What to Expect:

Time: 7 hour excursions from 8:00am-4:00pm. A group lunch will be had near 12:00pm. Some variation in time may occur; specifics will be provided upon sign-up.

Where: Locations may include the Yahara River, Lake Monona, Starkweather Creek, Devil’s Lake State Park, and more. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and may need to purchase a vehicle admission pass to park within a state park. Specifics will be included in event sign ups.

Who: A maximum of 8 and minimum of 6 participants, with 2 facilitators. All involved will be women/femme+ individuals 18 years or older.

What: Spend a full day on the water in a guided paddling experience designed to nurture awareness, confidence, and connection. Participants will paddle independently or in tandem as a moving meditation while exploring balance, breath, and embodied presence while gently meeting fear, building self-trust, and practicing interpersonal communication skills. Time on the water is balanced with moments on shore for mindfulness practices, reflective journaling, and intentional rest. While on the water, participants will engage in group practices, which may include learning how to notice and name emotions that may arise while paddling, such as fear, anxiety, and excitement, as well as skills to manage and move through those emotions. Participants may also learn how to complete body scans, breathing exercises, and grounding with our senses, all while connecting with themselves and the water. Focus will be on learning to trust our bodies and minds while in stressful and/or new situations, communicating those experiences to others, and supporting each other through challenges. Emphasis on positive self-talk, leaning into confidence, and embodying resilience will be present throughout the day. No prior paddling or wellness experience required, though participants should be physically prepared for an intermediate level of physical excursion. Plenty of breaks will be available.

Gear: Soul To Summit will provide all necessary gear, including PFD’s, boats, and paddles. You may bring your own gear if you would like, but it will be inspected prior to use to ensure safety.

Items to bring:

Participants must provide their own lunch, snacks, water, and journal. A waterproof or water resistant bag to keep these items in is recommended.

Water shoes, a hat for sun protection, sunglasses, layers, and sunscreen are highly recommended. More information will be sent out upon sign up.