A set of clothes. You want to pack light layers so that you can be dressed appropriately for all weather. Instead of packing a bunch of heavy clothes (sweaters, parkas, etc), try to pack light layers like a tank top, short sleeve, and long-sleeve t-shirt. Food and food preparation. It is suggested to have at least three days of prepared food packed and ready to go in a portable bug out bag. [2] X Research source This may include MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) or other non-perishable food items like protein bars, peanut butter, or canned vegetables. [3] X Research source You may also want to include simple cooking preparation gear such as a collapsible pot and a utility utensil set. Water. Include a collapsible water canteen, water filter, and at least three days worth of water. This should be about 3 liters (0. 8 US gal). [4] X Research source Also include a water filter; modern water filters even come in the form of a survival straw. Portable shelter. This could be a simple sleeping bag, a bed roll, or a blanket. A tent may be more effective, but may be too heavy or large for a portable bag. First aid and/or medical kit. Pack medications that you know you will need for a pre-existing medical condition. [5] X Research source Pack other essentials like bandages, antiseptics, and gauze.
Always keep an eye on the weather and on current events. [7] X Research source offgridsurvival. com/mostlikelyshtfscenarios/ Use a police scanner to keep up to date on information in your area. You will be able to hear potential threats and how the police are responding to them. Use a battery operated weather radio to pay attention to the weather. A battery operated radio is important in case you lose power.
For example, know how you will escape your living quarters in case of a fire? How will you escape your town in case of an emergency? How will you escape if you cannot travel by car?
To avoid panic attacks, try to stay away from smoking or caffeine. (You may be forced to do this in a doomsday scenario in any case. ) Work on controlling your breathing and focusing on taking control of your body. Understand what triggers your panic attacks and try to acknowledge the stress. If you think through what makes you panic, you can work to mentally overcome or avoid the trigger.
Try to practice deep breathing by focusing on deep breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. Try and relax further with each breath and develop a consistent breathing routine. Yoga is also a helpful way to practice healthy breathing techniques. There are many helpful tutorials online to teach you basic yoga techniques. Some basic poses that can help your breathing techniques include warrior pose and sun salutation.
Learn to recognize your emotions first. This may seem difficult. Practice by writing down the strong emotions you feel and what is happening in your environment. This journal will help you to associate situations with emotions. Then, try to mentally stimulate another emotion. For example, if you know something triggers panic in you, try to embody a sense of calmness. Practicing this will help you do this automatically, although it may be difficult.
Learning emotional transference will help your brain more efficiently handle emotions. When you are put in a life-or-death situation, your brain is trying to save your life. Emotions and panic may hinder response time. Learning to let go of strong emotions may help your brain better protect your body.
Knowing your local geography in case you have to camp out. Learn about dangerous elements such as land formations and wild animals. Knowing how to make a quick shelter. [13] X Research source Depending on your surroundings, you can use nature around you to build a sufficient shelter like a lean-to, that will help protect your body from the elements.
Cardio workouts help maximize your body’s blood flow. There are many types of cardio workouts, examples include running, jogging, and rowing.
Find a local workshop in your area to learn self defense. Sometimes, local police departments will hold courses. Watch videos online - there are numerous videos that will walk you through basic self defense and training.
Homesteading includes raising your own food, like vegetables and animals. It includes learning to use renewable energy resources, like solar, wind, geothermal, and water.
This includes have a store of heirloom seeds. [18] X Research source These are non-genetically modified seeds that can be grown and reproduced without modifying them. Learn to cultivate what grows best in your agricultural zone. For example, corn does not grow best in rocky soil. Learn your soil and climate conditions. Government websites (like the USDA) often have a website dedicated to showing local plant hardiness. [19] X Research source
Power generation – this can be retrofitted into your original home’s architecture with things like solar panels, generators, wind power, or geothermal power. Heat generation – this can be done through a wood burning stove or passive solar gain. Food generation – this can be accomplished through raising backyard chickens or having a backyard garden. Water collection – water can be collected through rain barrels or a well. Waste collection – this can be fixed through a septic system or compost toilets.
