Richard's Reading Nook: Comfort Crisis
Book: Artemis The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael Easter
Genre: Non-Fiction / Health & Wellness / Self-Help
Why I Read It
I heard about The Comfort Crisis through Michael Easter's podcast, "2%." If you haven't listened to it, I'd highly recommend it. His weekly episodes cover factoids and insights on everything we run into in modern life — whether it's an "Ask Michael Anything" episode, which he describes as "an island of misfit toys," or a deep dive into the history and purpose of BMI, the podcast never disappoints. He talked about his book during the podcast and about his trip into the cold Alaskan tundra, which he wrote about more extensively in the book. It sounded like an interesting read. I wasn't wrong.
What I Got Out of It
This book aligned naturally with my other readings from Joe De Sena and the Spartan community. I am not by any means a "forsake all comfort" person, but I have added more intentional trials to my life that I believe have had a positive impact. The book reinforced something I already suspected: that we have engineered so much discomfort out of our lives that we've also engineered out a great deal of growth, resilience, and satisfaction.
3 Key Themes That Stood Out
The Value of Physical Discomfort
Our ancestors faced daily physical challenges that kept them strong and mentally sharp. Today, intentionally seeking physical discomfort — whether through endurance training, rucking, or simply pushing past the point where you want to quit — builds a resilience that carries over into every area of life. The science behind this is compelling, and it mirrors what the Spartan community has been saying for years.
After reading this book, I started rucking — walking with weight. I spent years playing soccer, then running to stay in shape because it was what I knew, then more years running to prepare for marathons and triathlons. The peace of simply walking is heavenly. Adding weight while I walk helps me get fitter while also preparing me for the times my daughter gets too tired to walk. She tires out quickly, so I get "better dad points" when those moments arise. On days when I don't feel like running, I have no issue grabbing a pack and heading out. Fun fitness.
Rethinking Hunger and Fasting
Modern society gives us constant, effortless access to food. But our bodies evolved to handle periods of scarcity. The book makes a strong case that learning to be comfortable with hunger — whether through intermittent fasting or simply not snacking out of boredom — improves metabolic health, mental clarity, and your overall relationship with food.
The Misogi
This was the concept that stuck with me most. Misogi is a Japanese practice of taking on an incredibly difficult physical challenge once a year — something so hard that there is roughly a 50% chance of failure. The purpose is to radically expand your sense of what you are capable of. This year, I planned and am preparing for my own Misogi: a Spartan Trifecta weekend — all three Spartan races completed in a single weekend. It is either going to be an eye-opener or a massive confidence builder heading into next year's Misogi. As Michael Easter says, the goal is simple: "Have fun, don't die."
A Quote to Ponder
"Nothing great in life comes with complete assurance of success."
Who It Benefits
This is an excellent read for anyone feeling stuck in a rut, overwhelmed by the ease of modern life, or looking for a science-backed push to challenge themselves physically and mentally. If you want to build resilience that translates to both your personal life and your career, The Comfort Crisis offers a compelling and entertaining blueprint.