Quilting a Mountain

Our son, Sebastian is a “climber” – that does not mean the “ladder of success” but, rather mountains, cliffs and climbing gyms. He asked for a quilt of a mountain and so, Charles designed one and we created it. Sebastian loves to climb and his brother, Zachary has started climbing with him (in a climbing gym). The quilt represents challenge and fun, improved health, enjoying nature and so much more!

Why climb? There are SO many reasons…but, having a hobby to focus on outside of work – is a great choice!! There are many benefits to climbing….
1. ENHANCED PHYSICAL FITNESS
One of the most obvious benefits of mountain climbing is that it provides a full-body workout and engages different muscle groups to build holistic fitness. More challenging climbs often require some physical preparation and training. This will help to get you into shape, keep you physically healthy, and prepare you properly so that you can climb mountains with confidence.
2. STRESS REDUCTION
Physically demanding activities like mountain climbing, or simply heading to the mountains, will encourage you to get out into nature and focus on strategizing your climb. Doing this can help to take your thoughts off of the office and your responsibilities and keep your mind engaged and focused. Although it’s true that mountaineering can be stressful at times, being in nature with like-minded people will help to keep your stress levels low while you focus on staying safe and making it to the top of the mountain. Exercise has proven to reduce stress thanks to its ability to promote the release of endorphins. These endorphins counter the effects of stress, improve your mood, and lead to better sleep and higher energy levels.
3. LEARNING PERSISTENCE
Mountaineering teaches patience, practice, and the power of persistence, even when you encounter obstacles that may discourage you from completing the course. Mountain climbers know that they need to take their routes one step at a time until they reach their goals. This knowledge will translate well into many other areas of your life too! 
4. INCREASE CONFIDENCE
Climbing can help you to face and conquer any fears you may have, foster a more courageous mindset, and push forward through challenges and doubts. Overcoming barriers like physical exhaustion, hunger, frustration, and hopelessness may bring you more control over your emotions. Additionally, it will help you to place some of your other difficulties in life into perspective so that you can handle them with more confidence and control.
5. BOOSTING PHYSICAL FLEXIBILITY
The many movements involved in mountain climbing help to mobilize your joints and strengthen your muscle tissues, which in turn improves your flexibility. The more flexible you are, the less likely you are to experience pain, discomfort, and injury after a climb. And the easier it will be to climb another mountain when you’re ready! People who are more physically flexible experience fewer injuries, less pain, and better posture and balance. They enjoy a more positive state of mind, better muscle strength, and improved physical performance overall, especially when exercising. Flexible people are also better able to withstand physical stress. This can help them to reach their goals, whether these goals involve running a new distance or climbing to the top of the highest mountain peak.
6. CONNECTING WITH NATURE
A 30-minute climb or walk in nature can boost your heart health and circulation, lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels, and reduce blood pressure and inflammation. It also boosts your immune system, helping you to stay healthier.
7. SOCIAL BENEFITS
Climbing requires a high level of trust in other people. This can help to foster deep connections with other people that you genuinely trust to help you reach the summit safely. You will meet other people with positive mindsets and the ability to cheer you on and support you. Together, they’ll help you and every team member complete their climb successfully—and you’ll do the same for them. Climbing alone can be dangerous and it’s never advisable. But working as a team can help to keep you going when a climb gets difficult.
8. LEARNING NEW THINGS
You’ll need to research the best and safest routes for your climbs, how to find the perfect gear to keep you warm and comfortable, and how to choose footwear that supports you during your activities. Plus, you’ll have to learn how to stay safe in nature, even when encountering potentially dangerous situations. 
9. MAINTAINING A HEALTHY HEART
Mountain climbing is one of the best activities you can do to improve your heart health. It’s challenging and even stressful at times, which can raise your heart rate, improve your muscle tone, and increase blood flow throughout your entire body.
10. BOOSTING YOUR STAMINA
Every time you climb, you will build stamina. In time, this will allow you to summit mountains and perform other demanding activities with relative ease.

Written by Pam