Simeon Heimowitz
The Blue Collar Brawl

Climbing to me is a constant vigil of discovery. Finding, developing, and ascending natural lines (whether it be Sport, or Trad) while mentally, and physically challenging yourself to the point where upward progress is either plausible, and happening or impossible where you have to hang. A reality dictated by the forces of gravity where you have to anatomically decipher clues given by Mother Nature in the form of featured vertical stone to find successes, and times failures. For this blog let's associate the term 'free climbing' as being synonymous with a true "on-sight" whereas you are in the moment, learning on the fly, real time, making decisions with no knowledge of what's coming minus a guide book and the naked eye. This style of ascent is what motivates a climber to search for the next new line believing every second that you have what it takes to succeed going from the first moves to the end of the pitch; which in layman's terms means 'Never Saying Take'. SouthernXposure.com

The Blue Collar Brawl

Beginner’s Guide to Outdoor Rock Climbing in Mexico - What You Need to Know

Have you been thinking about rock climbing in Mexico? Exciting, isn’t it? Mexico has some of the most beautiful rock climbing spots in the world. But before you grab your gear and go climb these locaions, there are some things you should know. Do you want to find out? Read below!

What Gear Do You Need?

First things first, what gear should you bring?

●     A good pair of shoes is a must. Similarly, they should fit snugly and they should not be too tight.

●     Your harness. Make sure it’s comfortable and fits properly if you are planning on long routes.

●     Protecting your head is important. Rock fall happens. Buy a good helmet.

●     Sweaty hands? No problem. Chalk helps you keep a good grip on the rock.

●     Belay devices are essential for belaying and rappelling. Buy a Grigri and specific device when you need to rappel.

What You Should Know About The Outdoor Climbing

You may be surprised to learn that there are various forms of outdoor rock climbing. For the beginner, you will begin with top-roping. Most routes, but not all already have anchors placed in the rock to set up TR’s. This is why it is considered the least hazardous and most accessible type of outdoor climbing for beginners.

For those ready to take it to the next level, there’s traditional (trad) climbing, where you place your own protection into the rock. This style requires more skill and equipment, but it has its advantages as there are many more trad climbs vs sport. Are you not ready for trad just yet? That’s okay! Mexico has tons of sport climbing routes to keep you busy as you build your confidence.

1.   Learning to Climb - Go with a Guide

If you’re new to rock climbing, learning with a guide is the best way to start. SouthernXposure knows the terrain well and can literally show you the ropes. Our guides will teach you the basics to ensure you have a fun and successful day outdoors.

Climbing in a foreign country comes with its own set of challenges. A guide makes sure you feel confident while climbing.

2.   Safety First - Always Double-Check

In rock climbing, it is very important that safety reigns, especially when the activity is done outdoors. It goes far beyond the type of equipment that you use. Therefore, it is very important to check everything twice when climbing. Is your knot tied correctly? Is your harness double backed? Are you rappelling or lowering off the route? These are questions you should always discuss every time you climb.

3.   Climbing Etiquette - Respect the Rock and Nature

It’s essential to follow climbing etiquette. You’re not just there to enjoy the climb. You are also a guest in nature. So, what does that mean?

●     Always clean up after yourself. Remove any trash with you.

●     Don’t disturb the natural surroundings or animals you might encounter.

●     Give space to those around you and don’t monopolize popular routes.

The Mental Challenge of Climbing

One of the biggest things about climbing is learning how to remain as calm and focused as possible. The best way is to keep focused in the present. Do not focus solely on how many pitches the route is. Take it one move at a time. One pitch at a time.

Start Your Climbing Journey with SouthernXposure Climbing School

Now that you’ve got the basics, are you ready to climb in Mexico? SouthernXposure is here to help make your adventure amazing.

Why wait to start climbing outdoors? Come join SouthernXposure and feel the thrill of rock climbing in Mexico. Let’s make your first climb unforgettable!

Rock Climbing and Mindfulness - Finding Zen on Mexico’s Most Scenic Cliffs

Have you ever thought about how rock climbing has a lot to do with mindfulness? It sounds like a strange mix, right? But if you think about it, climbing and mindfulness are a natural pair. Both of these require focus and presence. Do you need to learn how to be calm under pressure? There is no place better to find this balance than on Mexico’s cliffs.

Why Climbing Requires More than Strength

Rock climbing is often seen as a physical challenge, but it's so much more than that. Have you ever felt your mind racing as you grip tiny pinches, unsure of your next move? That’s where mindfulness comes in. Climbing requires physical strength, yes. But what about mental calmness? You need to focus on the present moment. Plus, you need to block out distractions.

Mindfulness allows you to move with purpose. Each step and handhold becomes intentional, helping you connect to the rock, the landscape, and yourself.

Stay in the Moment on Mexico’s Scenic Cliffs

Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful climbing spots in the world, from the towering walls of El Potrero Chico to the picturesque monolith of Peña de Bernal . How do you stay focused when you’re hundreds of feet in the air?

●     Pay attention to your breathing.

●     Feel the texture of the rock beneath your hands.

●     Focus on the next move, not the next ten.

How Climbing Forces You to Face Your Fears

Let’s be real, shall we? Rock climbing can be terrifying. The fear of falling is real, even for experienced climbers. But what if you could use mindfulness to manage that fear? When you’re halfway up a cliff, and the fear kicks in, mindfulness techniques can help calm your mind. Instead of panicking, you can focus on the present.

Breathe deeply, accept the feeling of fear and consider why you are feeling such. Being mindful helps you learn how to embrace the present moment and analyze everything around you. Confronting the fear through understanding goes a long way, particularly in the more demanding routes in Mexico.

The Zen of Repetition

Climbing can feel repetitive at times. Grip, step, balance—over and over again. But guess what? That repetition is where you find your zen. In mindfulness, repetition creates flow. And when you’re in the flow, everything else fades away. You stop worrying about how far you’ve climbed or what might go wrong. Instead, you become fully absorbed in the task at hand.

●     Focus on each handhold.

●     Pay attention to your foot placement.

●     Let the rhythm of climbing guide you.

Practical Mindfulness Tips for Climbers

  1. When things get tough, focus on your breath. Inhale slowly, and exhale fully. This simple action helps calm your mind and body.

  2. Pay attention to what you see, hear, and feel. Notice the rock beneath your hands, the wind on your face, and the sounds of nature around you.

  3. Don’t worry about how high you’ve climbed or how much farther you have to go. Just focus on the next move.

Experience Mindful Climbing with SouthernXposure Guide Service.

Are you ready to take your climbing to the next level? Join SouthernXposure on a mindful climbing adventure? Our guides will help you connect with nature so you will get to experience mindfulness. We will support you every step of the way. Join SouthernXposure Climbing School for your next adventure. Experience climbing like never before.