In a world marked by technological marvels, individuals like tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson are leading the charge in unravelling the mysteries of ageing. Their goal is not only to extend life but to enhance its quality, prompting us to consider the question: Should we actively seek to prolong our lives, and what does this mean for us?

The Quest for Longevity: Beyond Expensive Creams and Vitamins
Traditionally, the pursuit of a longer life has been synonymous with expensive creams, vitamins, and perhaps the occasional visit to a spa if we can afford it. The focus often revolves around external appearances and superficial remedies. But what if there’s more to it than meets the eye? But Bryan Johnson’s journey into biohacking suggests that the quest for longevity goes beyond the surface. It’s about redefining how we approach our health, both physically and mentally. Biohacking involves optimising our bodies and minds through lifestyle changes, technology, and a deeper understanding of our biology.

Bryan Johnson’s Unconventional Routine: A Glimpse into Biohacking
Bryan Johnson is 46 years old, and his daily routine begins at 5 am with a rigorous hour-long workout, complemented by a strict vegan diet capped at 2,250 calories. His nightly rituals involve wearing blue light glasses. Johnson’s dedication extends to a regimen of 111 supplements, four to five hours of concentrated thought, and regular blood transfusions and health tests. Despite the seemingly extreme routine, Johnson claims it has effectively rejuvenated parts of his body at a cellular level, with fitness tests suggesting an age of 18, heart at 37, and diaphragm strength at 18. Playfully aiming to “grow younger,” Johnson’s lifestyle, though not for the faint-hearted (or those lacking financial resources!), sparks a conversation about the potential of pushing conventional health boundaries in the pursuit of a longer, healthier life.

Beyond the Surface: Should We Consider Biohacking?
The idea of biohacking to extend life raises intriguing questions, especially for young people. Is it worth exploring methods that go beyond traditional approaches to health and wellness? Biohacking encourages us to view our bodies as complex systems that can be optimised for longevity.

For us, as the younger generation, this opens up a conversation about the choices we make today and their impact on our future. Instead of relying solely on external products, should we also be investing in understanding our bodies and minds, adopting healthier habits, and embracing technologies that enhance our well-being?

Extending Lives: A Contribution to Society
Beyond the personal benefits of living longer, the question arises: What does an extended life mean for society as a whole? Traditionally, our contributions to society were measured by our careers and economic output. However, living longer can redefine the concept of contribution.

Young people, often faced with the pressures of establishing a career, might find solace in the idea that living longer allows for diverse contributions beyond the conventional 9-5 job. It could mean dedicating more time to community service, pursuing multiple careers, or even engaging in entrepreneurial endeavours that align with personal passions.

A New Perspective: Investing in Physical and Emotional Well-Being
As we navigate the landscape of biohacking and the quest for longevity, it becomes evident that it’s not just about living longer but living better. The emphasis should shift from merely extending life to optimising the quality of those additional years.
Physical fitness, emotional maturity, and mental well-being emerge as critical components of this pursuit. We are encouraged to consider not only how they look on the outside but also how we feel and function on the inside. Incorporating exercise, mindfulness practices, and fostering emotional resilience become integral aspects of the journey towards a longer, healthier life. And perhaps starting with some experimentations like cold plunges. Research now shows that regular ice baths, cold showers or dips in the ocean can promote overall well-being as it constricts blood vessels, reducing inflammation and accelerating muscle repair for as little as 2-3 mins at a time!

Charting Our Path to a Biohacked Future?
In conclusion, the biohacking journey, as exemplified by Bryan Johnson’s unconventional routine, opens up a world of possibilities for society’s pursuit of longer, healthier lives. It challenges us to think beyond the conventional and consider unconventional methods that could redefine our future.

For young individuals, this means contemplating the choices they make today and their impact on their future selves. It’s an invitation to explore biohacking as a tool for self-optimization, embracing the potential for longer lives that contribute meaningfully to society in ways that extend beyond the traditional career path.

As we venture into this biohacked future, the key lies in finding a balance between pushing boundaries and maintaining a holistic approach to well-being. After all, the quest for longevity should not only add years to our lives but add life to our years.

Thoughts on Biohacking
I spoke to a few students in my neighbourhood, Parklands and got varied responses. UCT student Queen, aged 24, noted, “I don’t think we should be living longer, but there could be various attributes to people wanting this. It could be wanting to remain in good health, fear, ego, pressure from societies, it won’t be the same for everyone”.

She didn’t account for why she thought we shouldn’t be living longer, so I had to ask, and she explained that it was unnatural to make calculated changes to one’s biology for a specific outcome. It was more natural to let nature take its course, no matter how beneficial these changes may be now and in the future.

UWC student Josh, aged 20, said, “Ageing is natural. When did it become this serious? I understand living long enough but not living longer. I want to live long enough because I would like to fulfil my purpose, even though I am not sure what that is”.

The term ‘living long enough’ came up frequently throughout the conversation. One had to pry; Josh elaborated, “When I say living long enough, I mean living until your biological clock wants you to. Being okay with where you are and going whenever the time comes irrespective of your wellbeing”.

Milnerton High School learner Jessica, aged 18, shared, “I’m only learning of biohacking now, and I think it’s good because you’re making ways to age healthily.

We should be living longer only to experience life to the fullest. Whether you’re 20 or 60, you would want to achieve what you’ve always wanted and live longer to continue experiencing what you want from life. It depends on you. Biohacking, in that sense, is effective because your body and mind remain in good health while you do.

My only thing is that living longer must be done healthily.”

Personally, for me, I am all for biohacking if it means adapting to ensure a more holistic and healthy life in the long run. I want to live longer to fulfil my passions and relationships. And if biohacking is the way to keep my health and well-being at peak levels for that to be possible, great. The idea isn’t not to age at all but to age well while living to the fullest extent.

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