Rising up with UpRising

Joshua Tree is a world-class climbing destination. A lot of our friends live here in the winter months as professional rock climbing guides and once the warmer weather hits, they head north to do the same. Although we are pretty active, Mark and I had never climbed before coming here 5 years ago. Once we got settled in the community we quickly met many people who make their living from this sport; from owning rock climbing schools/guiding services or being guides themselves to selling rock climbing equipment and supplies. 

Once we got a taste of climbing up the rocks, we knew we were hooked. It was one of the best “highs” I have ever had. Natural endorphins just race through your body and you feel exhilarated at every step- it’s no wonder that many people battling additions use this sport to feel this natural high in place of the unhealthy ones they once experienced. Every time I go, I feel an awakening deep inside…a stirring of pent up emotions, a blockage that is finally flowing free, a source of power from deep in my core rising as I slowly climb to the top. It’s odd that I feel so much clarity about everything in my life afterwards because I think of absolutely nothing while I am climbing. It is definitely a moving meditation for me.

Last week, we went climbing with our long time friend Sue Cram, owner of Uprising Adventures (a rock climbing school/guide service) and her partner Mike. Sue has been climbing for 18 years all over the world until she came to Joshua Tree in 2004 and now owns Uprising. Sue is my mentor. I have been climbing with this power house for 3 years now and she challenges me in ways that I never thought possible. No ego, just the dance.  Sue:“Yeah, that climb is rated a 5.10c, but why don’t you just see how you do on it” Somehow, every time… I follow her lead. When you find a good guide- one that you feel safe with, one that challenges you without ego, one that has patience and grace, you can do anything.

 

Want to give rock climbing a try? Go to UpRising.Com for more info