Caving, additionally called spelunking or potholing, is the exploration of caves and different underground areas. This typically involves navigating thru slim passageways, mountain climbing, rappelling, and using specialised equipment including helmets, headlamps, and ropes.
Caving can be a interesting and tough adventure, however it additionally calls for a certain stage of bodily health, technical skill, and knowledge of cave safety. It is vital to be well equipped and prepared for the precise situations and dangers that may be encountered in underground environments.
The faculty at my school had planned a 5 day trip in december to the hill station Mount Abu situated in the state of rajasthan. This Trip involved many activities like rappelling, trekking, caving, rock climbing, etc. I was very excited for caving as this was going to be my first ever experience doing it. A big challenge for me was to make up my mind to actually do this as I am very claustrophobic and tight spaces freak me out.
This experience helped me cater some LOs like –
LO2 – I faced several challenges in this experience but I was motivated to complete it. I took this experience as a challenge because apart from the physical challenges I also faced a major mental challenge of being very claustrophobic. Additionally this was my first time doing anything of this sort so I was physically not ready for this. I had to learn several grips and holds on the spot to execute the climb properly. Many parts of the cave were very dark and tight making getting down/climbing very challenging.
LO4 – I showcased commitment and perseverance throughout every second of this experience. Despite all the challenges that I was facing I desperately wanted to do this to break the phobia that I had been caring with me for such a long time. There were several instances where I felt pressured and panicked but the mindset I carried to break this phobia pushed me to complete it. Also the support of my peers, faculty and the experts helped me throughout this experience.
There were some really hard times in this experience but I wouldn’t change anything about it as it helped me change something that will help me later on in life.
