Paleo is different now than it was almost 10 years ago, and I’m still not sure the way I eat is exact Paleo (because hey, I still love my rice), but I love what it stands for. Especially how Mark Sisson describes it.
I found paleo through crossfit back in 2008. I happened to come across a cool looking photo on the front page of msn.com (remember that?!) featuring crossfit and how it was the best way to get in shape. To be honest, while getting in shape should have been alluring enough it was the barbell and the “cool” Olympic lifts that drew me in. I’ve always been open to trying new things and this seemed perfect.
I inquired at a nearby box and the first session was free so I went the next day. What I loved instantly is that the hour went by so fast! It was effective, challenging, and fun. However, if there was one criticism I had was the fact that, back then, there was no such thing as an “Elements” of “Foundations” class. They would just put you right to it without any proper training or background on form, lifts, or skill based movements. Therefore, I nearly had the dreaded rhabdo which I was THIS close to going to the ER for. Nonetheless, I’m glad current Crossfit boxes have come a long ways to get the proper training in place, and despite what happened I’m still an avid crossfitter, albeit at much lighter weights than before..
It was during this time of drinking the koolaid (oh yes, I was part of the cult following!) that I saw Primal Body, Primal Mind: Beyond the Paleo Diet for Total Health and a Longer Life
Unfortunately the Zone made me miserable and in hopes of finding something better I stumbled upon Mark’s Daily Apple and Robb Wolf’s work.
Suddenly I found myself truly understanding, for the first time, how food played a role in our daily lives.
Food wasn’t just something we ate at expected time tables, but it was a way to connect with our community through local farmers, help make a difference in our food distribution system by choosing organic, and a way to nourish our bodies with each bite.
I also loved how Mark and Robb emphasizes the fact that your body is smarter than you think. We don’t need to eat just because it’s noon, you eat when your body is signaling hunger – what a genius idea!
While it was hard to cut out gluten in the beginning, once I made the switch I noticed a change in my palette for fresh foods as well as a strong desire to know where my food comes from and whether it’s organic or not.
Don’t get me wrong, I still love to indulge at the local hole-in-the-wall Mexican joint, but for 5-6 days out of the week all 3 meals are typically home made.
I never would have guessed in a million years that working out aka crossfit would have led me down this path of eating with purposes but I am forever grateful for it. Aaaaand speaking of working out I trained at noon today after taking 4 days off (I went on a moderate hike 2 days of the 4) and I could feel what baking and testing (ok, ok, more like enjoying the finished product way too much) did to the body. Time to get back to WORK!
Love & Peace friends.