, should take it especially easy today. It’s a good excuse to stay indoors with a book or a movie, and to keep any exertion light. Even if you feel fine, the air is working against you a little, so there’s no shame in slowing down.

The good news is that these days pass, and the air usually clears out by the next morning. Just keep your windows closed, stay hydrated, and take it easy until the evening breeze starts to shift things around. You’ll be fine, just give your lungs a break today.