How can paddleboarding help your mental health?

There are so many good things about paddleboarding and kayaking. Many of the key benefits of paddling have a great impact on our mental health. As part of mental health awareness week we have compiled a list of how paddling can help your mental health.

1: Socialising

The theme for this years mental health awareness week is lonliness and one of the great things about paddling is that it brings people together. Whether you want to go for a long paddle and a catch up with a friend or take your boards to the beach with your family it is a great excuse to get together. If you want to get out and meet new people then paddleboarding is a great way to do this. With the increased popularity of the sport there have been many local clubs formed with regular organised events which you can join to meet new people. If you want to find a paddling group in your area it is a good idea to check out Facebook.

2: Getting Outdoors

It's well known that getting outdoors can have wonders on your mood and what better way to get outdoors than exploring the local waterways in your area and further afield. Taking an hour (or more) out of your day to head out in the fresh air on your paddleboard or kayak can reduce your stress levels, increase relaxation levels, help you sleep and improve your Vitamin D levels. 

3: Exercise:

Exercise causes profound chemical changes in our brain which increases our happiness levels, self esteem and productivity. As well as being great for our core strengh and fitness paddling is also the perfect low impact exercise to improve your mental health.

4: Improve Mindfulness:

Paddleboarding requires a constant, gentle focus on your balance similar to how you may focus on your breath whilst participating in yoga which inturn improves your mindfulness. Whilst paddling we experience a heightened awareness of the environment which we are in whilst maintaining your balance and keeping the board moving in a forward motion.This in turn also increases your self awareness, makes you focus on the present, reduces negative emotions and restores concentration.

Written by Kristy Hobart