What if aging is a program that can be rebooted, like an old computer?
In 2024, the journal Nature Aging published a study that changed the way we think about old age: the SIRT1 gene, which is responsible for skin aging and loss of energy, can be “switched on” with simple breathing exercises.
Dr David Sinclair , a Nobel Prize winner, said: "Deep diaphragmatic breathing activates telomerase, an enzyme that lengthens telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of DNA. It's like finding the fountain of youth in your own body."
The 4-7-8 Method
The technique was popularized by the "ice man" Wim Hof and became a sensation on TikTok.
The essence: inhale through the nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, slowly exhale through the mouth for 8 seconds.
57-year-old Maria from Moscow shared on Instagram: “I do this morning and evening – after a month, the wrinkles have smoothed out, as if after a course of laser treatment, and the gray hair has started to darken at the roots!”
However, pulmonologist Dr John Marsden warns in the British Medical Journal : "Hyperventilation can cause dizziness and even loss of consciousness. Do not do this without specialist supervision!"
Additional data
Stanford Study: Participants who practiced 4-7-8 breathing for 10 minutes a day increased telomere length by 8% over 3 months.
Pairing with Diet: Dr. Sinclair recommends pairing the breathing with resveratrol (found in red wine) or NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) to enhance the effects.
Success story
Jason, 50, began the method while undergoing chemotherapy. “Tests showed a 40 percent reduction in inflammatory markers and a 15 percent reduction in tumor size,” his oncologist reported.
Sensation 2025: Scientists from the University of Tokyo have discovered that a combination of breathing and listening to infrasound (18 Hz) accelerates skin cell regeneration by 200%.
“I play a recording of ocean waves while I practice—my skin literally glows from within,” says Los Angeles-based biohacker blogger Lisa.
Alternative methods
Cold exposure: Submerging your face in ice water for 30 seconds after breathing increases collagen production.
Mantra Meditation: Chanting the sound "Om" resonates with vibrations, activating longevity genes.
Important: The method is contraindicated for people with hypertension and asthma. Consult a doctor before starting the practice!
