Summary of Key Points
  • The Bulletproof Biohacking Conference is a health x technology event hosted by Dave Asprey (October 13-15, 2017, Pasadena).
  • The venue featured lectures, workshops, and the latest device exhibitions, with many booths offering hands-on experiences.
  • Highlights included sleep and recovery devices (OURA, NuCalm), pain relief devices (Rapid Release), high-performance beds, and oxygen capsules. While we felt their effects, scientific evidence needs to be confirmed.
  • There were also abundant practical tips on diet and lifestyle. It's good to be aware of what can be tried in Japan, as well as safety precautions.

We Experienced the Forefront of Biohacking (Introduction)

Our geefee team of three attended the Bulletproof Biohacking Conference 2017, held from October 13-15, 2017, in Pasadena, California. The event was hosted by Dave Asprey, known for "The Bulletproof Diet." Biohackers and experts from around the world gathered to learn about cutting-edge devices and practical life hacks. Here, we report on the atmosphere of the venue, notable devices, and our personal experiences.

Venue and Atmosphere — Pasadena's Streetscape and Event Structure

Pasadena is a calm city with old brick buildings, located close to downtown Los Angeles. The convention center was about a 10-minute walk from the Gold Line station, offering good public transport access, which is rare in Los Angeles. The venue was divided into the Main Stage, several Ballrooms, and the Tech Hall (exhibition area), mixing learning opportunities like lectures, Q&A sessions, and workshops with hands-on experiences at corporate booths. The Silicon Valley-style Bulletproof Coffee booth was very popular, and we almost always had a coffee in hand for all three days. Honestly, the coffee alone often boosted our spirits.

Featured Devices and Our Experiences

Sleep and Recovery Devices (OURA, NuCalm)

The "OURA" lifestyle monitoring ring, a device that measures sleep depth and recovery, was picked up by many at the venue. What particularly impressed us was NuCalm, a relaxation device. By attaching microcurrent patches behind the ears and listening to sounds through dedicated headphones for 20 minutes while lying down, one enters a deep state of relaxation, similar to just before falling asleep. When we tried it, our fatigue was significantly reduced in just 20 minutes, making our activities brighter and more comfortable for the rest of the day. However, such effects vary greatly among individuals, and long-term safety and evidence need to be confirmed.

Pain Relief and Recovery (Rapid Release Massager)

Rapid Release is a device that uses high-frequency vibrations to relieve muscle tension. When we had it applied to our lower backs at the venue, the fine vibrations resonated comfortably throughout our bodies, providing immediate relief. It also helped with travel fatigue, which excited our staff. However, it is not intended to treat chronic pain medically, so those with pre-existing conditions should consult a doctor.

Other Notable Products (SAMINA, OXY HEALTH, SAUNASPACE, etc.)

Many products not yet commonly seen in Japan were exhibited, such as the high-performance SAMINA bed, OXY HEALTH oxygen capsules, and SAUNASPACE infrared saunas that suppress electromagnetic waves. All of them focused on "recovery" and "improving sleep quality," suggesting they might become more accessible in Japan in the future.

Lecture and Learning Points — Practical Biohacks

Lectures at the venue covered topics such as sleep, nutrition, mitochondrial function improvement, and stress management. Dave Asprey's philosophy of "incorporating high-quality fats and prioritizing sleep and recovery" is practical, and we have incorporated small techniques we learned at the venue (light management, bedtime routines, simple breathing exercises, etc.) into our daily lives. We also reaffirmed that technology is merely a tool, and the foundation of diet, exercise, and sleep is paramount. While many research findings and practical examples heard at the venue were interesting, some areas had limited evidence, and professional judgment should be prioritized when clinical treatment is necessary.

Summary

The Bulletproof Biohacking Conference was a very stimulating "learn by doing" experience, full of new discoveries and insights for us. Products like NuCalm and Rapid Release, which offered immediate effects, were particularly impressive, but it's crucial to carefully gather information regarding their long-term efficacy and safety. For those in Japan, we recommend starting with fundamental improvements like sleep enhancement, reviewing lighting environments, and improving diet quality, while using wearables to collect data and find methods that suit you. The geefee team will continue to deliver reviews of items purchased at the venue, as well as information on how to obtain them in Japan and precautions, so please look forward to it.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.