Longevity Magazine

Empower yourself with insights for preventive health, wellness and longevity. Explore our latest articles on fitness, personalized medicine, cutting-edge science and strategies to help you live a longer, healthier life.

3 results
Founder interview: John Graham Harper, CEO of Lumaflex
Light Therapy
•

9 min read

Founder interview: John Graham Harper, CEO of Lumaflex

Tell us a little about yourself and your current ventureI’m John Graham Harper, CEO of Lumaflex, a company dedicated to revolutionizing red light therapy for recovery, performance, and overall well-being. My journey started as a competitive athlete, where injuries led me to explore better, non-invasive recovery solutions. That’s when I discovered red light therapy, and it completely transformed my approach to health, leading me to create Lumaflex—a portable, flexible, and waterproof red light therapy device designed for athletes, wellness professionals, and everyday users. Today, Lumaflex is a global leader in red light therapy, recognized by TIME Magazine as a Best Invention of 2023 and winner of multiple innovation awards. We’re expanding rapidly, offering cutting-edge devices, education through the Lumaflex Academy, and partnerships with top trainers, therapists, and medical professionals worldwide. At Lumaflex, we’re not just building a brand—we’re creating a movement to make recovery and peak performance accessible anytime, anywhere.How do you balance the demands of running a business while maintaining your own health and longevity?Balancing the demands of running a global business while maintaining my health and longevity is a constant challenge. There are times when I get overworked, stressed, or even complacent, and my physical and mental health takes a hit. But I see it as part of the journey—the price of building something meaningful. Instead of resisting it, I accept, learn, and adapt. My background in competitive sports has instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and resilience. I played rugby, competed in bodybuilding, and fought as an amateur boxer—I know what it takes to grind, stay focused, and push forward even when it’s tough. That mindset helps me stay on top of my health, longevity, and performance, even in the midst of running a fast-growing business.Do you have a personal health goal? What is it? My personal health goal is simple—to stay active and competitive as I age. I find tremendous value in challenging myself and maintaining discipline, both physically and mentally. I want to carry this mindset into my later years, setting a strong example for my kids, family, friends, and business teams. Leading by example is important to me—inspiring others to push their limits and prioritize their well-being is one of the most rewarding things I can do.Before launching your venture, can you walk us through the “aha” moment that inspired the creation of your product/service?Before launching Lumaflex, my “aha” moment came from a personal struggle with injury and pain. As a competitive athlete, I played rugby, then transitioned into boxing, where I sustained multiple injuries, and later into bodybuilding. The wear and tear on my body eventually led to a serious knee injury, leaving me in chronic pain and struggling with recovery. That’s when my wife introduced me to red light therapy—not through some high-tech device, but a simple red light lamp. I wasn’t expecting much, but after using it consistently, I experienced significant pain relief and faster recovery. That was the turning point. The problem? The lamp was bulky, inconvenient, and not designed for an active lifestyle. That’s when the idea struck me—what if I could create a portable, powerful, and flexible red light therapy device that anyone could use anywhere? From that realization, Lumaflex was born. I set out to design a rugged, waterproof, and versatile red light therapy device that could seamlessly fit into everyday routines, athletic recovery, and professional wellness practices. Today, Lumaflex is trusted by athletes, trainers, and wellness professionals worldwide, and my mission is to make red light therapy accessible and practical for everyone.What sets your venture apart in the crowded health and wellness industry?My vision is to make red light therapy (RLT) accessible to the masses. I see many companies presenting their information in a way that’s overly complex and overly scientific, almost as if it needs to be difficult to understand to seem credible. But this approach fails to connect with the masses and limits adoption. My strength lies in thinking from the perspective of the end customer, no matter their background. I focus on simplifying the science, making it easy to understand, accessible, and practical so that anyone can adopt and benefit from red light therapy in their daily lives. My goal is to make RLT as mainstream and widely adopted as possible—not just as a therapy, but as a lifestyle movement. I want Lumaflex to be the iPhone of RLT, the Under Armour of recovery—a brand that makes cutting-edge wellness simple, effective, and desirable. By making RLT easy to use, adaptable, and trendy, we can drive mass adoption and truly change the way the world approaches health, recovery, and performance.What’s the most surprising lesson you’ve learned from your customers or users?One of the most surprising lessons I learned during the design process of Lumaflex was how much usability, texture, and feel impact consistency of use. It wasn’t just about making the device portable and effective—it also had to be comfortable and enjoyable to use. Early on, we tested different materials, but we noticed that users naturally gravitated toward a design that felt soft, secure, and high-quality in their hands. The final finish of Lumaflex was carefully chosen to enhance comfort, reliability, and trust in the product, making users more likely to carry it with them and integrate it into their daily routines. This experience reinforced that design isn’t just about function—it’s about creating an experience that people genuinely enjoy, which ultimately drives consistent use and long-term benefits.What is the most groundbreaking or unexpected finding in the field of longevity research that you’ve come across recently, and why do you find it so compelling?It was not so recently, but still recent enough to answer this question—the most groundbreaking finding in longevity research is the powerful impact of light on human health and how modern lifestyles have left us 95% deficient in natural light compared to ancient times. This deficiency affects recovery, wellness, and overall optimization, disrupting cellular function, circadian rhythms, and even long-term health. What makes this so compelling is that light is not just an external factor but a biological necessity, influencing mitochondrial function, inflammation, pain management, and even cognitive health. As awareness grows, I believe that in the next five years, light therapy devices will become household essentials, with at least three in every home—one for pain relief, one for beauty and skin health, and one for overall wellness and energy optimization. This shift marks a revolution in longevity science, where people will begin to see light exposure as fundamental to health—just like nutrition, sleep, and exercise. The future of longevity isn’t just about what we consume, but also about how we interact with light, and that realization is already reshaping the industry.In your opinion, which emerging longevity trend or product will have the most transformative impact on our health over the next five years, and why?Over the next five years, the most transformative longevity trend will be the increasing awareness of light’s powerful impact on health, as modern lifestyles have left us 95% deficient in natural light, affecting recovery, wellness, and optimization, leading to a future where at least three light therapy devices—for pain relief, beauty, and overall well-being—will become household essentials, revolutionizing the way we approach longevity and performance.One thing you wish more people knew about health and longevity?I wish more people knew that light is as essential to health and longevity as nutrition, sleep, and exercise, and that our deficiency in natural light is impacting recovery, wellness, and overall optimization, making light therapy an inevitable part of every home for pain relief, beauty, and well-being in the future.What is the biggest longevity myth you’d like to debunk?The biggest myth I’d like to debunk is that light is bad for us and should be avoided—in reality, natural light is essential for health and longevity, and while we shouldn’t overexpose ourselves to intense sun, daily light exposure is crucial for optimal well-being, recovery, and overall vitality.If you could recommend only one supplement for a longer, healthier life, which would it be, and what makes it indispensable?If I could recommend only one "supplement" for a longer, healthier life, it would be natural light, as it is essential for cellular function, recovery, circadian rhythm regulation, and overall well-being, and while excessive sun exposure should be avoided, daily light exposure is crucial for longevity and optimal health.How old can we potentially become at maximum?I believe we can live well beyond 100, but the real focus should be on quality of life—not just living long, but living fully, with vitality, strength, and purpose.What resources (books, podcasts, mentors) have been most valuable in your entrepreneurial journey?I’ve been inspired by a variety of things at different stages of my life. What resonates with most people at a given time or what’s trending doesn’t always impact me, and sometimes the most profound lessons come from the simplest, most personal experiences—like a conversation with a boat driver on a lake in the Netherlands or hearing the life story of an Uber driver in Washington, DC. I've learned that by staying open to learning, listening, and embracing what the universe presents, I can grow and excel daily in the simplest ways—through nature, meaningful conversations, and the wisdom of those around me.If there’s one message or insight you’d like readers to take away from your journey, what would it be?The key message I want people to take away from my journey—from being a competitive athlete battling pain to building Lumaflex and redefining recovery—is that adversity is often the gateway to innovation and impact. My own struggles with injury, slow recovery, and chronic pain led me to discover red light therapy, and instead of just accepting my limitations, I saw an opportunity to change the game—not just for myself, but for millions of others.Too often, people are told to just live with pain or rely on ineffective, temporary solutions, but I believe in empowering people with real, science-backed tools that actually make a difference. That’s why I built Lumaflex—to make recovery, performance, and wellness accessible to everyone, whether you’re an elite athlete, a busy professional, or someone just looking to move and feel better.More than anything, I want people to realize that health is in their hands, and with the right knowledge, technology, and mindset, we can take control of our recovery, optimize our performance, and truly transform our lives.

Why light therapy should be on your radar – the biology speaks for itself
Light Therapy
•

5 min read

Why light therapy should be on your radar – the biology speaks for itself

Sunlight is the foundation of all life on Earth, providing the energy that has shaped our planet from the very start. It is only in recent times that scientists are beginning to understand the profound impact light has on the human body and mind. The sun emits so much energy and provides life for the planet and humans to thrive off of. It’s a critical fuel source for all species and flora. Without the sun’s light, all life on Earth would cease to exist.In school, we learn that plants absorb light energy from the sun through chlorophyll and photon receptors in the leaves and then transform it into chemical energy. This process is called photosynthesis. Why is it so abstract to think that our human bodies can convert sunlight into different forms of energy?Well, here’s the reality, our bodies do just that every single day they are exposed to sunlight. Like plants, humans have photon receptors in our cells that enable light energy to be absorbed and start chain reactions that result in energy production. When sunlight penetrates our skin, skull, and brain tissue, our cell’s mitochondria react by increasing ATP production, which is the fuel our bodies and brains need to function.Throughout human history, civilizations across the globe have used sunlight to prevent or alleviate some diseases. Ancient Egyptians worshipped the sun. In some countries, hospital beds were moved outside so patients to heal from disease in the sun. Later on, we had the advent of LEDs and lasers and NASA even used light therapy first to grow plants at the International Space Station to then later discover it could also help with acceleration of wound healing when dealing with injured astronauts.The sunlight is not only beneficial, but without it, you may experience mood changes and can lead to depression. According to Healthline, “Decreased sun exposure has been associated with a drop in your serotonin levels, which can lead to major depression with seasonal patterns.” In addition, “Due to this connection, one of the main treatments for depression with seasonal pattern is light therapy, also known as phototherapy.”Light therapy is becoming an integral part of the modern doctor’s toolbox for a vast array of applications such as neurodegeneration, and neuropsychiatric conditions, but the question most New Zapiens readers will want to know is, how can light therapy be used in my life? What are the applications and benefits?Increase in cognitive processing speedLight therapy may not give you superhuman intelligence and cognition, however, small increases in your cognitive processing speed are possible. At a 2024 Super Bowl event In Las Vegas, a college athlete used a Neurocatch Assessment tool using brain event-related potentials or ERPs to measure his processing speed baseline. After recording the baseline he used Neuronic’s light therapy helmet (Neuradiant 1070 nm) for just one 6-minute session and then did a follow-up measurement with the Neurocatch device. He found a staggering 14% increase in his cognitive processing speed.Boost in short-term memory by up to 25%In a 2022 study conducted by the University of Birmingham published study, individuals used a near-infrared laser on their prefrontal cortex. The hypothesis is that since the prefrontal cortex is associated with short-term memory performance, applying light there would encourage energy production and enhance the function of this region of the brain. The study found that individuals experienced an increase in their short-term memory by up to 25%.Enhancing sleep and detoxificationSleep is an essential aspect and fundamental to our health. While we sleep, the body undergoes lymphatic drainage, a process that removes toxins and waste, including glymphatic drainage in the brain, which helps clean and repair tissues overnight. A recent study shows that light therapy can accelerate this process. The authors of the paper suggest that “photobiomodulation helps improve the overall quality of sleep, and hence well-being and long-term health, of many individuals.”Reducing brain fog and improving focusSince the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve become well-versed with the effects of brain fog, including the potentiality to experience long-term, life-altering symptoms. In April 2023 a study reported using light therapy to alleviate symptoms associated with brain fog. Subjects mentioned that before the therapy they were experiencing high levels of fatigue, had a hard focusing, and lacked the mental acuity to function well with a clear head throughout the day. After using the light therapy devices (either a full light therapy bed or a light helmet 3 times a week) for a month, users reported significant benefits and the cognitive tests supported their subjective statements.Light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, harnesses the biological power of light to support essential physiological processes, providing the body and mind with the energy they need to thrive. We’ve explored how natural sunlight fuels life, the consequences of insufficient exposure, and how advancements in light-based technologies now allow us to bring these benefits into our daily lives.From enhancing cognitive function and memory to improving sleep, detoxification, and mental clarity, light therapy is emerging as a non-invasive, research-backed approach to optimizing health, performance, and well-being. With increasing scientific support and real-world applications, it’s becoming an essential tool in modern wellness.

Infrared light therapy: a journey into cellular renewal
Red Light
•

4 min read

Infrared light therapy: a journey into cellular renewal

Ever heard of a therapy that can boost your energy, improve your skin, and even help you relax? Infrared light therapy (ILT), which is a non-invasive treatment, is a fascinating approach that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with your body and stimulates cellular activity to promote various health benefits. Imagine feeling your muscles relax as the infrared light penetrates your skin. Sounds pretty good, right? But what's the science behind it? Well, it's all about tapping into your body's natural healing processes. How infrared therapy works ? Your cells are tiny powerhouses, they require energy to function, and this energy comes from a molecule called ATP(Adenosine Triphosphate). Infrared light therapy essentially gives your cells a little energy boost by increasing the ATP production within the mitochondria, which are the power factories of our cells. This impact of the increased energy allows your cells to:Repair and regenerate effectively: Imagine your cells as a construction crew, more energy induces fast work which efficiently helps to repair damaged cells and tissue. This promotes the process of regeneration of the cells. This is crucial for recovery from injuries and managing chronic conditions.Improve circulation: Infrared light therapy helps increase blood flow. Better circulation means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to your tissues, while waste products are efficiently removed.Stimulate healing: ILT triggers the release of important molecules that kickstart the healing process. These molecules help repair tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin.Decoding the spectrum: three levels of infrared light therapyInfrared light is a form of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the human eye. This simple concept translates into a diverse range of therapeutic applications, depending on the specific wavelength used.The wavelengths are categorized into three levels depending on their frequency range, various characteristics, and benefits. Near Infrared Light (NIR): a short infrared wavelength, which gently penetrates the surface to soothe tired muscles, removes dead cells, toxins, dirt, and bacteria from the epidermis, and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Mid-infrared light (MIR): MIR on the other hand, is a longer wavelength, it is a deeper dive, targeting those stubborn knots and aches that reside within your joints and muscles. It stimulates cardiovascular health.Far-infrared light (FIR) :  The longest wavelength, that's like a warm embrace, promoting relaxation, boosting circulation, and even helping your body detoxify.Benefits of infrared light therapyNow, let's dive into the exciting benefits!Pain relief: With ILT, you can say goodbye to chronic back pain, muscle soreness or arthritis. It provides some much-needed relief by relaxing tense muscles and reducing inflammation.Skin rejuvenation: Who doesn't want a youthful skin and reverse aging? ILT can help! It boosts the production of collagen, leading to firmer and a more radiant skin.Stress relief:Feeling stressed? ILT can help you unwind and relax. The gentle warmth induces a sensation of peace and calmness, which can even help lower the stress hormones such as cortisol. Detoxification:Sweating during an ILT session can help your body eliminate toxins and heavy metals, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.Is infrared light therapy right for you?While ILT offers many potential benefits, it's important to approach it mindfully. Alway talk to your doctor: Before starting any new therapy, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if ILT is right for you and address any concerns you may have.Choose reputable devices: The quality of your device plays a crucial role in the effectiveness and safety of your treatment. Look for reputable brands and ensure the device meets safety standards.Use it safely: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and wear eye protection during treatment.The future of infrared light therapyThe field of ILT is constantly evolving. Researchers are exploring its potential applications in various areas, such as:Neurodegenerative diseases: Studies are investigating the potential benefits of ILT for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.Cancer support: ILT may help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment and improve overall quality of life for patients.Important Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.    Ready to explore the potential benefits of infrared light therapy? Start by doing your research, talking to your doctor, and choosing a reputable device. Remember to approach this therapy with an open mind but also with a healthy dose of critical thinking.