Stand Up Paddle Boarding for Mental Health

SUP Wellbeing

As a mental health nurse, I work in a high-stress environment and have to place a lot of emphasis on maintaining my own mental well-being, alongside supporting others in maintaining theirs. You don’t have to be a mental health nurse or a psychiatric consultant to recognize the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Studies have shown that just 17 minutes a day outside can significantly improve your sense of well-being.

Adding in the positive aspects of being in and around the water, coupled with the benefits of exercise, makes stand up paddle board a seriously awesome activity!

The Mental Health Benefits of Paddleboarding

The benefits of paddleboarding aren’t just an improved sense of well-being. You can experience a serious reduction in stress, better quality of sleep, improved memory, and increased core fitness and balance. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Many of us often find ourselves consumed by negative thoughts, which makes it super difficult to enjoy moments to the full and can lead us down a path to depression and anxiety. Research shows that spending time in nature decreases these obsessive, negative thoughts by a significant margin. And what better way to enjoy nature to the full than with a sup board?

Testing Times

Times have been tough for everyone recently, with many facing serious physical, emotional, and financial hardships. I’ve found that getting out on my sup board has been incredibly easy and enjoyable, helping me get through these challenging times. It’s simple to set up and pack down, and can be transported anywhere, making it the perfect accessory for a short canal adventure after work or a full day exploring in the lakes.

What Makes SUP Different

What sets this activity apart for me is the immense sense of peace it gives. When I’m out on my board gliding across the water, listening to the waves, birds, and rustle of the trees, I’ve found remarkable tranquility. It’s like my very own personal ecotherapy program!

Ecotherapy refers to treatment programs designed to improve wellbeing via exposure to nature. Activities involved may not be specifically advertised as ecotherapy, but the benefits can be drawn from any outdoor pursuit. There’s something special about stand up paddle boarding. It forces you to stop and slow down, allowing you to focus on the moment, your senses, and the environment around you. I’ve had some of the most enjoyable ‘me time’ out on my board, helping me think through a busy day, reflect on life, and calm my thoughts when I’ve had big decisions to make.

Five Ways to Wellbeing

If you follow me on social media, you’ll know I’m a big advocate of the outdoors. I’m even more of an advocate of the five ways to wellbeing: connect, be active, be mindful, keep learning, and give.

Paddleboarding is both an active and mindful activity. With recent changes in many lifestyles, more and more people are making the jump to try paddleboarding. It’s hands-down my new favorite activity to enjoy with others!

My advice to everyone is to be open to trying new experiences and learning new skills. Get outside, be active, be mindful, and allow yourself to have fun with it.