I started a personal project last year (2025) about doing 30 firsts as a year-round celebration for my 30th year.
In my previous post (read here), I shared the first 10 new things I did. Here's the part 2, wherein I'll share 10 other firsts that I was able to do.
Tried Surfing Lessons
As someone who doesn't know how to swim, this was so scary for me, to be honest. I was so anxious not only about the possibility of being in the deeper part of the ocean, but also the idea that the surf board blades might hit my head or eyes when I fall. I was also worried that I might accidentally hit other surfing students or vice versa. Around 30 minutes into the lesson, I was even asking my instructor if we could stop already. Hahah I wasn't really keen on learning to surf in the first place. All I wanted was to experience it, and 30 minutes of doing it was kinda okay with me already. But coach didn't give up. Hahaha In the end, amidst falling multiple times, I did get to stand and balance on the surf board once or twice. Glad I tried, not sure if I'll do it again.
Tried Aerial Hoop
When I first leaned about aerial dance studios, Aerial Hoop was the first class that caught my attention. As a non-dancer and moderately active, I felt like compared to other dances (pole dance or hammock), hoop might be the most beginner-friendly and more "stable"? So I tried it. Dang, it was so hard. It requires arm, core, and leg strength. Plus balancing and bravery lol. hahaha. Good thing, the teacher divided the group into 2. In the absolute beginner group (where I belonged), we were introduced to the most basic moves and positions. I was able to do it, per se, but it was definitely not graceful. haha
Booked a Muay Thai session
Being in a male-dominated space has always been very uncomfortable for me. So when I arrived in the gym and saw that the only female in the room was the receptionist, I almost backed out. I was starting to feel anxious, but I consciously calmed myself down because the session was already paid, and I shouldn't waste it. Good thing, the receptionist was welcoming and warm, which definitely helped me be more comfortable eventually. And guess what? I surprisingly enjoyed doing Muay Thai. I'm glad I pushed through. I even continued attending Muay Thai sessions until now, but in a different gym.
Went Bouldering
Tried Pilates
Like a lot of people, I have been curious about the Pilates hype recently. So I thought of trying it out. I don't know what exactly I feel about it. I mean, it sure is challenging. Full body workout but low intensity. But for some reason, I didn't like it as much as I like yoga. Or maybe it wasn't the type of pilates class/coach for me? Not sure, so I am considering trying it out again in the future.
Tried Trapeze Flow
When I saw the Trapeze Flow class listing, I honestly didn't know what to expect. I looked it up and saw pictures, and I figured it must be similar to aerial hoop and hammock. To feed my curiosity, I booked a class for it. I really enjoyed my time during the class. My classmates and teacher were welcoming, and even though I was the only first-timer, they didn't judge my mistakes. In contrast, they were cheering on me and complimented my strength. I really enjoyed this class. Downside for me is that I get dizzy easily, and this one almost made me vomit because my world was literally spinning. Hahaha The teacher recommended drinking a certain medicine before the class to avoid getting dizzy. hehe
Went Water Rafting
My friends and I tried this in Cagayan De Oro, and to be honest, this was the part of our itinerary I wasn't looking forward to. I am not much of a water person, and seeing how strong the current is during water rafting, I instantly got scared. Not only because of the water and current, but most especially because of the huge rocks on the river. In my head, I was worried our raft will turn upside down because of the current, and we'll end up hitting ourselves on the huge rocks. Gosh, I was internally trembling the moment we were already getting ready to ride the raft. Because once in, there was no going back. But at the same time, I knew that my experience would be a waste if I will just worry the whole time. So I calmed myself down and tried to think of better thoughts. True enough, when we already got the hang of paddling and I kinda got used to the current, I started to enjoy the ride. Glad I pushed through with it, but not sure if i'll try it again. haha
Experienced the Luge ride and getting a drone shot
This was my first time in Bukidnon! The Luge Ride was suuuppeeerr fuuuun. Definitely my fave ride in Dahilayan. It felt like we were inside a video game. And I was so happy because one ticket lets us try the Luge twice! Theeen for the solo drone shots... well, they were both cool and kinda awkward for me. I mean, what am I supposed to do? How to pose? hahaha But the results were amazing! Love love Bukidnon. Soooo beautiful.
Experienced how to play Padel
I am not a sporty person, but I have been exploring different physical activities to encourage myself to move my body more. So when I chanced upon a post online about a free trial session with a coach for Padel, I invited my friend right away to try it with me. The free trial lasted for more or less 30 minutes, and I really enjoyed it so much. It was also very helpful to have a coach to teach us the basics of Padel. 30 minutes was definitely not enough! Haha I surely wanna do it again.
Did Bamboo Weaving
Aside from being able to go out of my comfort zone, this whole experience actually taught me a lot. It also reminded me the beauty of being a beginner and a noob. As a teacher, I am used to being one of the people who is more knowledgeable in a room. But by trying out new things, I get to enjoy being the "baby" in the group.
Mistakes and imperfection were welcome... and actually expected. And as someone who expects much from herself, I found myself less self-critical during these moments. I was gentler and more patient. Instead of beating myself up for not knowing what I am expected to not know as a newbie (haha) I ended up laughing at my mistakes and "huh" moments. It felt nice.
This second set of firsts was more on the fitness and adventure side of things. This was the phase where I tried a lot of things I neevvveeerrrrr imagined myself trying.
But yes, I did those.
Some of these activities even stuck with me until now. Safe to say, this was definitely the start of my more active lifestyle. That, itself, is more than a win! 💕
Will share the last 10 firsts I tried next time. See you in Part 3!
Have a great day! Take caaareee.
herkeepsake
❤