翔勝之道——High-Altitude Challenge

The natural scenery and slow pace of life in Tibet helped me clear my mind and prepare for a fresh start.

Before departing for Tibet, my biggest concern was my physical condition; I wasn't sure if I could adapt to the high-altitude environment. Typically, the first day upon arriving in Lhasa is for acclimatization. Our tour guide advised us to stay at the hotel, but given my personality, how could I stay cooped up all day? So, after dropping off our luggage and having lunch, we set out for our first destination: Barkhor Street, a sacred place that embodies Tibetan culture and Tibetan Buddhism.

We strolled around aimlessly and stumbled upon the Jokhang Temple, where we saw numerous believers worshiping with great sincerity. Some were prostrating every five steps, others every three. Among them were elderly people supported by family members, as well as young people and foreigners. One woman, who was slightly made up, had a forehead stained grey-black from prostrating—a sight I found profoundly moving. What kind of mysterious force could drive a person to be so devout and resolute? I was truly in awe. The guide explained that some Tibetans spend their entire lives in prostration to cleanse the sins of this life, hoping for happiness in the next. Honestly, I didn't quite understand why one would wait for the next life before finishing this one. He explained that these devoted believers might fall into three categories: first, they may feel this life is hopeless and can only pin their hopes on better fortune in the next; second, they may have specific wishes they hope to realize through sincere prayer; or third, they may feel they have committed sins and wish to repent through prostration.

Along the way, the guide explained the local customs, religion, and the history of the temples. It turns out that May is a peak season for tourists in Tibet, as the early summer weather is quite comfortable. Many Buddhists travel there specifically on pilgrimage because Tibet holds the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures and the two famous Buddha statues brought by Princess Wencheng during the Tang Dynasty. I had previously asked AI about travel in Tibet and was told not to exceed 3,000 steps a day, yet we completed our entire itinerary on the first day, clocking over 10,000 steps. Fortunately, neither my cousin nor I felt any discomfort, though at night, I clearly felt my heart beating much faster than usual.

After two days of acclimatization, we headed to the Potala Palace on the third day. I managed to climb all 480-plus steps without issue, and I even ran down the mountain when we left! My cousin remarked that I had been worrying needlessly before we left and that I was basically the "Energizer Bunny." Even crazier, I discovered that the Hilton Shigatse, where we stayed, had a 24-hour gym. I had never imagined I would be able to work out in Tibet, so I hadn't brought any workout gear. However, seeing the gym there, I had to give it a try. Naturally, I consulted with a fitness coach beforehand, who told me to slow down. I monitored my heart rate while exercising—taking it slow as long as it stayed at 120 bpm, and pausing to rest if it went any higher. I even filmed the session as a memento; after all, working out at an altitude of 5,000 meters is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I am sure I was the only person in the entire hotel to hit the gym, and I had to document it!

What did I learn from this trip to Tibet? For me, first and foremost, it was overcoming my internal fears; secondly, it sparked a lot of reflection. I realized that the locals don't seem to need much money; what they pursue is not material wealth, but other values. For this trip, I couldn't attend my Rotary Club’s handover ceremony, and I had to turn down many meetings and even opportunities to see clients. But work is never-ending. These few days in Tibet gave me the chance to slow down, reset, and restart. I realized that everyone needs to clear their mind from time to time; only by emptying yourself can you inspire more creativity. That is why I have already planned a trip to Bhutan next June for my next challenge.