Thrilling Adventure Runs Thin in the Veins of a Special Group of People

Thrilling Adventure Runs thick in the veins of a special group of people. These thrill-seekers crave the rush that comes with dizzying heights and breakneck speeds.

Their brains assess unfamiliar situations differently, and they’re innately curious about the world and creatively adapt to change instead of fearing it. Plus, they may actually improve their mental health over time.

Thrilling Experiences

Thrill seekers are typically creative, curious, motivated to pursue challenges and exhibit flexibility and impulsivity. While thrill seeking is not considered a mental disorder, it can be addictive and can lead to withdrawal symptoms if one does not experience the feeling of thrilling adventures regularly.

This study applies a qualitative methodological approach to examine the emotions of fear and thrill during high-skill, low-risk outdoor recreation activities. The analysis of 50 critical incidents reveals that, in these activities, there are few incidents that generate powerful fear, but some events do involve both fear and thrill. These incidents usually last only seconds or minutes.

Whether it’s steering a motorized vehicle over rough terrain or soaring high above waterfalls, these thrilling experiences will have your heart racing. Take a UTV slot canyon tour in Zion, zipline over KoleKole Falls on Hawaii Island or explore the ruins of ancient Rome in the heart of Italy—these adrenaline rush experiences are sure to satisfy your craving for thrills.

Thrill Seekers

Thrill seekers like Lawrence seek out experiences that excite them, even those that might be dangerous or uncomfortable. Psychologist Frank Farley calls them “addicts to stimulation, excitement and arousal.” Often, they seek disinhibited activities such as risky sports, drug use or risky business deals.

Whether it’s scuba diving or skydiving, these adventures stimulate the brain and help forge new connections. Over time, this process, known as neuroplasticity, can make the brain sharper.

Those who enjoy thrill-seeking are often innately curious about the world and creatively adapt to change rather than fearing it, according to Farley. They are also more likely to take on leadership roles, as they don’t overanalyze or shy away from rocky situations. As an added bonus, thrilling adventures can cultivate unforgettable memories and expand a person’s sense of self. Thrill seeking may also be beneficial in the workplace if managed properly. For example, if you know your drivers are sensation seekers, our DriverMetrics profiling can reduce their risky driving behaviour.

Thrill Seeking Activities

Thrilling Adventure Runs Thrill seeking doesn’t have to be life-threatening, and many thrill seekers don’t fall into the category of “addicts” in the way chronic drug users do. However, if chasing your next adrenaline rush is causing you stress and interfering with your life, consider talking to a counselor about your feelings.

For something a little less extreme but still pretty hair-raising, try bungee jumping. Inspired by a Vanuatu rite of passage, this activity lets you show vertigo who’s boss.

If heights are your thing, then look no further than paragliding. With an experienced pilot guiding you, soar hundreds of meters above one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks and enjoy a bird’s eye view of Brecon Beacons. Or if you want to be a bit more hands-on, try wing walking — where you move along the wings of a plane during flight. Mostly found in the US, but also in parts of Europe and South Africa, it’s a unique thrill-seeking experience.

Thrill Seeking Events

Thrill-seekers crave events that give them a rush of adrenaline. The way they get this feeling can vary – for some, it might be knowing there is only one night left to finish a major project, while others enjoy starting conversations that stir up controversy or maintaining a jam-packed social calendar.

For an air-bound activity that will give your heart a race, consider rafting the Sun Koshi in Japan or try your hand at volcano boarding. Both of these activities require navigating an inflatable raft down a wild river, dodging rocks and whirlpools and tackling the natural obstacle course that is nature’s very own assault course.

Despite the dangers associated with thrill seeking, with careful planning and safety precautions it can be a healthy form of excitement. Taking breaks to relax and recharge is important though, as too much adrenaline can have serious health implications.