The Human Animal

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Keywords

Resilience – Autonomic Nervous System – Nature – Martial Arts – Human Biology 

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled Frank Forencich, an internationally recognised leader in health and performance education with black belt rankings in karate and aikido talks about the autonomic nervous system and its influence on our health and performance, as well as our relationship with the natural world.

Frank introduces two African concepts: ubuntu, which refers to social identity and group membership, and biophilia, which is an innate love for nature, and he discusses the concept of biophilia and its importance for humans to connect with nature in order to thrive. The conversation also touches upon the importance of debate and dialogue in resolving conflicts, using examples from martial arts such as Aikido where opponents harmonise with each other's movements rather than fight against them.

Frank shares the importance of meditation, relaxation, exercise, and sleep for overall health. He also talks about his book 'The Enemy is Never Wrong' which is aimed at educating young activists on strategies and tactics for making a difference in the world. He emphasises the need to approach activism as medicine, as it can have positive effects on mental health and well-being.

Main topics

  • The study of human history and how people perceive the world.

  • How to turn on the autonomic nervous system at the appropriate moment to avoid chronic stress.

  • How martial arts develop the whole person and help people understand the environment to take appropriate action.

  • The importance of education and not criticising the enemy

  • The need for engagement to improve people’s health.

  • The lost art of conversation and verbal dexterity and the importance of harmony in martial arts to avoid conflict.

  • The value of sleep.

Timestamps

1: Introduction and Background. The host introduces the guest, Frank Forencich, and asks about his background in martial arts and human biology. - 00:00-01:10

2: Martial Arts and Philosophy. Frank talks about how martial arts is about understanding the world and taking appropriate action, and how this philosophy is present in Eastern culture and philosophy - 01:10-06:17

3: Ecology and Understanding Our Place in the World. Frank discusses the importance of understanding our place in the natural world and how modern ecological science is telling us this story - 06:17-09:34

4: Human Animal and Physiology. Frank explains why he uses the term "human animal" and how it relates to his background in human biology and physiology - 09:34-12:56

5: The Enemy is Never Wrong. Frank talks about his book, which is written for young activists, and emphasises the importance of being fluid and adaptable in conflict situations - 12:56-18:29

6: Engaging in the World. Frank discusses the importance of engagement and how it can improve our health and verbal dexterity - 18:29-23:04

7: Dialogue and Debate. Frank talks about the lost art of conversation and how dialogue is more effective than debate in conflict situations - 23:04-27:18.

8: Conclusion - 27:18-28:40

Action items

Check out Frank's website at https://www.exuberantanimal.com or get social with him on Facebook  | Twitter His book is The Enemy is Never Wrong: Martial Art, Activism, and the Fight for a Functional Future.

 You can listen to the podcast in full and find out further information here. Our upcoming guest list is also available along with our previous blogs.
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