Climb a tree

When was the last time you climbed a really good tree? Maybe you’ve been told not to climb trees because you might fall and hurt yourself. But what sort of a life is it if you never learn to take risks?

Actually, I’m a bit wary of climbing trees myself—but when I do so, I’m really glad I did. That’s because tree climbing is a great way to learn the limits of your sense of adventure. It doesn’t matter if you don’t get all the way to the top—what’s important is that you try your best and perhaps get a little bit farther each time.

Late fall is the best time for climbing: once the leaves have fallen off it’s easier to see what you’re doing. But you can climb trees at any time of the year.

Old jeans and a long-sleeved top are better than shorts and T-shirts, to prevent you from grazing your knees and elbows. Wear sneakers with a really strong grip, rather than sandals or boots.

Choose the right sort of tree: large, old trees are best, since they have stronger branches and fewer twigs to get in the way.

Dead trees are tempting to climb, but remember that their branches are more likely to snap.

Take a few minutes to work out your route before you start climbing. Make sure your feet support the weight of your body, and that you always have at least one hand firmly gripping a branch.

If you’re not sure a branch is thick enough to support your weight, test it first by pulling hard with your free hand. And don’t rush—that’s the sure way to fall.

Once you find a comfortable spot halfway up a tree, sit down on a branch and have a good look around. You’re seeing the world in a different way from usual—from above. Spend a few minutes quietly looking and listening, and you’ll be amazed at what you discover.

Climbing down is actually more risky than going up: so once again, take your time, and make sure your feet and hands are in the right place each time you move, and that you have firm footing as you descend.