The Mindful Paddling Experience
Would you like to experience mindfulness on the water?
Join us for an hour of peaceful paddling with guided mindfulness practice out on the water, cultivating moment to moment awareness in the great outdoors. Our Mindful Paddles are gentle and contemplative with the emphasis on nature connection, breathing and being in the present moment. (as opposed to paddling as a sport or an adventure activity).
This is time for you to reconnect with yourself, far from the stress of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. Paddling’s repetitive rhythm, and the waters natural ebb and flow are a rich metaphor for the cultivation of mindful awareness. A moving meditation.
On water mindfulness practice includes combining the meditative act of paddling with guided breathing techniques, relaxation and more.
What to expect
A supportive group environment sharing periods of silence and quiet contemplation, amid beautiful scenery along the waterways of Nottinghamshire. Taking in the views, the sounds of the waterways. A place to escape, unwind, “me time”. As soon as you take to the water, every stroke you take is for you and you only.
Being out on the water with our team can help you improve your health and wellbeing. Benefits include lower levels of stress, fatigue and anxiety along with a host of physical, social and mental benefits.
If you would like to know more about mindfulness and the benefits of spending time in blue spaces please scroll to the bottom of this page
Is this for me?
Suitable for all. If you love the outdoors and nature and would like to experience the health and wellbeing benefits of paddle boarding. No previous experience of meditation or mindfulness is required. You may be new to mindfulness or you may be looking to sustain and reconnect with your practice in a new way. You’ll get full support from our qualified coach, ensuring you have a safe and rewarding experience.
New to paddle boarding? Please join one of our beginner intro sessions so you can get the most out of our Mindful Paddles.
When?
Wednesdays 11:00am - 12:00pm: Beeston Canal or River Trent from Beeston Heritage Centre
Private Session
Would you like to book a 121, private group session for your family, friends or workplace? Please email cassiepaxton@supfitness.co.uk to arrange
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness, the practice of being present and fully engaged with the current moment, has been widely researched and can help you to improve your health and wellbeing.
Mental Health Benefits:
Reduced Stress: Mindfulness helps reduce the production of stress hormones, leading to a calmer mind.
Improved Focus and Concentration: Regular practice enhances attention span and cognitive flexibility.
Lower Anxiety and Depression: Mindfulness-based interventions can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Enhanced Emotional Regulation: It helps individuals recognize and manage their emotions more effectively.
Physical Health Benefits:
Lower Blood Pressure: Mindfulness can lead to reductions in blood pressure and improvements in heart health.
Pain Management: It has been shown to help individuals manage chronic pain more effectively.
Improved Sleep Quality: Mindfulness practices can improve sleep patterns and reduce insomnia.
Boosted Immune System: Regular practice is linked to enhanced immune function.
Emotional Well-Being:
Increased Self-Awareness: Mindfulness helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations.
Greater Emotional Resilience: It builds resilience, helping individuals bounce back from adverse situations more quickly.
Enhanced Relationships: Being present and attentive in interactions can improve communication and relationship satisfaction.
Greater Overall Well-Being: Many people report a greater sense of overall happiness and life satisfaction.
These benefits make mindfulness a valuable practice for enhancing overall quality of life. Regular practice can be integrated into daily routines through activities like meditation, mindful breathing, and mindful paddling.
Benefits of Mindful Paddling
Being near water, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, or even fountains, has numerous benefits for mental, physical, and emotional well-being. These benefits, often referred to as "blue mind" effects, include:
Mental Health Benefits:
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: The sound of water and the presence of a natural environment can have calming effects, reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Enhanced Mood and Happiness: Being near water can elevate mood, promote relaxation, and increase feelings of happiness.
Improved Mental Clarity and Focus: The natural surroundings and rhythmic sounds of water can help clear the mind, improve focus, and enhance creativity.
Physical Health Benefits:
Better Sleep Quality: The calming effects of water can help improve sleep quality, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Lower Blood Pressure: The relaxing environment can lead to reductions in blood pressure and improvements in heart health.
Encouragement of Physical Activity: The gentle exercise promotes overall physical health.
Emotional Well-Being:
Increased Connection to Nature: Being near water fosters a sense of connection to the natural world, which can enhance feelings of peace and well-being.
Enhanced Mindfulness and Presence: The serene environment can encourage mindfulness, helping individuals stay present and engaged with their surroundings.
Improved Social Interactions: Water settings often provide a backdrop for social activities, leading to improved social bonds and interactions.
These benefits make being near water a valuable practice for enhancing overall well-being. Whether it's spending time at the beach, visiting a lake, or simply enjoying a fountain in a park, the presence of water can have profound positive effects on mind, body, and spirit.