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The Guardian
The Guardian
1y ago 41 views

Walt Whitman: The 19th Century Wellness Influencer Promoting Ice Baths and Rare Steak

This article explores how iconic American poet Walt Whitman embraced and promoted various wellness practices that resonate with contemporary health trends. Whitman advocated for ice baths, consuming rare steak, and even abstinence from masturbation, positioning him as a pioneer in the wellness movement long before it became mainstream.
Walt Whitman: The 19th Century Wellness Influencer Promoting Ice Baths and Rare Steak
A What happened
This article explores how iconic American poet Walt Whitman embraced and promoted various wellness practices that resonate with contemporary health trends. Whitman advocated for ice baths, consuming rare steak, and even abstinence from masturbation, positioning him as a pioneer in the wellness movement long before it became mainstream.

Key insights

  • 1

    Holistic Health Practices

    Whitman's practices, such as regular exercise, cold water immersion, and a protein-rich diet, emphasize a holistic approach to health that mirrors contemporary wellness trends.

  • 2

    Mental Well-being

    Aside from physical health, Whitman also focused on mental well-being, advocating for practices that would benefit both the body and the mind.

  • 3

    Modern Parallels

    The article draws parallels between Whitman's lifestyle and the advice of modern wellness influencers, suggesting that his practices were ahead of his time.

Takeaways

Walt Whitman’s lifestyle choices, detailed in the article, reveal his forward-thinking approach to health and wellness. His practices, which include ice baths, a protein-rich diet, and abstinence, align closely with modern wellness trends, highlighting his lasting influence on contemporary health culture.