Primal Primer 20 (Fitness)
Exposure to cold environments helped Homo sapiens survive in several crucial ways, shaping biology, behavior, and culture.
Biological Resilience – Over time, Homo sapiens developed biological adaptations to handle cold climates. People living in colder regions often have higher basal metabolic rates, which generate more internal heat. Additionally, developing more subcutaneous fat provides increased insulation against the cold
Cold-Induced Metabolic Adaptations – Brown fat activation is stimulated by the cold. This particular fat burns energy to produce heat, helping early humans stay warm in cold conditions without rely solely on external heat sources like fire. Modern studies indicate that cold exposure not only activates brown fat, but also increases metabolism, enhancing cold tolerance.
Development of Tools & Clothing – To combat cold, sapiens innovated sophisticated tools for cutting, sewing, and shelter building; enabling better technologies in clothing and shelter.
Improved Physical & Mental Toughness – Regular exposure to cold temperatures improve humans ability to endure physical challenges. The stress from cold stimulates the body to become more resilient, improving circulation, metabolic flexibility, and overall health through boosting immune function (stimulating white blood cell production). Surviving in uncomfortable environments also increases mental resilience and problem solving skills, honing creativity, planning, and collaboration (essential for survival in adverse conditions).
Cold Stress & Genetic Adaptations – Over generations, cold exposure drives genetic adaptations such as shorter limbs and stockier bodies. Cold also influences skin pigmentation, favoring lighter skin to optimize the production of vitamin D in low sunlight conditions.
Sapiens Are Made Of The Elements & Should Be Exposed To Them
We live in a climate controlled crisis. Modern sapiens habitat between the cushioned temperatures of 70-75 degrees independent of season. Our circulatory system no longer has the cyclic stimuli of adjusting to the high lows of night / day & winter / summer. Re-engaging the body’s amazing ability to adapt to stress through exposure of low temperatures attenuates the vascular system’s ability to dilate and constrict; increasing blood, heat, nutrient and waste motility. Modalities of cold exposure such as ice baths and cold showers, boost feelings of alertness and well being (associated with increased neurotransmitter release), while increasing heart rate and shiver response (brown fat activation).
~Cave Implementation~
Expose yourself to the discomfort of cold. Cold showers, ice baths, and moderate clothing in adverse controlled conditions activate a myriad of adaptive pathways. Find ways to be temperature uncomfortable everyday as the sapien’s body thrives when challenged. Timing and scales of temperature can be individual and based on trainable acceptance of misery. Seek uncomfortable conditions and thrive in inviting resilience
Seek Uncomfortable Conditions & Thrive In Inviting Resilience.
