Grace on the Water: İdil Gür

Could you briefly introduce yourself? How did you discover SUP yoga? Do you remember your first experience?

I graduated from Yeditepe University with a degree in Sociology in 2018, which deepened my curiosity for questioning and research. My encounter with yoga was purely coincidental. During the pandemic, when studios were closed, I continued my practice at home with videos and online classes. That period marked the beginning of my inner journey. As I developed more awareness of my body and myself, I decided to join a yoga teacher training program. I felt that understanding yoga more deeply, learning, and perhaps teaching it would do me good — and it did. :) I discovered SUP yoga during camps I attended.

In your opinion, what is the biggest difference between SUP yoga and yoga practiced on land?

Yoga not only relaxes the body physically but also brings mental stillness. Practicing yoga on the water requires more balance, focus, and posture control compared to land. For someone used to practicing on land, SUP yoga engages different muscle groups and offers a richer physical experience.

What techniques or mental focus do you use to maintain balance during SUP yoga?

For someone who regularly practices balance and deep meditation, it becomes much easier. The calmness and serenity of being on the water adds a unique dimension to the practice. Whether it’s meditation, vinyasa, or hatha flows, practicing in nature with plenty of fresh air keeps the mind anchored in the present moment.

What is your top tip for beginners in water-based yoga practices?

Don’t think, “I have no sports background” or “I can barely do those poses on land.” SUP yoga is not just about dynamic postures. Starting with meditation, breathwork, and basic stretches on the board is the best way to progress.

What is the biggest change you’ve noticed in yourself physically or mentally through the influence of water and nature?

Yoga affects everyone differently. For me, SUP yoga has significantly improved my balance and focus. It works different muscle groups while uniting the body, mind, and breath in a single flow.

What is your favorite bay or route for SUP yoga in Turkey?

I love quiet, undiscovered, and sheltered bays. Adjusting to the wind direction creates the ideal setting for SUP yoga. Sometimes, anchoring offshore and practicing yoga against the wind becomes a truly unique experience.

Which three bays do you most enjoy exploring by boat?

Marmaris, Bozburun, and the Göcek Islands… Every place where I am surrounded by nature and the sea is special to me.

What do you pay attention to when finding and anchoring in a quiet bay?

We pay attention to the wind direction and try to settle into the bay at times when there are fewer boats around. The rest is about exploring and enjoying the moment.

Could you share a typical day you spend at sea? How does your morning start and your evening end?

Even when I’m on land, I love waking up early — it’s my favorite way to start the day. At sea, I keep the same routine. My body wakes up like clockwork. Yoga, breathwork, and meditation have gifted me positivity and energy. The first thing I do is wash my face in the sea. :)

Then I practice SUP yoga — 20 minutes of yoga followed by 10 minutes of pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation on the board. After that, I enjoy breakfast and continue the day with pleasure. Later, I take a pedal boat to explore coves the yacht can’t reach. Being on the water, alone with nature, is pure joy. By late afternoon, I close the day with a sunset yoga session.

How has spending time at sea changed your perspective on life on land?

Spending time at sea — especially in bays where there’s no phone signal — is incredible. You can truly be alone with yourself. As a yoga instructor who maintains regular practice, both my body and mind feel much calmer. Compared to my land practices, I reach a clearer state of mind at sea. Being in harmony with nature, adding meditation to the routine, and practicing SUP yoga on the boat give me a completely different level of awareness.

When staying in bays, what precautions do you take to be respectful to nature and the environment?

We avoid incorrect or harmful anchoring, leave no waste behind, and ensure we don’t damage the surroundings. We should all be mindful of leaving the environment better than we found it.

Finally, what is your top advice for those curious about or new to boat life?

For those interested in boat life, I recommend starting small and taking sailing lessons. For nature and water lovers, joining SUP yoga classes can also be a wonderful way to connect with the sea.

Thank you for taking  time out of your busy schedule.

Reportage: Banu Demir / The Sailor’s Newspaper

Photograps: İdil Gür Archive

Prepared for Publication: Doruk Agency / Founded by Sailor's Newspaper