Natural biohacking: Are you wanting that 'super fix'?

Biohacking is a term that has been used since the '80s. The word 'hack' in the Oxford dictionary means 'the gaining of unauthorised access to data in a system or computer', so this is in effect what we are doing to our bodies. The difference is that we have been granted permission!

The term has been associated with providing our bodies with the tools it needs in order to heal, grow, and develop new cells - so in plain terms, to have a body and mind that is capable of functioning to its fullest potential. This involves making changes to diet and lifestyle to optimise the body to the best it can be, to improve its function and performance.

Now, wouldn’t you like this? Benefits include help with resetting weight, managing blood sugar highs and lows, gut issues and inflammation.

It uses science and technology, as well as biology and self-experimentation to achieve a healthier version of you, upgrading your body as some call it. Biohacking can be simple in terms of diet or extreme, and with that can be a cost, and some question the effects of technology exposure.

Biohacking technology includes oxygen chambers, sleep monitors, red and infrared light therapy to name but a few.

Natural biohacking

This is where natural biohacking comes in. It uses the natural elements all around us to 'trick' the body, so to speak, in order to 'kick start' it and then continue with this simple, healthier lifestyle. 

The natural biohacking elements look at how the elements of Air, Earth, Water, Fire can help to improve our health, such as:

• breathing techniques
• grounding
• cold water therapy
• natural light
• wholesome foods
• exercise

Small changes to sleeping habits, foods including the timing of meals, natural light, stress management, and simple exercises, can have the biggest impact.

Doing just one natural biohacking technique can help immensely, however, if you do a number together, this is when you can see greater results. 

Where to start?

It can be daunting on knowing where to start on your health journey. Did you know that you heal when you sleep when you are relaxed?

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I obtaining a good nights sleep?
• Do I wake in the middle of the night?
• Do I go to bed later than 22.30 every night?
• Am I tired when waking up?

If the answer is yes, then you may need to look at improving your sleep hygiene.

4 techniques to improve sleep hygiene

1. Get a good exposure to natural daylight 

Exposing your face and eyes to morning sunlight will enable your body to increase its production of serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates everything from mood to sleep and is a precursor to melatonin. Melatonin is needed for deep restorative sleep.

2. Use blackout curtains to shut out daylight 

At night you want to allow your melatonin to work effectively and it does this in a dark atmosphere. So buy blackout liners to line curtains or new curtains with it already included and make sure curtains are fully closed with no light peeping through.

3. Limit the use of technology before going to bed

Blue light from technology has been shown to decrease melatonin levels, and therefore disrupt sleeping patterns. So 30-60 minutes before bed switch off all mobile phones, TV, and computers. Do something relaxing instead. 

Start with these three steps, notice any difference and then look at other areas of your life, each in turn. We are part of the Earth, so use it to help heal.

If you would like to find out more about creating a healthier and happier version of you, why not work with a nutritionist that will support you on your journey? A qualified nutrition professional can help you understand what your body needs, work with you to devise and follow a personalised diet plan, if necessary, and take the steps to live a healthy life.