01
Ancient Roman Philosophy
Stoicism
Amor Fati. We test ourselves against challenge and discomfort as a route to wisdom and fortitude.
We treat the body rigorously so that it is not disobedient to the mind.
The
Primitive
Initiative
Don't think about it, be about it
Psychologically informed wilderness programs to bring you into alignment with your primitive self
Insight
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It's Not What You Think
It's what you do
The Primitive Initiative is built on challenge, discomfort, and direct experience in nature as powerful tools for resilience, clarity, and self-knowledge.
The aim is not to escape life, but to return to it with greater strength, perspective, and intention.
Challenge →
Purpose
Discomfort →
Resilience
Experience →
Self Knowledge
Nature →
Clarity
The Philosophy
Integrated approach
to wellbeing
02
Buddhist Practice
Mindfulness
Vipassana in action. Acceptance, awareness, and equanimity cultivated in demanding real-world conditions.
There is a synergic feedback between the pursuit of mental health and physical health.
03
Wilderness Therapy
Nature as Medicine
Nature is not a backdrop. Remote landscapes create the conditions for internal work to unfold naturally.
Proven Impact
What happens
when people
commit
+22%
Resilience
+38%
Self Control
+38%
Highest Individual Growth
+15%
Average Total Growth
"The course has provided me with some new tools to help guide me towards a deeper understanding of myself"
— Harry
"It has helped my mental wellbeing to the point of I know I can soldier on much more than I thought"
— Christopher
"I am feeling more positive about myself and the decisions I am making daily. I am also enjoying the thought of exercise and picking up a good routine"
— Dan
"Exactly what I needed. I feel more durable and confident than I did before"
— Tom
Current Programme · May-September 2026
Lakeland
Expedition
The Reset Button
3
Days / 2 Nights
Friday midday - Sunday midday (approx)
50k
Distance (approx)
31 miles and 9000ft elevation in 48 hours
6
Participants
Small group for maximum impact
8h
Walking Per Day (approx)
Full pack. Uneven terrain. Changing weather.
Lead Facilitator
Matt
Jarvis
I've been a keen explorer for 9 years which has taken me extensively around the UK's moors and mountains, and further afield including 3 months in the Himalayas. Mountains have taught me a lot about myself and the world. In 2024 this passion turned into a profession and in 2025 I ran my first series of programs.
Experience
—Dozens of multi-day expeditions
—Ultra marathon runner
—Background in mental health work
—Delivered multi-day group programs
—Over 10 years practicing mindfulness
Qualifications & Training
—Outdoor First Aid ☑
—Mountain Leader Training ☑
—MA Interdisciplinary Psychology
—Level 3 Wilderness Therapy NVQ
—2×10 Day Silent Meditation Courses
FAQ
Common questions
Join the
Movement
Before confirming your place, we want to make sure this is the right fit physically and mentally. Leave your email and we will get back to you directly.
theprimitiveinitiative@gmail.com
@theprimitiveinitiative