The book is divided into two parts. The first part recounts Frankl's harrowing experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz, between 1942 and 1945. He describes the inhumane conditions and the psychological and emotional struggles of the prisoners. The second part introduces Frankl's theory of logotherapy, which posits that the primary human drive is the search for meaning, rather than pleasure. Frankl argues that meaning can be found through three main avenues: work (doing something significant), love (caring for another), and suffering (finding meaning in one's own suffering). The book emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life, even in the most adverse conditions, as a key factor in survival and personal growth.
In 'The Denial of Death', Ernest Becker discusses the psychological and philosophical implications of how people and cultures react to the concept of death. He argues that human civilization is a defense mechanism against the knowledge of our mortality, and that this denial is a necessary component of functioning in the world. Becker's work challenges traditional Freudian thought by positing that the primary repression is not sexuality, but rather the awareness of death. He also explores how this fear of death leads to the creation of 'hero systems' and symbols that help individuals transcend their mortality, and how this can result in violence and conflict when different immortality projects clash[2][5][4].
This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.
Convict Conditioning is a strength training book that emphasizes the use of bodyweight exercises to build functional strength and overall fitness. The book outlines a system of six core exercises (the 'Big 6': squat, pullup, leg raise, bridge, pushup, and handstand pushup) each broken down into 10 progressive steps. This progression allows individuals to start at any level and work towards mastery. The author critiques modern gym culture, advocating for a focus on strength and function rather than appearance. The book also includes discussions on the importance of proper form, safety, and the integration of mobility work into the training regimen[2][4][5].
In this profoundly moving memoir, Paul Kalanithi chronicles his transformation from a medical student to a neurosurgeon at Stanford, and finally to a patient confronting his own mortality. Diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at 36, Kalanithi grapples with fundamental philosophical questions about what makes a life worth living in the face of death. The book is a reflection on the challenge of facing death and the relationship between doctor and patient, written with eloquence and intelligence. Kalanithi's writing delves into his lifelong love of literature and his attempt to connect the sciences and humanities to gain a greater understanding of humanity.
This book explores hunting as a spiritual practice, integrating indigenous traditions and plant medicines. It offers a journey of self-discovery and healing, encouraging readers to reconnect with nature and themselves. Mansal Denton shares his personal transformation and insights gained through his experiences.
BenGreenfieldFitness.com/sacredhuntingpodcast
My guest on this podcast, Mansal Denton, also known as "Little Beaver", is the founder of Sacred Hunting, host of the Mansal Denton Podcast, and the subject of an upcoming documentary BELOW THE DROP, which explores our relationship to life and death through hunting.
Feeling insecure in early life, he chased a woman to Europe, which led him to prison. Struggling with shame and confusion of what it meant to be a man, he found his calling with the sacred art of hunting. He now desires to share this practice with more men.
His indigenous name comes from a Crow Sun Dance chief. His spiritual lineage is derived from six years of mentorship from a Muskogee/Creek medicine man named Will "Star Heart".
What is Sacred Hunting? A practice that leads us back to our origins. A reminder that, for our ancestors, obtaining the food that sustains life was a spiritual act involving bloodshed. A reconnection to nature and the earth that gave us birth. An opportunity for connection and tribal brotherhood. A transformative encounter with death.
Mansal Denton, like the men he leads on wilderness quests, was raised in a culture alienated from its sources of nourishment and sustenance. A youthful indiscretion that led to a prison cell fundamentally altered his life’s trajectory. Here, he shows the power and vitality that the hunt can bring into men’s lives in this perilous time, when rites of passage are notably absent. Sacred Hunting brings the richness of his hunting experience, and that of the men whose journeys he facilitates, into inspirational focus.
During our discussion, you'll discover:
-How a stint in the clink became a rite of passage for Mansal...
-Ben's preferred style of hunting and why...
-When the hunt took on its sacred form for Mansal...
-An insider's look at the sacred hunting experience...
-Why it's especially empowering that sacred hunts occur with men only...
-How plant medicines can enhance the hunt...
-What occurs after the animal is killed...
-And much more...
Episode sponsors:
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Personal Peak Performance Summit -Kion Clean Protein
-Lucy Nicotine Gum
-Seed Daily Synbiotic
Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Mansal Denton or me? Leave your comments at https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/sacredhuntingpodcast and one of us will reply!
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Boundless Life 
