Native American Inspired Survival Skills
November is Native American Heritage month. It’s a time for reflection and appreciation of the cultures that forged and shaped this vast American landscape. In the fast-paced, tech-driven world we live in, we often forget the timeless wisdom that these incredible people accumulated over centuries of surviving on this continent. We understand the significance of reconnecting with these essential skills that have been crucial to humanity for generations. Join us as we explore Native American survival techniques and their relevance for continuing to thrive in the great outdoors.
The Power of Knowledge
Knowledge is your greatest asset on any outdoor adventure. It's essential to equip ourselves with survival skills that have been tried and tested over centuries. Native American survival techniques, sometimes overshadowed by modern life, offer an opportunity to reconnect with the wisdom of those who came before us. In times of crisis, knowledge is the most valuable resource. We encourage you to delve into these timeless skills to ensure your readiness.
Embracing Community
Survival is rarely a solo journey. Learning from others who share your passion for the great outdoors is essential. Seek out mentors or groups engaged in survival activities. Learning from experienced individuals is the most effective way to make survival skills a part of your repertoire. Becoming part of a community of like-minded individuals offers shared skills, access to resources, and an essential boost in psychological morale. Surviving becomes more manageable and enjoyable when you have a supportive community to rely on.
The Significance of Basic Tools
A fundamental tool for any outdoor enthusiast is a reliable knife. Native Americans recognized this and considered it the cornerstone of their survival. When selecting a survival knife, ensure it can perform these essential tasks:
- Chopping or Cutting Wood
- Carving Wood
- Hunting
- Cleaning Game
- Cutting Cords
- Climbing
- Fire Starting
- Self-Defense
Your knife should be durable, have the right shape for daily tasks, and be no longer than 5 inches. A sharp-pointed tip can serve not only for self-defense but also for hunting or as a versatile tool in the wilderness.
Consider the option of crafting your own knife. This not only deepens your connection to nature but also equips you with the knowledge of knife crafting for future needs.
The Art of Stealth
Survivalists have a profound appreciation for nature, and mastering the art of stealth can deepen that connection. Native American tribes excelled in techniques like the "Fox Walk" and "Wide-Angle Vision" to move silently and discreetly through the wilderness.
The Fox Walk
The Fox Walk is an ancient walking method that allowed Native Americans to stealthily hunt for food without being detected by their prey. It is a practice still used today not only for hunting, but to make a minimal disturbance to the environment you are walking through. Here's how to do it:
- Go barefoot or wear light shoes like moccasins to feel the ground beneath you.
- Land your foot heel-first to minimize noise.
- Roll your foot's outside to the ground, then the balls of your feet.
- When traveling in a group, use the fox walk by stepping in the footprints of the person ahead of you.
- Avoid rushing around in the wild, as it can attract unwanted attention and deplete your energy. The fox walk ensures steady and silent movement.
Wide-Angle Vision
Wide-Angle Vision is a technique long used by Native Americans that allows one to detect movement and anomalies instead of fixating on fine details directly in front. It utilizes your peripheral vision, enhancing your awareness of your surroundings. To practice wide-angle vision, look out at the horizon and allow attention to incorporate things happening in the peripheral.
By practicing wide-angle vision, you can extend your perception, conserve energy, and heighten your connection to nature.
There are countless more lessons we can derive from the wisdom of Native American tribes of past and present. Although many tribes are no longer in existence, we continue to look to them for best practices and lessons of appreciation for our outdoor spaces. We invite you to rediscover the joy of nature and the ancient wisdom of the beautiful and diverse cultures of the Americas this November.
Modern outdoor gear is designed to complement these essential skills, ensuring you're fully prepared for whatever your experiences bring. So while you’re preparing your survival skills for your next outdoor adventure, make sure you have a place for your gear as well. Our Out-About-Box™, is the perfect companion for the casual car camper and the serious survivalist. With 8 durable storage compartments of varying sizes, the Out-In-About Box™ fits perfectly in the back of a pickup truck. 