The dominant concept of “manliness” nowadays can trace its origins clearly and neatly back to the lumberjack days of old. The rough hands, robust beard, hardy clothing and hearty spirit all call to mind the idealized version of a 19th Century woodsman in his log cabin.
But the idea of a woodsman goes well beyond aesthetics; it is, in fact, more of a philosophy of life than a style. Resourceful and stalwart, the woodsman is as in tune with nature as he is with his emotions, which is a way of life that many modern men and women would do well to emulate.
Short of building your own log cabin though, it can be difficult to get in touch with your inner woodsman. That’s why, in the list below, you’ll find easy, accessible ways to incorporate a little of the lumberjack spirit into your daily life. Timber!
Try Axe Throwing
A pastime of the real life lumberjacks of yesteryear, axe throwing is as simple as it is fun. Basically, it centers on one objective: throw an axe and try to hit the wooden target. The techniques, mental focus and (friendly) smack talk that surround the sport are what makes it so exciting.
If you’ve never been to an axe throwing place – maybe this is one of those bachelor party ideas you haven’t tried yet – but feel that your life is missing some structured fun, then you have to see this – a community of like-minded thrill seekers that support one another and have a great time while they’re at it. That’s the woodsman spirit right there.
Camp All Year Round
Why just camp in the summer when the outdoors are out there the entire year. Sure, the weather gets chilly – sometimes even freezing – but with the right gear and the right attitude, that won’t be an issue. And if you do camp on the off-season, you’ll be rewarded with a private, serene and beautiful view of the natural world.
Be Thrifty and Handy
Part of what makes the woodsman philosophy perfect for these times is that it focuses on resourcefulness. Whereas woodsman used to make do with little because of a scarcity of resources, however, modern woodsman often do so to cut down on unnecessary waste. Instead of buying a piece of furniture from Ikea, why not salvage a perfectly good piece you find on the side of the road? These resourcefulness saves you money and reduces your carbon footprint.
Buy Clothing That Lasts
Why buy cheap clothing every year that you know will just tatter and fall apart, when you can invest in a few quality pieces of clothing? If you want to really lean into the woodsman aesthetic, go for flannel, but in truth any hardy piece of clothing will do.
Other than that, if you’re able, try growing your beard out, but make sure to keep it neat and tidy. Trim it every few days and don’t shy away from products and oils that will condition your beard and keep it looking great.
Getting in touch with your inner woodsman is about more than just looking the part. Be community-oriented, resourceful, respectful and resolute – that’s how you become a real woodsman.
