Out in the wilderness, preparation isn’t just a good idea—it’s the difference between triumph and toil. As Abraham Lincoln wisely said, “If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four sharpening the axe.” Whether it’s splitting timber or tackling life’s challenges, preparation ensures every swing lands with precision and power.
The LumberJack Way: Building Resilience
Modern life may not involve felling trees daily, but the principles of the woods still hold strong. Resilience in body, mind, and spirit requires consistent preparation. Let’s dig into how you can sharpen your metaphorical axe.
Body: Your Engine of Strength
Your body is your greatest tool, and like any tool, it requires proper care and clean fuel to perform. Prioritize organic, glyphosate-free foods to avoid harmful chemicals and bolster your health.
1. Organic Carbs: Energy with Integrity
Carbs are your fuel, but not all carbs are created equal. Choosing organic options ensures you’re avoiding glyphosate—linked to gut disruption—and nourishing your body.
• Organic Whole Grains 
:
• Quinoa
• White rice
• Steel-cut oats
• Buckwheat
• Sorghum
• Organic Starchy Veggies 
:
• Sweet potatoes
• Winter squash
• Beets
• Parsnips & Carrots
These carbs deliver steady energy, support muscle recovery, and promote a healthy gut microbiome, crucial for optimal absorption.
2. Balanced Nutrition for Power
Fuel your body with meals that balance organic carbs, clean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Protein: Grass-fed beef, wild-caught salmon, and free-range & pasture raised eggs build muscle and repair tissues.
• Fats: Organic avocado, olive oil, and beef tallow provide long-lasting energy.
To ensure maximum nutrient absorption, don’t forget Axe n' Saws Digestive Enzymes, which optimize digestion, especially for proteins and fats.
3. Organic Fruits for Quick Energy 
For quick energy boosts, reach for organic fruits:
• Bananas
• Apples
• Blueberries
• Mangoes
Packed with natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants, they’re the perfect way to refuel on the go.
Mind: Keep It Sharp 
Your axe isn’t the only thing that needs sharpening—your mind must stay focused and resilient.
1. Mindful Practices 
• Spend 5–10 minutes each morning on meditation or breathing exercises.
• Take mindful pauses throughout your day to refocus.
2. Feed Your Brain 
Just as your body needs clean fuel, your mind thrives on quality inputs. Replace doom-scrolling with books, podcasts, music, or meaningful conversations.
3. Reframe Challenges 
Every setback is a lesson. Like learning to align your axe swing, overcoming failure builds strength and wisdom.
Community: Forge Strong Connections 
Even the strongest LumberJack knows the value of a reliable crew. Life’s burdens are lighter when shared.
1. Build Meaningful Bonds 
Surround yourself with people who inspire and support your growth.
2. Lend a Hand 
Helping others not only strengthens your community but also nourishes your spirit.
3. Prioritize Self-Care 
Taking care of yourself enables you to better serve your family, friends, and community.
Gut Health: The Unsung Hero 
A healthy gut microbiome isn’t just good for digestion—it’s the foundation of nutrient absorption, immunity, and energy. Organic, glyphosate-free foods protect your gut and support beneficial bacteria.
Optimize Your Microbiome
• Probiotic Support: Incorporate The Probiotic Army to boost gut health and nutrient absorption.
• Fermented Foods: Organic sauerkraut, kimchi, fruit and kefir naturally fortify your microbiome.
• Fiber-Rich Choices: Organic beans, lentils, and vegetables feed healthy gut bacteria.
Lessons from the Forest: Facing Adversity 
Adversity is like a storm in the forest—it’ll test your roots, but with preparation, you’ll weather the worst.
1. Break It Down 
Tackle challenges one manageable piece at a time, just like splitting a log.
2. Stick to Routine 
A solid daily rhythm keeps you grounded when life gets chaotic.
3. Adapt and Overcome 
Nature thrives through adaptation, and so can you. Embrace change and evolve with the seasons.
Fred’s Final Wisdom: The Key to Resilience
Preparation isn’t just a task; it’s an investment in your future. Every disciplined action, every small step toward better nutrition, sharper focus, and stronger connections builds resilience for the storms ahead.
Take Lincoln’s wisdom to heart: Sharpen your axe first, and life’s challenges will fall like timber under your blade. With clean fuel, a clear mind, and a strong crew, you’ll not only survive—you’ll thrive.
– Fred, the LumberJack
References 
• Lincoln, A. Preparation Quotes.
• Swanson, N. L., et al. Glyphosate’s Effects on Human Health. Environmental Health Perspectives.
• Sonnenburg, J. L., et al. Gut Microbiome and Nutrition. Nature Reviews Microbiology.
• Schoenfeld, B. The Science of Strength Training.
• USDA Organic Standards.
