Setting Sail on the Hudson: My Experience with Basic Sailing 101
Hello, ocean lovers and adventure seekers!
I recently had the amazing opportunity to attend the Basic Sailing 101 course at True North Sailing School on the Hudson River, and I just had to share the experience with you! It was a perfect blend of adventure, skill-building, and connecting with nature in a new way. If you’ve ever been curious about sailing or wanted to get a taste of the open water, here’s a little insight into what it was like to set sail.
Day One: Learning the Ropes (Literally!)
The first day was all about getting to know the boat and the basics of sailing. We learned how to handle the lines, steer, and understand the wind’s role in guiding us. It’s amazing how every little adjustment affects the boat’s movement! Like creating art, sailing requires patience, precision, and a respect for the elements.
Tackling Sailing Terminology
Learning all the sailing terms was challenging—especially since English is my second language. But I did it! I passed the test! It was incredibly rewarding to grasp these new terms and concepts, and I’m proud to have conquered that part of the course. Sailing vocabulary may seem like a whole new language, but with determination and a bit of guidance, it all started to click.
Finding Balance on the Water
Sailing is a unique balance between skill and instinct. The Hudson River’s currents and winds were a challenge at first, but our instructor showed us how to use them to our advantage. By the end of the day, I felt like I had found a rhythm with the river. There’s something so calming about working in sync with the water—a feeling I try to capture in my ocean-inspired resin art. Just as with art, it’s all about finding balance.
The Beauty of the Hudson
The Hudson River is truly a sight to behold from a sailboat. There’s something magical about seeing the city skyline and natural scenery from the water, with the gentle rocking of the boat beneath you. It was inspiring to be surrounded by such beauty, and I found myself thinking of new ways to capture that serene feeling in my creations.
What I Gained from Sailing
Basic Sailing 101 wasn’t just about learning to sail; it was a reminder of the power of stepping out of my comfort zone. Sailing taught me that we can’t control everything—sometimes, we have to adjust and go with the flow. It’s a lesson I’ll carry with me in both life and art, and it’s something I hope to bring into my work for you to enjoy, too.
Why You Should Try Sailing (or Any New Adventure!)
If you’ve ever felt a pull toward the ocean or simply want to try something new, I can’t recommend sailing enough. It’s an experience that’s both humbling and exhilarating, and there’s so much joy in mastering the basics and learning how to navigate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with the beauty of nature.
I hope my experience inspires you to set sail on your own adventure, whether it’s on the water or trying something new that brings you joy. Here’s to finding inspiration in every wave and breeze!