Biohacking, But Make it Graceful
Biohacking has quietly become one of my favorite ways to navigate middle age. I’m not trying to be 25 again, but I am trying to feel good, stay energized, and age in a way that feels intentional.
I have a pretty grounded outlook on aging, mostly thanks to my mom. She’s never dyed her hair, never done Botox, and has always been a powerful example of what it looks like to age gracefully. Wrinkles, gray hair, and all.
Now that I’m in my mid-to-late 40s (yikes) I’m finding my own version of aging. One of my goals was to follow what the French do, age with grace, confidence, and a strong sense of self. While aging is a universal experience, the French approach tends to reflect a cultural philosophy rooted in moderation, self-respect, and joie de vivre.
My graceful aging started a decade ago when I made the decision to invest in good products, practice good habits of what I feed my body and mind, and chose to live more of a quiet life. don’t get me wrong, stress is the biggest ager of all and we can’t escape it. That said, I haven’t dyed my hair in over 15 years. I’ve yet to try Botox (but think about it all the time.) And sure, some days I look in the mirror and cringe, but that’s just part of being human. We evolve.
I love a good self-experiment when it comes to wellness. Here are a few of the biohacking tools and rituals I actually use and things that help me feel a little brighter, a little more supported, and a little more me.
Bon Charge Red Light Face Mask
I use this about three times a week, usually while watering the garden, doing a To Be Magnetic DI, or even cooking dinner. It helps with skin tone, puffiness, and inflammation. It also just feels nice—like a quiet reset for my face. Bonus: the glow afterward is real.Bon Charge Sauna Blanket
It’s my go-to for stress relief, detox, and a serious sweat. I zip in, turn on a podcast or meditation, and come out feeling like I just spent an hour at the spa. I admit I use it less in hotter months, but I love it so much.Sealed Wellness Face Tape
I was influenced by Melissa Wood Tepperberg with this one, but I am here for it. I use it overnight to release facial tension, especially in my forehead, around my lips and eyes, and I always wake up looking smoother. Think of it like muscle memory training for your face. Rob and Waylon have stopped laughing at me, and I am seeing small results each day! Use my code EMILYDAFOE15 to get a little discount.Oak Essentials Skincare
This is my daily skincare ritual. I use the Moisture Rich Balm religiously! It’s thick, comforting, and leaves my skin feeling soft and dewy without being greasy. I love their Ritual Oil in the evenings, and their whole line is designed with clean ingredients and a less-is-more approach that I really appreciate. It’s skincare that feels like self-respect.Melissa Wood Health
My movement of choice. The workouts are short, effective, and grounding. I always finish feeling lighter in body and mind. It’s not about pushing harder; it’s about moving with more intention. She is also so motivating and I just love her!Hormone Support & Supplements
This has been a big one for me. Over the past few years I have done a deep dive on my hormone and gut health and have tried every supplement suggested by my NP. It’s been so interesting to get a new perspective on what’s happening INSIDE my body. I will cover this soon…but for now, I encourage you all to get your levels checked.
For me, none of this is about “anti-aging.” I’m not interested in reversing time, I’m interested in being well while I move through it. I want to feel strong, fit into my clothes, sleep better, have more patience, and feel grounded. I want to looking in the mirror and recognizing the person staring back, wrinkles and all.
What are your biohacking rituals?