SUP Yogis! No, for real – welcome to the world of Paddleboard Yoga, also known as SUP Yoga. SUP is short for Stand-Up Paddleboard. Paddleboards are a fun and unique way to enjoy being out on the water and in nature. But, did you know you could do a yoga class or be active on a paddleboard, too? Well, now you do. And while we’re here, let’s explore the benefits of practicing yoga on a paddleboard.
Benefits of SUP Yoga
All physical movement is good for your mental and physical health, and yoga is no exception. Many people believe yoga is not challenging enough physically to have the same benefits as a so-called “sweat-sesh,” but that is simply not the case. In fact, SUP Yoga is amazingly beneficial because it combines the beauty of nature with the wellness of movement.
Absorbing natural light and doing yoga on the water is a great way to bring peace and serenity to your mind and body. The benefits of SUP Yoga include:
- Physical activity
- Mental stimulation
- Improved circulation
- Aided digestion
- Strengthen your muscles, especially your core
- Better sleep
- Boosted mood
- Overall feelings of better health and wellness
- And more – like reduced risk for heart disease, etc.
Just the beauty and power of SUP Yoga alone is enough to convince us to get out there. How about you?
Equipment and Things to Know
If you’ve never been on a stand-up paddleboard before, just know it’s a lot harder than it looks. The core strength you need to stabilize yourself is more than you think you need, too, but that is why it’s such a great workout for both your mind and body.
Don’t be concerned about your fitness level though as there is always a first time to try something new, and the more you do it, the better you’ll get with time. So, what do you need to do SUP Yoga? Let’s find out:
- Stand-Up Paddleboard
- Strap for your heel
- Paddle if you plan to take it out on the water and travel (you can do SUP Yoga in a pool!)
- Life jacket – it is very normal/common to fall in the water a few times, especially for beginners
- Know the area you plan to be in
- Whistle if you plan to be alone
- Anchor if it makes you feel more comfortable
Basic, Beginner Moves to Try
Let’s explore ten easy moves to try on your paddleboard.
- Seated with legs crossed
- Supine butterfly
- Child’s pose
- Downward-facing dog
- Mountain
- Lunges
- Cobra
- Warrior I and II
- Boat
- Savasana
It’s much easier to sit or lay down on the board, but when you venture to standing poses, those can be quite fun, too. Just remember to keep a wide base, and don’t over-grip the board with your feet!
SUP Yoga at Shasta Lake!
Are you ready to try SUP Yoga? Come on out to visit us here in Shasta Lake, CA at Bridge Bay Marina and Resort. We are so excited to take on this SUP Yoga adventure with you. Contact us now to reserve your booking!