Get to Know Tara Scheller of Rivertowns SUP & Yoga

Tara organizes the insanely popular SUP Witches festival every October in Sleepy Hollow.

In July, she trades in her wand for a tail to lead the Mermaid Festival water parade!

1. What are ways you and your students benefit from being out on the water?

TS: One of my favorite things about being on the water are the awe-inspiring moments we experience from feeling challenged, empowered, at peace, and connected to nature while on the water. Being able to provide this opportunity and witness others experience it is the true purpose behind what I do.

2. Why do you think it's important for people to have access to the river?

TS: People feel different when they are near water. Wallace J. Nichols, a marine biologist, popularized a concept called Blue Mind Theory in which being in or near water can induce a state of calm, peace and well-being. This "blue mind" balances out the "red mind" characterized by stress and anxiety of our often overstimulated nervous system.

This is why so many people are drawn to the ocean, waterfalls, city fountains, and water wherever they can find it. Having access to the river allows people to experience this sense of peace and calm. I experience it every time I'm out there and I see other's experience it too. It's a beautiful thing!

3. How can people creatively paddle while costumed as mermaids and sea creatures? What did you learn last year about mermaid SUPing?

TS: Seeing all the creativity people put into their costumes is a huge part of the fun! It's important to not only be able to paddle but also potentially swim in whatever costume you choose. We saw a lot of mermaid style leggins, seashell tops, flowy dresses, mermen, and pirates too! We even had a SUP pup with a shark fin vest on a paddleboard. It's so much fun!

Register for the water parade on the Rivertowns SUP & Yoga website!

Leading the water parade at the 2024 Mermaid Festival.