Lifestyle & Environment

Designing your environment and habits for sustainable health.

Ergonomics and Long-Term Mobility

Ergonomics and Long-Term Mobility Static loading of the spine while sitting compresses discs and shortens hip flexors. Alternating between standing and sitting every 30 minutes prevents the tissue creep that leads to chronic back pain. Scientific Sources Wilmot EG, et al. Sedentary time in adults and the association with diabetes. Diabetologia. 2012. About the Author […]

The Science of Habit Stacking

The Science of Habit Stacking Habit stacking utilizes the strong neural networks of existing habits (like brushing teeth) to act as a cue for new habits (like flossing). This bypasses the need for high motivation. Scientific Sources Lally P, et al. How are habits formed: Modelling habit formation in the real world. Eur J Soc […]

Sauna Use and Cardiovascular Health

Sauna Use and Cardiovascular Health A landmark study from Finland showed that men who used the sauna 4-7 times per week had a 50% lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Heat stress improves endothelial function and arterial compliance. Scientific Sources Laukkanen T, et al. Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. JAMA Intern […]

Circadian Lighting Design

Circadian Lighting Design Exposure to bright blue-rich light in the evening suppresses melatonin production. Lifestyle design includes dimming lights after sunset and using warm-spectrum bulbs to signal the brain it is time for rest. Scientific Sources Wahl S, et al. The inner clock-Blue light sets the human rhythm. J Biophotonics. 2019. About the Author Dr. […]

Endocrine Disruptors in the Home

Endocrine Disruptors in the Home Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) mimic hormones like estrogen, leading to reproductive issues and metabolic dysfunction. Simple swaps in cleaning products and storage containers can drastically reduce load. Scientific Sources Gore AC, et al. EDC-2: The Endocrine Society’s Second Scientific Statement on Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals. Endocr Rev. 2015. About the Author Dr. […]

The Health Impact of Loneliness

The Health Impact of Loneliness Humans are obligate social species. Loneliness triggers a primitive stress response, elevating cortisol and inflammation. Strong social ties are the single strongest predictor of longevity in Blue Zones. Scientific Sources Holt-Lunstad J, et al. Social relationships and mortality risk: a meta-analytic review. PLoS Med. 2010. About the Author Dr. Atif […]