A new wave of wellness called “longevity” is spreading rapidly in Denmark’s capital region, with clinics offering treatments to help people extend their healthy lifespan—even if they’re not sick. This Danish health trend, influenced by global figures and amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, is drawing urban Danes eager to optimize their health.
The Rise of Longevity Clinics
In and around Copenhagen, an increasing number of clinics now cater to those who are otherwise healthy but looking to feel even better and live longer. These “longevity” clinics aim to help people extend their number of healthy years through a mix of lifestyle guidance and innovative therapies. These clinics focus on helping people stay healthy before they get sick.
Among the first to appear was One Thirty Labs, opened six years ago by entrepreneur Tine Hertz. The clinic offers a selection of popular treatments like cryotherapy, light therapy, and infrared saunas. Though initially unfamiliar, the term “longevity” has become more recognizable and is now associated with a proactive approach to wellness. Today, the word longevity is easier to understand for most people.
Hertz, who has a background in media and advertising, emphasizes that longevity isn’t about curing illness—it’s about avoiding physical and mental decline before it begins. The purpose is to help clients perform better in daily life, whether they’re athletes, executives, or simply people wanting to feel their best.
Cultural and Economic Roots
According to lifestyle analysts, the longevity movement has its roots in a cultural shift that took place during the COVID-19 pandemic. The public’s trust in science and focus on measurable Danish health markers increased sharply during that time. Now, many urban Danes track everything from sleep patterns to nutritional intake in pursuit of better health.
This trend is especially prominent among residents of Copenhagen, where people often have higher incomes and more flexible lifestyles. Living in a metropolitan area also means easier access to cutting-edge wellness services, fueling further interest in personalized Danish health optimization.
Treatments and Scientific Backing
While the popularity of these new therapies is growing, not all of them are backed by strong scientific evidence.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy, which involves exposing the body to extreme cold for short periods, is a staple in many of these clinics. Although ongoing research exists, there is currently no Danish clinical data proving its effectiveness. Some evidence suggests cold exposure could stimulate the immune system and reduce oxidative stress, but the results remain inconclusive.
Light Therapy
Light therapy has more empirical support, especially for treating seasonal affective disorder. By helping to regulate circadian rhythms and increase serotonin levels in the brain, light therapy has been shown to improve energy and mood. Experts note, however, that natural sunlight can be just as effective as artificial light setups.
Infrared Saunas
Despite marketing claims, there is no Danish research confirming long-term health benefits from infrared saunas. Users may feel temporarily relaxed or sleep better, but measurable impacts on blood pressure, cholesterol, or the immune system have not been documented. Medical professionals consider it a wellness tool rather than a medical remedy.
Who’s Embracing Longevity?
The client base for longevity clinics is diverse. Business professionals seeking peak performance, middle-aged individuals experiencing age-related changes, and wellness-oriented clients all frequent these facilities. Women and men alike are expressing interest, drawn by the perception that taking care of your Danish health is now socially acceptable and even desirable.
Moreover, global figures like American tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson, who famously consumes 91 supplements daily to reduce his biological age, have added international visibility to the movement.
A Sign of the Times
Experts believe the longevity trend reflects broader societal concerns. Many Danes are seeking solutions to stress, poor diet, and inactivity in a fast-paced world. As people become more conscious of health and self-care, longevity clinics provide a structured, though often costly, means of support.
According to recent market insights, Denmark has seen a 40% increase in wellness and lifestyle services since 2021. Meanwhile, One Thirty Labs reported a 25% jump in new customer inquiries over the past year alone.
Despite skepticism from some who believe public health guidelines on diet and exercise should suffice, longevity proponents argue that their approach offers personalized strategies that go beyond the one-size-fits-all nature of national health recommendations.
In a country known for its strong public healthcare system, the growth of private longevity clinics reflects a shift in how many Danes view wellness—not just as absence of disease, but as a daily pursuit of optimal living.
