Experiential Challenges at Cirque Lodge
Not all parts of Cirque Lodge’s indoor ropes course are high climbing elements. Some ropes activities take place on the floor of the giant 17,000 foot sound stage that houses the climbing and challenge course. These low ropes activities are intended to challenge some of the cognitive functions that are affected by alcoholism or addiction. Simple things like logs, bricks, ropes, tires and boards are all used to challenge individuals with problem solving exercises. Some require the support and help of the group to accomplish the task.
Part of this process is to get the individual to ask for help in some way. This can also help the individual in recognizing whether they take the lead in these problems or are better as someone who takes instruction. Through a difficult process, the group can get from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’ and can accomplish the task at hand with help and support. These activities are usually completed with a sit down discussion. Residents can discuss what they learned from the exercise, and how it applies to the recovery process. The balance of exercises with Cirque’s experiential program provides a very effective learning experience.
