By: Kristina Spears
Most of us have a hobby or activity we are fond of. We find time (which is not easy) to participate in this activity as much as possible. Whether we are competitive, an adventure seeker or just looking for tranquility, there is a sport/activity for you.
Our resumes almost always list our hobbies and leisure time activities. This helps define who we truly are, not just a super physician, teacher, attorney, mother etc. but someone with more depth and completeness.
I have noticed that we tend to stick to what we know. Perfecting our golf swing, swim stroke or running longer distances takes a lot of practice. But what would happen if you stepped out of your very well planned life and tried something completely out of your comfort zone?
I decided to find out.
I have never really been a river person, so I decided to take a 2-day intro to White Water Kayaking called River Divas. Outdoor Divas has awesome classes to give people, like me, a chance to try something outside of your comfort zone. I thought the thrill of being on the river would be a good way to test this theory.
The class included all of the technical equipment you need and a very qualified instructor. Melanie, like all of Outdoor Divas instructors, is top notch and very capable of making your experience rewarding and wanting more! I gathered my “water” gear (ie. bathing suit, board shorts, water shoes and sunscreen) and off I went.
The first day was on a calm reservoir (thankfully). We practiced a little number called the “Water Exit” before we could proceed with anything else. Let’s just say hanging upside down under water enclosed in a Kayak is a bit un-natural. But with the confident encouragement from Melanie we all eventually executed this feat with actual grace! The trick is to stay calm, pull the tab to release the “skirt” and exit the Kayak. Learning how to do this is so important to ensure one’s safety on the water in case you get into a bit of trouble. Melanie gave us clear instructions and we did it! Not without a bit of fear and anxiety but we reached inside ourselves and accomplished step one! What an invigorating experience! We followed with a couple of hours of paddle lessons and ended the day eager to try all we learned on some white water.
Day 2 was just as thrilling. It’s a huge step from calm reservoir water to white water. You tend to forget everything you were taught the minute the “moving” water grabs your boat and you must paddle your way to the other side and the “safe zone” or in river language, the “eddie”. Somehow despite your racing heart, dry mouth and shaky hands you come out safe and feeling pretty good with yourself. I had to learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable, not an easy task. Melanie was always right there giving us encouragement and guidance which made me feel a lot more confident.
I encourage anyone who is interested in trying a thrilling sport to give White Water Kayaking a shot. The butterflies took a couple of days to subside, but I realized that I am capable of a lot more than I thought. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be uncomfortable, let’s face it, but what a great way to add something cool to your resume of life! | 
