It’s common knowledge that eating healthier, getting enough sleep, decreasing stress, and increasing exercise will lead to a healthier body and most likely increase longevity. The science behind this is not new, and research continues to grow to support these theories.
What is relatively new is the term “biohacking.” First introduced by Dave Asprey, the founder of Bulletproof 360, Inc., biohacking is defined as better living though science, technology, and nature. The Silicon Valley investor and entrepreneur is considered the Father of Biohacking and has written many books and blogs about his own battles to lose weight and get healthy.
Biohacking is about changing your lifestyle and environment to enable your body to perform at its optimal level. The abilities to live longer, be at peak productivity, and possess a strong mind are what biohackers are seeking. It’s considered an art and a science that takes advantage of emerging technology and biotechnology trends. The ultimate goal is to control your own biology, at least to some extent.
In some ways, many people are already executing the basic steps of biohacking and don’t even know it. Small lifestyle tweaks or “hacks” like giving up smoking, cutting down on alcohol and sugar, eating a more plant-based diet, and following an exercise routine are all parts of living a healthy lifestyle. Getting enough sleep is another, which will increase energy levels and naturally lead to being more productive. Meditation, an effective stress reliever, and intermittent fasting, which proponents say improves focus and concentration, are other biohacking steps.
While biohacking does not necessarily require the use of technology, cutting-edge equipment can be involved. For instance, high-tech osteogenic loading machines are being used by biohackers in the belief that they can improve overall bone health. And cryotherapy, a therapeutic treatment using cold temperatures, is another popular part of the biohacking experience. Many spas offer cryotherapy chambers into which people immerse themselves in the hopes of alleviating pain, stress, inflammation and increasing metabolism and overall fitness.
The biohacking trend may have had its roots in Silicon Valley, but it’s spreading quickly and becoming something of a phenomenon. Related conferences and events are happening all over the world, and people are finding more ways to hack their way into healthier, more productive, and longer lives.
