Step Into the Wild: New Year, New Misogis

Happy New Year, League!

A couple of years ago, I mentioned in a year-end book review that if any book covered our Wild Gym ethos, it would be Michael Easter’s “The Comfort Crisis.” It’s an excellent read if you haven’t read it yet. He also discusses the concept of Misogi – doing something that challenges you and pushes you out of your comfort zone in an epic way.

For me, this is usually a physical pursuit, such as a backpacking trip. However, I also strive for mini-Misogis by seeking new experiences throughout the year. These mini-Misogis don't challenge my body like an epic backpacking adventure, but they are equally valuable for expanding my world and my imagination of what I am capable of. 

We live in a small town of just over 3,000 people. While I love it here, it can feel limiting when it comes to new experiences. We don’t have museums, music festivals, or 15-screen theaters like larger cities do. We often have to drive 250 miles to Minneapolis just to see a concert. But we have an amazing community of creators and artists, and I’ve been expanding my life to include some of those experiences. They enhance my connection to other people, allow a new appreciation for the talents of others, and encourage new perspectives. 

New Activities I've Tried
Years ago, I saw a poster in our grocery store offering a unique opportunity for a weekend retreat with a Buddhist monk. It involved spending 3 days in a stranger’s home with a group of people I didn’t know. Signing up for something like this was much more out of my comfort zone than a backpacking trip. When I walked in the door, I didn't know a single person. But it was a wonderful, life-changing experience. I made new friends and tried new foods. I learned about others' beliefs and cultures, and I met a Tibetan monk, who is of the happiest, most down-to-earth people I’ve ever known. 

Over the years, I’ve become a Master Naturalist, taken writing classes, and attended art events, all of which pushed me out of my comfort zone. Most recently, I signed up for a class at our local folk school. They teach traditional skills such as blacksmithing, ethnic cooking, herbalism, wood carving, jewelry making, and many other subjects. Once again, I met an unexpected group of kindred spirits. I was surprised that half of the group had traveled from Minneapolis to attend the 3-hour class. I would never have known these opportunities existed in our little town if I hadn't been looking. 

No matter where you live, opportunities for new experiences likely exist in places you aren’t aware of. We often believe that we must travel or otherwise spend a lot money. However, there are likely people and places in your own neighborhood that can help you grow, learn new things, or see the world in a different way.

It’s easy for me to engage in difficult physical pursuits. Sign me up for long walks, backpacking trips, heavy lifting, or power yoga. They are definitely hard, but they are still within my comfort zone because I have been doing them my whole life. For me, stepping out of my comfort zone is about exploring new social opportunities or learning a new skill in front of strangers. Those experiences are where I've grown the most. 

The Misogi mindset doesn’t have to be limited to physical pursuits. It should, in my opinion, zero in on the concept that Dan often talks about: “Expand your imagination of what is possible!” 

Have a wild weekend! 
-Kim