Rewilding: Embracing the Wild Within

In a world where technology often dominates our daily lives, the concept of rewilding has emerged as a powerful trend in health and wellness. At its core, rewilding is about reconnecting with nature and our primal instincts—learning to live more in harmony with the natural world while reclaiming the physical and mental health benefits it offers. As we navigate the hustle and bustle of modern society, rewilding provides a counterbalance, encouraging us to slow down, ground ourselves, and return to the basics.

This blog explores the fascinating world of rewilding, its growing popularity, and how you can embrace its principles to transform your life.

What is Rewilding?

Rewilding is the process of returning to nature—not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s about rediscovering ancestral practices and reconnecting with the Earth’s rhythms to create a more balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.

The movement includes:

• Walking barefoot on natural surfaces to connect with the Earth's energy (grounding).
• Eating seasonal, locally foraged foods.
• Spending time outdoors, embracing natural light and fresh air.
• Practicing primal fitness like climbing, running, or swimming in wild settings.
• Learning survival skills like building fires or crafting tools.

In short, rewilding challenges us to shed some of the comforts and habits of modern life to reconnect with our innate human nature.

Why is Rewilding Trending?

The rewilding movement is gaining momentum as people seek alternatives to modern lifestyles filled with artificial lighting, screens, and sedentary routines. The pandemic further accelerated interest, as lockdowns and remote work pushed people to rediscover the joys of being outdoors.

Several factors contribute to its popularity:

• Mental Health Awareness: Studies link time in nature to reduced anxiety, stress, and depression. Rewilding offers a direct antidote to the mental health challenges exacerbated by urban living.
• Biohacking and Wellness Trends: Rewilding fits neatly into the broader biohacking movement, which seeks to optimize health through natural, often ancient, practices.
• Celebrity Endorsements: Influential figures embracing rewilding have amplified its visibility, from NFL players practicing grounding to actors sharing their nature-inspired wellness routines.

Rewilding Practices and Techniques

There are countless ways to incorporate rewilding into your life, no matter where you live or your level of experience. Here are some popular practices:

1. Grounding (Earthing)

Walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil allows you to absorb the Earth's electrons, which may help reduce inflammation and improve sleep. NFL player Aaron Rodgers is a notable advocate of grounding, often seen walking barefoot on the field before games. This practice helps him center himself before high-pressure performances.

2. Wild Eating

Eating wild or foraged foods—like mushrooms, berries, and herbs—reconnects us to natural nutrition. Seasonal eating not only supports local ecosystems but also aligns with our biological rhythms. Chefs and wellness experts like Dan Barber have championed wild and foraged ingredients in their culinary creations.

3. Outdoor Immersion

Forest bathing (spending intentional time in wooded areas) is a Japanese practice that has become a global wellness trend. Studies show it lowers cortisol levels and blood pressure. Adventure enthusiasts like actor Chris Hemsworth have embraced rewilding through activities like hiking, cold plunges, and natural fitness.

4. Primal Fitness

Rewilding encourages movement inspired by our ancestors: running on uneven terrain, climbing trees, and swimming in rivers or lakes. Fitness trainers like Ido Portal emphasize natural movement practices that develop strength, agility, and coordination.

5. Cold Therapy

Exposing the body to cold through outdoor swims or ice baths is a cornerstone of rewilding. Advocates like Wim Hof, also known as “The Iceman,” have popularized this practice for its mental and physical health benefits, including improved circulation and stress resilience.

6. Sunlight Exposure

Modern life often deprives us of natural light. Rewilding encourages morning sunlight exposure to regulate circadian rhythms, boost mood, and enhance Vitamin D production.

The Benefits of Rewilding

Rewilding offers a wide range of benefits for body and mind. Here’s what science says:

Physical Benefits:

• Better Sleep: Grounding and sunlight exposure help regulate sleep patterns.
• Improved Fitness: Primal movement builds functional strength and endurance.
• Stronger Immunity: Time in nature boosts white blood cell activity and overall resilience.

Mental Benefits:

• Reduced Stress: Studies show time in nature reduces cortisol and fosters calm.
• Increased Focus: Natural settings restore attention and improve mental clarity.
• Enhanced Creativity: Nature inspires problem-solving and innovative thinking.

Spiritual Benefits:

• Sense of Connection: Being outdoors fosters a feeling of belonging to something greater.
• Mindfulness: Nature encourages us to slow down and live in the present moment.

Famous Figures Advocating Rewilding

Here are some celebrities and influencers who embody rewilding principles:

1. Aaron Rodgers (NFL Player): Frequently practices grounding and credits it with improving his focus and well-being.
2. Chris Hemsworth (Actor): Incorporates outdoor workouts, cold plunges, and nature-focused mindfulness into his wellness routine.
3. Laird Hamilton (Surfer): Promotes natural fitness, breathwork, and cold immersion as part of his XPT Life program.
4. Wim Hof (The Iceman): A global advocate for cold therapy, breathing techniques, and reconnecting with nature.
5. Bear Grylls (Adventurer): Popularized survival skills and primal living through his TV shows and books.
6. Mark Sisson (Author and Fitness Expert): Encourages primal living through fitness, nutrition, and spending time outdoors.

How to Start Rewilding

Rewilding doesn’t require drastic changes. Here are simple steps to begin:

1. Walk Barefoot: Spend 10 minutes each day grounding in a natural environment.
2. Go Wild with Food: Try foraging (safely) or incorporate seasonal, unprocessed foods into your diet.
3. Take Outdoor Breaks: Make time for forest walks, beach strolls, or simply sitting in a park.
4. Try Cold Therapy: Start with cold showers and work up to outdoor cold plunges.
5. Move Naturally: Incorporate primal exercises like crawling, climbing, or sprinting into your routine.

The Future of Rewilding

As people seek meaningful ways to disconnect from modern chaos and reconnect with their roots, rewilding continues to grow. It’s more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle that empowers individuals to reclaim health, purpose, and vitality.

Whether you're barefoot in the grass or plunging into icy waters, rewilding offers a path to rediscover the wild within.

Key Takeaway:

Rewilding isn’t about abandoning modern life; it’s about balancing it. By reconnecting with nature and embracing ancestral practices, we can live healthier, more vibrant lives. Take the first step—whether it’s grounding, foraging, or forest bathing—and experience the transformation for yourself.

Ready to embrace the wild? Check out our Viking-inspired wellness programs and join a growing community of rewilding enthusiasts. Let’s make the natural world your ultimate gym, sanctuary, and playground. Skål!