What is “Primary Food” and how can it help you live healthier?
Before attending IIN, I was completely unaware of the concept of "primary food". However, once it was introduced to us, I had a sudden recollection of various moments and emotions that influenced my overall well-being, despite being unrelated to the actual food I consumed.
At IIN, over 30 years ago, the founder Joshua Rosenthal coined the term "primary food" at the beginning of his career. Primary food refers to nourishment that is not physically on your plate.
His 4 core focuses are:
Relationships
Exercise
Career
Spirituality
He teaches that when these areas are in balance, food becomes secondary.
He states “Healthy relationships, regular physical activity, a fulfilling career and a spiritual practice can fill your soul and satisfy your hunger for life.”
He suggests that primary food is much more important than secondary food. Even if you consume plenty of green smoothies and blueberries, it won't make a difference if you're not nourishing yourself holistically. You still won't feel like you’re thriving.
There is no magic solution as each person is different. This is where health coaching can assist in achieving balance and vitality in our primary food.
“Secondary foods don’t come close to giving us the joy, meaning, and fulfillment primary food provides.” Joshua Rosenthal
What is the origin of Primary Food
The idea of primary food was first introduced to Joshua during his time working at a natural food store. He observed that customers who visited the store had a strong focus on the quality of the food they consumed. However, later in the evenings, when Joshua would go to the neighboring movie theater, he noticed that friends and couples who were happily eating popcorn and drinking soda appeared to be happier and in better health than the health-conscious individuals he encountered at his store.
We probably see examples of this everyday or have a relative who lived a long and happy life, but didn’t take good care of themselves. Nutrition is very important, but there are so many other areas in life that fuel us and promote a healthy well-being.
“We hunger for play, fun, touch, romance, intimacy, love, achievement, success, art, music, self-expression, leadership, excitement, adventure, and spirituality. All these elements are essential forms of nourishment.” Joshua Rosenthal
Joshua drew inspiration from several sources, and one of them was the modern-day mystic Osho who said, “To be in romance with life is religion.”
Osho believed that when we build a healthy and nourishing life; that we are practicing the highest form of religion. His teaching were not about being apart of a specific religion, he himself did not belong to one, but instead he recognized the power of living a life you love.
Joshua teaches that a fulfilling life is created by nurturing various aspects. These include having a satisfying career, cultivating loving relationships, engaging in sustainable and uplifting exercise, and practicing mindfulness that provides comfort and rejuvenation. Osho's approach to life and religion aligns with the fundamental concept of primary food in IIN. Osho emphasized that while physical food is necessary, true happiness and balance come from leading a rewarding life.
In order to achieve a balanced primary food, it is often necessary to make daunting changes. Joshua believes that individuals should confront their fears and take action regardless. This could involve taking a bold step in their career, ending unhealthy relationships or participating in a community run.
I encourage you to reflect on fulfillment. Review the essential fundamentals of wellness to bring awareness to these areas of wellness that are important to living a healthy and happy life.
Nutrition
Self-Care
Movement
Lifestyle
Mindfulness
Enrichment
Career
Sleep
Relationships
Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.
