Archers called to slay dragons for charity
On March 14 and 15, 2015, archers around the world are going to get together to shoot dragons in memory of Dennis Kauth. Organized by Dennis’ son, World Dragon Shooting Day aims to raise funds for charity. Check out your local archery club to find out if they are doing something for the day. If you happen to be in Malta, stop by one of the shooting ranges with your dragon to shoot.
After several days of rain and other obligations, I was finally able to get out on the shooting range again. It is amazing what a difference in my mood and mind that being able to shoot some arrows at a target can make. There are physical benefits as well. I can always feel a good practice session in my abs, my legs and my torso.
However, I think the greatest benefit, and the one that I am most easily able to see or feel, is that I have to be in the moment in order for the arrow to fly anywhere near where I want it to go. If I let outside thoughts crowd into my mind, the arrow immediately flies too high or too low, usually into the field behind the target.
Creating the focus and aligning my body with every shot helps me to relax, like a form of meditation. Align the shoulder to the target, point the arrow where I want it to go, draw back the string with my shoulder muscles – breathing in while drawing, bring my middle finger to the corner of my mouth, let fly and exhale. Each repetition reminds me to be mindful of the moment, to focus my energy on the task at hand and to relax into the flight of the arrow.
If these were the only benefits of shooting arrows with Malta Archery, they would be enough to keep me coming back. However, one of the greatest benefits is that of camaraderie at the range. When an arrow goes astray, there is always someone to help you find it. There are encouraging words and constructive criticism. There are new bows and a whole lot of people willing to be part of something larger than a conversation can convey. It is the friendship that comes from shared experiences and shared joy. Be a part of something larger – maybe you can start by slaying your own dragon.
After several days of rain and other obligations, I was finally able to get out on the shooting range again. It is amazing what a difference in my mood and mind that being able to shoot some arrows at a target can make. There are physical benefits as well. I can always feel a good practice session in my abs, my legs and my torso.
However, I think the greatest benefit, and the one that I am most easily able to see or feel, is that I have to be in the moment in order for the arrow to fly anywhere near where I want it to go. If I let outside thoughts crowd into my mind, the arrow immediately flies too high or too low, usually into the field behind the target.
Creating the focus and aligning my body with every shot helps me to relax, like a form of meditation. Align the shoulder to the target, point the arrow where I want it to go, draw back the string with my shoulder muscles – breathing in while drawing, bring my middle finger to the corner of my mouth, let fly and exhale. Each repetition reminds me to be mindful of the moment, to focus my energy on the task at hand and to relax into the flight of the arrow.
If these were the only benefits of shooting arrows with Malta Archery, they would be enough to keep me coming back. However, one of the greatest benefits is that of camaraderie at the range. When an arrow goes astray, there is always someone to help you find it. There are encouraging words and constructive criticism. There are new bows and a whole lot of people willing to be part of something larger than a conversation can convey. It is the friendship that comes from shared experiences and shared joy. Be a part of something larger – maybe you can start by slaying your own dragon.