Risk rating
fellow classmates disrupted focus — an obvious consequence of attempting yoga on a paddle board on water. The ultimate goal for the class was working towards a headstand on the board, at this stage an impossible task. For all of the poses the trick is to ignore the elements like water and wind, and plant yourself firmly on the board.
Why you should try it
Tim explains there are numerous benefits of SUP yoga, particularly confidence, focus and integration of the entire body.
‘‘People can find it hard to find fitness that promotes all aspects of mindfulness and wellbeing with visible results. With SUP yoga you build functional strength and fitness in a way that doesn’t injure the body or push too much, too soon.
You learn to integrate every little muscle with every breath because that is what creates success on the board, not whether you did a complicated pose or got wet.’’ The obvious risks with water are present, but there aren’t any overt risks. Each session seeks to eliminate any risks by following some simple procedures — keeping a person onshore for an additional pair of eyes and potential emergencies; clear instructions on how to paddle in the specific yoga location; and entering water deep enough to avoid yogis striking the seafloor upon dismount. The risk of getting wet is high but adds an entertainment factor to the class.
Any surprises
The amount of confidence you get after moving around the paddle board is immense. I went in with expectations of getting wet and very surprisingly came out completely dry. The discipline is accessible for anyone looking to get some literal and mental balance in their life.
Watch footage from our SUP yoga experience at stuff.co.nz/life-style