Dr. Tom’s Call to Adventure: An Editorial

What brought the Call to Adventure back into focus?

This September–October 2023 editorial revisits the “Call to Adventure,” reflects on self-examination and journaling, and introduces the issue’s contributors. Relative dates and personal opinions belong to that original issue.

Last issue I touched on the concept of hearing and, perhaps, answering a “Call to Adventure” … This seems to have touched a nerve, as our mail has been inundated with requests for more information. I find it interesting that this has been a topic of discussion in my Private Practice as well as in my class discussions at the University. It may be coincidence, but I think there may be a wee bit more to it…

Why did I begin questioning trusted guidance?

Through all my Professional involvements, I am keenly aware that we have all recently experienced impositions and mandates that have directly challenged our individual sense of freedom and autonomy. Formerly “trusted” sources of information and guidance have fallen short. Some were simply misguided or mistaken. Others used the fear associated with the disease as a weapon to deceive, manipulate, and outright lie. The medical community turned on itself and on each other.

As a result, many people who previously adopted a “live, and let live” attitude are now investigating things on their own. They are now paying closer attention to the half-truths and false premises being challenged daily as more and more information “leaks” out. I believe that future “crises” will be met with much more skepticism and scrutiny. I’m reminded of the rock anthem by The Who: “We won’t get fooled again”.

How might a Call to Adventure begin?

When I lecture on the Call to Adventure, I try to distill the process somewhat to make it more easily digestible. Many think the “Call” will be loud, brazen, and patently obvious. It may be for some. However, from my Private Practice, I have found it to be more subtle.

The most often reported “Call” begins with a sense of uneasiness.

It may simply begin as a conflict between what you know and what is being said. It may even present as an internal conflict between what you think and what you feel in your gut. Which one do you typically listen to…?

Regardless, this often starts a process of self-examination. From a “Shrink” perspective, just beginning an introspective journey is a step out of the “Ordinary World”. I am often asked how to begin: this is the first step.

What might paying attention reveal?

Be warned that this is not a journey for the faint-of-heart. The more you Pay Attention, the more you will notice. Perhaps the first thing you will notice is exactly how much time you waste.

How can a daily journal support reflection?

We’d like to think that we are all very busy, but that is usually a fiction. One effective way to hold yourself accountable is to keep a daily Journal. Either written or on your phone or laptop, to be effective it must be kept daily (consistent) and it needs to be brutally honest. It will serve you in several meaningful ways.

You can organize your thoughts/feelings, positive or negative, daily. You can “converse” with yourself as you write (or dictate) to begin the journey inward. You will also be able to read about your journey in the future.

Don’t rely upon your memory. It will change… Try it. Set yourself up to leave the Ordinary World… Listen carefully… Pay Attention…

What is in this issue?

But, enough about that… Let’s see what this issue has in store for us…!

We have several authors that have been researching post injury rehabilitation techniques. Alice introduces us to the exciting therapeutic field of Platelet-Rich Plasma as an alternative rehabilitation technique. Paul explores the efficacy of cold immersion and other related cryotherapies.

Jenalynn looks at the process of healing fractured bone and the relative strength of the repair. Shannon examines the entire beneficial process of rest and recovery while engaged in intense training. Linor takes us through the anatomy, mechanisms of injury, and recovery prospects associated with injuries to the Achilles Tendon.

For those of you wanting to read more about aspects of training, Jesse investigates the realities of Rapid Weight Loss (RWL) and the potential risks inherent in the process. Lucas answers some age-old questions about risks and benefits of weightlifting and strength training for adolescents and teenagers. William examines the strength training advantages from CrossFit as well as Powerlifting. Christian addresses an interesting new trend: athletes wearing masks (post-Covid) while engaging in hypoxic training.

But wait… There’s more…! Our resident entertainment expert, Anne, (inspired from a recent trip to Barcelona) explores an exciting array of tempting, healthy tapas to work into your training-table nutritional options.

Julian investigates some of the behavioral changes necessary to amend or create new habits. Alaina takes us into the increasingly accessible medical arena of hormonal replacement therapies and supplementation. Antonio explains the mystery and popularity of the Beta-Alanine flush or tingle. Alexandria takes us behind the scenes to understand the increased propensity Gymnasts unfortunately have for developing disordered eating patterns or full-blown eating disorders.

Finally, Alyssa weighs and balances the relative benefits derived from incorporating wearable fitness trackers into your personal fitness regimen.

How can we keep listening?

Be sure to pay attention… You never know where, when, or how you may be given a “Call to Adventure” … Keep the Faith and Keep Training…!

Cheers…!

-Dr. Tom