As we enter into Stress Awareness Month we thought we’d take a look into the ways in which paddle boarding can be the ultimate stress-buster to combat the worries and anxieties of everyday life.

Since 1992, each year April marks Stress Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness of the negative impacts of stress. Stress is a common experience that affects people of all ages and walks of life, and affects us all in different ways, and prolonged stress can have serious consequences on our physical and mental health. This month serves as a reminder to take a step back, evaluate our stress levels, and implement healthy coping mechanisms. Whether it's through exercise, meditation, or simply taking time for some self-care, it’s important to use this month to prioritise our well-being and find ways to better manage stress in our daily lives.

Why Choose Paddle Boarding? 

With the fast pace of work and home, being constantly inundated with technology and still wanting to have time to connect with those around you, life can sometimes feel very overwhelming and stressful. When it comes to dealing with stress there are a range of ways people choose to relieve their symptoms. When you search ‘Ways To Combat Stress’ on Google the following consistently pop up; physical activity, meditation, laughing more, connecting with others, and getting enough sleep. But why opt for one when you can't find a physical activity that combines a range of them?

Paddle boarding offers the perfect combination of a number of the above stress relievers - physical activity, meditation and connecting with others. When your body goes into a state of stress, it's expecting some kind of physical activity. So one way to control your stress level is to give your body exactly what it wants - physical activity. Virtually any form of physical activity can act as a stress reliever, working to pump-up our feel-good endorphins. 

The Science Behind Stress and Its Impact on Mental Health

Stress is a natural response to challenging situations, but when it becomes chronic, it can have negative effects on our mental health. The causes of stress vary greatly, from workplace stress to family situations to financial worries. All these different aspects of our lives can have a huge impact on how we’re feeling, and if we don’t find ways to alleviate these feelings we risk our mental state worsening.

Research shows that prolonged stress can lead to changes in brain chemistry, including decreased serotonin levels and increased cortisol levels. This can result in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Recognising the signs of stress and implementing healthy coping mechanisms, such as paddle boarding, or other mood boosting outdoor activities, is crucial for maintaining good mental health and overall well-being. 

There is a strong connection between time spent in nature and reduced negative emotions. The Mental Health Foundation in the UK released a report in 2021 titled “Nature: How Connecting with Nature Benefits our Mental Health“. The report outlined how being connected with the natural world makes people happier and healthier. Paddle boarding is the perfect way to connect with nature whilst also engaging in physical activity and experiencing a mental re-set. Scientific studies have shown that simply being near bodies of water can reduce symptoms of both anxiety and depression. 

Stress management is crucial for maintaining our overall health and well-being. Prolonged stress can lead to a range of physical and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, heart disease, and weakened immune system. By learning effective stress management techniques, we can reduce our risk of these health issues and improve our quality of life. Furthermore, when we manage our stress, we can feel more in control of our lives and better equipped to handle challenges that come our way.

The Benefits of Paddle Boarding for Mental Health

Whether you prefer exercise, meditation, or a little bit of both, it's crucial to find ways to manage stress in our daily lives. But why settle for traditional methods when you can take your wellness journey to the next level with paddle boarding?

Get ready for an adventure that not only reduces stress but improves your mental health in ways you never thought possible. Paddle boarding has taken the world by storm for a reason! It's a thrilling water sport that lets you enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors while also providing an opportunity for mindfulness and relaxation. It’s a low impact workout that engages your core muscles, improves your balance, and gets your heart rate up. The endorphins released from the activity can give you a mood boost and help reduce stress.

But that's not all - paddle boarding offers a unique opportunity for mindfulness and relaxation. With the calming sound of the water and the warm sun on your skin, you'll feel more relaxed and present in the moment than ever before. And if you're looking for a little extra stress relief, paddle boarding can even help you ease into a meditative state. Focus on the feel of the water under your feet and perfect your paddle stroke as you centre your mind and find your inner peace.

How to Incorporate Paddle Boarding into Your Self-Care Routine

Paddle boarding is a fun and unique way to incorporate self-care into your routine. It provides an opportunity to connect with nature, get some exercise, and enjoy a peaceful and serene environment. For beginners looking to take up the water sport there are a few best practices to take into consideration to ensure your paddle boarding experience is both enjoyable and safe.

When it comes to paddle boarding, safety is key! You'll want to make sure you're always prepared before setting out on your adventure. Check the weather conditions and steer clear of any areas with strong currents or offshore winds. It's essential to wear a buoyancy aid and attach your ankle leash before heading out, this will keep you safe and prevent the board floating away if things don’t go to plan. Once you're out on the board, take a deep breath and soak up the serenity of the water. Stay present in the moment and allow the peacefulness of the water to wash over you. Want to take your wellness routine to the next level? Incorporate paddle boarding by setting goals and scheduling regular sessions. Start your day off right with a morning paddle or unwind with a sunset session!

Conclusion

Don't wait until it's too late to realise the toll stress is taking on your body! If you're feeling down, it's time to take action. And what better way to manage stress than by embarking on an adventure? Paddle boarding is the perfect solution to help you reduce stress, boost your mood, and promote relaxation.

You can even try out meditation or yoga on your paddle board if you want to change things up a bit! 

Ready to give it a go? 

Take a look at our range of beginner-friendly paddle boards.