David Gu
Fjällräven Guide
Fitness coach
Photographer
As a recently certified Wim Hof Instructor and photography hobbyist, I’m constantly looking to capture people’s primal responses in harsher elements (cold exposure). I fundamentally believe our nervous systems are the most robust when it is exposed to shorter amounts of intense stress while also having a nourishing dose of recovery. This healthy stress can be found in nature and adventure which makes my current residence of Vancouver an ideal place to thrive. My passion for using and sharing the Wim Hof method as a means to optimize health comes from a 18 year journey with Ankylosing Spondylitis, a painful auto-immune condition. Seeing my dad’s spine fuse into a hunched back position while living most of his life in debilitating pain and chronic fatigue drove me to find solutions to live a higher quality of life. I spent time training with Wim in Spain, Poland, and in his home in the Netherlands. This journey would ultimately completely change my relationship with health and nature. I’ve seen many others who have experienced profound benefits and it’s something I feel strongly called to share. I also work as a Kinesiologist/Trainer. My niche clientele are those with nervous system related issues or those with chronic pain who have struggled in the past with traditional exercise routines. I’m always looking to connect with others in adventure, training or photography, so please reach out if you’re ever passing through!
David
- What aspect of being in nature is most important to you?
- Tell us about your favorite adventure
- Who do you enjoy spending the day out with?
- Share a podcast/article/book/movie that you have enjoyed lately
- Do you have any favorite quote or words of wisdom that you often use or like specifically
I love the yin and yang balance nature can bring. It can be the most calming environment while also being a playground for the most intense human endeavors. You can almost always find what you're looking for in nature.
A cabin ski trip or a cozy Tofino surf trip always take priority when planning a getaway from the city.
There's a small crew of our childhood friends from Ontario who I spend most of my time with. I've also picked up some beauties along the way during my time out West who have been adopted to the family.
Re-watched Hunt for The Wilderpeople recently which is always a wholesome time.
Eat Rice and Be Nice!