Before I hit my 40s, my concept of “diet” was all about fitting into a swimsuit for summer. However, as I age—let’s be honest—my priorities have shifted. While I still consume a plethora of literature focused on nutrition, my emphasis has changed from aesthetics to health. The repetitive advice I come across—such as purchasing seasonal organic produce, navigating the grocery store’s perimeter, reading labels, and embracing clean and local eating—often feels redundant. Yet, while perusing a recent healthy-living magazine, I had an epiphany: I had learned these fundamental lessons long ago at camp when I was just 12 years old.
Unlike the idyllic summer camps depicted in movies like Parent Trap, my camp experience was quite different. It was situated on a working ranch where we slept on cots beneath the stars. Our accommodations included tarps tucked under foam mattresses, ready for quick shelter in case of rain. For bathroom breaks, we ventured to the nearest outhouse and washed our hands in a metal trough. Showers? Those were taken outdoors with water heated over a wood fire—definitely not for the faint-hearted.
Each day at camp was filled with thrilling activities—horseback riding, canoeing, swimming, and rock climbing. But we were also assigned daily chores that contributed to the ranch’s operations. The horses, rabbits, chickens, and cows needed care, and even the sustainable garden required our attention. We were expected, indeed required, to participate actively.
In today’s world filled with trendy health advice and quick-fix diets, my experiences at camp remind me of the simplicity and effectiveness of foundational principles for healthy living:
- Consume Seasonal Produce
At camp, what we harvested from the garden made its way to our meals. Weekly, I spent hours weeding and tending the plants. The fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables tasted far superior to those shipped long distances. Although I may not have the green thumb for gardening, I can still take advantage of my local farmer’s market for fresh produce. - Know Your Ingredients
The meals at camp were prepared using ingredients sourced primarily from the ranch itself. The food was straightforward yet delectable—think homemade bread and shepherd’s pie. The bread, crafted from just flour, water, and yeast, was a far cry from mass-produced options laden with unpronounceable additives. When made with care, meals are not only healthier but also more enjoyable. - Understand the Source of Your Meat
While I’m not a hunter and prefer not to witness the process of butchering, camp opened my eyes to the life cycle of the animals that provided our food. I observed the respectful treatment of animals and the significance of understanding where our meat originates. Whether or not to consume meat is a personal choice, but it’s vital to consider the ethical aspects of animal treatment. - Savor Occasional Treats
At camp, sweets were a rare indulgence, and we often found ourselves longing for the simple pleasure of fresh berries or a well-earned chocolate treat after two weeks without. This experience taught me that desserts should be enjoyed sparingly and savored fully when they do appear.
Will my grocery cart always reflect the ideal of healthy eating? Probably not. Perfection is neither realistic nor necessary. However, I fully intend to integrate the wisdom gained from my camp experience into my daily life, which will undoubtedly enhance both the healthiness and flavor of my meals.
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Summary
Incorporating fundamental healthy living principles learned from camp can greatly benefit one’s nutritional choices. Seasonal produce, understanding food sources, and treating desserts as special occasions are just a few lessons that can lead to a healthier lifestyle.