Let me preface this new column by telling you that I’ve never paddleboarded before. I’ve always wanted to, but it’s never something that I’ve gotten around to. So when Heather suggested in the office one afternoon that our first instillation of the “We Tried It” column be SUP Yoga, I was at best, well, apprehensive. I’ve taken yoga off and on for years, but the prospect of practicing it on a paddleboard on the water was a whole new proverbial ball game. And the fact that we were going to have a camera on us the whole time certainly didn’t alleviate any stress.
When we reached the Lighthouse Pier bright and early, however, the owner of SUP Yoga Center and our instructor for the day couldn’t have been more motivating. “I’ve had students,” said Jessica Amendola, “that come here never having paddleboarded or even tried yoga. You’ll be fine.” I took solace in the fact that Jessica should know. Apart from spending nearly her whole life living near the ocean, Jessica boasts over a decade of experience in paddleboard and yoga instruction.
She started by giving us a quick paddleboard lesson and we spent some time paddling around the pier as a warm up. Finally anchored just off the pier, Jessica guided us through some basic yoga sequences. Though in the beginning your mind tends to be very focused on just staying on your board, Jessica’s calming voice and gentle encouragement quickly lulls you into an appreciation of the environment you’re in. The sound and movement of the (mercifully calm) water fills you and suddenly your practice feels more natural. Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t easy. You have to be very willing to focus on your body, but the practice allows you to get back to your fundamentals.
SUP Yoga enhances every aspect of yoga practice. Careful and determined balance is essential; focused centering is more than just a suggestion; even spirituality is magnified by a physical synchronization with the world around you. It’s a practice that brings you back to the foundations of yoga.
Visit SUP Yoga Center online at www.supyogacenter.com. Photography by Brian Miller
