climbing

Relieving Stress in Nature

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

Spending time in the wilderness can be a great way to relieve stress and connect with nature. Here are some activities you can do outside in the wilderness to help alleviate stress:

  1. Hiking: Hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. You can choose a trail that suits your fitness level and spend the day exploring the natural beauty around you.
  2. Camping: Camping can be a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature. You can camp in a tent or a cabin and spend time cooking over a campfire, reading, and stargazing.
  3. Fishing: Fishing can be a peaceful and meditative activity, allowing you to focus on the present moment and enjoy the natural surroundings. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, fishing can be a great way to relieve stress and enjoy the outdoors.
  4. Wildlife watching: Observing wildlife can be a great way to connect with nature and find inner peace. You can bring binoculars or a camera and look for birds, mammals, and other animals in their natural habitats.
  5. Yoga and meditation: Practicing yoga and meditation outside the wilderness can significantly reduce stress and promote relaxation. You can find a quiet spot with a beautiful view and do yoga poses or practice mindfulness meditation.
  6. Rock climbing: For those who enjoy a more active outdoor experience, rock climbing can be a great way to challenge yourself physically and mentally while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, plenty of routes are available to suit all levels.
  7. Kayaking and canoeing: Exploring the waterways by kayaking or canoeing can be a great way to immerse yourself in nature and find peace. You can paddle on a calm lake or river or challenge yourself with whitewater kayaking.

Overall, spending time in the wilderness can be a great way to relieve stress and find some inner peace. Choose the activities that suit your interests and fitness level, and take the time to appreciate the natural beauty around you.

time lapse photography of river
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels.com

There are numerous health benefits to being in nature, including:

  1. Reduced stress: Being in nature can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and calming the mind. Exposure to green spaces has been shown to lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone, in the body.
  2. Improved mood: Spending time in nature has been linked to improved mood and overall well-being. Being in natural environments has been shown to increase positive emotions, decrease negative emotions, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  3. Boosted immune system: Exposure to natural environments has been linked to a more robust immune system. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can increase the production of white blood cells, which help fight off infection and disease.
  4. Increased physical activity: Being in nature often involves physical activity, such as hiking or biking, which can help improve cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes.
  5. Better sleep: Exposure to natural light and fresh air can help regulate the body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality. Being in natural environments has also been linked to decreased insomnia and better sleep patterns.
  6. Improved cognitive function: Spending time in nature has improved cognitive function, including attention, memory, and creativity. Exposure to green spaces has also been linked to decreased symptoms of ADHD in children.

Spending time in nature can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. So, next time you have the opportunity to get outside, take advantage of it and reap the benefits of being in nature.

green pine trees on mountain beside the body of water
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Holistic practices are based on the belief that the body, mind, and spirit are interconnected and that addressing all three aspects is necessary for optimal health and well-being. Here are some holistic things you can do in nature:

  1. Forest bathing: Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of spending time in nature to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and boost immune function. Simply spending time in a forest or wooded area, breathing in the fresh air, and immersing yourself in nature, can have a calming effect on the mind and body.
  2. Yoga and meditation: Practicing yoga and meditation in nature can be a powerful way to connect with your inner self and the natural world. Find a peaceful spot in the heart, such as a quiet meadow or a secluded beach, and practice gentle yoga poses or guided meditation to help calm the mind and reduce stress.
  3. Nature walks: Walking in nature can be a great way to clear your mind, reduce stress, and improve your mood. Take the time to observe your surroundings, notice the sights, sounds, and smells of nature, and let yourself fully immerse in the experience.
  4. Herbalism: Herbalism is using plants for healing and wellness. Please spend some time learning about different plants and herbs and their medicinal properties in nature. You can also harvest wild plants and make herbal remedies like teas, tinctures, or salves.
  5. Outdoor art: Get creative and use nature as your inspiration for art. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or photography, using the natural world as your subject can be a great way to express your creativity and connect with the beauty of the natural world.
  6. Ecotherapy: Ecotherapy is a therapy that uses nature for healing and personal growth. A trained therapist can guide you through various activities, such as journaling, mindfulness, and movement, designed to help you connect with nature and improve your mental and emotional well-being.

Holistic practices can be done in nature to promote health and well-being. Find the methods that resonate with you and take the time to immerse yourself in the healing power of nature.

Patagonia Mountain Range

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Patagonia is a spectacular region for hiking and climbing, offering stunning landscapes and challenging terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best places to hike and climb the Patagonia mountains include:

  • Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: This is one of the most famous national parks in Patagonia and offers a range of hiking and climbing options, including the famous W Trek, the O Circuit, and the summit of Cerro Paine.
  • Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina: In Los Glaciers National Park, Mount Fitz Roy is a popular destination for climbers, offering challenging routes and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  • Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina: Although not a mountain, the Perito Moreno Glacier is a popular destination for hiking and ice climbing, offering a unique and challenging experience for adventurous travelers.
  • Mount Tronador, Argentina: This mountain is located near the border with Chile and offers a range of hiking and climbing options, including the ascent of its three peaks and the opportunity to cross its glaciers.
  • The Dientes de Navarino Circuit, Chile: This challenging hiking trail takes you through the rugged landscapes of Isla Navarino, offering stunning views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains.
  • Mount San Lorenzo, Argentina: This mountain is one of the highest in Patagonia, offering a challenging climb for experienced mountaineers and stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Cerro Castillo, Chile: This mountain is located near Coyhaique. It offers a range of hiking and climbing options, including the ascent of its famous spires and the opportunity to cross its glaciers.
silhouette photo of woman facing snow capped mountain
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These are just a few fantastic places to hike and climb in Patagonia. Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or a beginner hiker, Patagonia has something for everyone.

The most spectacular season to climb in Patagonia is generally during the summer months of December to February, also the peak season for tourism. During this time, the weather is more stable, and longer daylight hours make it easier to complete climbs and hikes. However, it’s important to note that the weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable and change quickly, even during the summer months. Therefore, it’s recommended to check weather forecasts and trail conditions before embarking on any climbs or hikes and to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions. Additionally, some promotions may be closed during the winter months due to snow and ice conditions, so it’s essential to research the specific climb or hike you are interested in before planning your trip.

Permits are usually required for climbing in Patagonia, especially if you plan to rise in a national park or protected area. Each park or region has regulations and permit requirements, so it’s essential to research the specific climb or hike you are interested in and check with the relevant authorities for permit information.

For example, in Torres del Paine National Park, climbers must obtain a permit to climb any of the peaks or access certain park areas. In Los Glaciers National Park, climbers must obtain a license to climb Fitz Roy and other mountains. The permit fees and requirements may vary depending on the park or area.

snow covered mountain under blue sky
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It’s essential to obtain the necessary permits before your climb or hike to ensure you comply with the regulations and avoid fines or penalties. Additionally, some areas may have limited tickets, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

When hiking and climbing in Patagonia, having the appropriate gear to ensure your safety and comfort is paramount. Some essential gear for hiking and climbing in Patagonia include:

  • Good quality hiking boots with good ankle support and a sturdy sole
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • Warm layers such as fleece or wool sweaters, hats, and gloves
  • Sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Insulated water bottle or thermos to keep drinks warm in cold weather
  • Sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures.
  • Backpack with a rain cover to carry all your gear and supplies.
  • Navigation tools such as a map and compass or GPS
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • First-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers

Additionally, for climbers, specialized gear such as ropes, harnesses, helmets, and climbing protection will also be necessary. It’s essential to research the specific climb or hike you are interested in to determine any additional gear requirements.

Adventure Time Denali

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Summiting Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, is a significant mountaineering challenge and requires a high level of skill and experience in cold-weather mountaineering. The following are some of the basic requirements and equipment needed to summit Denali:

Requirements:

  • Physical Fitness: Climbing Denali requires a high level of physical fitness. Climbers must be able to carry a heavy pack while trekking up steep slopes and across glaciers for extended periods.
  • Experience: Climbers must have experience in cold-weather mountaineering, particularly in high-altitude environments, and have experience with glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and other technical skills.
  • Training: Climbers must complete a training course in cold-weather mountaineering and altitude preparation.

Equipment:

  • Clothing: Warm and breathable clothing layers, including a waterproof outer layer, are necessary for the extreme conditions of Denali. Clothing should be designed for temperatures as low as -30F (-34C) and high winds. Insulated boots and crampons are also necessary.
  • Shelter: A sturdy, four-season tent is necessary to protect climbers from the harsh winds and snow at high elevations.
  • Food and Water: High-calorie, non-perishable foods that can be easily prepared are necessary for climbers to maintain their energy levels during the climb. In addition, water bottles or hydration systems capable of carrying a minimum of 4-6 liters of water are recommended.
  • Climbing Equipment: Climbing equipment, including ice axes, ropes, harnesses, carabiners, and pulleys, are necessary for glacier travel and crevasse rescue.
  • Communication Equipment: A satellite phone or radio, GPS device, and personal locator beacon are essential for climbers to communicate with their support team and to signal for emergency assistance.
  • Other Gear: Sunglasses, sunscreen, first aid kit, headlamps, and spare batteries, among other gear, should also be included.

It’s important to note that this is a partial list, and additional equipment and preparation may be necessary depending on the specific conditions and circumstances of the climb. Additionally, it is strongly recommended that climbers work with an experienced guide or join an organized expedition to increase their chances of success and safety on the mountain.

landscape scenery of the famous denali in alaska
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The cost of climbing Denali can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the type of climb (guided or unguided), the climb duration, the number of climbers in the group, the level of support required, and the gear and equipment needed. Here are some of the main expenses you might encounter:

  • Climbing Permit: The cost of a climbing permit to access Denali National Park can range from $350 to $1,050 per person, depending on the length of the climb and the number of climbers in the group.
  • Guided Expedition: If you choose to join a guided expedition, the cost can range from $5,000 to $25,000 per person, depending on the level of support provided, the length of the climb, and the number of climbers in the group. Guided expeditions typically include transportation, food, and gear such as tents and cooking equipment.
  • Travel and Accommodation: Climbers must factor in travel expenses to Alaska, including airfare, lodging, and transportation to and from the mountain. This can add several thousand dollars to the overall cost of the climb.
  • Gear and Equipment: The cost of gear and equipment can also vary significantly depending on the quality and quantity of gear needed. Climbers can expect to spend at least several thousand dollars on warm clothing, boots, crampons, ice axes, ropes, and other climbing equipment.
  • Other expenses to consider include food and supplies for the climb, insurance, and any necessary permits or licenses.

Overall, the total cost of a Denali climb can range from around $8,000 to $40,000 per person or more, depending on the abovementioned factors. Therefore, budgeting carefully and factoring in all potential expenses is essential to ensure a safe and successful climb.

Before attempting to climb Denali, having a significant amount of experience in cold-weather mountaineering and high-altitude climbing is crucial. Here are some of the places where climbers typically train before attempting to summit Denali:

  • Local Mountains: Climbers can start by gaining experience on local mountains in their area, especially those that offer similar terrain and elevation gain as Denali. This can include climbing routes on peaks such as Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Mount Hood, or the Cascades in the United States.
  • International Mountains: Climbers can also gain experience by climbing other high-altitude peaks worldwide, such as Aconcagua in Argentina, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, or the Himalayas.
  • Glacier Training: Glacier travel and crevasse rescue are essential for climbing Denali so that climbers can attend courses or training programs offering instruction. Many climbing schools and guiding companies offer glacier travel courses, such as the American Alpine Institute, the Alaska Mountaineering School, or the Colorado Mountain School.
  • High-Altitude Training: Climbers can train for high-altitude climbing by spending time at high elevations, such as hiking or climbing in the Rocky Mountains or the Sierra Nevada, or using a hypoxic training system to simulate high-altitude conditions.
  • Strength and Conditioning: Climbers need to be in top physical condition to attempt a climb like Denali, so they can also train by doing strength and conditioning exercises, such as weightlifting, cardio, and endurance training, to build up their strength and endurance.

Overall, climbers should aim to gain as much experience and training as possible before attempting to climb Denali to ensure they are prepared for the extreme conditions and challenges of the climb.

Big Changes For Us Update

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

As some of you may be aware, we have a sailing expedition scheduled for late 2020 or first quarter of 2021. We are also engaged in moving our landlocked office to Denver, Colorado.

“The happiness of the bee and the dolphin is to exist. For man, it is to know that and to wonder at it.”–Jacques Yves Cousteau 

sailboat, open ocean, canalOur sailing expedition operation is down to two cities, Vancouver, Canada or Seatle, Washington. I’m very excited about this expedition. Where we plan to study the Northern Passage on our first leg. Come back around to the Pacific and sail to Panama through the Canal and spend some time in Honduras, Argentina, and Brazil. We are reaching out to researchers around the world for research opportunities. To be announced as finalize our projects.

Each leg of the trip will part of our documentary film.

Gear onboard:

  • Underwater Drone
  • 4K Drone
  • Nikon D850 X 2 plus assorted lens capabilities
  • 4K Video Camera with full cinema capabilities
  • Scuba & Snorkel Gear

We’re also moving our offices to Denver, Colorado after the summer season is over. Okay, don’t laugh, we’re moving during the winter months. I can think of no better place to be landlocked than Denver. Very excited about our move. A beautiful city for creators.

rocky mountains, hiking, climbing

Very ready to enjoy the Rocky Mountains once again. My excitement is heightened because I get to do it with my granddaughter.

If you are a researcher, please reach out we would love to discuss with you our plans. The beauty is we can stay wherever for extended periods. Complete the form, and I will happily call to discuss with you potential help: