Taos Sun: Altitude Lies Burning Winter Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe biting wind whips through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the sun, oh, the sun! It glares off the snow-covered peaks with an intensity that can leave even seasoned Taoseños feeling drained. Winter in Taos, New Mexico, is a magical time, but it demands a proactive approach to wellness. Forget generic advice; let’s dive into biohacking strategies tailored specifically for this unique environment.
This isn’t about fleeting trends; it’s about optimizing your body’s performance in the face of high altitude and relentless solar radiation. We’re talking personalized skin protection, strategic Vitamin D management, and fitness adaptations that acknowledge the environmental stressors.
Let’s start with the most obvious threat: the sun.
The altitude in Taos (around 7,000 feet) means less atmosphere to filter UV rays. This translates to a significantly higher risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Your average, run-of-the-mill sunscreen just won’t cut it.
We need to think beyond SPF numbers and consider the type of protection. Look for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These create a physical barrier against the sun, rather than relying on chemicals that absorb UV radiation.
Specifically, find products with a high percentage of zinc oxide (20% or more). You can find these at Cid’s Food Market or the Taos Food Co-op.
Apply liberally and reapply religiously, every two hours, especially when skiing, snowboarding, or even just walking around town. Don’t forget your lips!
But sunscreen is just the first line of defense.
Consider incorporating astaxanthin into your daily routine. This powerful antioxidant, found in algae and seafood, has been shown to protect against UV damage from the inside out.
You can find astaxanthin supplements at the Taos Pharmacy. Start with a low dose (4mg) and gradually increase as needed.
Next, let’s tackle Vitamin D.
While the Taos sun is intense, winter days are shorter, and we spend more time indoors. This can lead to Vitamin D deficiency, which is crucial for immune function, bone health, and mood regulation.
Don’t assume you’re getting enough Vitamin D just because you live in a sunny place. Get your levels tested!
You can request a Vitamin D test from your doctor at Holy Cross Medical Center. Aim for a level between 50-80 ng/mL.
If you’re deficient, supplement with Vitamin D3. The optimal dose varies depending on your individual needs, but a good starting point is 5,000 IU per day.
Pair your Vitamin D supplement with Vitamin K2. K2 helps direct calcium to your bones and teeth, preventing it from accumulating in your arteries.
You can find both Vitamin D3 and K2 supplements at GNC in Taos.
Now, let’s talk about fitness.
Exercising at high altitude puts extra stress on your body. Your heart has to work harder to pump oxygen to your muscles.
Don’t jump into intense workouts without acclimatizing. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
Consider incorporating breathwork exercises into your routine. Practices like diaphragmatic breathing and box breathing can help improve oxygen uptake and reduce stress.
You can find yoga and breathwork classes at the Taos Yoga Studio.
Hydration is also key. The dry air at high altitude can lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate altitude sickness and fatigue.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Add electrolytes to your water to help replenish lost minerals.
You can find electrolyte powders at Smith’s Food and Drug.
Altitude sickness is a real concern in Taos. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
If you experience altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude immediately. Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Consider using an oxygen concentrator if your symptoms are severe. You can rent oxygen concentrators from Taos Mountain Outfitters.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of sleep.
High altitude can disrupt sleep patterns. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Consider using a sleep mask and earplugs to block out light and noise. You can find these at the Taos Trading Post.
These biohacking strategies are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Experiment and find what works best for you.
Listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed.
By taking a proactive approach to your winter wellness, you can thrive in the unique environment of Taos, New Mexico. You can enjoy all that this magical place has to offer, without sacrificing your health and well-being.
Remember to consult with your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.