Now that spring is here, I’m looking forward to going kayaking. It takes a while for the water to warm enough that you could swim to shore if necessary, without being overcome by hypothermia. Some people here go out in May wearing wetsuits, but that seems extreme to me. There is still some sea ice floating around, which cools the air and gives a definite wind-chill.
Here are some of the reasons that I love kayaking:
The perfect stillness of early mornings If I can manage to go out early enough, on a clear morning when the sun has barely risen, the water is like a mirror reflecting the trees along the shore, the herons standing in the marshes, and the watercolor sky.
The element of water I am fascinated by water. The kayak skims along the surface of the mirror; each paddle stroke creates a tiny whirlpool. I am sitting right at the surface of this magical substance, like a dolphin or a fish, or even a mermaid. If there is wind creating waves, then the kayak rocks with the waves, like a cradle. (I don’t go out in heavy surf… just watch it from the shore!). This probably sounds funny, but I also like the smell of water, ever since I was a tiny child. Fresh pond water has an ozone smell, and salt water has a marshy tidal smell reminiscent of gulls, fish, and brine.
Great exercise Paddling is excellent for building upper-body strength and flexibility. You can go as slowly or as fast as you wish.
Lots of waterways to explore We are blessed here in Atlantic Canada with an endless number of waterways which are perfect for kayaks. Ponds, rivers, bays, and saltwater shorelines. Also, once the water warms up in the spring, it stays warm until late September, so fall is still a good time for paddling.
Sharing the fun Going out with a group of other paddlers is a wonderful way to spend the day. I was introduced to kayaking by a friend who had kayaks. After going out in his, I knew I wanted to get one. Now, if I’m bringing mine ashore where there are people, if an adult walks over and looks interested, I offer to let them take it out for a spin. They are usually quite surprised, but eager to try it, and come back very excited about getting their own kayak. I’ve met some very interesting people this way.
