1. Knot-Tying Can you tie an Evenk Hitch or a Taut-Line Hitch to secure a ridgeline for shelter? If not, you should learn. Why it matters: • Knots save lives—literally. • Improper knots can lead to collapsed shelters or lost gear. • Mastering knots means mastering control over your environment. 2. Shelter Building Do … Read more
The threat of nuclear attack is one of the most sobering realities of modern life. While the likelihood may seem remote, history and current global tensions remind us that preparedness is not paranoia—it is prudence. Surviving such an event requires understanding the dangers, planning ahead, and acting decisively when the unthinkable happens. The Threats A … Read more
Imagine the unthinkable: a nuclear World War III. Not a distant nightmare, but a real, unfolding catastrophe. Cities vanish in seconds. Infrastructure collapses. The air becomes poison. And for those who survive the initial blast, a slower, invisible killer begins its work—radiation. If a nuclear event were to strike the United States, the aftermath would be … Read more
One of the principles I teach my students at Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute is this: I am, and always will be, a student. Take edible and medicinal plants, for example. While I’ve accumulated a substantial amount of knowledge, the learning never ends. There is no way I’ll ever master every single plant’s use on this planet—and … Read more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVcHDcrl1R0 Description: When temperatures soar, your body’s ability to regulate heat can be pushed to the limit. In this essential guide, we break down the key differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke—two heat-related illnesses that can escalate quickly if not recognized and treated. Learn how to spot early warning signs like dizziness, heavy sweating, … Read more
It’s July 1, 2025, and summer is officially here. In West Michigan, we’ve already endured two major heat waves, with temperatures soaring into the low to mid-90s. During my June 20–22 Basic 101 course, I stressed an important core principle: hydrate, stay shaded, and cool down often. I even hung a tarp over our meeting area … Read more
Back in my younger years, I had no idea I had sleep apnea. I just knew I was always exhausted, no matter how much I slept—especially when I worked third shift at a state prison. It wasn’t until my wife pointed out how badly I snored and suggested I get a sleep study done that … Read more
Wintergreen is an evergreen plant native to North America and the Eastern Woodlands. Renowned for its potent medicinal properties, this plant’s leaves and oil contain methyl salicylate—a compound with remarkable pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. Historically, Wintergreen has been used to address a wide array of ailments, including muscle pain, headaches, nerve pain, sciatica, arthritis, joint … Read more
Wheeping Forsythia Weeping Forsythia (Forsythia suspensa) is a hallmark of spring, and one of the first bloomers to catch my eye each season. I typically spot this plant alongside Snowdrops early in the year. It has been valued in traditional medicine since ancient times for its numerous health benefits. The yellow blossoms can be eaten … Read more
