Yin SUP – Discover the latest Paddle Boarding Trend

With so many distractions in modern day life it can be hard to disconnect. With more technology requiring more attention, with so many social media notifications we are constantly stimulated. It sometimes seems we have a never ending list of electronic devices vying for our attention.

Practicing Yin SUP can help us press the pause button. It helps restore and recharge so we can return to our busy lives. This time with more bandwidth to cope with the pressures of a modern lifestyle. So what is Yin SUP?

What is Yin SUP?

Yin SUP is the practice of engaging in Paddle boarding with a yin mindset. By practicing Yin SUP we incorporate principles of stillness, mindfulness, and receptivity.

Practice Yin SUP by embracing Yin Principles

The following are some ways to practice yin SUP by embracing the principles of Yin mindset while paddle boarding:

Embrace Stillness

While paddle boarding can be a physically demanding activity, it can also be an opportunity to embrace stillness and connect with the natural world. Instead of rushing through the water, try slowing down and taking in the scenery around you. Take time to pause and breathe deeply, feeling the rhythm of the water and the movement of your board beneath you.

Practice Mindfulness

Paddle boarding requires a certain level of focus and attention, as you navigate the water and adjust to changing conditions. To practice mindfulness, try focusing your attention on your breath, your body, and the movement of the water around you. Notice any sensations or thoughts that arise, without judgment or distraction.

Cultivate Receptivity

Paddle boarding can be a great opportunity to practice receptivity, being open to whatever arises in the moment. This might mean adjusting to changes in the wind and water conditions, or simply being open to the sights and sounds around you. Try to approach your paddle boarding practice with a sense of curiosity and openness, without trying to force or control anything.

Honor your boundaries

While paddle boarding can be a fun and rewarding activity, it is important to honor your own boundaries and limitations. This means recognizing when you need to take a break, or when the conditions are too challenging for your skill level. By respecting your own needs and limitations, you can cultivate a sense of self-care and self-compassion.

Embrace Balance

Like yin and yang, paddle boarding involves balancing two opposing forces – in this case, the water and the board. To practice balance, try to find a rhythm between your movements and the movements of the water. Allow yourself to sway with the motion of the water, while also maintaining a stable and centered stance on your board.

Connect with Nature

Paddle boarding is an opportunity to connect with the natural world, from the gentle lapping of the water to the sound of birds and wildlife. Take time to appreciate the beauty and power of nature around you, and allow yourself to feel a sense of awe and gratitude.

Bring awareness to the five senses

As you paddle spend one to 5 minutes focusing on each of the five senses in turn.

Sight : What is the closest thing that you can see, what is the furtherest thing you can see. What are the different colours in your surroundings. What plant and wildlife can you see?

Touch : Appreciate where your body is in space, how are you connecting with your SUP? Are you sitting standing kneeling? How is the water and your SUP interacting? Is the water still and glass like or is there a gentle movement? Is there a breeze or heat from the sun on your skin? What other sensations do you feel?

Hearing : What noises can you hear? Is there wind whispering through treetops? The Call of birds and animals? Can you hear other people paddling, swimming, using boats or enjoying the waters edge? Is there the gentle sound of waves lapping against the side of your SUP?

Smell : Can you smell the water? Are there light fragrances of trees or freshly cut grass? Is the air thin, crisp and cool with the fragrance of rain? Can you smell cooking or perhaps sunscreen.

Taste : Can you differentiate the sense of taste from the fragrances you can smell. Do some of the fragrances trigger a sense of taste? Is there the taste of salt water in the air? Do you have a mid paddle snack or drink to enjoy and study the flavours within?

Yin paddle boarding can be practiced in calm sheltered environments. It incorporates principles of stillness, mindfulness, receptivity, honoring boundaries, balance, and connection with nature. By approaching paddle boarding with a sense of calm and openness, you can deepen your connection with the water and the natural world. We then reap the physical and mental benefits of this rewarding activity.

Watch our Video on Yin SUP here

Make sure to join our SUP Chick Community on Facebook.  Checkout and like our SUP Chick Facebook Page and Subscribe to our SUP Chick Youtube Channel.

To keep in touch please sign up to our weekly updates where we share our hints and tips along with some of the most epic places we have paddleboarded.

If you haven’t yet watched part one of our SUP Safari Scotland Travel Video Series  check it out here.