adrenaline rush

What is an Adrenaline Rush?

You’ve probably heard people talk about getting adrenaline rushes after experiencing something exciting, scary, or thrilling. Perhaps you’ve even felt them yourself, but didn’t exactly know what they were at the time. With any great adventure comes a release of feelings and hormones that make you feel invincible. It can be nerve-racking, however, to commit to trying new things and experiencing an adrenaline rush without knowing what to expect.

If you’re curious about an this sensation and want to prepare yourself for one, stick around. We’ll do a deep dive into the history, meaning, and science behind this physiological response. In the end, we hope you find peace of mind and feel geared up for your next adventure. (Ziplining, anyone?)

What Is It and How Does It Work?

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone in your body that is released to help you prepare for stressful or dangerous situations. A common phrase you have probably heard is “fight or flight.” Epinephrine is what equips your body to choose between these two options in any given scenario. When you experience this feeling, you’ll have symptoms like increased heart rate, faster breathing, alertness, and slower digestion. 

The “rush” in adrenaline rush comes from the idea that it happens very quickly. From the moment that the adrenal gland sends a message to your hypothalamus to release adrenaline into your bloodstream, you begin to experience the effects so quickly that you may not even realize what’s happening. You will respond to your situation before you have the chance to fully think it through, which can sometimes create a sense of invincibility.

The History of the Adrenaline Rush

Adrenaline rushes are nothing new for our brains. Cavemen didn’t have to go looking for them the way we do today. The tasks that consumed their daily lives—hunting, gathering, and defending themselves—were enough to get their hearts racing. They used these adrenaline rushes to survive, which is exactly what our bodies do now. Even if the situations we’re in are being handled safely, like skydiving or ziplining, the body still experiences an adrenaline rush to protect us from activities that are out of the norm.

Can You Get an Adrenaline Rush from Ziplining?

If you’ve been preparing for a ziplining adventure, you’ll be happy to know that your protective instincts will most likely kick in in the form of an adrenaline rush! Since this activity is likely out of your comfort zone, your body will react in a way designed to protect you. The great part about an adrenaline rush from an adventure like ziplining is the sense of accomplishment that comes after. Once your body feels as though it’s overcome a challenge safely, you will feel both relief and excitement!

Join In on the Excitement

If you’re reading to feel the excitement of an adrenaline rush and the accomplishment of a new, thrilling experience, look no further. At Adventureworks, we offer guided zipline tours that are sure to get your heart pumping. At the end of your journey, you will leave with a sense of accomplishment (and counting down until your next visit with us). Book your ziplining tour now and experience the thrill of escaping your comfort zone!