Adventure-seekers flock to Colorado for its diverse range of adrenaline-pumping activities, such as rafting, mountain biking, and skydiving. However, the question that often arises is what drives people to seek out these thrills.
For Laura Kelley, the desire to jump out of a plane has always been a driving force. She recalls having this on her list of things to do since she was a young child. After moving to Colorado from Arkansas 18 years ago, Kelley embraced the adventurous spirit of the state. However, her active lifestyle came to a halt in 2020 when she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, preventing her from enjoying activities she loved.
Despite her health setback, Kelley knew that once she was able, she would pursue extreme adventures again. She believes that engaging in high-risk activities at times when life feels out of control can offer a way to experience risk without completely losing control.
Emily Hemendinger, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, cautions against constantly seeking adrenaline rushes and being mindful of their addictive nature. She warns that constantly needing to up the ante with more extreme activities can lead to dangerous mindsets.
Kelley views life itself as an adventure and encourages others to take advantage of the experiences available while they can. Despite the potential risks, many thrill-seekers like Kelley find joy and fulfillment in pushing their boundaries and seeking out new challenges in the great outdoors of Colorado.
The pursuit of extreme adventures can offer many benefits for individuals looking for excitement and challenge in their lives. Whether it’s jumping out of a plane or taking on a challenging hike through the mountains, engaging in high-risk activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment for those who are willing to take on new challenges.
However, it’s important for thrill-seekers like Laura Kelley to be mindful of their health and wellbeing while pursuing these activities. Engaging in high-risk activities should never come at the expense of one’s safety or health.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide what motivates them and how they choose to engage with adventure in their lives. For some like Laura Kelley