How To Calm Yourself Before a Jump
Hi Steph, I seen a commercial where two people climb a rock formation and went on You Tube to see climbing videos and came across some of your climbs. I admire all you climber’s that do what you love doing and your free spirit attitudes. I’m going out to Las Vegas and wanted to jump off the top of the Stratosphere and just wondered, how to calm your nerves when your up that high? I turn 50 this year and to old to get into what you guys do but thought this might be fun. Again, I admire you guys. Hope you have a great year. Thanks for any advice.
Thomas
Hi Thomas,
Thanks for writing! I had to google the Stratosphere jump, because I actually had no idea about that: it looks like a vertical zipline setup, which I haven’t seen before. I think you will definitely get a taste of freefall adventure if you do that 🙂
You will probably be feeling pretty similar to what a base jumper feels like at the exit point, but maybe even more nervous since it will be the first time. Firsts are always scariest, of course, because you have no idea what to actually expect. I think it would help to watch the videos of the skyjump so you start getting used to the idea. Then try to visualize yourself being in that spot, and going through that experience. No matter what, you are going to be pretty terrified when the moment comes and you are standing on the edge with open air in front of your face and down below your shoes. Make a checklist of what you’re going to do well before that moment comes: when you’re at home. It should be something like: 1. Breathe 2. Breathe 3. Smile 4. Breathe
When you’re up there at the launch spot, remember your checklist: hopefully it’s pretty easy to remember because you may have trouble 🙂 After you’re sure you’re taking deep breaths and feeling as calm and happy as possible, pick a focal point in a non-scary place (not the ground). Maybe look at the horizon line, or somewhere else out in the distance. This will keep you from getting visually overwhelmed and fixating on the ground. Keep looking at that point, keep taking deep breaths, and try to make sure you don’t jump until you are really mentally ready for the moment. Rushing it is usually not as good of an experience.
When you’re up there, all geared up and ready to go, you will most likely ask yourself why you wanted to do this. That’s normal. When you’re done, you’ll know why.
Let me know how it goes 🙂
Steph
