Before diving into the world of rock climbing, it’s easy to ponder the mental health benefits. Physically, the sport is excellent for muscle strength and coordination, but mentally, it challenges us in new ways. Let’s look at some of the unique mental health benefits of indoor rock climbing.
Before embarking on rock climbing, it’s essential to find the climbing gear that meets your needs, whether you’re a rookie or a veteran. While it will benefit your mental state, it’s vital to physically support your body through the process.
Acquired Patience
Due to technological advancements, we are familiar with instant gratification. And while that, too, has its benefits, understanding the value of patience is a skill we cannot lose sight of. To successfully climb the wall and ring the bell, you have to be patient with yourself and the process.
Through patience on the wall, your body can build the muscular structure and knowledge needed to perform and be successful in climbs. By understanding the lesson of patience through climbing, you can apply this skill to everyday life.
Overcoming Fear
Because of the mental needs of climbing, you can psychologically face your fears and work through them. Many begin their climbing journeys afraid of heights and overcome their fears by facing them through climbing. But the hormonal matrix in play from climbing also plays a significant role in managing fear.
The body releases hormones, and together, they allow you to feel empowered mentally. Some hormones released during rock climbing include:
- Dopamine: the reward hormone
- Serotonin: the happy hormone
- Norepinephrine: hormone regulator
Be More Mindful
When you learn patience through climbing, you can acquire mindfulness. The two go hand in hand. Due to the physical nature, an excellent mental health benefit of indoor rock climbing is taking things from a one-step-at-a-time approach. You must consider every move you make and make them with intent.
Acquiring patience, overcoming your fears, and becoming more mindful are some of the extraordinary mental health benefits of indoor rock climbing. This can be another activity to help you cope with stress and become fitter in the process.
To a Fitter Healthier You,
The Fitness Wellness Mentor
