Boating to the rescue

By Bill Yeargin

If you are feeling stressed, you are not alone. Between the presidential election in the U.S., the wildly fluctuating equity markets, and COVID-19, even the normally stoic are feeling a little anxious. Our hearts go out to those who have been impacted, especially those impacted by COVID-19. And, our prayers go out to those around the globe who have lost a loved one; I cannot imagine how difficult that is.

We all need to be careful and cautious during these uncertain times. We also need some good news and, fortunately, boating season is right around the corner.

Last week I asked numerous people in our industry how the uncertainty was impacting consumer sentiment and was encouraged by their response. Boaters are not only excited about the upcoming boating season, but also asking for their new boats earlier than expected. Customers with late April and May boat deliveries were asking if they can get their boats now; anxious to get reconnected with the water.

The desire to get the boating season underway is not a surprise to anyone who enjoys spending time on the water. Many are looking for a break from the news and there is no better way to destress and relax than spending time on the water, in your boat.

And, this isn’t just my opinion. In his excellent book, “Blue Mind,” my friend and author Wallace J. Nichols uses many studies and some anecdotal evidence to demonstrate the substantial benefit people receive from being on, near, in, or under water.

Nichols shares lessons in neuroscience, including both standard and advanced medical research using EEGs, MRIs, and fMRIs to demonstrate the powerful positive impact of water.

He also uses stories to demonstrate how water not only benefits our overall well-being but also improves performance in all areas of life. The evidence is overwhelming that water positively impacts us in many ways.

Cutting right to the bottom line – people are notably healthier physically, mentally and emotionally when they are around water. It’s noticeable that people are more relaxed, creative, inspired, and content there too. Life truly is better on the water.

The air is warming, the water is warming, and people want to take their minds off the news. Fortunately, our rivers, lakes and oceans are open and waiting to make life substantially better.

I am writing this on a weekend and today behind my house I saw wakeboarders, wakesurfers, kids squealing with joy in tubes, and the biggest bass I have ever seen in our lake pulled out and released by an angler. It was another wonderful day on the water.

There is plenty in the news to think about and we all need to be taking the recommended precautions and taking care of those who need our help. We can also spend time on the water and let all that stress melt away. All aboard, boating to the rescue.

Bill Yeargin is CEO of Correct Craft and a tireless advocate for the recreational boating industry.

Bill Yeargin is the CEO of Correct Craft.

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7 Comments

  1. My husband and I honeymooned at Lake of the Ozarks 42 years ago…and that was when we decided that one day we’d retire at the lake! (We met and married in Kansas City!) I GET IT when you talk about being by water…we bought a weekend condo that was lakeside, and every time we’d arrive at the condo, walk in and see the water out of our great room windows, it was like a healing peace flooded over me! We now live full-time at the lake,,.and yes, it’s pretty stress-free living, even in the midst of all that is going on in the world! We have a God who we believe has everything under control! Our job is to pray and live in fath…and enjoy the lake! ☺️

  2. To me, money spent on boats is not an investment in the boat itself, rather it’s an investment in family and friends and moments that make all the hard work worthwhile.
    Whether you’re tinkering with the engine of a bargain find, polishing on a sleek new boat, hoisting a sail, or adjusting a throttle, a boat provides a therapy like no other. Some days, working alone, the rhythm of the work feels almost like church. It’s just you and God out there. Other days, they feel chaotic and exciting with laughter, cannon balls, and delighted squeals…

    Boats can cost as much or as little as you allow, another beautiful thing about them. If you ever wonder if you should spend money on a boat, ask yourself how much time with family and friends is worth to you. Buy one and they will come…

    1. Very good Amy, boating is a good investment in well being. A good alternative is joining a good Boat Club. You get it all with out the hassles and at a fraction of the cost.
      If sharing is not your thing then by means buy a boat from a local reputable boat dealer.

  3. We at Wake For Warriors have had the honor to bring the healing power of water to our nation’s injured veterans. Over the past 8 years, we’ve witnessed the anxiety and stress of daily life washed away and replaced with ear to ear smiles. We are truly grateful for the support of so many great people the boating community. Thanks to Correct Craft and their partners for standing with us in this endeavor.

  4. Mr. Yeargin,

    Thank you for your message. Most of what is good about my life today came from many lessons learned in and around the water. Having grown up competing in water sports on a National level, I was fortunate to be a part of a great community. I met some of the nicest, most genuine and kind human beings I have ever met during that time in my life. The water must have had something to do with that!

    I was fortunate to have had some great mentors who impacted my life at a very young age while I was competing on the water. Several of those individuals had a positive influence on who I am today. Not only have you inspired me today, you have me wanting to get back on the water! Thank you!

  5. Thank you for your leadership, Bill. Due to the extra stress, anxiety and burnout, there’s never been a more important time in our lives to make sure all people understand, have access to and practice “blue mind” wherever they are.

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