Weeks and months are needed to accustom oneself to climbing. Otherwise, much energy is lost in clinging to the rock, maintaining too sure a hold, trying not to be too stiff, and worrying. After a while a climber warms to the mountains and can accomplish with little effort those things that once took all he had, for height gradually loses its meaning. Standing on the edge of a two-thousand-meter precipice becomes no less comfortable than sitting in a wicker chair on Capri, for it is possible to acquire some of the self-possession that enables mountain goats to stand for hours on a tiny ledge above an abyss.
The process of acclimatization to climbing requires significant time and practice. Initially, climbers often waste energy on holding tightly to surfaces, managing their stiffness, and worrying about their safety. However, as they gain experience, they find that the actions that once seemed exhausting become easier. The fear associated with height diminishes as their comfort and confidence grow.
Over time, seasoned climbers can embrace heights with the same casual ease as relaxing in a comfortable chair. With perseverance, they develop a level of self-assurance akin to that of mountain goats, who effortlessly balance on precarious ledges. This transformation underscores the profound personal growth and mastery that comes from engaging with the challenges of climbing.
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