If you spent most of your waking hours with a man who did everything in his power not to die, would you be influenced to do the same?
Over the last two years, countless headlines have examined tech entrepreneur turned biohacker Bryan Johnson, better known as the millionaire trying to live forever and guinea pig testing every novel protocol in hopes of challenging the limits of human lifespan. His 1,950-calorie diet, face injections gone wrong, and blood plasma transfusion with his son have gone viral, amassing loyal followers eager to join alongside vocal critics. One year ago, a headline about the aspirational immortal trying to be 18 again piqued the intrigue of filmmaker Chris Smith.
“That initial curiosity led to a 12-month journey following Bryan Johnson’s quest and its effect on those closest to him, while interviewing experts from around the world to get a better understanding of the people trying to live healthier, longer,” Smith, who directed Netflix breakout documentaries Tiger King and Fyre, told Variety.
“Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever” premieres January 1 on Netflix.
After filming wrapped, Smith admits he took away some lessons from Johnson’s “Don’t Die” mentality. “A year later, I drink less, go to bed earlier, and wear a ring that tells me how bad my sleep is,” he said.
While Smith has not adhered to the most unusual habits that have put Johnson on the map as an extreme biohacker—like eating nutty pudding every day (his “anti-aging dessert”), taking dozens of supplements, and getting tested daily—he began appreciating the importance of the science-backed basics.
Maintaining a consistent sleep regimen, ensuring you get at least seven hours of shut-eye, and having a wind-down routine is key to aging well. Proper sleep reduces the risk of chronic conditions that can cause early mortality. General guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that limiting alcohol (no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women) is essential for our health. Heavy drinking interferes with sleep and increases the risk for heart disease.
Finally, sleep trackers are having their moment. Many high-level executives have touted rings like those from the company Oura for tracking the quantity and quality of their sleep, their heart rate variability, readiness for the day, and recovery status. It can help people assess trends and monitor how their habits may impact their sleep quality.
Those are the three habits Smith is honing in on—for now.