sup & mental health

For most of my life I have used water as a way of therapy for my mind. Through the good times along with tumultuous points which most of us have experienced. I fell in love with water sports and SUP during my early 20s and never looked back. 

It's an interesting concept when we think of water, being in, on or around its flow, smell, coldness, stillness, its movement along with the sound of water. The different kinds of water: salt, fresh, pond, still or moving. 

Why are we so drawn to it?

SUP is one of the most accessible water sports for most people. It allows you to not only benefit from a full body work-out which is great for your mind, but also helps you to engage and connect with nature and your surroundings. You have no time for distractions, for mobile phones, to stare at a screen or to think of anything other than your balance, breathing, movement and the water you are balanced upon.

There are many books which have been written to help us understand the science behind why humans are drawn to water, but the important thing to remember is how it actually makes you feel both physically and mentally. Do you feel better when you have spent time in or around water? If the answer is yes then roll with it; it's the right outlet for you in many ways.

SUP engages your mind and helps  stretch your body out all at the same time.  Studies have shown that those living by water and spending more time around water have reduced stress levels and less anxiety. It helps you to maintain focus and balance along with concentration where needed most. You are gaining much needed Vitamin D which the body craves, especially in the winter months.

Consider your time on the water as your time, as meditation, as water therapy.

I always encourage SUPers to stretch and breath. Breathing is a huge part of releasing the stress and letting go of any anxieties you may feel when you first arrive on the water. Deep breathing can help relax the muscles making your paddling technique better along with relaxing the mind to enjoy the experience a lot more.

Happy SUPing x