An Introduction to Bushcraft: The Forgotten Art

The forest holds a special place in my heart. Its beauty and provision paired with its power and unforgiving nature can make the wilderness a powerful friend or a bitter enemy. This is where knowledge and respect for all things wild become critical variables. This is where bushcraft becomes a necessity.

Let me start by saying bushcraft is not survival. Survival implies unintentionally exposing yourself to the elements of nature through a series of unfortunate events that leads to a negative, cruel and ill-prepared wilderness experience. Bushcraft is just the opposite. Bushcraft is intentionally exposing yourself to the elements of nature, prepared and armed with knowledge for the sole purpose of learning, meditating, relaxing and growing. It is an art and skill set that is unfortunately increasingly hard to find in our sleek, modern and fast paced society.

Allow me to give you a little background on myself. I am a clean cut young professional in a highly competitive business climate. I attend college and work in a thriving and bustling urban environment, however I was raised and still reside in the country or "the sticks". I was taught from a young age the basics of survival, utilizing the provisions of nature and respecting the natural balance of the wild from my father. In a nutshell, I am an educated, intelligent, clean cut bushman. I am a beardless caveman

In mathematics, the term "Constant" refers to a value that does not change. Bushcraft is my constant. It's relieving to me to know that no matter how stressful, hectic or chaotic my busy urban life can get, Bushcraft never changes. A spark starts a fire, a fire provides warmth. A blade builds a shelter, a shelter provides safety. A plant that is edible provides me with strength. A stream gives me water and keeps me refreshed. These basic elements of bushcraft are my constants, they provide a clear understanding of how simple life really can be. This blog will take you into the art of bushcraft and give you an understanding of its basic elements.