The Forefront to Evolution
What Is Biohacking?
Sounding a lot more menacing and complex than it really is, biohacking is an ever-evolving term often used to describe the application of the do-it-yourself mindset along with the hacker-ethic to the realm of biology and biotechnology. The basic premise of biohacking is to get in and take control of life, much like how a conventional hacker takes control of a computer. This idea applies to both the human body along with life that is found outside of that, something fairly similar to genetic modification. The practice of biohacking is also extremely varied, it can range from simple nutrigenomics, using chemical supplements and other nutrients to hack the body, to something as extreme as gene therapy or grinder work (physically implanting electronics into the body). In addition to themselves, biohacking also looks to the living world around you, encouraging experimentation and discovery of the known, or unknown, world around you.
Why Does It Matter?
Much like biotechnology, biohacking is an additional gateway to a better world (and more importantly, a better you). With the increasing advancement of technology, the idea of scientist being able to work from home becomes more and more plausible. Biohacking opens new windows for people who don't have access to professional research labs, allowing more and more individuals to test and experiment on nearly anything. Genius and breakthroughs can come from just about anywhere, (just look at the discovery of penicillin, a wonder-drug found in a waste bin) and with more people being able to contribute to the fields of science, the pathway to finding breakthroughs to long-fought problems seem to get just a bit brighter.
What Goals are there to Biohacking?
No matter how you may view biohacking as a whole, there is one general goal that applies universally to the practice of biohacking. That goal is simply to better oneself through biohacking by adopting a systemic approach. Whether it be through deepening your understanding of life science through experimentation, or through the augmentation of your daily life-style.
How Can You Start?
Now that you've had a basic run-down of what biohacking is, how can you start? Well, here are two basic biohacks that you could start using today:
1) Biohack the way you sit, by killing it- studies show that you are often more productive if you either sit straight or stand whilst you work.
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2)Stay away from sugar- wherever you can, try to cut table sugar (cane sugar) from your diet, and replace it with other natural sweeteners, like honey.
Additionally, here are a couple links that provide some additional easy biohacks:
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Want to delve deeper and try something more invigorating? Then what are you waiting for? Go discover and experiment away!