Is biohacking the future of wellbeing?
It’s the latest beauty buzzword – biohacking – and experts believe it could transform the world of beauty and wellbeing. Biohacking is a lifestyle approach that aims to optimise health, happiness and performance.
It’s about working out what works for you – your body and your mind.
It can involve tracking sleep, activity and stress levels on a device such as a Fitbit, as well as keeping on top of diet and lifestyle to ensure optimal ageing.
When we think about ageing well, it’s easy to focus on the external, but what’s going on inside the body is just as important.
Biohacking focuses on improving what’s going on inside.
And when we get that right, it shows on the outside.
The good news is that some of the most effective biohacking tools are not expensive gadgets but simple lifestyle switches.
Find out what you can do to optimise your health and wellbeing with our easy-to-follow guide. ageing. So when you’re feeling stressed, it’s important to calm down by doing activities that will soothe your mind. Massage, deep-breathing exercises, yoga or even a long walk can all help calm the stress response.
Be aware of any negative influences or people in your life and try to deal with them. Stop dwelling on the past and stay positive. Don’t worry about things until they happen.
Find the fun
Our hectic lives can prevent us from enjoying ourselves but it is crucial to make time to have some fun. Research shows that laughing and spending time doing things you enjoy will counteract stress, boost immunity, and keep blood pressure steady.
Keep moving
Biohackers use devices to measure their body’s responses to determine which type of exercise is most beneficial for them.
But it’s easy to do it yourself and there’s no need for fancy equipment.
Exercise should give you energy, not drain it. Simply ask yourself which type of workout makes you feel great.
Regular exercise increases growth hormones and counteracts stress. It builds muscle strength and helps boost circulation and immunity. The best exercise is one you will do regularly, so go for something you love. Why not walk with a friend, go for a swim or cycle or try a dance class?
Eat smart
If you want to feel great, look younger and have more energy, it pays to be mindful of what you eat. Don’t have too much sugar. A diet that is heavy in sugar leads to oxidative stress, which ages the body.
Try to eat more fruit and veg – at least five a day but more is better. The latest thinking also suggests eating meals within a 12-hour timeframe, with breakfast at 8am and your last meal before 8pm, as this helps balance the body’s enzymes, which in turn will protect and repair the skin.
Drink water – and some wine too!
The good news is that a glass of red wine is packed with antioxidants. Just don’t overindulge.
Drinking plenty of water will help eliminate toxins from the body and improve skin texture. Aim for two to three litres of water per day – add pieces of lemon, orange, cucumber or mint leaves to flavour it.
But don’t wait until you feel thirsty as by that time you are already dehydrated.
Sleep soundly
Sleep deprivation can lead to low mood and affect physical health. Keep to a regular sleep pattern and get at least eight hours a night. Avoid bad habits that
lead to a restless night, such as coffee post midday, and late-night computer work. If you wake up feeling exhausted, have a power
nap in the day.
Go outside
Early morning strolls are refreshing and healthy and help connect us to nature. As well as topping up vitamin D levels, which is good for your bones, a walk will ensure you begin your day on a positive note.
Getting enough daylight is also important, as it keeps your circadian rhythm in check and helps you to sleep better at night.
Master meditation
An unexpected cornerstone of biohacking, all researchers agree that the benefits of meditation are endless. Meditation and mindfulness help reduce stress, increase concentration, and restore hormonal balance.
The practice also regulates sleep.
For more of Lesley’s tips, visit lesleyreynolds.com