In a world where stress, sedentary lifestyles and lack of perseverance are silent enemies of wellbeing, the Dr. Filippo Ongaro -a physician, former ESA astronaut trainer and longevity expert - proposes a holistic, accessible and profoundly human approach to regaining health: the Ongaro Method.
Far from the fads of extreme biohacking or miracle longevity formulas, the method is based on sound science, sustainable habits and individual responsibility. Ongaro sums it up: "It's not enough to know what to do, the challenge is to do it every day, to make it your own.
Practical science and coaching to break the impasse
The core of the Ongaro Method lies in transforming scientific knowledge into practical tools that, through coaching, help people get out of stagnation, overcome self-sabotage and build real health habits. "The key is to make taking care of yourself part of your identity. Otherwise, consistency is impossible," she says.
Ongaro points out that dopamine - the neurochemical of pleasure - is essential for maintaining a routine. "Discipline alone is not enough. Without a minimum of gratificationthe habit does not take hold". This is why the method combines an initial motivational phase with continuous support that allows the changes to be integrated in a lasting way.
Although the method uses technological tools such as genetic analysis, bioimpedance, HRV, biofeedback or lifestyle questionnaires, Ongaro stresses that it is not a technology-centred approach, but a person-centred one. "The important thing is that each patient takes his or her role in the active management of his or her health. Technology helps, but it does not replace commitment".
Unlike many elitist longevity programmes, the Ongaro Method has an inclusive vocation. "We don't believe that health should be a luxury. Our approach is democratic: anyone can start with small investments. The goal is for as many people as possible to have access to real tools to improve their lives".
Consistency, habits and continuous updating
The method establishes an initial phase of two to six months to establish new habits and then continues with a long-term follow-up, where nutritional, training or supplementation guidelines are adjusted. "The body adapts. If you repeat the same thing over and over again, the effect is diluted. That's why the plan must evolve with you," explains Ongaro.
Dr Ongaro firmly believes that the medicine of the future must integrate prevention, physical training, nutrition and emotional well-being. "Medical schools teach neither physical activity, nor supplementation, nor behavioural psychology, and this must change if we want to train professionals capable of supporting healthy longevity.
Health as an individual responsibility
"Each one of us must assume that maintaining our health is part of our lives, like taking care of our finances or our relationships. No one educated us for it, but now it is time to learn it," concludes Ongaro, who stresses the need for a more humane, preventive and closer medical system. "It is not only about curing illnesses, but also about preventing them from appearing.
The Ongaro Method is not an empty promise. It is a call to reconnect with one's own biology, to adopt sustainable habits and to find in oneself the engine of change. Because health, properly understood, starts from within.
Dr. Filippo Ongaro is an Italian physician specialising in preventive medicine and longevity, with a distinguished career in aerospace.
Professional Career:
- Astronaut Doctor (2000-2007): He worked as a crew doctor for the European Space Agency (ESA), collaborating also with NASA and the Russian Space Agency. During this period, he was responsible for the astronauts' pre-flight physical preparation, monitoring of changes during the mission and post-flight rehabilitation. His work focused on physical training, stress management, nutrition and supplementation, developing countermeasure programmes to maintain health in microgravity conditions..
- Education and Certifications: He was the first Italian doctor to be certified in anti-aging medicine in the USA (ABAARM) and in functional medicine (IFM). He is also certified in Strategic Coaching by the Robbins-Madanes Center in the USA and by the Center for Strategic Therapy directed by Prof. Nardone.
- Teaching: He has taught at the University of Tor Vergata, the University of Bologna and King's College London.
- Publications: Author of several bestselling books published by leading Italian publishers.
