Searching for Solitude

I have a busy job that requires me to spend a lot of time dealing with stressful situations and demanding people. I need time alone to decompress and recharge my batteries. I spend a lot of time walking and taking photos, but I was looking for something that would make me focus more on the task at hand and think less about everything else. So, the search was on for a new hobby.

I’d seen the pictures on Pinterest of people effortlessly standing on these boards, paddling along at sunset, smiling, and looking relaxed. I’d also read about yoga classes held on these same boards. Yoga? Paddling on the water? Relaxation? I was in! So, I purchased a board of my own.

The first time I took the board out, I was excited. I imagined hours of effortless paddling along the river. I imagined how well I’d sleep that night—I’d fall asleep with a smile on my face and tired muscles. The reality was a little different.

I got up on the board and promptly landed in the water. Coughing and sputtering, I dragged myself back onto the board. This was supposed to be easy!! I have great balance. Years of ballet, Pilates, and the occasional yoga class should have made this easy for me! I was frustrated. Where was the relaxation I was promised??

The wind kicked up and after a couple of more “swims”, I decided that I’d paddle from my knees. I found it was easier to master balancing on water from a lower position. I spent the rest of the afternoon thoroughly enjoying myself and came home relaxed.

The next time I took the board out, I knew what to expect. Rather, I set low expectations for success. I planned to relax and enjoy my time on the water (or in the water). I picked a perfect day: no wind, no waves, and little boat traffic.

I slathered on the sunblock and put the board in the water. Cautiously, I stood up. And stayed standing! I found that once I relaxed and went with the flow of the water and movement of the board, I had better success. I’m sure there’s a not so subtle life lesson hidden there: letting go of tension and flowing with the water helps regain balance.

Confidence restored, I attempted some of my favorite yoga positions on the board. I’m not ready for a lot of the standing balance poses, but I am happy to say that the downward trembling dog, shuddering cat, and slightly sick sunbird poses are all part of my paddle board yoga routine now.

So, while I don’t see pictures of me paddle boarding along the river as inspirational material (yet), I will say that I plan on keeping it up. I feel better after I do it. At the end of my paddle, I do find myself relaxed and smiling. An hour or so of solitude on the water and a good chuckle while attempting some easy yoga poses helps pull me back together and center me.

“We live in a very tense society. We are pulled apart... and we all need to learn how to pull ourselves together.... I think that at least part of the answer lies in solitude.” ~Helen Hayes