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Assiduous

Tag: mental health

  • The Journey Continues: Ice Baths and Adaptation

    Assiduous

    Welcome back to our exploration of wellness practices that push the boundaries of comfort to forge resilience and vitality. In my previous post, “The Power of Ice Baths,” I embarked on a frosty adventure, promising to share updates on my chilling quest. Life, with its unforeseen twists and turns, delayed this follow-up, but here we are, ready to dive back into the icy depths.

    My experiment with ice baths has been a journey of discovery, challenges, and adaptation. It’s important to note right off the bat that my initial foray into this cold world wasn’t as successful as I had hoped. However, the bumps along the road were not in vain; they taught me invaluable lessons about preparation, logistics, and the importance of environment in the practice of ice bathing.

    Logistics: The Heart of the Ice Bath Experience

    The most crucial takeaway from my experience is that logistics play a pivotal role in the effectiveness of ice baths. You need two basic elements: water and ice. Sounds simple, right? However, the practicalities of managing these elements can be surprisingly complex.

    Initially, I set up my ice bath on my deck, an elevated platform that seemed convenient due to its proximity to a garden hose spigot and my kitchen. However, concerns about the deck’s capacity to support the significant weight of a water-filled tank, alongside my furniture and smoker, prompted a rethink. The last thing anyone needs is a deck collapse during a chilly immersion!

    Relocation and Innovation

    Moving the ice bath to ground level beneath the deck solved the weight issue but introduced new challenges. Distance from an ice source and the lack of a flat surface for the bath were immediate problems. Resourcefulness led me to repurpose an old pallet and plywood into a makeshift platform, a solution that worked well enough, yet ice remained a logistical hurdle.

    Creating large ice blocks in my kitchen freezer was a workaround, but with limited space, this was far from ideal. The realization dawned that having a cooler nearby to store pre-made ice would streamline the process, keeping the icy relief within arm’s reach whenever needed.

    A Change of Scenery

    Another lesson learned was the importance of location. Positioning the ice bath beneath the deck seemed practical at first, but it exposed the water to debris, despite coverings. It became clear that a new spot, close to but not directly under the deck, would be preferable. My vision now is to tear down an old chicken coop, repurposing that space into a ground-level deck extension specifically for the ice bath. This project is on my to-do list, and I plan to document the process to share with you all.

    Embracing Cold Showers

    In the interim, I’ve adopted daily cold showers as a substitute for ice baths. Surprisingly, this practice has become something I can’t imagine living without. The invigoration and alertness it brings to my mornings are unmatched, serving as a testament to the power of cold exposure, even in its less extreme forms.

    Moving Forward

    The journey with ice baths has been one of learning, adapting, and overcoming challenges. Though not as straightforward as I initially anticipated, it has enriched my understanding of the nuances involved in this practice. My commitment remains unwavering, and I look forward to sharing the evolution of my ice bath setup, along with the continued benefits and insights gained from this fascinating wellness endeavor.

  • Harnessing the Power of Reading

    Assiduous

    What daily habit do you do that improves your quality of life?

    As a delivery driver, I spend an exorbitant amount of time on the road, averaging close to 2,000 miles every month. It’s a vast stretch of time, a swath of my life that, on the surface, might seem monotonous or wasted. But I’ve found a way to transform these long, solitary hours into a fountain of knowledge and enlightenment – through the simple act of reading and listening to audiobooks.

    There’s an indescribable allure to the world of books that one can only understand when they dive into it. The beauty of books lies not just in the stories they tell or the knowledge they impart, but also in the way they shape our understanding of the world. It’s like being a renaissance man, where every page turned opens up a new avenue of interest, a new perspective to ponder, a new concept to grasp.

    My reading interests are as wide as the horizon I traverse daily. From spirituality to health, from politics to self-defense, each topic is a new adventure, a new opportunity to learn. And it’s not just about accumulating factual knowledge. It’s about understanding the world in its myriad shades, delving into the depths of diverse subjects, and realizing that there’s always more to learn.

    Reading has equipped me with a lens to view the world in ways I would have otherwise missed. It has offered me insights into people’s behaviors and situations, allowing me to connect with them on a deeper level. I’ve found common ground with people from all walks of life, thanks to the broad spectrum of knowledge that reading has blessed me with.

    However, reading is not just about consuming information; it’s also about challenging it. The internet, social media, and television constantly bombard us with information, much of it opinion-based. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with this, it’s crucial to balance it with our own quest for knowledge. As the saying goes, “Moderation is key.”

    As I navigate the highways and byways, audiobooks and podcasts have become my co-pilots, guiding me through an array of subjects and perspectives. I believe that there is no such thing as bad knowledge or information, as long as it’s not sourced from a single place. The variety of viewpoints is what makes the world of reading so captivating and enlightening.

    Reading before bed has become a cherished ritual, a calm harbor in the storm of daily life where I can immerse myself in the tranquility of books. This practice not only helps me relax but also ensures that I end each day on a note of learning and personal growth.

    In an era where we’re continually fed information, reading offers an active approach to learning. It’s a quest, a journey that each one of us undertakes at our own pace, exploring the paths that intrigue us.

    So next time you find yourself with a few spare moments, consider picking up a book or playing an audiobook. You never know when a piece of information will come in handy, or when a newfound understanding will change your perspective. After all, every word read is a step towards broadening our horizons and enriching our lives.

    Here’s what I’m reading now.

    The Immortality Key – I’m currently reading this on Kindle. I like kindle because it gives me my library everywhere and I can highlight text to upload to an app where I catalog important passages from books.

    Here’s the book’s description from Amazon.

    A groundbreaking dive into the role psychedelics have played in the origins of Western civilization, and the real-life quest for the Holy Grail that could shake the Church to its foundations.

    The Real Anthony Fauci – I’m currently listening to this on Audible. It’s a hefty book that is documented on RFK’s website. All I all I believe it’s close to 27 hours of audio.

    Here’s the description from Amazon.

    Pharma-funded mainstream media has convinced millions of Americans that Dr. Anthony Fauci is a hero. He is anything but.

    As director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Dr. Anthony Fauci dispenses $6.1 billion in annual taxpayer-provided funding for scientific research, allowing him to dictate the subject, content, and outcome of scientific health research across the globe. Fauci uses the financial clout at his disposal to wield extraordinary influence over hospitals, universities, journals, and thousands of influential doctors and scientists – whose careers and institutions he has the power to ruin, advance, or reward.

  • The Power of Ice Baths

    Assiduous
    My IcePod Ice bath

    Introduction:
    Have you ever considered trading your regular morning shower for an invigorating ice bath? While it may sound daunting, ice baths have gained popularity for their potential health benefits and the refreshing wake-up they provide. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of ice baths and how they can positively impact your well-being. From improved circulation to enhanced mental clarity, the advantages are numerous. So, prepare to dive into the world of ice baths and discover a new way to start your day feeling revitalized.

    1. Boosts Circulation and Recovery:
      One of the most significant benefits of ice baths is their ability to stimulate blood circulation. Plunging into cold water causes blood vessels to constrict, which helps flush out waste products and toxins from your muscles. As you exit the ice bath, the blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow and delivering fresh oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. This process can aid in post-workout recovery, reducing muscle soreness and promoting faster healing.
    2. Enhances Mental Wellness:
      Ice baths are not just beneficial for the body; they can also have a positive impact on your mental well-being. The shock of cold water triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. This can lead to an immediate boost in mood, increased alertness, and a sense of mental clarity. Ice baths may also help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, serving as a natural stress reliever.
    3. Promotes Weight Loss and Metabolism:
      While weight loss may be a subjective measure, some individuals have reported positive effects when incorporating ice baths into their wellness routine. Exposure to cold temperatures can activate brown adipose tissue (BAT), also known as “good fat,” which helps burn calories to generate heat. Additionally, ice baths may increase metabolic rate, allowing the body to burn more calories throughout the day.
    4. Improves Sleep Quality:
      If you struggle with sleep issues or insomnia, ice baths might offer a natural solution. Taking an ice bath before bed can help lower your body temperature, signaling to your brain that it’s time to sleep. The subsequent warming process after the ice bath can induce a more relaxed state, potentially leading to improved sleep quality and duration.
    5. Enhances Immune Function:
      Cold exposure through ice baths has been linked to improved immune function. Cold water immersion triggers an increase in white blood cell activity, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses. Regular ice baths may contribute to a stronger immune system, reducing the risk of common ailments.

    I chose the IcePod from The Pod Company because is the price and the reviews I’ve seen so far. It’s a fraction of the cost of typical set ups and the design seems well thought out. I will do a more thorough review of the IcePod after I get a chance to use it for a little while. Along with the review of the Pod itself, I will be measuring its impact on my sleep as well as my heart rate. I will share any other data relevant to the claims made but it will likely be anecdotal and I’ll state that as well.


    While the benefits of ice baths are promising, it’s important to approach them with caution and consider individual preferences and health conditions. If you decide to incorporate ice baths into your routine, start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity. Remember to listen to your body and prioritize safety. Ice baths can be a refreshing and invigorating way to kickstart your day, promoting physical and mental well-being.

    If you interested is reading more, check out my post on the Wim Hof method here.

  • Reimagining the Cities of Tomorrow: A Vision of Sustainable, Decentralized Living

    Assiduous

    How would you design the city of the future?

    In the world I see you are stalking elk through the damp canyon forests around the ruins of Rock feller Center. You’ll wear leather clothes that will last you the rest of your life. You’ll climb the wrist-thick kudzu vines that wrap the Sears Towers. And when you look down, you’ll see tiny figures pounding corn, laying stripes of venison on the empty car pool lane of some abandoned superhighways.

    Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club

    The cities of the future? I wouldn’t design them—at least not as they exist today. You see, I believe we’re a species out of balance, enamored by the allure of modernity, yet simultaneously thrown off kilter by its rapid pace and often unconsidered impacts. I propose we harmonize technology with our inherent human nature, striving to find equilibrium with our environment, our species, and our very souls. My ideas may seem a bit radical, and perhaps are not fully fleshed out, but bear with me as we journey into my vision of the cities of tomorrow.

    Decentralization: The Core of Future Cities

    The first step towards this future is the decentralization of cities. Away with sprawling urban jungles that consume vast expanses of land, and in with communities not larger than 10,000 people, where everyone knows their neighbor, and shared goals and values cultivate a sense of belonging.

    The decentralization should also apply to companies. The era of centralized supply chains must give way to a web of local distribution and fulfillment centers, enabling agility and resilience in the face of supply chain disruptions. A decentralized model also supports local economies, creating jobs and reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.

    Agriculture: In the Hands of the People

    I envision a future where agriculture is not dominated by large corporations, but rather, is in the hands of the people. Community gardens and urban farms become the norm, providing fresh, locally sourced produce, and instilling a sense of connection and responsibility for the land.

    Work: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

    Traditional trades should be revived, with more people within communities honing artisan skills and crafts. For those whose work can be done remotely, telecommuting should be the norm, reducing the need for daily commuting and its associated environmental impact.

    Sustainable Living: Reducing Consumption and Waste

    The cities of the future should be characterized by sustainable living. This means reducing our propensity for throwaway consumption, and instead, embracing a circular economy where waste is minimized and resources are reused or recycled.

    Landscaping: Merging Aesthetics with Functionality

    I imagine cities and homes landscaped with native fruit and nut trees, interspersed with perennial and annual vegetable gardens, and adorned with wildflowers. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our surroundings, but also provides a source of food and promotes biodiversity.

    Chickens could free-range across neighborhoods, providing fresh eggs and naturally controlling pests. Homes could be earthworks, dug into the ground, with grass on the rooftops, blending seamlessly into the landscape and offering energy efficiency.

    Waste Management: Composting for a Healthier Planet

    Communal composting could become a standard practice, turning organic waste into nutrient-rich soil for community gardens, reducing landfill waste, and sequestering carbon.

    In this vision, humanity is reintroduced to the world, rather than kept apart from it. We become a part of the ecosystem, living in harmony with nature, rather than against it. It’s a radical shift from our current urban living, but it’s a future where we can thrive—both as individuals and as a species. It’s a future where we’re not just surviving, but living in balance with the world around us. This is my vision for the cities of the future.

  • A Journey of Self-Improvement and Relationships

    Assiduous

    What motivates you?

    As I sit down to pen this blog post, I am reminded of my core values and motivations that have shaped me into the person I am today. At the heart of it all, I strive to be the best version of myself – a loving friend, husband, father and brother. This is not only for the people in my life who deserve the best of me but also for myself. I believe that we all owe it to ourselves to continually grow and evolve, not just for the benefit of those around us, but for our own fulfillment and happiness.

    We live in a pretty amazing world that is brimming with opportunities for learning and growth. It’s a world that deserves to be explored and experienced to the fullest. I want to ensure that when my time comes to leave this world, I have left no stone unturned, no opportunity unexplored, and no potential untapped (within reason of course).

    Reflecting on my life, I find myself drawn back to my early years and my experiences with religion. I was raised in a Protestant family and attended church regularly. In middle school, I transitioned from a public school to a private Christian one. These experiences, I believe, have helped shape my perspective on life and self-improvement.

    One realization I had today from this time is the overlap I believe must exist between Christianity and Stoicism. I’m no expert on that topic but statements like, and I’m paraphrasing, “I want to be more like Jesus every day and less of me” resonate similarly with Stoic statements like “Man is both the marble and the sculptor.” While I was influenced more by the former in my formative years, the concept of self-improvement and personal growth was firmly planted in my mind.

    Another significant takeaway from my school years was the exposure to diverse beliefs within the same religion. My school was run by a Pentecostal church, and their practices were quite different from what I was accustomed to in my home church. This experience taught me to question things, seek understanding, and challenge my perceptions. This mindset has made me a lifelong learner and has continually motivated me to grow and improve.

    I wanted to share a few books that have been important in my journey and I thought maybe you would enjoy them too. Theres a mix of stoicism and Buddhism here but they won’t fail?

    1. “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius: This classic Stoic text offers profound insights on life, death, duty, and the universe.
    2. “Wisdom for the Way” by Bruce Lee Compiled from Bruce Lee’s personal notes and writings, this book offers profound insights on martial arts, personal development, and philosophy, providing readers with timeless wisdom to navigate life’s challenges and cultivate a balanced mind, body, and spirit.
    3. “The Obstacle is the Way” by Ryan Holiday This book draws on ancient Stoic philosophy to show readers how to transform obstacles into opportunities, providing a practical guide for overcoming challenges, finding resilience, and achieving personal growth.
    4. “The Unfettered Mind” by Takian Sōhō is a classic Zen text that explores the nature of the mind and its relationship to the world, offering practical teachings and philosophical insights to cultivate a state of mental clarity, freedom, and spontaneity in all aspects of life. It provides guidance on overcoming obstacles, mastering one’s emotions, and finding inner peace through a deep understanding of the self.

    In the end, my journey towards self-improvement and being the best version of myself is a continuous one. I hope that my experiences and insights can inspire you on your journey, and that the books I’ve recommended can provide guidance along the way.

  • Journey Into Ice: Exploration of the Wim Hof Method.

    Assiduous
    The Wim Hof Method by Wim Hof

    As a frequent long-distance driver, I’ve found that audiobooks are a fantastic companion for the road. They offer an opportunity to delve into new topics and explore fresh perspectives while navigating those endless highways and backroads. Recently, I’ve had the pleasure of immersing myself in the extraordinary world of Wim Hof, the ‘Iceman,’ and his transformative breathing techniques.

    My introduction to the Wim Hof Method was thanks to the insightful Huberman Lab podcast, which featured some remarkable discussions about the technique. He piqued my curiosity to such an extent that I decided to dive deeper into the subject. What better way to do so than to hear from Wim Hof himself? So, I decided to purchase his book, The Win Hoff Method Book

    The method shows clearly that what we believe determines how much we can do. As Wim points out, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you are right.”

    The book is a fascinating blend of Wim’s personal journey and his unique method that has taken the world by storm. It offers an intriguing look into the life of a man who has pushed the limits of human endurance, breaking numerous world records in the process.

    The Wim Hof Method is essentially a three-pillar system that includes cold therapy, breathing exercises, and commitment (mindset). The core idea is that by exposing ourselves to the extreme cold and practicing specific breathing techniques, we can gain a level of control over our body’s physiological response, helping us to increase physical endurance, boost our immune system, improve mental health, and even manage stress better.

    My method, which I have developed and refined over the course of nearly forty years, is based on three simple, natural pillars: cold exposure, conscious breathing, and the power of the mind.

    Wim’s life story is as inspiring as his method. His unyielding spirit and relentless search for personal growth and understanding of the human body’s potential are truly awe-inspiring. So much so, I’ve decided to give his method a shot myself. I recently ordered my ice pod from the Pod Company, and I can’t wait to start my cold therapy journey.

    If you’re as intrigued by the Wim Hof Method as I was, I wholeheartedly recommend giving these podcasts a listen:

    And, of course, Wim’s book is a must-read if you’re interested in delving deeper into the method: [The Wim Hof Method Book]