PADDLER 60
PADDLER 60
From fear to freedom – A journey to mental health recovery through kayaking
I ’ m Mathew Sefton , and kayaking has been a transformative experience . It ’ s helped me manage my mental health and opened up a new world of adventure and friendship . I encourage anyone struggling with mental health issues to give kayaking a try . Who knows , it could be the beginning of a life-changing journey .
Kayaking is a fantastic activity for people of all ages and abilities . It ’ s a great way to stay active , explore nature , and spend time with friends and family . But did you know that kayaking can also have significant mental health benefits ? For people struggling with depression , anxiety or other mental health issues , kayaking can improve mood , reduce stress , and build confidence .
As someone who has struggled with mental health issues for many years , I can attest to the powerful impact that kayaking can have . Like many others with social anxiety , attending a new social situation was terrifying . The fear of being judged , rejected or humiliated can be overwhelming and lead to avoidance behaviours . Despite these fears , I decided to push through and attend the first session at my local canoe club ( Deva Canoe Club ). It wasn ’ t easy , and I initially felt nervous and out of place . But as I got to know the other club members and saw how supportive and encouraging they were , my anxiety dissipated .
Kayaking provided a safe and supportive environment that allowed me to build my confidence and overcome my social anxiety gradually . Being out in nature and engaging in a shared activity helped create a sense of camaraderie and connection , making it easier for me to open up and be myself . Over time , as I improved my kayaking skills and made new friends , my social anxiety began to diminish .
But the benefits of kayaking for mental health extend beyond just social anxiety . Kayaking is also an excellent way to reduce stress and improve mood . The rhythmic motion of paddling can have a calming effect on the mind , helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation . Being out in nature and surrounded by the beauty of the water can provide a sense of peace and tranquillity that is hard to find in our busy , modern lives . Moreover , kayaking can provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery that can be particularly important for people struggling with depression . Setting goals and working towards them , such as improving your paddling technique or completing a challenging course , can give a sense of purpose and boost self-esteem . The sense of control and empowerment from mastering a new skill can be a powerful antidote to the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness that often accompany depression .
In conclusion , kayaking is an activity that offers not only physical benefits but also significant mental health benefits . By providing a safe , supportive and empowering environment , kayaking can help to reduce social anxiety , improve mood and boost confidence . If you ’ re struggling with mental health issues , try kayaking – you may be surprised at just how much it can help .
Thanks for reading !