Eric Kim’s philosophy on the human body blends art, strength, and self-improvement, viewing the body as both an instrument and a canvas for personal growth and creativity. He believes that the body is central to human existence, and its physical health directly impacts mental and emotional well-being. For Kim, improving the body leads to greater mental clarity, creativity, and vitality. He emphasizes that the mind is subordinate to the body, claiming that most mental health issues could be alleviated by focusing on physical health first.

One of Kim’s core ideas is that the body should be treated like a sculpture, with bodybuilding seen as an artistic endeavor. He rejects the consumerism prevalent in modern fitness culture, arguing against reliance on supplements, protein powders, or performance-enhancing drugs. Instead, Kim advocates for natural, minimalist approaches like intermittent fasting and meat-heavy diets to optimize health and build muscle. He also stresses that anyone, regardless of genetics or background, can transform their body and should strive to maintain a low body fat percentage while continuously building muscle.

For Kim, bodybuilding is not just about aesthetics but about enhancing one’s ability to live with energy, creativity, and joy. He extends this philosophy to scholars and philosophers, suggesting that physical strength complements intellectual pursuits, promoting a healthy mind-body connection oai_citation:3,The Philosophy of the Body – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,MY HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Physiology Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

Search Eric Kim philosophy on the human body

Eric Kim, a street photographer and writer, has developed a distinctive philosophy on the human body, integrating insights from photography, art, and personal development. His thoughts on the body often focus on the relationship between physical health, creativity, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. Here are a few core ideas that capture his approach:

1. Embodiment and Creativity: Kim believes that the human body plays an integral role in the creative process. He sees physical fitness and health as essential to creativity, arguing that a strong body leads to a strong mind. For him, working out, walking, and maintaining physical vitality are not just about aesthetics or performance but about fostering a mindset that supports artistic and intellectual output.
2. Aesthetic and Functional Approach: Kim often emphasizes a balance between aesthetics and function. In his view, the body should not be simply appreciated for how it looks but also for what it can do. His approach aligns with a philosophy that emphasizes movement, physical activity, and functional strength—qualities that allow one to live freely and with energy.
3. Stoic Influence: Drawing from Stoic philosophy, Kim applies the principle of “amor fati” (love of fate) to the human body. He promotes accepting one’s body as it is, while still working to improve its strength and health. This Stoic mindset encourages a sense of self-acceptance, paired with the resilience and effort to make the most of one’s physicality.
4. Minimalism and Simplicity: Reflecting his broader minimalist philosophy, Kim advocates for simplicity in bodily health—minimal equipment, no frills. He encourages practices like walking, bodyweight exercises, and simple, functional movements that can be done anywhere. This minimalist approach also applies to his perspective on nutrition, where he advocates for simple, wholesome foods rather than overcomplicated diets.
5. Philosophy of Movement: Walking, in particular, is central to Kim’s view of the body. He often talks about walking as a meditative practice that enhances both physical and mental health. In his photography, he’s known for street walks, where he merges the act of walking with creative observation, connecting the body’s motion to artistic discovery.

Eric Kim’s philosophy on the human body is practical, grounded in everyday experiences, and shaped by an interdisciplinary mix of photography, Stoicism, and physical movement. His focus is on using the body as a vehicle for a more enriched, creative, and present life.