Hello, friends! Brett here, founder of Primal Elements Health. Today, I want to share my personal health journey and explain why I've chosen to incorporate common-sense primal aspects into my modern lifestyle. This shift hasn't just transformed my life; it's reshaped my approach to health and wellness, and I hope it inspires you to explore your path to optimal health.
The Beginning of My Health Journey
Over two decades ago, my health journey began. As a health coach with over ten years of experience, I’ve always been passionate about fitness and nutrition. However, my path took a significant turn when I was diagnosed with psoriasis. This autoimmune condition made me re-evaluate my lifestyle, diet, and overall approach to health. It was a wake-up call that pushed me to seek out sustainable, natural ways to heal my body from the inside out.
Discovering the Primal Blueprint
During my quest for better health, I stumbled upon Mark Sisson's Primal Blueprint. This set of ten laws resonated deeply with me, offering a framework that combines ancient wisdom with modern science. The principles of the Primal Blueprint—emphasizing whole foods, physical movement, and lifestyle choices that align with our evolutionary biology—became the cornerstone of my health journey.
Professional Growth and Certifications
To deepen my understanding and better help others, I pursued a certification through the Primal Health Coach Institute. This training equipped me with the knowledge and tools to guide others on their primal health journeys. Additionally, I obtained a certification in the human intestinal microbiome, further enhancing my ability to support gut health—a critical component of overall wellness and a major focus in managing my psoriasis.
The Dark Side of Modern Convenience
As we've advanced in technology and convenience, we've drifted further from the natural lifestyles of our ancestors. While modern conveniences have brought numerous benefits, they have also contributed to a rise in metabolic diseases, autoimmune issues, and mental health disorders. The further we get from nature, the sicker we become.
- Metabolic Diseases: The prevalence of processed foods, high in sugars and unhealthy fats, has skyrocketed. These foods are convenient but come at a high cost to our health. Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are rampant, directly linked to poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles.
- Autoimmune Issues: Our immune systems are overwhelmed by a barrage of environmental toxins, poor diet, and chronic stress. This has led to a surge in autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. My battle with psoriasis is a testament to this.
- Mental Health Disorders: The disconnection from nature, coupled with the stresses of modern life, has significantly impacted mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are more prevalent than ever. The lack of physical activity, poor diet, and constant exposure to artificial environments contribute to this epidemic.
Nutritional Foundations of a Primal Lifestyle
A critical aspect of the primal lifestyle is nutrition. Adopting a diet that aligns with our evolutionary biology can have profound effects on our health.
- Whole Foods: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods. This includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins. Avoiding processed foods helps reduce inflammation and supports overall health.
- Healthy Fats: Incorporate healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and oily fish. These fats are essential for brain health, hormone production, and reducing inflammation.
- Protein: Prioritize high-quality protein sources such as grass-fed beef, pasture-raised poultry, and wild-caught fish. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall vitality.
- Carbohydrates: Choose carbohydrates from natural sources like vegetables, fruits, and tubers. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber without the blood sugar spikes associated with refined carbs.
- Fermented Foods: Include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha. These foods support a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Embracing Primal Aspects
One of the most transformative aspects of my journey has been embracing primal lifestyle elements in my daily life:
- Grounding: Walking barefoot on natural surfaces, also known as grounding, has connected me to the earth and provided numerous health benefits. It’s a simple practice that anyone can incorporate into their daily routine.
- Sun Exposure: Prioritizing time in the sun has been essential for my health. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in immune function and skin health.
- Getting Dirty: My love for Spartan obstacle course races has kept me physically active and mentally resilient. These races push me to my limits and remind me of the strength and adaptability inherent in all of us.
- Ultramarathon Training: Currently, I’m training for an ultramarathon. This challenge has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the incredible capacity of the human body when fueled and trained properly.
A Life Close to Nature
Beyond structured activities, I find joy and health benefits in simple pleasures like camping, hiking, swimming in lakes and rivers, and hunting deer in the woods of Wisconsin. Living by the ocean and immersing myself in nature has always been a source of peace and vitality for me.
A Historical Perspective
My love for history also plays a role in my health philosophy. Looking at health through a historical lens, I see the wisdom in ancestral practices. Our ancestors thrived without modern conveniences, relying on natural foods, movement, and connection with nature. This historical perspective reinforces the principles of the Primal Blueprint and guides my approach to health and wellness.
The Impact on My Health
Adopting a primal lifestyle has had a profound impact on my health. By focusing on gut health, reducing systemic inflammation, and living in harmony with natural rhythms, I’ve managed to alleviate many of my psoriasis symptoms. This holistic approach has not only improved my physical health but also enhanced my mental and emotional well-being.
Join Me on This Journey
If my story resonates with you, I invite you to join me on this journey. At Primal Elements Health, we offer personalized coaching and programs designed to help you incorporate primal principles into your modern life. Whether you’re looking to improve your gut health, reduce inflammation, or simply live a more vibrant life, we’re here to support you.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Remember, optimal health is a journey, not a destination. Let’s take it one step at a time, together.
Stay primal,
Brett