The boating alternative — paddling for stress relief
If you need stress relief, consider kayaking. Paddling provides a supremely pleasant workout, guaranteed to refresh body, mind and spirit. Kayaking does not pollute or alter the natural environment and the only fuel it wants is your calories.
Paddling is affordable. For less than $400 you can buy a surprisingly decent boat. Kayaks are portable, so you don’t need to live on the waterfront. Using leverage, any woman can load a kayak onto a vehicle without heavy lifting — and without help. Warning: this is extremely empowering! You can also use a rack with a hydraulic lift that allows you to load at waist-height. Then a gentle push sends your kayak to the roof. This is a back-saver and a real conversation starter.
Kayaks are easy to store. If your garage is full, hang it from the ceiling. Kayaks are so beautiful, you may be tempted to mount yours in the living room.
Kayaking is safe – just observe the rules. Always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Respect weather, wildlife and speeding boats. Wear water-shoes. Cover up with synthetic, fast-drying clothes to prevent over-exposure to the sun. Bring snacks and water and keep your charged cell phone in a “dry-bag.” Keep your body low and centered; don’t lean or stand; take your time getting in and out.
If you should tip, bring your boat and paddle to shore — then launch again. From the water, grab the kayak, kick your legs and pull yourself in as if getting out of a pool.
If buying a kayak seems overwhelming, rent first. Sit-on-top kayaks are user-friendly and stable. They come in many sizes and colors. Some tandems hold two adults, a child, a dog, coolers and fishing equipment. Most dealers provide basic instruction and usually credit rental fees toward your purchase. When you feel excited and your heart sings “yes!” – you have found your kayak. Congratulations!
-Sissel Robertson is the owner of Crazy Woman Kayaks, which is located at Fish-Tale Marina in Santini Marina Plaza. The business is also run out of Thompson Falls, Montana. She can be reached at sissel@crazywomankayaks.com or 220-0525.