Elevate – Women’s Adventure Therapy Workshop

There were six women who attended this Adventure Therapy workshop, who are individually healing from their own experiences and history of trauma. We all met together at 8:30am at the Community House carpark before making our way to the top of Takaka Hill. We arrived at a place called The Quarry and opened with a karakia before beginning to put on the harnesses and helmets. The day began cloudy and cold with a little wind, which was a parallel to the feelings of nervousness felt within the group. Two of the clients knew each other, however, the rest were strangers.

We began the day by teaching how to wear a harness, clip into safety lines, lock off and abseil down the side of a rock face. Throughout the day we progressed to different heights, finishing with a guided rappel from the very top of the cliff. “It blew me away, I have no idea how I managed it”, one woman expressed in her feedback.

As the day progressed the women began to form connections, cheered when they completed something, gave encouragement and understanding when it was difficult and shared jokes, tears and laughter with one another. The weather seemed to be on our side as the wind faded away and the sun came out, rewarding us with a beautiful autumn day.

Is there anything from the day that can be used in everyday life? 

“Staying present. We’re always going to have things going on, but it really doesn’t matter. It’s important to stay mindful, gentle and kind to myself in the moment. The later stuff will happen when it’s meant to”. 

“I am amazed at myself for achieving the high abseil, allowing myself to trust in people and the process. It’s a reminder that I have the ability to step out of my comfort zone and to try new things. My drive and willpower are enough”.