LoneNomadic

The most ancient of man's symbols is the circle.  Not only does it show up in all the world's ancient cultures in one form or another, it has an even earlier genesis in the mind of the hunter-gatherer.  In its advanced forms it has been used as a teaching mechanism and as a means of organizing information; much like a memory tool.  One such advanced circle concept is the Medicine Wheel.

The Medicine Wheel is a circle symbol that originated in the Americas. It uses the four cardinal directions as a metaphor and structure for understanding the ordinary and non-ordinary world in which we live.  It can be applied in many differing ways and on a wide range of subjects.  The four directional concept of the circle can be used to gain insight into the scientific, philosophical, psychological, aesthetic and mystical laws of the universe.

The Lone Nomadic book applies the Medicine Wheel metaphor as a self-directed experiential tool for learning the details of mankind's most ardent quest, how to survive day-to-day.  The basic survival requirements:  Shelter, Water, Fire and Food.

Read excerpts of all Lone Nomadic book chapters here.

The book gives up its secrets quite quickly.  However, learning how to use the secrets takes finesse.  Humans lived as Hunter-Gatherers for over 95% of human existence.  By necessity, Hunter-Gatherers learned the survival secrets rather quickly and adapted to overcome the extremes to spread across the globe.  This way of living is encoded in our genes.

Here are a few of the book secrets:

First, develop an understanding of your basic biological requirements for sustained life; in importance order, as shelter, water, fire and food.  Each requirement is usually satisfied sequentially.  Shelter before water, water before fire, fire before food, but based on current situation and conditions.

Second, fire may actually be our very first advanced technology tool, but the most important tool we have is the knowledge used to gain control of the fire.  Knowledge is gained through study and experience. Use the three pounds of meat on your shoulders wisely in order to live and see the next sunrise.

Third, there is always a resource within throwing distance of your body that can help you survive.  Whether it is something to help build a shelter, collect water, start a fire or procure food, it is within reach.

Fourth, every changing season brings its rewards and challenges. Be prepared with knowledge and skill to confront seasonal change.

This book applies the Medicine Wheel philosophy as an ancient method of teaching and self-discovery to break down and systematize the modern phenomenon of “information overload” into its most vital parts.

Learn the complex set of knowledge and technologies contained within the natural indigenous knowledge system that is the basis for the unique survival strategy of the individual and community, and to the environment to which they belong.  The system is a complex combination of material and spiritual aspects tied to nature and location.

The concepts in this book provide the foundation for unearthing and organizing the old ways of nomadic living for individual self-directed study, instructor-based mentoring, and formulating general experiential education programs.