Charles Lyster, Ascending Sgorr Dhonuill, Nov. 2023

Having returned from a wonderful weekend spent in a Scottish bothy and climbing in the high mountains with a dear friend from way back in my Outward Bound days, I found myself reflecting on adventure in my life. Charles and I talked at length through the weekend of the value of living adventurously, so I thought I would revisit a draft blog post I’d written a few weeks ago..

Here it is.

As I journey through life, I realise the profound importance of adventure, especially as I head towards older age. It's easy for me to trap myself within a cosy cocoon of comfort zones, clinging to familiar routines and the certainty of warmth. However, as the years pass, the significance of adventure in my life becomes increasingly apparent. In this blog post, I'll share why I’m choosing to focus on adventure as an integral ingredient of my life, adding a dash of excitement whenever possible and keeping my spirit youthfully alive.

Keeps My Mind Sharp

Adventure serves as a mental workout by constantly challenging my brain to adapt to new situations and solve problems. As I age, I notice cognitive decline is a natural process. I’m not as decisive as I once was and I’m discovering how easily I may become confused. Engaging in adventurous activities I believe, will slow my cognitive decline. Indeed, during my year long journey, I reveled in moment by moment decision making processes. Adventure reignites my innate curiosity and keeps my brain engaged, constantly seeking new experiences and acquiring knowledge. Whether I'm learning a new skill in my creative workshop, or embarking on an exciting paddling journey, these experiences stimulate my mind, enhancing my memory, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The anticipation of what's around the next corner keeps me eager to learn, readying myself for whatever is thrown my way. In essence, adventure is my lifelong commitment to my mental agility and vitality.

Fosters My Resilience

In my gathering later years, I face quite a few challenges. These are mostly physical, e.g. poor balance, back pain, and slow recovery from bumps and strains. Critically, it is my struggle with clinical depression which tests me the most. Adventure teaches me resilience, to face adversity head-on, and adapt to new circumstances. Each new journey challenges me in unique ways, pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone. I've learned through facing uncertainty head-on and overcoming obstacles, I foster a sense of self-assurance and inner strength. Whether it's kayaking through wild and bouncy seas, navigating unfamiliar mountainous terrain, or even aquiring a new skill, these experiences teach me to embrace change and uncertainty, rather than shy away from them. As I've conquered the unknown, I've not only developed problem-solving skills and resourcefulness, but I've also gained a greater capacity to bounce back from setbacks. Adventure teaches me setbacks are simply stepping stones to future contentment, and with each new challenge, I become more resilient and ready to face whatever life throws my way. These experiences have built emotional strength, enabling me to navigate my ups and my often swooping downs, with an increased sense of hope.

Nurtures My Sense of Purpose

Adventure provides life-meaning for me and has been a cornerstone throughout my life, a constant companion in my journey towards self-discovery and purpose. Every new experience, every new stretch of coastline I explore, nurtures my sense of purpose. It's in those moments of uncertainty, when I step outside my comfort zone, I find I truly come alive. The challenges and triumphs of adventure serve as a crucible, within which I forge my identity. Whether it's coming through a challenging paddling day, embarking on a solo trip, or simply exploring my locality, these adventures fuel my curiosity and connect me with the world in profound ways. Through adventure, I not only find purpose in the excitement of the unknown, but also in the understanding that life's true meaning lies in the journey, and simply not the destination.

Promotes My Physical Health

Adventure often requires physical activity, whether it's kayaking, mountaineering, or simply exploring new places. My legs after a weekend in the mountains with Charles have yet to forgive me for demanding so much of them! Staying active is essential for me as I age, as it helps me maintain my physical health and keeps me feeling young at heart. It also provides an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, which can be incredibly rejuvenating. Adventure encourages me to step out of my comfort zone, pushing my body to its limits in exciting and challenging ways. As I explore new seas and face unexpected challenges, my body adapts and grows stronger. Additionally, I understand the infusion of adrenaline associated with adventure, triggers the release of endorphins, reducing my stress and boosting my immune system.

Fuels Self-Discovery

The process of adventure has led to profound self-discovery. It's pushed me to confront my fears, uncover some hidden talents (communicating to a wider world and creativity), and importantly, continue to learn more about who I am as an individual. Thus, embarking on adventures has been an indispensable facet of my life, profound experiences which have illuminated the path to self-awareness and personal growth. Every experience woven through the tapestry of these adventures, serves as a mirror, reflecting not only my capabilities but my limitations too. This offers me the opportunity to foster a profound understanding of who I am at my core. I believe I can never be too old for this. In the melting pot of uncertainty, I've learned to adapt, confront my fears, and embrace the unknown. This assists me to develop into a more resilient, insightful version of myself. This crucial self-awareness has led to my personal growth and a deeper sense of fulfillment. The fulfilment by the way, is enhancingly satsifying.

Adds Variety To My Life

I have found as I age, routine can become an almost lethally monotonous process. However, seeking adventure introduces an element of surprise and excitement into my potentially staid life. Learning new things, continuing to develop my kayaking skills, undertaking long journeys and meeting new people, has added valuable splashes of colour into my life and broken the monotony of my everyday existence. Since returning from my year long kayaking journey, I have every intention of continuing to inject adventures into my life, with explorations into the hidden corners and coastal waters of my island habitat. As alluring as it is, I do not want to always be too comfortable, cooried the corner of my chosen sofa in our centrally heated sitting room.

Creates Lasting Memories

The memories created through adventures are treasures I carry with me throughout my life. Whether it's a breathtaking view over a Scottish Highland landscape, or the satisfaction of conquering a physical kayaking challenge, these memories provide a sense of accomplishment and contentment. These can be doubly powerful if shared with Karen or good friends. Solo adventures offer moments of introspection and self-discovery, allowing me to push boundaries and revel in the thrill of the unknown. On the other hand, shared adventures weave bonds with companions, forging connections which withstand the test of time - decades even. Each climb, every unexpected path, and every spontaneous camping or bothy night out, engrain themselves into the fabric of my existence, forming a treasury of stories I will forever carry with me. I realise the enduring importance of crafting memories through adventure — for they not only define who I am, but also serve as a timeless source of inspiration and joy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I believe it’s imperative for me to not view adventure as being the exclusive domain of the young. In fact, it becomes even more important as I age. It enriches my life, sharpens my mind, strengthens my body, and keeps the spirit of youth alive within me. So, as I journey towards older age, I embrace adventure and all the joys it brings. Whether it's a grand exploration or a small, everyday adventure, I let it be a constant companion on my life's journey. Adventure is not just an activity; it's a way of life, a philosophy which ensures my later years are as vibrant and fulfilling as the earlier ones.

I hope this is true for you too.

LifeAfloat Blog

Embracing Adventure: My Lifelong Journey