Introduction to Therapeutic Climbing with Molly

Get ready to climb your way to better mental health with Molly showing the ropes in this chill therapeutic session! Wednesday, February 3, 2027 · 6:00–7:30 PM · Allez Up Verdun (4137 boulevard LaSalle) $60 Early Bird (until January 6, 2027) · $75 regular · Equipment and gym access included Climbing has a way of bringing up everything we usually keep tucked away: fear, self-doubt, the urge to give up, and the quiet satisfaction of trying anyway. This introductory evening uses those moments on purpose. In a small, supportive group, you'll learn the basics of bouldering while practising simple ways to notice your breath, steady your nerves, and trust yourself a little more with each move. No climbing experience is needed, and there's no pressure to get to the top. You decide how high you go. What you'll do We'll start by getting settled: a short grounding exercise to help you arrive, notice how your body feels, and check in with any nerves. Then Molly will walk you through the basics of bouldering, including how to move on the wall, how to rest, and how to climb down or let go safely onto the mats. From there, you'll try some beginner climbs at your own pace, with pauses to reflect on what you notice. What does your mind say when a move feels hard? What happens to your breath when you're unsure? Climbing asks for your full attention, which makes it a natural place to practise being present. Why it works for beginners • You don't need any experience. We start with the absolute basics. • Bouldering walls are shorter than rope-climbing walls and have thick padded mats underneath, and you choose how high to climb. • The group is small, so Molly can support each person individually. • Everything is included: equipment, chalk, and gym access. • There's no performance, no competition, and no "right" way to do it. More than a climbing lesson Most climbing lessons measure progress by technique, strength, or how high you get. This evening is different: the focus is on what you notice, how you respond to challenge, and what the experience brings up for you. Molly leads with patience and close attention to how people are feeling. While this introductory evening isn't a therapy session, it offers a taste of how climbing can be used to explore fear, build resilience, and strengthen self-trust. Meet your guide: Molly Molly has spent many years guiding people through outdoor education and adventure-based personal development, including running climbing programs. She holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Adventure-Based Therapy from Prescott College, and she brings an experiential, body-centred approach to everything she teaches. On the wall, Molly is patient and encouraging. As a valued member of our Mindfulness Outdoors team, she'll make sure you're in compassionate and supportive hands. Read Molly's full bio → Want to go further? Climbing Therapy starts March 31 This evening is also an introduction to Molly's Climbing Therapy program. Over five two-hour sessions on Wednesday evenings, starting March 31, 2027, you'll use guided climbing and reflection to explore patterns of fear, confidence, focus, and self-trust, and practise new ways of meeting challenges on and off the wall. The program is designed for people managing anxiety, rebuilding self-confidence, or looking for a different way to work with stress. It's offered only once or twice a year, and space is limited. Curious? Bring your questions to the evening, or text "CLIMBING" to 514-619-4542 for more details. Who it's for This evening is for anyone curious about climbing, especially if you've felt intimidated by it, or if fear, self-doubt, or stress sometimes hold you back. Adults of all ages are welcome. You don't need to be especially strong or fit. If you have concerns about an injury or your body's ability to climb, email us at [email protected] and we'll be happy to talk it through. Before you come • What to wear: Comfortable clothes you can stretch and move in. • Getting there: Allez Up Verdun is at 4137 boulevard LaSalle, about 2 minutes from De l'Église metro. (Map) • Arrival: Please arrive by 5:45 PM to check in and sign the gym's waiver. • Language: The event is led in English. Molly is comfortable in French, so you're welcome to ask questions or chat with her en français. • Refunds and cancellations: Email [email protected]. • Participation is at your own risk. If the ticket price feels out of reach, email us at [email protected] and we'll be happy to explore options. If you've ever looked at a climbing wall and thought "not for me," this is a gentle way to find out what happens when you try. We'd love to see you there. Interested in the full program? Learn more about Climbing Therapy or text "CLIMBING" to 514-619-4542.