A lot has been said about how meditation leads to peace of mind. But, for some people, sitting quietly and observing their thoughts passing is not an option.
Well, good news. Peace of mind can be achieved in many ways. Meditation is only one way. Another well-known path (for those who walk it) is that of climbing. Perhaps it could be considered a form of meditation.
It is pure concentration. No other thoughts can enter your mind when you are climbing. A single distraction or fleeting thought can make you lose your concentration and fall. When you’re looking for the next grip or where to place the next foot, thinking about something else is a pretty difficult task (or counterproductive if you do).
So far so good, but… Will I get peace of mind by climbing?
Yes, you can get a state of stillness/peace of mind with climbing. But nobody said it was easy.
The climber, during his passage through the rock, will have to deal with hardness and difficulties that, in addition, will provoke a series of emotions in him, which will not be so easy to control. But nothing comes without effort. Everything must be practiced and developed.
With effort and constancy, the climber will be able to master parts of his mind that previously flowed out of control, and also apply this self-control to other areas of his life.
4 contributions of climbing to the peace of mind
Objectivity
The climber must develop his objectivity, so as not to be influenced by erroneous or biased perceptions. Knowing the real risks of their practice, knowing their possibilities and not deceive themselves (neither limiting nor overestimating themselves). Objectivity is key when dealing with some of the life’s problems. Dealing with them with objectivity contributes to not increasing the difficulty. See the things as they really are.

Taking control of emotions
It will help you to better respond to the challenges you face. You may feel fear, anger or frustration among other emotions, that could dominate you during your climb or your life, but knowing how to handle them will make you reach your goals without sabotaging yourself.
“To be like the rock that the waves keep crashing over. It stands, unmoved and the raging of the sea still around it.”
Marcus Aurelius
Living in the present
It’s the only place you can be. While you’re on the wall, you better not be anywhere else. One foot, one hand, one foot, one hand. Always aware of the sequence you’re developing and looking for the next move. But never thinking about what you did yesterday or what you’re going to do tomorrow.
Breaking your limitations
Seeing things clearly, objectively and quietly, the climber leaves behind his limitations and always goes a little further. Improving day by day, your physical strength, your technique, your mindset. Strong but flexible to adapt to the demands of the rock, you will always try to find the combination to get where you want to go. And, most of the time, you will succeed.