What Doesn't Kill Us by Scott Carney

Last updated: Sep 22, 2023

Summary of What Doesn't Kill Us by Scott Carney

"What Doesn't Kill Us" by Scott Carney is a book that explores the concept of human adaptation to extreme environments and the potential benefits of exposing ourselves to discomfort. Carney, an investigative journalist, delves into the world of extreme athletes and trainers who push the boundaries of what the human body is capable of.

The book begins with Carney's skepticism towards the claims made by Wim Hof, a Dutchman known as "The Iceman" who has achieved remarkable feats such as climbing Mount Everest in shorts and running marathons barefoot in the Arctic. Carney decides to investigate Hof's methods and travels to Poland to participate in one of his training camps.

Carney learns that Hof's techniques involve a combination of cold exposure, breathing exercises, and meditation. Through these practices, Hof claims to be able to control his body temperature and immune response, allowing him to withstand extreme cold and resist illness. Carney is initially skeptical but decides to put Hof's methods to the test.

Carney undergoes a series of challenges, including climbing a snowy mountain in shorts and swimming in freezing water. He discovers that by following Hof's techniques, he is able to endure the cold much better than he expected. Carney also explores the science behind these practices, interviewing experts in the fields of physiology and neuroscience.

Throughout the book, Carney delves into the history of human adaptation to extreme environments, looking at how our ancestors survived in harsh conditions. He also examines the modern lifestyle and how our comfort-seeking behaviors may be detrimental to our health and well-being.

Carney concludes that exposing ourselves to discomfort and challenging our bodies can have numerous benefits, including improved physical and mental resilience. He argues that our modern lifestyle has made us too comfortable and that by embracing discomfort, we can tap into our innate abilities to adapt and thrive.

"What Doesn't Kill Us" is a thought-provoking book that challenges conventional wisdom about the limits of human potential. Carney's personal experiences and scientific research provide a compelling argument for the benefits of pushing our bodies and minds beyond their comfort zones.

1. The Power of Cold Exposure

In the book, Carney explores the concept of cold exposure and its impact on the human body. He delves into the practices of Wim Hof, also known as "The Iceman," who has developed a method of using cold exposure to improve physical and mental well-being. Carney explains that exposing the body to cold temperatures can activate the body's natural mechanisms for generating heat, increasing metabolism, and boosting the immune system.

By regularly subjecting oneself to cold exposure, individuals can potentially improve their resilience to stress, increase energy levels, and enhance overall health. Carney's exploration of this topic provides actionable insights for readers who may be interested in incorporating cold exposure techniques into their daily routines, such as taking cold showers or immersing themselves in cold water.

2. The Mind-Body Connection

Carney delves into the fascinating connection between the mind and body, highlighting the power of the mind to influence physical performance and endurance. He explores the concept of the placebo effect and how beliefs and expectations can shape our experiences and outcomes.

By understanding the mind-body connection, individuals can harness the power of their thoughts and beliefs to improve their physical abilities and overcome challenges. Carney's insights provide readers with actionable steps to cultivate a positive mindset, visualize success, and tap into the untapped potential of the mind-body connection.

3. The Importance of Breath Control

Carney explores the significance of breath control and its impact on various aspects of our lives, including stress management, focus, and overall well-being. He delves into the practices of Wim Hof, who emphasizes the power of conscious breathing techniques to regulate the body's response to stress and enhance performance.

By incorporating breath control exercises into our daily routines, we can learn to manage stress more effectively, improve mental clarity, and boost our overall health. Carney's book offers practical guidance on breath control techniques that readers can easily implement, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing and breath-holding exercises.

4. Embracing Discomfort

Carney explores the idea of embracing discomfort as a means of personal growth and resilience. He discusses how stepping outside of our comfort zones and exposing ourselves to challenging situations can lead to profound transformations.

By intentionally seeking out discomfort, individuals can develop mental and physical resilience, expand their comfort zones, and unlock their full potential. Carney's insights provide actionable steps for readers to embrace discomfort in their lives, such as trying new activities, facing fears, and pushing through self-imposed limitations.

5. The Benefits of Nature Immersion

Carney highlights the importance of immersing ourselves in nature and reconnecting with the natural world. He explores the concept of "nature deficit disorder" and how our modern lifestyles have disconnected us from the healing and rejuvenating powers of nature.

By spending time in nature, whether it's hiking in the mountains or simply taking a walk in the park, individuals can experience numerous benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, and enhanced creativity. Carney's book offers actionable insights on how to incorporate nature immersion into our daily lives, such as spending time outdoors, practicing mindfulness in nature, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

6. The Role of Mindset in Overcoming Challenges

Carney explores the power of mindset in overcoming challenges and achieving extraordinary feats. He shares stories of individuals who have pushed their limits and accomplished seemingly impossible tasks through sheer determination and a strong belief in their abilities.

By adopting a growth mindset, individuals can overcome self-doubt, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and achieve remarkable results. Carney's book provides actionable insights on how to cultivate a growth mindset, such as reframing failures as learning experiences, setting ambitious goals, and surrounding oneself with supportive and like-minded individuals.

7. The Impact of Environmental Factors on Health

Carney delves into the influence of environmental factors on our health and well-being. He explores the concept of hormesis, which suggests that exposure to mild stressors can actually enhance our resilience and improve overall health.

By understanding the role of environmental factors, such as temperature, altitude, and exposure to natural elements, individuals can optimize their health and well-being. Carney's book offers actionable insights on how to incorporate environmental factors into our daily lives, such as spending time in nature, seeking out challenging environments, and embracing the healing powers of natural elements.

8. The Importance of Mindful Movement

Carney emphasizes the significance of mindful movement and its impact on our physical and mental well-being. He explores various movement practices, such as yoga and martial arts, that promote mindfulness, body awareness, and overall vitality.

By incorporating mindful movement into our daily routines, individuals can improve flexibility, strength, and balance, while also cultivating a deeper connection between the mind and body. Carney's book provides actionable insights on how to incorporate mindful movement practices into our lives, such as practicing yoga, tai chi, or simply engaging in activities that require focused attention and body awareness.