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8 Ways to Party – and Keep it Paleo

It’s that time of year again where the party season is in full flow. It’s a time where everyone should be in good spirits, surrounding themselves with great food, music, and most importantly, great company. It can sometimes be a bit of a challenge to stay on track with your Paleo lifestyle at this time of the year, especially if your family and friends aren’t as conscious about their health as you are. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways that you can stay on your path to better health, whilst not missing out on any of the enjoyment of the holiday season.

1. Be careful at the buffet

This one is self explanatory, but if you’re at a social event hosted by a non Paleo friend or family, the chances are the buffet table will be laden with gluten, sugar, and countless additives. If you’re hungry and don’t want to miss out on the social connection of eating with friends, head straight for the crudités. Filling your plate with crunchy raw vegetables will help you stay sociable and have a full plate at the same time. You may be lucky and find some nice meats, hard boiled eggs, and maybe even some salted nuts. Just watch out for anything swimming in sauce, as its most probably ‘enhanced’ with sugar and some kind of thickening agent.

Sometimes it can come across rude asking ‘can you check the ingredients in that?’ or ‘are those sausages gluten free?’ – so it’s best to stick to the food you know will be safe. If you’re really concerned there will be nothing for you to eat, tip number 2 is something worth bearing in mind.

2. Eat before you leave

If you don’t want to risk being gluten bombed at the buffet, I’d recommend eating a good meal before you leave. It might mean changing around your meal times slightly, but it’s much better to leave the house knowing you have eaten well, rather than fret about the lack of healthy options when you arrive. If there is anything suitable for you, then hey, it’s a bonus!

3. Experiment with IF

If you’ve never tried Intermittent Fasting before, now could be as good a time as ever. If you’re going to be travelling to visit relatives, or at long events where there may be a lack of good food options, why not try incorporating a 12 – 24 hour fast into your day?

4. Paleo cocktails

If you’re at a social event where the drinks are flowing, you may be presented with a lack of options. If you want to stay alcohol free, there are plenty of great non alcoholic cocktails you can make. Equally, a sparkling water with some ice and a wedge of lime is refreshing and looks sociable.

If you want to treat yourself to a drink or two, do so. You deserve it. Just stay away from the beer and high sugar mixers if you can. Your best choices would be red or white wine, but if you’re in the mood for spirits, look towards cocktails made with tequila or rum. Try and mix them with low sugar options like sparkling water or vegetable based juices to avoid blood sugar crashes. Dark rum and coconut water is incredibly refreshing, and the electrolytes in the coconut water will counteract the dehydrating effect of the alcohol.

5. Throw your own

If you really can’t face a non Paleo party, why not throw your own instead? You don’t have to make a big fuss about the health benefits of your food – simply serve up lots of tasty meat, veggies, and Paleo friendly drinks and nibbles. You’ll be able to spend good quality time with your friends and family, whilst being able to enjoy clean, wholesome food at the same time. Chances are, they’ll be none the wiser either!

6. Take advantage of the extra free time with long walks

We know how important it is to move often, so try and incorporate a good amount of movement into your day where you can. If you can’t get to a gym, you can’t beat a long walk with friends or family. Alternatively, head to your local park in the morning for a few sprints and pull ups using tree branches. You’ll have some extra free time (hopefully!) so put it to good use with a bit of exercise every day.

7. Sleep well

Again, take advantage of the extra free time and focus on getting some good quality sleep. Aim for at least 8 hours a night, and as you have no work to set an alarm for, wake up when the sun wakes up to reset your circadian rhythm.

8. Don’t worry too much!

Last but not least, if you do fall off track, don’t beat yourself up about it. Wake up the next morning, and get back on the Paleo wagon. After all, you have eaten healthily for the other 364 days of the year – we’re all entitled to ‘off’ days every now and then. Simply put it to the back of your mind and move on. The most important thing about this time of the year is the people you spend it with, and a bit of a slip up every now and then won’t hurt you.

Given the popularity of this post, I've updated it with a few more ideas1

9. Be the One Who Brings a Dish

If you're attending a gathering at someone else’s home, offer to bring a dish or two. Not only is it a thoughtful gesture, but it ensures there’s at least one Paleo-safe option for you to enjoy. A colourful salad with roasted pumpkin and toasted seeds, devilled eggs with avocado mayo, or slow-cooked pulled pork are all crowd-pleasers that won't raise any eyebrows. Bringing your own also lets you showcase how delicious clean, wholefood-based eating can be – even at a festive event.

10. Smart Snacking Between Events

Party season often means multiple events in a week, sometimes even in one day. Having Paleo-friendly snacks on hand can help keep you full and fuelled without needing to rely on whatever’s available. Pre-prepare trail mix with activated nuts and coconut flakes, keep boiled eggs or jerky in the fridge, or blend up a quick green smoothie before heading out. These small wins make it easier to stick to your goals without stressing over every menu.

11. Watch Out for Hidden Sugars

During the holidays, sugar has a sneaky way of turning up in foods you'd least expect. Roasted nuts may be glazed, “healthy” dips could be loaded with sweeteners, and sauces – especially chutneys or dressings – often contain honey, agave, or worse. When in doubt, stick with whole, recognisable ingredients. A piece of grilled meat, plain veggies, or a handful of fresh berries is far less likely to trip you up than a dish where the ingredient list is a mystery.

12. Choose Mindful Indulgences

Being Paleo isn’t about rigid perfection – it’s about making intentional choices. If there’s a once-a-year dessert that you absolutely love and look forward to, enjoy it mindfully, without guilt. Savour each bite and be present in the experience. You’ll be more satisfied with less, and far less likely to spiral into a sugar binge. Choosing indulgences consciously rather than impulsively is what helps you maintain balance and joy throughout the season.

13. Stay Hydrated – Really Hydrated

With all the salty snacks, alcohol, travel, and late nights, it’s incredibly easy to get dehydrated during the party season. Make it a habit to start your day with a glass of water and continue drinking throughout the day. Herbal teas like peppermint, rooibos, or ginger are also great hydrating choices with added digestive benefits. Add a pinch of Himalayan salt or a splash of coconut water if you're sweating more or drinking alcohol – your body will thank you.

14. Set a Daily Non-Negotiable

Rather than expecting yourself to stick to a perfect routine over the holidays, choose one or two “non-negotiables” that you’ll commit to daily – no matter what. This might be a short morning stretch, a five-minute gratitude practice, a Paleo breakfast, or simply avoiding grains. These small habits help anchor your day and provide consistency, even when everything else feels out of sync.

15. Lean on Your Support System

If you’ve got friends or family who also eat Paleo or follow a similar lifestyle, now is the time to check in. Share recipes, swap survival strategies, or organise a group walk or workout together. Having someone in your corner who understands what you’re aiming for can make all the difference in staying on track – and enjoying yourself while doing it.

16. Use the Time to Reflect and Reset

With the year coming to a close, the festive season is also a perfect opportunity to reflect on your progress, wins, and what you want to improve. Think about what has worked for you with your Paleo lifestyle this year. Did you discover new recipes? Overcome a plateau? Feel more in control of your health? Use this clarity to set simple, achievable intentions for the coming months. You might even start planning a January Whole30 or a 7-day Paleo reset challenge to kick-start the new year.

17. Let Go of All-or-Nothing Thinking

Remember, every choice doesn’t have to be perfect to make a difference. If your lunch was off-plan, it doesn’t mean the whole day – or week – is ruined. Just come back to your next meal, next drink, or next moment and make a choice that supports your goals. Resilience and consistency are far more powerful than perfection, especially during a season that’s known for indulgence.

With a little preparation and a lot of self-compassion, you can absolutely enjoy the festive season while still honouring your health goals. Celebrate the wins, enjoy the moments, and don’t forget – it’s what you do most of the time that counts.

Happy Thanksgiving paleo recipes turkey healthy

Happy Thanksgiving from The Paleo Network

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With a lot of my readers being American, I couldn’t ignore the fact that today is Thanksgiving in the USA. So if you’re American – Happy Thanksgiving – and if not – how about having your own international Thanksgiving day? It’s often quite hard to get hold of Turkey where I live in Australia, but I find it a little easier to obtain at this time of year, thanks to the American Expats who live here!

If you are celebrating Thanksgiving, how can you accommodate your guests while still keeping it Paleo? Fortunately there are several options out there that will be great for everyone, using a few substitutions to the traditional Thanksgiving menu.

Substitution Ideas For Traditional (Non Paleo!) Thanksgiving Recipes:

Substituting bread crumbs. A lot of recipes will ask for bread crumbs when you are cooking. A good alternative to bread crumbs is crushed up pork crackling/ pork rinds. Just crush them to the same consistency as you would bread crumbs – or alternatively try ground nuts.

Instead of sugar, if you can, try to omit entirely. If you can’t, try a more natural sweetener, like raw honey.

Substitute starch with spaghetti squash, butternut squash, or acorn squash.

If you’re primal/ dairy free and your recipe needs butter; try using nut oils or coconut butter instead. Replace cow’s milk with coconut milk.

If you are planning on making a salad use a natural dressing like olive oil and lemon or lime.

If you’re making a dessert, a recipe may call for whipped cream. An alternative to whipped cream is chilled coconut milk – both healthy and delicious.

Instead of making a traditional desert, keep it simple with berries in coconut milk.

Cooking for a group of family and friends is a great chance to show case your Paleo diet – and show that eating healthy food does not sacrifice amazing tasting food.

Paleo Thanksgiving Menu Ideas

If you’re putting together a full Paleo-friendly Thanksgiving feast, there are plenty of ways to stay true to tradition without compromising on health. The key is to focus on whole, seasonal ingredients and natural flavours that don’t rely on processed shortcuts. Whether you're preparing a small gathering or a larger festive table, here are a few menu ideas to inspire your Thanksgiving celebration:

Starter: Roasted butternut squash soup with a swirl of coconut cream and fresh herbs.
Main: Herb-roasted turkey with garlic, rosemary, lemon and a side of rich homemade pan juices (no packet gravy here!).
Stuffing: Ditch the bread and make a delicious stuffing with pork sausage, mushrooms, celery, onion, herbs, and chopped walnuts.
Sides: Try roasted brussels sprouts with crispy bacon, or mashed cauliflower with garlic and ghee as a creamy alternative to potatoes.
Dessert: Baked cinnamon apples with chopped pecans, or a pumpkin custard made with coconut milk, eggs, cinnamon and nutmeg.

By creating a festive menu from clean, whole ingredients, you’ll impress even the non-paleo guests at the table — and avoid the heavy food coma that often follows a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Entertaining Guests with Dietary Differences

Hosting Thanksgiving can be tricky when your guests have different dietary preferences or health considerations. Fortunately, many Paleo dishes are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free and grain-free, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. If you’re accommodating vegetarians or people with nut allergies, consider serving a few additional dishes, such as a hearty roast vegetable medley or a coconut milk-based soup without added nuts.

It’s helpful to label dishes or let guests know which options are Paleo, nut-free, or dairy-free. If someone offers to bring a dish, encourage them to focus on a simple wholefood recipe. A fresh salad, baked sweet potatoes or a fruit platter are safe bets and pair well with most holiday menus.

Making the Day More Meaningful

Beyond the food, Thanksgiving is a chance to slow down, reflect and reconnect with loved ones. Take a moment during your meal to express gratitude — whether that’s by going around the table sharing one thing you’re thankful for, or simply acknowledging the effort that went into preparing the meal.

Gratitude is a powerful practice with many health benefits. Studies have linked regular gratitude expression with improved mental health, better sleep, stronger relationships and a more resilient immune system. Consider keeping a gratitude journal or making this simple practice a daily habit, especially as the year winds down and the festive season ramps up.

Keeping Your Energy Balanced

One of the lesser-discussed challenges of holidays like Thanksgiving is how tiring they can be — physically and emotionally. Planning ahead can make a huge difference. If you’re hosting, prepare as much as possible in advance. Roasting veggies or baking your dessert the day before frees you up to enjoy the day with your guests. Choose dishes that can be made in one tray or pot to cut down on washing up.

If you're a guest, offer to bring a paleo-friendly dish so you know there's at least one thing you can enjoy. And try to carve out a little time in the morning for movement or quiet reflection — even a 10-minute walk or a cup of tea outdoors can help you stay grounded and energised throughout the day.

Leftovers the Paleo Way

One of the best parts of Thanksgiving? The leftovers. With a bit of creativity, you can repurpose them into completely new meals that stay within your Paleo template. Here are a few ideas:

Turkey hash: Combine chopped turkey with sweet potato, onion, and spinach for a quick breakfast hash.
Stuffing-stuffed capsicums: Use leftover grain-free stuffing to fill halved capsicums and roast them for an easy lunch.
Bone broth: Simmer the turkey carcass with veggies, herbs and apple cider vinegar for a deeply nourishing broth.
Salads: Add chopped roast turkey to a bed of leafy greens, avocado, and roasted pumpkin, topped with olive oil and lemon.

Freezing some of the leftovers in small portions is a great way to stock your freezer with quick Paleo meals for busy days.

Creating New Traditions

If you’re not American, Thanksgiving can still be a meaningful occasion to gather with friends or family and reflect on the year. Starting a tradition of your own — like an annual gratitude meal, a nature walk, or even cooking something seasonal with loved ones — helps build deeper connections and creates special memories.

For Australian readers, this time of year is ideal for celebrating abundance. Local produce like mangoes, avocado, zucchini, and fresh herbs are in season, and the longer days offer more time for outdoor activities and alfresco dining. Embrace the opportunity to create a celebration that blends Paleo principles with your local environment and culture.

Final Thoughts on a Paleo Thanksgiving

Whether you're an American celebrating the holiday or simply using it as an excuse to bring people together, Thanksgiving can easily fit into a Paleo lifestyle. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can prepare a festive meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Use this opportunity to showcase how good Paleo food can taste, share your love of whole foods, and maybe even inspire someone at your table to rethink their own food choices.

So go ahead — roast that turkey, pile your plate high with greens and root veg, and give thanks for real food, real connections, and real health. Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is a time to share thanks for the blessings in your life – a worthwhile thing to do if you’re American or not. Are you celebrating Thanksgiving this year?

Happy Halloween from The Paleo Network!

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Do you celebrate Halloween? Like so many festivals, Halloween is heavily linked with trashy food. If you are interested in ways to have a great Halloween while still following a healthy Paleo lifestyle then read on, because I have some great ideas to help you have a fun holiday.

One of the things to keep in mind with Halloween is that it’s all about spending time with family and friends and having a good time – rather than the treats you can and cannot eat. I know that Halloween is a big “treat” holiday, but there are plenty of other things you can focus on to have a good time.

As far as trick-or-treating goes, you can still have fun and do that; however you want to focus on the social fun traditional aspect of it, rather than the end result of candy. Take your family out and have fun. You can have a lot of fun creating unique costumes and so this is your chance to go out and show them off. At the end of the night you can spend time with your family and make your own tasty paleo treats. Some parents offer their kids a buy back scheme – to offer cash or another reward in exchange for the junk they collected.

I was really impressed to see how one father enabled his son to join in the fun – whilst avoiding the sugar filled junk normally given to trick or treaters – see the photo below. Would you try something like this?

You can make some great Paleo friendly treats to enjoy. Try spiced nuts, jerky and kale chips instead of sweets and candy.

When you buy pumpkins to carve, make sure you save the inners to make a huge batch of pumpkin soup. You can use the carved pumpkins to serve dips for veggies, instead of plain bowls.

Well there you have it! Here are some ideas for you to make the most out of your Halloween. Just remember to not focus on what the world tends to focus on, which is the sweets, lollies and candy. Focus on having a fun time with friends and family and prepare some Paleo friendly snacks in advance.

Creative Paleo Halloween Treats for All Ages

One of the best parts of Halloween is getting creative in the kitchen. You don’t need processed sugar or artificial colours to make festive and exciting treats. In fact, some of the best paleo-friendly options are made from whole foods and can be just as fun and delicious. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Mini stuffed peppers: Carve mini capsicums like mini jack-o’-lanterns and stuff them with guacamole or mashed sweet potato.
Banana ghosts: Halve bananas, use cacao nibs for eyes, and freeze them on sticks for a fun ghostly snack.
Apple monster mouths: Slice apples into wedges, spread with almond butter, and sandwich together with sunflower seeds or slivered almonds as teeth.
Pumpkin bliss balls: Blend dates, pumpkin puree, coconut, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to form soft, no-bake truffle balls.

These snacks are fun to assemble and even more fun to eat. They're perfect if you're hosting a Halloween party and want to offer nourishing food that still fits the spooky theme.

Low-Sugar and Non-Food Trick-or-Treat Options

When planning for trick-or-treaters, think outside the lolly bag. There are plenty of options that won’t compromise your paleo values, and they’ll stand out to kids and parents alike as a fun alternative. Here are a few ideas to consider handing out:

Mini boxes of raisins or freeze-dried fruit
Stickers, glow sticks, or temporary tattoos
Pencils, erasers, or small colouring booklets
Bouncy balls, marbles or mini puzzles
Homemade trail mix packed in fun paper bags (if distributing to known families)

Not only do these ideas align with a healthier lifestyle, but they also accommodate children with allergies or sensitivities. If you're part of a neighbourhood group, consider discussing a low-sugar or allergy-friendly Halloween plan with other local families. It’s a great way to create a supportive community vibe around the event.

Making Halloween Decorations Paleo-Inspired

It’s not just about food — getting into the Halloween spirit can involve crafting and decorating with nature-inspired materials. Incorporating autumnal elements like leaves, pumpkins, twigs, and dried orange slices gives your home a festive touch without relying on plastic and synthetic decor. Here are some simple ideas:

Spooky mason jar lanterns: Paint jars with natural pigments or wrap them in cheesecloth to resemble ghosts, then light with beeswax tea lights.
Gourd garlands: Thread small decorative gourds onto natural twine and hang them across your front porch or mantle.
Pumpkin serving bowls: Hollow out small pumpkins and use them to serve dips, nuts or fresh veggie sticks.

These decorations add an organic and earthy vibe to your Halloween and can be composted or reused once the season ends — staying in line with a more sustainable, mindful lifestyle.

Staying Active with Halloween Games and Traditions

Keeping kids and adults alike active and engaged is a great way to balance out Halloween indulgences. Instead of focusing on what not to eat, shift the emphasis to movement and play. Here are some active Halloween traditions that require no sugar at all:

Scavenger hunts: Set up a Halloween-themed treasure hunt with clues hidden around your home or garden.
Costume parade: Get everyone dressed up and go for a walk around your neighbourhood to show off costumes without the focus on collecting sweets.
Pumpkin bowling: Use mini pumpkins and toilet paper rolls decorated as ghosts to create a fun backyard bowling game.
Obstacle course: Create a Halloween-themed obstacle course using cushions, brooms, and garden tools for a fun challenge.

These games help kids associate Halloween with fun, connection and creativity rather than just sugar highs and hyperactivity.

Planning a Paleo Halloween Gathering

If you prefer to avoid trick-or-treating altogether, hosting a small Halloween gathering is a fantastic way to control the environment and menu while still making the night magical. Invite friends or neighbours and get everyone involved with Paleo-friendly food contributions, costume contests and themed games. Ideas to try:

A pumpkin carving station with prizes for most creative designs
A paleo potluck where everyone brings a spooky-themed dish
Storytime with ghost tales or Halloween-themed books for kids
Face painting or DIY costume accessories using craft supplies

This kind of celebration puts the focus on community, creativity and shared experiences — all values that align perfectly with a paleo mindset.

Final Thoughts on a Paleo Halloween

Halloween doesn’t have to be synonymous with processed sweets and artificial colours. With just a little preparation and creativity, you can fully enjoy the festivities while sticking to your healthy lifestyle. Whether it's making fun treats with real ingredients, crafting homemade decorations, or encouraging non-food traditions, Paleo and Halloween are completely compatible.

The most important thing is to reframe the celebration — from a candy-centred holiday to one focused on fun, creativity and togetherness. Your kids won’t remember the number of lollies they received, but they will remember the pumpkin soup you made together, the costumes you helped them create, and the laughs shared playing games or carving pumpkins.

So light some candles, get your costume ready, and start some new traditions. A healthy Halloween is a happy Halloween!

Do you do anything for Halloween? How do you keep it Paleo?

Paleo-events-online-summits-conferences-psychology-of-eating-lectures-webinar-min

Free Paleo & Health Events This Week

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Ever given much thought to the Psychology of Eating?

It’s time for a whole new understanding of our relationship with food, with this weeks free online Psychology of Eating event.

Obesity, overeating, body image concerns, emotional challenges with food, and diet-related health issues are with us more than ever. People have abundant access to nutrition facts and information, but need to search long and hard for true healing wisdom.

It’s time for an approach that honors all of who we are as eaters – body, mind, heart and soul. Get inspired by speakers from a variety of disciplines who have something unique and innovative to share.

Some topics include:

A Deeper Dive into Body Image
Neuroscience and Personal Change
A Holistic Approach to Eating Disorders
The Healing Power of Embodiment
Mindfulness based approaches to overeating
Sexuality and the Psychology of Eating
New insights into Weight
Culture, emotional health and metabolism
Hormones, Eating and Inner Health
The Gut-Psychology Connection
Spirituality and Nutrition
The Hidden Politics of Food
New Approaches to Nutritional Health
And much more…

Dates: July 21 – 26
Price: FREE
Where: Online!
Find Out More Here: https://paleo.com.au/Eating-Psychology

Also…

The Functional Health Summit is another free online event that has been running for the last few days – but there are still two days left.

In this event 39 leading experts in functional medicine, nutrition, exercise physiology, dentistry, immunology/allergy, psychiatry, mind-body medicine, endocrinology, gastroenterology, and much, much more share their knowledge in a way that you can understand and implement.

The Functional Health Summit Will Teach You–

Why weight loss is never a one size fits all approach
Why your gut status is the key to restoring health
How to prevent disease before it happens
How medications can cause Leaky Gut
The common myths the food industry helps perpetuate
Why using an environmental dentist is crucial to oral health
Why everything you thought you knew about exercise is wrong

The schedule for the last two days:

Tuesday July 22 – Foods and Eating

• Kathy Smart – Change What You Eat, Change Your Life
• Dr. Jonathan Tait – How Eating the Wrong Food Can Cause Arthritis and Chronic Pain
• Ymis Barroeta – The Future of Food: Clean Eating Without Toxins
• Dr. Russell Jaffe – Food and Chemicals: A Hidden Cause of Disease

Wednesday July 23 – Aging Well

• John Rowley – Power of positive fitness
• Dan Ritchie, PhD – Exercises to Improve Your Balance, Mobility and Agility at Any Age
• Dr. Jeffrey Moss – Sarcopenia: How Age-Related Muscle Loss Contributes to Chronic Health Issues
• Dr. John Brimhall – 6 Steps to Maintaining Wellness At Any Age

Dates: July 14 – 23
Price: FREE
Where: Online!
Find Out More Here: https://paleo.com.au/Functional-Health

So even if you can only spare half an hour this week, check out these two free events – you never know, it could change your life!

7 Ways to Keep it Paleo While Travelling

Whether it’s a holiday, a business trip, or just visiting friends and family, sometimes it can be difficult staying on track with your Paleo lifestyle when you’re travelling. We've all been in a situation at one time or another where we've been faced with food, sleep, or exercise difficulties when away from home – the important thing, however, is how you deal with them. Thankfully, with some proper planning, it’s easier than you may think to stay true to how you want to live when travelling.

1. Get an Esky/ cool box

If you’re going on a road trip, or even if you just travel for long hours in your work days, investing in a good quality Esky (cool box) is a no brainer. Fill it with ice, and it becomes a great place to store pre prepared salads, meats, hard boiled eggs, fruits and veggies when on the go. Plan your meals in advance so you’re not caught hungry, and stash them all in your cooler to stay fresh.

2. Bring travel safe snacks

If you don’t have access to a cool box or refrigerator, bring food that travels well. Packets of nuts, seeds, jerky, cans of tuna and whole fresh fruits are good options. Even home made fruit and nut bars are good if you’re hungry. If in doubt, bring extra – you can always share or simply take them home again. Make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

3. Cooking Facilities

Whenever I travel now, I always aim to stay somewhere with cooking facilities – even if the standard isn't brilliant, a small fridge, a hob and a couple of pans can be life savers when you’re on holiday. Aim to stay with friends, relatives, or go self catering. Even some hotels have mini kitchens in the rooms these days, so try and book a room where you have the facilities to cook for yourself. Don’t forget to bring along your coconut oil!

4. Stock up on food whenever possible

When you’re in a new place, you never know when you might run out of options to get your hands on some good quality, fresh food. That’s why, when the chance comes along, its important you take advantage and stock up on as much as you can carry. If you come across a small butchers or farmers market, and you have the time available, fill your boots!

5. Research the area

If you are planning on eating out a lot when you’re away, it would be a good idea to do some research on the area before you leave. Check out the local restaurants and see if they have any choices on the menu that are suitable. If needs be, call them in advance and let them know your requirements – the chances are, they’ll be more than happy to help.

6. Intermittent Fasting

If it’s just a short trip, why not take it as an opportunity to experiment with intermittent fasting? You could do a 12, 24, or even 48 hour fast. This is an especially good technique when you’re on a long haul flight and don’t want to face the prospect of reheated aeroplane food.

7. Spontaneous Exercise

You’ll struggle to follow your usual training plan when you’re away, but that’s ok. When the opportunity presents itself, engage in some spontaneous exercise. Throw a few sprints into your day, go for long walks, swim in the sea – any little bit of activity you can squeeze in while you’re away will make you feel much better.

I’d love to know how you keep Paleo when travelling! Do you have any tips or tricks that I may have missed?

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Your Paleo Christmas Menu Plan

What are you cooking this Christmas? Are you going with a traditional menu, or perhaps you're serving up something completely alternative?

It can be hard to stick to your good Paleo intentions over Christmas – particularly if you’re having to cater for lots of relatives, who perhaps don’t follow a healthy lifestyle like you do.

Traditional Christmas recipes are often full of the dangerous white stuff – sugar. How can you take the sugar out of the equation, without taking the fun away too?

Sarah Wilson has got a great festive ebook, to go along with her “I Quit Sugar” series. The “I Quit Sugar Christmas Meal Plan” contains three entire, step by step, Christmas meal plans that you can follow, or mix and match. There is a big buffet menu, a sugar free version of the traditional Christmas menu – as well as a summer barbeque menu for those of us celebrating from the Southern Hemisphere. The meal plans are organised to be made in advance, leaving the big day itself a lot less stressful!

The book also features a leftovers menu (we know we all end up with enough food to last the rest of the year!), homemade sugar free gifts (much better than buying gifts), cheat dishes, fermented recipes (great for your gut health) and bonus recipes from other bloggers (including Gwyneth Paltrow).

If you want to check out the Christmas Meal Plan ebook, you can find it here.

What are your menu plans this Christmas? I’d love to hear what you’re organising, so please share in the comments below!

Planning a Paleo-Friendly Christmas Feast

Whether you're keeping things simple or going all out with a multi-course banquet, there are plenty of ways to keep your Christmas meal delicious and nourishing without straying from your Paleo goals. With just a little forward planning and creativity, you can create a festive menu that celebrates the season without leaving you feeling bloated or sluggish.

Entrées and Starters

Instead of the usual bread-heavy platters or sugary nibbles, why not begin with light, fresh appetisers that complement the main event? Think:

Prawns with garlic and lime: A classic Australian Christmas starter, grilled prawns tossed in garlic, lime juice, and olive oil always impress.
Stuffed mushrooms: Fill button mushrooms with a mix of almond meal, herbs, and chopped veggies for a satisfying bite.
Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus: These are quick to assemble, look elegant on a platter, and pair beautifully with a glass of sparkling mineral water with lime.

The Main Event

For the main course, there’s no need to rely on sugar-laden glazes or breadcrumb-heavy stuffing. A perfectly cooked piece of meat, paired with seasonal veggies, can be a showstopper. Some Paleo-friendly main dish ideas include:

Herb-crusted lamb shoulder: Rubbed with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil and slow roasted until tender.
Stuffed turkey breast: Rolled with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts for a festive, nutrient-dense twist.
Grilled salmon with a macadamia crust: A nod to summer with heart-healthy fats and vibrant flavours.

Side Dishes to Shine

Forget soggy bread stuffing and syrupy sweet potato casseroles. Fresh, seasonal produce can more than hold its own on the Christmas table:

Roasted vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, pumpkin, and Brussels sprouts tossed in coconut oil and herbs makes a colourful side.
Cauliflower mash: A silky smooth alternative to mashed potatoes, especially with garlic and ghee.
Grain-free stuffing: Use a base of almond meal, celery, onions, and herbs, baked in a dish or inside your roast.

Don’t Forget the Sauce

What’s Christmas without gravy? Skip the flour-based roux and thicken your gravy naturally using a reduction method or arrowroot flour. Cranberry sauce can also be made Paleo by using fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of raw honey or stevia instead of sugar. These little adjustments can make a big difference without sacrificing flavour.

Delightful Desserts Without the Guilt

This is where things can get tricky — traditional Christmas desserts are often loaded with processed sugar, flour, and dairy. Fortunately, Paleo dessert options are just as festive and indulgent, minus the crash:

Paleo Christmas pudding: Made with almond meal, dates, eggs, and plenty of spices for that unmistakable holiday flavour.
Chocolate avocado mousse: A decadent but nourishing dessert topped with berries and coconut cream.
Coconut flour shortbread: Perfect with a post-lunch tea or coffee alternative.

Drinks That Keep You on Track

It’s easy to overdo it with drinks at Christmas — but many festive beverages are full of hidden sugars and additives. If you’re looking to keep things Paleo, try offering:

Infused sparkling water: Think combinations like cucumber and mint or lime and basil.
Kombucha: A great gut-friendly alternative that still feels celebratory.
Paleo eggnog: Made with coconut milk, egg yolks, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla.

If you do choose to indulge in alcohol, opt for dry red wine or clear spirits with soda and fresh citrus — and alternate each drink with a glass of water to stay hydrated.

Festive Food Prep Tips

To reduce stress on the day and avoid falling into convenience traps, consider these simple ideas:

Prep in stages: Chop veggies and make sauces the day before.
Double your recipes: That way, you’ll have enough leftovers to avoid cooking for a few days afterwards.
Delegate: If you’re hosting, assign family members or guests dishes to bring — just give them a Paleo-friendly brief.

Making Peace with Holiday Eating

Remember, one of the joys of Christmas is connection and celebration. If you end up having a few non-Paleo bites, don't beat yourself up. Mindful indulgence is very different from mindless binging. Focus on the company, the conversation, and the experience — not just the food. The key is to make intentional choices rather than reacting out of habit or pressure.

Gifting the Paleo Way

If you're exchanging gifts this year, why not share your healthy lifestyle with those you love? Some ideas include:

Jars of homemade spice rubs or dukkah
Paleo cookies in festive packaging
DIY bath salts or natural beauty products
Beautifully wrapped raw chocolate truffles

These gifts are thoughtful, personal, and far healthier than mass-produced options from the shops.

Enjoy a Joyful, Nourishing Christmas

At the end of the day, Christmas is about celebration, gratitude, and time with loved ones. By planning ahead, preparing wholesome alternatives, and staying connected to your intentions, you can enjoy a festive season that feels just as joyful — without the food coma or post-holiday regret. Wishing you a beautiful and nourishing Christmas!

What’s on your Paleo Christmas menu this year? Share your ideas and inspiration below — I’d love to hear how you're making the season delicious and healthy.

Sexy back summit sean croxton underground wellness

What You’ll Learn at the SexyBack Summit

If you enjoyed the Paleo Summit, or last year's Real Food Summit, you’ll be excited to hear about this year’s summit. This year, it’s all about natural sexual health, with Sean Croxton’s FREE SexyBack Summit!

Instead of solving problems with pills, the SexyBack summit is going to explore natural ways of solving sexual health related issues. For women, issues like PMS, frequent UTIs, yeast infections, fertility, or even a non-existent libido will be addresses – and for men low testosterone, high estrogen, E.D. and a dwindling sex drive will be explored. Balancing hormones, nutrition and fitness are all going to be covered. As people are reluctant to talk about a lot of these issues, they don’t seek help and let these issues remain needlessly. Well, not anymore!

If you missed out on last year’s presentations, here’s how the summit works… Sean has put together 24 presentations (videos you can watch at home, with slideshows). The talks are hosted by all different experts, including by Chris Kresser, Dr. Sara Gottfried, Paul Check, Jane Bennett, Dave Asprey, Alisa Vitti, Elliot Hulse and Dr. Jen Landa. From the first day of the summit on the 19th of May, until the last day on the 26th of May, there will be three to four new videos everyday. The videos are free for you to watch for 24 hours, before they’re replaced with the next days scheduled videos. So you can watch the entire event – and all 24 presentations – completely free of charge!

If you want to reserve your free spot on the SexyBack summit, just click here to register! You’ll also get access to some (free) advanced videos that are showing now.

Why Sexual Health Deserves a Natural Approach

Sexual health is often treated as a taboo topic, yet it plays a vital role in our overall wellbeing. When hormones are imbalanced, or stress levels are high, libido and fertility are often the first things to suffer. While mainstream solutions tend to involve pharmaceutical interventions, the SexyBack Summit shines a light on more natural, sustainable ways to restore sexual vitality for both men and women. And it's about more than just intimacy — it's about energy, confidence, sleep, hormonal harmony, and long-term reproductive health.

Modern life places heavy demands on our bodies. Poor food choices, lack of sleep, overtraining, and environmental toxins all contribute to hormonal disruption. When you pair that with the tendency to avoid talking about sexual concerns, it’s easy to see why so many people suffer in silence. The SexyBack Summit creates a safe and empowering space to change that narrative.

What You’ll Learn at the SexyBack Summit

This summit covers a wide range of topics that address the root causes of sexual health challenges. With a line-up of respected speakers from integrative health, fitness, and nutritional backgrounds, the event is packed with actionable, real-world advice. Some of the key themes include:

How nutrition directly impacts testosterone, estrogen, and libido
Natural strategies for overcoming PMS, PCOS, and fertility struggles
How chronic stress and cortisol imbalances undermine sexual health
The link between gut health, inflammation, and hormone disruption
Safe biohacking tools to support natural libido and vitality
Fitness strategies that boost sexual performance without exhausting your body

Unlike the quick fixes promoted by the pharmaceutical industry, these sessions are focused on root-cause solutions — which is exactly what Paleo and ancestral health are all about.

Expert Speakers Bringing the Science to Life

The summit features some of the most forward-thinking names in the health world. Whether you're familiar with the presenters or just getting started, you're sure to gain new insights from their personal approaches and practical tips.

Chris Kresser: Brings his deep expertise in functional medicine to explore the nutritional roots of hormone imbalances.
Dr. Sara Gottfried: A Harvard-trained gynaecologist who offers a holistic approach to female hormones and libido.
Dave Asprey: Known for his work in performance and biohacking, he shares tools for boosting energy, drive, and focus naturally.
Paul Chek: An expert in integrative health and movement, offering insights on how physical strength and mental clarity impact sexuality.
Alisa Vitti: Author of “WomanCode”, discussing practical ways to sync your diet and exercise with your menstrual cycle for better energy and libido.

Whether you're interested in the science of hormones, the psychology of intimacy, or the physical practices that support a thriving sex life, there’s a session designed to meet you where you’re at.

Designed for Both Men and Women

Many events on sexual health are gender-specific, but the SexyBack Summit takes a refreshing, inclusive approach. While some talks are tailored specifically for men or women, the underlying principles of hormone regulation, stress resilience, and real-food nutrition apply universally.

For women, topics like oestrogen dominance, adrenal fatigue, and cyclical energy patterns are explained with practical tips for reclaiming vitality. For men, there are powerful insights into optimising testosterone, improving cardiovascular fitness, and managing modern-day stress without burning out.

How the Summit Format Works

The summit runs from the 19th to the 26th of May. Each day, three to four expert-led video presentations will be released. You’ll have a full 24 hours to view each session for free before the next set of videos becomes available. This rolling schedule ensures you’re never overwhelmed, and you can absorb the content at your own pace, from the comfort of home.

There’s also a library of bonus preview videos available right now when you register, so you can start diving into the content even before the summit officially begins.

Why This Matters for the Paleo Community

The principles of Paleo — ancestral health, clean nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management — are all deeply intertwined with sexual wellbeing. When you nourish your body with whole foods, balance your circadian rhythms, and move intentionally, hormone function improves. The SexyBack Summit reinforces and expands on these ideas, helping attendees refine their approach for optimal hormonal health.

Whether you’re dealing with specific symptoms or just curious about optimising your energy and wellbeing, this summit is a natural extension of the Paleo lifestyle. It’s empowering, evidence-based, and designed to spark conversations about topics that too often stay hidden.

It’s Free — But Only for a Limited Time

Because the summit is free to attend in real time, it’s worth registering even if you’re not sure how many sessions you’ll get to. You can watch as many or as few as you like each day — and if a particular topic resonates with you, you’ll have the option to purchase lifetime access later on. But the best value is to watch as much as you can during the free window.

Whether you’re tuning in to better understand your hormones, support a partner, or simply take proactive steps towards better health, the SexyBack Summit is an invaluable resource. There’s never been a better time to learn, explore, and reconnect — naturally.

Secure Your Free Spot Now

Ready to explore what natural sexual health really means? Register now to get access to the full SexyBack Summit, including all 24 expert presentations and the early bonus videos. Empower yourself with knowledge, and take the next step toward a healthier, more vibrant you.

And if you do tune in, I’d love to hear which presentations stood out to you. Leave a comment and let’s keep the conversation going — it’s time to put these important topics back on the table.

paleo events in australia sydney melbourne brisbane new zealand which going to-min

Which Paleo Event Are You Going To Next?

Having been to many Paleo events, and being involved in some of the Paleo meetup groups, I highly recommend putting some events into your calendar!

When you eat differently to your friends and family, an evening out with like minded people can make all the difference in terms of encouragement and support. I also find local events are the best way to find out about places to eat – and where other locals buy their Paleo supplies from.

Head over to the brand new What's On page, where you'll find all of the Paleo events going on where you live – and around the World. Some events are definitely worth travelling for!

Stunning drone shot courtesy of Flying Glass, Australia's top drone cinematography company based in Sydney.

The best way to attend Paleo events is to sign up to a meetup group in your area. If there isn't a meetup group yet, then it's easy to create your own (and if you do, please come back and tell me about it, so I can add your events to the Paleo calendar!)

There are so many events scheduled now. From big, formal conferences, lectures and symposiums – to small casual after work dinners, in local Paleo friendly restaurants, there is something for everyone. Our local Sydney Paleo meetup group has organised barbecues, picnics, pot lucks and dinners. The Melbourne group have regular classes to teach you how to make your owned fermented foods. As Paleo continues to get more and more popular, we should see even more Paleo events in the calendar.

The Paleo Calendar features all of the events in Australia (there are now ten Paleo meet-up groups in the country, at least one in every state!), New Zealand (Auckland and Wellington), the UK (London, Birmingham & Milton Keynes), Canada (Toronto) and of course America (there are LOTS of events and meetup groups in the USA!). If I'm missing your event or meetup group, please let me know!

Are you a member of a Paleo meetup group? What type of Paleo events would you like to attend – and which events have you been to so far?

Why Attending Paleo Events Is So Valuable

It’s one thing to follow a Paleo lifestyle on your own — but connecting with others who share your passion for real food and optimal health can take your commitment to the next level. Whether you're new to Paleo or a seasoned ancestral eater, surrounding yourself with like-minded people can offer fresh ideas, renewed motivation, and a real sense of community that simply can’t be replicated online.

At in-person events, you’ll find people who understand your perspective, share tips and stories, and offer practical support. If you’re feeling isolated or challenged by unsupportive friends or family, even a short evening meetup can be just what you need to feel re-energised and inspired.

The Types of Paleo Events to Look Out For

The Paleo calendar is packed with an incredible variety of events to suit every interest and schedule. Here are some of the most popular formats:

Picnics and Potlucks: A relaxed, social setting where everyone brings a Paleo-friendly dish to share. It’s a fantastic way to discover new recipes and try dishes you might not cook yourself.
Cooking Workshops: Learn practical skills like fermenting, batch cooking, bone broth preparation, and Paleo baking. These are especially popular in cities like Melbourne and Auckland.
Dinner Meetups: Meet after work at a local Paleo-friendly restaurant to chat and connect. Many groups choose venues that are willing to adapt to dietary needs.
Guest Speakers and Seminars: Learn from experts in the fields of nutrition, movement, stress, and ancestral health. These events often attract larger crowds and offer opportunities for Q&A and networking.
Fitness-Focused Events: CrossFit throwdowns, nature hikes, yoga in the park — it’s not all about food! Movement is a key part of Paleo, and some groups combine workouts with shared meals or recovery activities.

Travel-Worthy Paleo Conferences

Some Paleo events are so content-rich and well-produced that they’re worth travelling for. Annual conferences often bring together top names in the ancestral health world for several days of presentations, panel discussions, cooking demos, and social events. Previous conferences have featured talks from leading experts on topics like gut health, autoimmune recovery, evolutionary fitness, fasting, and hormone optimisation.

Attending one of these larger events gives you the chance to meet Paleo advocates from around the world, browse natural product stalls, and participate in immersive learning experiences. If you’ve been craving deeper knowledge or want to broaden your perspective, these conferences deliver real value.

Making the Most of Your Local Paleo Community

If you're lucky enough to have a meetup group nearby, make the effort to attend a few events — especially the casual ones. You’ll likely find that everyone is welcoming, whether you’ve been Paleo for years or just started eliminating gluten last week. These events aren't about perfection; they’re about shared goals, good food, and encouragement.

Don’t hesitate to bring a friend or partner, even if they don’t follow a Paleo diet. Many people become curious (and supportive!) after attending a single event and tasting how good real food can be. Plus, it can help bridge the gap between your lifestyle and your social circle.

Starting a Paleo Meetup Group in Your Area

No meetup group in your town yet? Why not be the one to start it? It’s easier than you might think. Begin by creating a group on Meetup.com, Facebook, or even through your local community centre or gym. Start small — a coffee catch-up or weekend walk — and see where it leads.

People are often just waiting for someone else to make the first move. Once word spreads, you may be surprised by how many others are eager to connect and contribute. If you do launch a new group, be sure to let me know so I can add your events to the Paleo calendar and help you attract more members.

Tips for Hosting a Successful Paleo Event

If you’re organising an event — whether it’s your first or your fiftieth — here are a few ideas to make it a hit:

Choose a theme: A specific focus (like gut health, fermented foods, or primal movement) makes events more engaging and educational.
Create a welcome space: Make sure new attendees feel included. Nametags, introductions, and icebreakers can help ease nerves.
Ask for input: Let your members suggest topics, venues, or formats. The more involved people feel, the more likely they are to show up and contribute.
Use social media: Share photos, success stories, and upcoming event details to create excitement and grow your community.
Keep it simple: You don’t need to plan a full-on seminar every time. A walk, a meal, or a coffee meet-up is enough to bring people together.

Why Paleo Events Are More Important Than Ever

In a world that often normalises fast food, sedentary routines, and chronic stress, connecting with others who value a different way of living is deeply motivating. These events offer more than just conversation and recipes — they reinforce the belief that health, vitality, and real food are worth prioritising.

Whether you attend a casual beach picnic, join a local kombucha brewing workshop, or fly interstate for a weekend conference, every event helps expand the Paleo movement — and makes this way of living more visible, accessible, and supportive for others on the path.

What’s Coming Up Near You?

Head over to the What’s On page now to see what’s happening near you — or wherever your next trip takes you. With events listed across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Canada, and the USA, you’ll always find something exciting on the horizon.

And remember: Paleo isn’t just about what’s on your plate. It’s about connection, community, and building a life that supports true wellness. So go ahead — block out a date in your calendar, invite a friend, and come along to your next local event. You might just find your tribe.

PrimalCon 2013

I’m just back from a fantastic Paleo trip to America (Jet Lag is most definitely not Paleo). A couple of weeks after PaleoFX in Austin, Texas, I made my way to Oxnard, California, for my third year at Mark Sisson’s PrimalCon weekend. Unlike the Ancestral Health Symposium, or PaleoFX, PrimalCon is a hands on practical weekend. As well as hearing about all things Paleo – the focus is on doing.

With relatively small numbers of attendees – and lots of different presenters, there’s a chance to meet and speak to everyone. There are lots of regulars, who attend each year, but it was also great to meet so many new faces – as well as some others from Australia and the UK!

With Kelly Starrett and the Gokhale family, there were several session on posture, mobility – and the correct way to stand and move to avoid injury. Whilst these sessions were completely different, it was interesting that their methods and ideas are completely complimentary – hardly surprising as they’re based on how we’re supposed to move.

Another highlight of PrimalCon for me was finally meeting Sarah Fragoso of Everyday Paleo – who really is every bit as lovely and knowledgeable in real life as she is on her podcast!

Chef Rachel Albert gave another fantastic cooking demonstration. It’s amazing how many simple tips I pick up each year, despite being a regular in the kitchen myself!

I also loved William Vives Kettlebell session and as usual, learnt lots of new techniques that I can’t wait to practice at my Crossfit box. There were a few other fitness sessions too, such as barefoot running and sprinting techniques – and I especially loved the Olympic Lifting session – I can’t wait to master that!

As always, the food was absolutely fantastic. A local Paleo food truck (so jealous we don’t have those in Sydney!) provided a lot of the catering, and there was such a huge variety of grass fed meats, burgers, salads, veggies, nut butter – and an amazing coconut bark! It’s so nice to be able to dive into all of the food on offer, without even having to ask what is in the meatball sauce. You just know it’s 100% Paleo!

What would you most enjoy about an event like PrimalCon? The people, food or particular activities?

Why You Should Put a Hands-On Paleo Retreat Like PrimalCon on Your Bucket List

After attending several Paleo-themed conferences over the years, there’s something uniquely special about immersive events like PrimalCon. Unlike more academic gatherings that focus on lectures and research, PrimalCon invites you to live and breathe the Paleo lifestyle in real-time — from how you move and cook to how you connect with others. It’s less about information overload and more about integration. And that’s where the magic happens.

When you’re surrounded by people who understand and share your values, everything clicks. You’re not the “weird one” asking for no bun or wondering about seed oils. You’re in a space where nutrient density, barefoot biomechanics, and ancestral movement patterns are the norm. And even better — you get to apply all that knowledge through workshops, demos, and shared experiences.

Movement as a Central Theme

One of the things that stood out most at PrimalCon was the diversity of movement sessions. Whether it was kettlebells, sprint drills, Olympic lifts or posture-focused workshops, every physical session focused on form, function, and sustainability. No one was there to burn calories or beat personal bests — the emphasis was on moving well for life.

The sessions led by mobility experts like Kelly Starrett were especially eye-opening. Even if you think your posture and technique are solid, there’s always something new to refine. Having hands-on guidance in a relaxed outdoor setting was a real treat — and much more effective than a 10-minute YouTube video or a rushed gym class back home.

The barefoot running and sprinting clinics were also a highlight, teaching us how to harness the natural power of our feet and use momentum more efficiently. Practicing these skills on grass with immediate feedback from seasoned coaches was both fun and educational — and left many of us rethinking our standard running shoes.

The Power of Community

Let’s be honest — living a Paleo lifestyle can feel isolating at times. Whether it’s dealing with social situations, navigating supermarket labels, or explaining your food choices to colleagues, it’s easy to feel like you’re swimming against the tide. But at events like PrimalCon, you’re suddenly surrounded by people who “get it.”

Conversations flow easily. You’re swapping tips about organ meat recipes, discussing fasting strategies, or bonding over shared podcast favourites. The friendships that form over the course of the weekend often last well beyond the event. For many attendees, PrimalCon becomes an annual reunion of sorts — a time to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, all while continuing to grow in your own health journey.

Eating Paleo Without Thinking Twice

One of the most liberating aspects of PrimalCon was being able to enjoy meals without stress or second guessing. Everything on offer was fully Paleo — grass-fed meats, vibrant salads, hearty vegetables, bone broth, fermented sides, and some impressive grain-free treats. No scanning ingredient lists or negotiating with waitstaff — just pure, delicious, nourishing food made with intention.

It’s hard to describe the relief of knowing every bite you take aligns with your dietary values. For those of us used to bringing emergency snacks to social events or eating before we go out “just in case,” this was a true luxury. It also served as a reminder of how delicious Paleo food can be when prepared with creativity and quality ingredients — no deprivation, no blandness, just full-flavoured meals that fuel performance and recovery.

Workshops That Go Beyond Food and Fitness

In addition to the movement and cooking sessions, PrimalCon included lifestyle and mindset workshops that explored other vital pillars of ancestral health. From improving sleep quality and reducing blue light exposure, to managing stress and improving relationships, these sessions acknowledged that true wellness isn’t just about what you eat or how you train — it’s about how you live.

One particularly memorable session explored the importance of play and leisure in modern life. Guided games, laughter and creative movement reminded us that health isn’t always serious business — and sometimes, the best form of recovery is simply having fun in the sun.

Who Is PrimalCon Perfect For?

You don’t have to be an elite athlete or long-time Paleo follower to enjoy a retreat like PrimalCon. In fact, it’s ideal for anyone who:

Wants to deepen their understanding of the Paleo lifestyle through practical experience
Is looking to reconnect with their body through better movement and mobility
Values community, connection, and real-world support
Needs a reset from the modern world to recharge and realign their health goals
Enjoys spending time outdoors, eating amazing food, and learning from experts in a relaxed setting

It’s not about perfection — it’s about progress. Whether you’re there to fine-tune your deadlift, improve your sleep, or finally learn how to ferment vegetables, there’s a place for you.

Planning Your Own Primal Retreat

If a trip to California isn’t on the cards right now, why not take inspiration from the PrimalCon model and plan your own mini-retreat? Gather a few like-minded friends, head to a nature reserve or beachside location, and plan a weekend of real food, outdoor movement, campfire chats, and digital detoxing. You don’t need a big budget or a famous host — just good people, good food, and a shared commitment to health.

And if you do get the chance to attend PrimalCon in the future — jump on it. It’s more than an event. It’s a full-body, full-soul experience that will leave you recharged, refocused, and reconnected with what matters most.

Have you been to PrimalCon or a similar hands-on Paleo event? What was your biggest takeaway? I’d love to hear about your experience — or what you’d hope to gain from attending one in the future.

PaleoFX

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Last weekend I had the opportunity to travel to Austin, Texas to attend the second PaleoFX conference. Three days of talks and panels on all things Paleo – surrounded by like minded people! It was good to see a few other people had also travelled to the event from outside the US.

It was especially great to see Jimmy Moore and Nora Gedgaudas, who have both been out to Australia for seminar series in the last year or two. I also got to meet Robb Wolf, Sean Croxton, Abel James and so many others.

Having attended the Ancestral Health Symposium, I was interested to see how this event would differ. As well as lectures, PaleoFX had a lot of panels, where a group of “Paleo experts” sat on stage and answered a wealth of questions on a particular topic. As with the Ancestral Health Symposium, up to three talks occurred simultaneously, so it wasn't possible to listen to everyone. Fortunately they are releasing videos, so it will be possible to catch up on what I missed!

The highlight for me was meeting Dr Terry Wahls and listening to her lecture. I also enjoyed Dr Cate Shanahan, who I first heard on the Paleo Summit.

On the ground floor was a big exhibition set up, with stalls selling all manor of Paleo products. Books I've not been able to get in Australia, jerky, kombucha, fitness products, supplements, vitamins, Paleo snacks – everything you could possibly want.

With such a big Paleo community of our own here in Australia and New Zealand, we’re really excited about the next seminar series we have in the pipeline. I’d love to hear who you would like us to invite to speak in Australia and New Zealand – and what you would like them to speak about? And which cities should the series travel to, each state capital? Please please share your thoughts in the comments below, or send me an email.

Bringing the PaleoFX Energy Back Home

After spending a weekend immersed in all things Paleo at the conference in Austin, it’s hard not to come back feeling completely energised and inspired. There’s something powerful about being surrounded by others who share a deep passion for real food, ancestral health, and questioning the status quo when it comes to nutrition and wellness.

Back in Australia, I’ve been reflecting on just how valuable these events are — not just for the content, but for the conversations, connections, and sense of momentum they create. Attending events like PaleoFX reminds us we’re part of something much bigger than ourselves: a global movement striving to reclaim health through evolutionary principles.

Key Themes Emerging in the Paleo Community

One of the most exciting aspects of this year’s conference was seeing how much the Paleo conversation has evolved. While food is still at the centre, there’s a growing focus on wider lifestyle factors — and it’s clear that this holistic approach is where the movement is heading.

Sleep and Circadian Rhythm: Talks explored how modern light exposure, screen use, and disrupted sleep patterns are impacting everything from hormone balance to immunity and mood.
Mental Health and Neuroscience: There was a strong spotlight on anxiety, depression, neuroinflammation, and how diet and lifestyle can influence brain health, not just physical wellbeing.
Movement Beyond Exercise: Rather than focusing on workouts alone, speakers encouraged incorporating natural movement, mobility, play, and even rest as vital elements of health.
Regenerative Agriculture: Soil health, sustainable farming, and food sourcing were hot topics — particularly how we as consumers can support farming practices that benefit the planet and human health.

These conversations are especially relevant here in Australia, where we have incredible potential to adopt regenerative practices, support local producers, and shape how future generations think about food and health.

Could We Host an Event Like PaleoFX Here?

Given how large and passionate the Australian Paleo and ancestral health community is, it’s not a question of if we could host something similar — but when. Events like this spark lasting change, and with the right line-up, structure, and backing, we could create an event that rivals or even exceeds what’s currently happening overseas.

Imagine a multi-day event that brings together the best of our local experts, along with a few international thought leaders, to host workshops, cooking demos, live panels, and practical sessions. Not just lectures — but hands-on experiences to help people truly integrate this lifestyle.

Potential Speakers and Topics for an Australian Summit

Dr Terry Wahls — with a focus on neurodegenerative disease, mitochondrial health, and autoimmune recovery through diet.
Nora Gedgaudas — revisiting her insights on primal mind and nutritional psychology.
Local voices — doctors, nutritionists, regenerative farmers, movement coaches, and those thriving on Paleo in real-world conditions.
Practical workshops — such as primal movement, barefoot running, cooking for families, fermentation, or ancestral fitness.

We could easily align topics with common health challenges in Australia and New Zealand — from inflammatory disease and gut health to hormone imbalances, fertility, chronic stress, and ageing well.

What I’d Like to See Next

After absorbing so much information over the PaleoFX weekend, I came away with a few big takeaways that I think should guide the next chapter of Paleo in Australia:

Focus on Accessibility: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the perfectionism sometimes seen in health circles. We need to keep encouraging progress over perfection — showing people how to implement changes even on a budget, with a busy schedule, or while raising a family.
Community-Led Support: The more we can facilitate meetups, online groups, recipe swaps, and real-world community building, the stronger the movement will grow.
Education Beyond Food: Paleo isn’t just a diet — it’s a way of rethinking modern life. We need more education around sleep, stress, posture, play, natural rhythms, and how they all fit together.

With this in mind, I’ll be working behind the scenes to bring something exciting to the Paleo community here. If you’ve ever dreamed of attending a summit like this without having to fly across the world — this might be your moment.

Let’s Co-Create the Next Paleo Event

I’d love your input. If you could attend a Paleo event anywhere in Australia or New Zealand, where would it be? Which experts do you want to hear from? Would you prefer talks, workshops, or cooking demos? Would you want to attend in person or stream it online?

Please drop your thoughts in the comments or reach out via email. This event is for all of us, and your ideas could shape its direction. With enough interest and support, we can make something incredible happen right here on home soil.

Until Then — Stay Inspired

Even if you weren’t at PaleoFX this year, there are so many ways to stay connected and inspired. Revisit your favourite speakers’ blogs, follow thought leaders on social media, and keep experimenting with what works best for your body and lifestyle.

And don’t forget — real food, movement, sleep, sunshine, and community are always available. You don’t need a conference pass to live well.