If you're someone who loves the rush of energy after jumping off a cliff or going white water rafting, chances are you're an adrenaline junky. This lifestyle is one full of danger and excitement, and will leave you with more stories than one person could tell. But the life of an adrenaline junky can also be pretty rough on the mind and body, so if you want to keep ziplining over canyons, use some of these tips to reinforce your health and keep living your best life.
1. Supplements and Diet
Your physical health should be a top priority for you if you're trying to go cage swimming with sharks every summer or like to free climb a cliff. Adding a few key nutrients that might be missing in your diet will help you perform at your best in every situation. Do some research to know what supplements might help you meet your specific needs, such as Ubiquinol vs CoQ10, which can protect your cells from damage and enhance proper oxidation.
But no supplement can replace a proper diet, especially for an active person. Make sure you're getting enough of your core macros - protein, fat and carbohydrates - in each meal. Eating a diverse array of fruits and vegetables will help you to get the vitamins necessary to support your mind and body. If you feel like you're lacking in something, consult a dietitian or nutritionist to see what changes you could make to see improvements.
2. Exercise and Mobility
Staying fit is an obvious way to enhance your experience as an adrenaline junky. Being stronger and having greater endurance will open up more possibilities to you. You might want to invest in a personal trainer to see what form of training is best for your specific goals, since different approaches will make you better prepared for specific activities.
It might be beneficial as well to invest some time in mobility training, to keep your joints limber. Doing mobility exercises in addition to seeing a physical therapist once in a while will keep your body functioning well as you put it under stress. You'll also be able to prevent injury by increasing your range of motion and improving your form in strenuous situations. Mobility will also assist you in recovery after a physically strenuous activity, as well.
It's also possible that, after years of stressful and heart-pounding situations, you might need to begin balancing your adrenaline-filled life with intentional calming, such as deep breathing and meditation. Leaving high stress unchecked can result in high blood pressure or risk of stroke, so make sure you're striking a good balance between the adventures and the recovery.
3. Mental Health
The type of person who becomes an adrenaline junky generally has a tipping point before their thirst for excitement becomes dangerous. If you feel like your desire for adventure has become a threat to your health, it might be good to see a therapist and get your mentality back on track. There are many physically safe ways to get an adrenaline rush, such as bungee jumping or riding rollercoasters, that may be a good replacement for more dangerous methods if you feel that you need to take a break.
Watch for increases in behaviors such as overall aggression, urges to use drugs or alcohol, and dangerous driving, and be aware of who you can speak to if you see yourself developing unhealthy habits around adventurous behavior. You also want to make sure that you're going on adventures with the right kinds of people. Don't allow your companions to pressure you into situations that make you uncomfortable, and always consult an expert before attempting something new.
Being someone with the energy to do what you enjoy doing is a gift, and you should be proud to be an adrenaline junky. Use these tips to help you live your life to the fullest, without sacrificing your health along the way.
