Chris Hemsworth has overhauled his lifestyle to prioritise his brain health after learning he has an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Thor actor discovered through genetic testing on his Limitless docuseries that his chances of developing the degenerative condition are eight to 10 times higher than average. As a result, he’s made a number of changes to his day-to-day life and routines.
He told America’s Men’s Health magazine in an interview that was published on Tuesday (Oct 3): “Now, I’m incorporating more solitude into my life. I’ve always been pretty consistent with my exercise commitments but lately, I’ve really felt the importance of taking time for yourself without any outside voice or stimulation and making time for stillness.”
The 40-year-old actor, who has 11-year-old daughter India and nine-year-old twin sons Tristan and Sasha with wife Elsa Pataky, finds the time to incorporate mindfulness activities into his day.
He said: “I do a lot of meditation and breath work mostly during sauna and ice bath routines. For me, my favourite mindfulness work comes from the immersion in physical actives that allow me to be fully present and force me out of my head and into my body, in particular surfing.”
And Hemsworth has been prioritising sleeping well and having a “consistent” bedtime routine.
He said: “I have a more consistent approach to my sleep. (Trying) to stay off screens an hour before bed and (reading) most nights definitely helps. In addition, focusing on not being attached to every thought and (being) the observer to the noise when possible, just stepping back from the internal chatter.”
The Extraction actor has also changed his fitness routine.
He explained: “My weight fluctuates a lot due to differing roles and also my own interests in regards to challenging my body in different ways.
“I’m lifting less frequently than I was and I’m incorporating more cardio and endurance workouts which I much prefer than heavy body-building style sessions.”