One of our favourite webinars to reflect on is Cal Major’s ‘Feel Good Stories From Solo Expeditions’ which focuses on the acts of kindness she encountered from strangers during her expeditions, just when she needed them the most.
Cal’s webinar reminds us of all the wonderful benefits that paddlesports have on our wellbeing. From busting bad moods to helping improve more serious issues such as depression and anxiety, paddling is great for your mental health.
Here are just some of the ways that paddling can help:
A NATURAL SOOTHER
It has been scientifically proven that exercising on water can reduce depression and anger. Water is incredibly calming, and not only can it eliminate anguish, it can also help improve confidence. Paddling on water is a form of ‘moving-meditation’. Witnessing wildlife in their natural habits and looking out on the world from a different perspective are all components of a typical paddle, and also play their part in boosting your mood and reconnecting with nature.
ENDLESS ADVENTURE
Unlike the gym or a daily running circuit, paddling can take you absolutely anywhere, and no two paddles are ever the same. The UK is home to endless waterways, canals, rivers, lakes and beautiful coastline, so you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring. If you’ve mastered the basics but would like to take your adventures further, then you could look at a guided SUP adventure holiday which comes with the company of others to expand your social circles, and share in all of the fun with like-minded individuals.
ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS
Self esteem can be improved through goal setting, and there is no better place to do this, than on the water. From trying out different techniques, equipment, disciplines and paddle routes, you will never get tired of the endless variation that comes from the sport. If your goal is to have fun, then it will certainly tick that box too!
SO WHY NOT MAKE IT YOUR MISSION TO PICK UP A PADDLE AND START EXPERIENCING THE BENEFITS OF PADDLESPORTS FOR YOURSELF?
Image credit: South West SUP
WSA offers UK-wide SUP courses across all disciplines of paddlesport to help get you off of the right foot, paddleboarding safely. Our team of friendly, knowledgeable and experienced trainers are always on hand to help with questions you may have prior to booking. So if you need any advice on how to get started, drop us an email or get inspired and informed through any of our social media networks.
wellbeing SUPPORT for WSA MemberS FROM ‘MY BLACK DOG’
My Black Dog is a charity that offers peer-to-peer support for people who are struggling with their mental health, with all volunteers having lived experiences with their own mental health battles and understanding of what you're going through. They provide an invaluable resource for individuals seeking mental health support, offering a safe space to express and navigate their emotions. Recognising the importance of holistic wellbeing, Water Skills Academy has joined forces with My Black Dog to extend their support to their members.
This partnership represents a powerful commitment to prioritise the mental health and well-being of individuals within the Water Skills Academy community. Together, they aim to promote understanding, compassion, and resilience, ensuring that no one faces their mental health challenges alone.