Unlocking The Code To A Healthier Life
In my twenties and early thirties, I was living what many would consider a dream life in Thailand and Bali.
My Wife and I met in Phuket, Thailand 2013
It seemed like paradise, with a vibrant social life, endless adventures, and every day feeling like a holiday.
I had the exotic job, a circle of free-spirited friends, and a tropical lifestyle to match.
My physique was chiseled for the white sands and trendy beach clubs.
The days transitioned into magical evenings, with saxophone sunsets and slow-rising sky lanterns.
Life was incredible, and I managed to balance work, parties, and fitness with what seemed like perfection.
But there was a catch.
Our Favourite Balinese Beach Club
Amid the sunshine and carefree moments, I was trapped in a punishing exercise regime and was making destructive health choices.
I genuinely thought that missing even a day or two at the gym would result in unwanted fat gain and muscle loss.
My belief system was harsh and placed a heavy burden on how I lived.
I overindulged in alcohol and smoked until I reached thirty, a fact that would surprise those who know me well today.
While I looked lean and muscular, my immune system was in shambles.
I experienced burnout, physical soreness, and recurring injuries.
Even a common cold could turn into bronchitis, and once, it escalated into pneumonia.
I’d push through high-intensity workouts while coughing, convinced that I could “sweat it out” and feel better later.
Tropical Expat Night Cats
I never gave my immune system a chance to recover from the relentless abuse I subjected it to.
I distanced myself from healthy fat foods I loved, such as meat and fowl with crispy skin, avocados, dark chocolate, and more, out of fear that a single bite would make me gain weight.
Then in contrast, I’d consume sugary cocktails and beers without a second thought.
My go-to snacks were processed and far from nourishing.
I relied on caffeine or taurine drinks to keep me going throughout the day and night.
My sleep patterns were erratic, like a DJ with a day job.
I struggled with brain fog, low energy, and motivation, especially concerning anything outside my structured “training time.”
While I performed in the gym, basic everyday movements were stiff and uncomfortable.
I lived this way for nearly fifteen years.
What was my motivation for such extreme behaviour?
The desire to look good, feel confident, and be socially accepted, much like anyone who hits the gym or ties up their running trainers.
But was there a deeper reason?
Absolutely.
My teenage years were far from typical.
My father was the headmaster of the school I attended, and while he was well-respected, he was also somewhat overweight.
This led to occasional teasing from other kids, and it hurt me maybe more than I realised.
Program installed – never become overweight.
My journey, however, shaped who I am today and provided a solid fitness foundation that still benefits me.
I have no doubts it has significantly contributed to my health span and biological age.
I used to be a highly trained as a sugar burner, capable of impressive 10K runs, but I wasn’t the fat burner I thought I was.
I was carbohydrate-dependent, grappling with “hanger” throughout the day.
My understanding of overtraining risks was poor, and my knowledge of diet and metabolism even worse.
But change was inevitable, and it occurred organically as I entered my thirties.
I overcame smoking, and the regular evenings submerged in social drinking gradually faded away.
It then all clicked when I read two books; “Sapiens” and “The Primal Blueprint”.
I realised that my previous rationale for relentless cardio and my beliefs about eating were way off the mark.
So I underwent a significant shift in my approach to how to feel good about myself, one that leaned more towards “less-is-more” when it comes to high-intensity, too.
I distanced myself from the “no pain, no gain” mentality that youthfulness can do an impressive job to tolerate.
I delved deep into self-growth material, sought mentorship, and explored holistic wellness teachings.
I experimented with various dietary approaches, meal timing, and fasting.
I no longer start my day with a chore-like thought process about any exercise I “have” to do .
I continue to train enthusiastically, but with a flexible mindset guided by my intuition.
This promotes more energy and generally feeling awesome, many more days in the year.
Life has really become so much more enjoyable.
- I’ve never felt more energy and my bronchitis episodes are a distant memory.
- I look younger and vibrant, even in winter without the tan!
- I can now go on holiday with a clear conscious about time out of the gym.
- I have a wonderful relationship with food that enables effortless (year-round) body composition.
- I have more time to be present with my wife and kids.
- I feel more athletically rounded than in my twenties, and I’m in my forties!
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I’m here to help men with this priceless knowledge.
To change their lives!