What is Biohacking?

We all want to be our best selves, but sometimes it feels like we’re working against our biology. Maybe you’ve tried every diet and workout regimen under the sun, but you just can’t seem to lose those last few pounds. Or maybe you feel sluggish and tired all the time, no matter how much rest you get. You’re not alone.

If you’re looking for a different way to approach your health, you may have come across the term “biohacking.” But what is biohacking, and what can it do for you?

What is biohacking, and where did it come from?

Biohacking is using science and technology to “hack” your own biology to improve your health and performance. It’s a process of understanding how your body and mind work, and identifying certain activities or substances that help them perform better. This process can include various changes, from diet and fitness regimens, to using tech devices and supplements. Biohacking essentially allows you to take control of your health and find what works best for you. 

The term “biohacking” was first coined in the late 1990s by a community of people interested in DIY biology. These early biohackers were mainly hobbyists and scientists interested in developing new ways to modify and improve their biology. 

The club was originally reserved for those who had a deep understanding of biology and chemistry and experience in programming and engineering.

Why has it moved from niche communities to the mainstream?

Technology allows us to do more with less, and as devices have become smaller and more affordable, they’ve become more accessible to the average person. When the century turned, biohacking began to gain more mainstream attention. In particular, the advent of wearable technology and home DNA testing kits allowed more people to get involved in biohacking.

Anybody can monitor their pulse constantly with a cheap fitness tracker, for example, or track their steps and sleep patterns. This data can be used to tailor a fitness plan specifically designed for that person’s body. The rise of the Internet also made it easier for amateur biohackers to learn, share information, and connect with like-minded people. 

Today, biohacking is becoming increasingly popular, with people from all walks of life experimenting with different ways to improve their health. Conferences, like the Annual Biohacking Conference, are dedicated to the topic.

Who are some influential biohackers?

During the evolution of this new branch of science, some influential biohackers have been working hard to bring this technology to the mainstream. Dave Asprey, for example, is the founder of the biohacking company Bulletproof. He’s also the author of many best-selling books on the topic, including “The Bulletproof Diet.”

Asprey is a big advocate of using technology to hack your biology. He’s been interested in reversing the effects of aging and optimizing his health for over two decades. He’s also a firm believer in the power of biohacking to improve cognitive performance, notably his IQ score.

Dave Asprey, Biohacker

Other notable biohackers include Tim Ferris, author of “The 4-Hour Body,” and inventor Aaron Traywick. Ferris is a big proponent of biohacking techniques to improve physical performance, while Traywick was more focused on using biohacking to treat medical conditions.

Tim Ferriss, biohacker

How to Start Integrating Biohacking in your Life

Now that we know a little more about biohacking, let’s look at how people can start implementing it into their lives.

Intermittent Fasting

Watching what you eat is an essential part of peak performance, but it can be difficult to stick to a healthy diet 100% of the time. Intermittent fasting is a great way to make sure you’re getting the nutrients you need without constantly worrying about what you’re eating. There are several ways to intermittently fast, but the most common is the 16/8 method.

Intermittent fasting works because it gives your body a break from constantly digesting food. This method involves fasting for 16 hours a day and eating during the other 8. You can still eat whatever you want during those 8 hours; you just need to make sure you’re spacing your meals out and not eating late at night. This can help you lose weight, improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation.

Meditation

Meditation is a great way to improve your focus and concentration. It’s also shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. There are many different ways to meditate, but the most common is mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation is all about being in the present moment. You simply sit down, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.

Mindfulness meditation can improve mental clarity, focus, and stress levels. When your mind starts to wander, you bring your attention back to your breath. This type of meditation can be done anywhere, and it only takes a few minutes each day.

man sitting in meditation

Cold Water Therapy

Cold water therapy, also known as a cold immersion or cold thermogenesis, is a type of biohacking that has been around for centuries. It involves exposing your body to cold temperatures for short periods. You can do this by taking a cold shower, jumping into a cold pool, or drinking cold water.

Used by spas worldwide, this technique is scientifically proven to improve your health. Cold water therapy has shown to boost your immune system, improve cognitive function, and reduce inflammation. It’s also a great way to lose weight and tone your body.

Nootropics

Also known as cognitive enhancers, are a type of biohacking that has become very popular. Nootropics are substances that can improve cognitive function, including memory, focus, and concentration. They are found in various forms, including pills, powders, and liquids.

Nootropics are a great way to boost your productivity and focus while you’re working. They can also help you learn new information faster and improve your memory. Although they are generally safe, it’s essential to do your research before you start taking them.

How Biohacking Can Create Clarity and Focus to Help Creatives

Biohacking techniques can be beneficial for creatives. By using things like intermittent fasting, meditation, and cold water therapy, you can create a clear and focused mind space perfect for creativity. Creatives need to be able to focus on their work for extended periods of time, and biohacking can help them do just that.

Biohacking can also help creatives lose weight and improve their overall health. This is important because being overweight or unhealthy can harm your creativity. By using biohacking techniques, you can create a healthy lifestyle that allows you to focus on your work without distractions.

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Nasa Koski cut her teeth in filmmaking through her climbing & mountaineering adventures in the Pacific Northwest. Carrying a camera into the wilderness ignited her passion for storytelling through photos and film. Her short films have toured worldwide and won awards at Banff Mountain Film Festival, 5Point Film Festival, and more. She is the Creative Director of Social & Brand at CreativeLive.