When’s the last time you flew a kite? Can you even remember? Or more importantly, have actually ever done it? You know that people fly kites, it’s just that maybe you’ve never been one of those people.
Learn the Ins and Outs of Kite Flying
In today’s hectic world of being constantly connected, plugged in and overcharged, flying a kite seems almost too leisurely. It’s not like you’re supposed to be checking your email while you do it either. You’re so used to multi-tasking. How can you possibly just focus on one thing? It might seem hard, so it’s ok to be skeptical of this ancient pass-time.
With a little know-how and a little practice you can not only learn how to fly a kite, but you can also find the virtue in it. You could probably use some leisure time outdoors away from pressing obligations and flashing cell phone screens. You could probably use some peace and quiet. It only takes a few simple steps, and you’ll be flying a kite in no time.
Pick Your Kite
Kites have reportedly been around since the 5th century BC in China, and they were made from silk and bamboo. Today most kites are made from nylon or paper, and they come in a variety of shapes and designs depending on their intended use. A simple diamond design that does well in light to medium winds is a good choice for beginners.
Kites have a history of being used in a lot more ways than you might imagine. Scientists, meteorologists and even the military have used kites. You don’t have to do any experiments with your kite just yet. You just have to focus on getting it off the ground.
You can make your own kite from a kite flyer maker kit. You can choose the design, paint it yourself, and actually put it together. It can be that much sweeter when the kite takes flight knowing that you made it yourself.
Pick Your Place
You’ve probably noticed a lot of people flying kites in one of your beach trips. Beaches, as long as they are not crowded, make for great places to fly kites. You have the wide-open sandy beach and the wind from the surf. Other great places include public parks and open fields.
It’s also important that you choose a safe spot. Steer clear of power lines, and make sure you aren’t in a crowded area. A runaway kite could injure bystanders, and that wouldn’t quite be the leisurely experience you’re after. You’ll also want to watch for heavily forested areas. You don’t want your kite flying adventure to end tangled in a tree.
Find the Right Wind
The right wind is essential to flying a kite. You’ve probably noticed a lot of people flying kites in one of your beach trips. Light wind won’t have enough force to get your kite up and running, so you may need to a partner or you may need to prop the kite on top of an object.
Let it Fly
To get your kite up in the air you must first stand with your back to the wind. Hold it by the bridle, the strings that connect the kite to the line, and let it go. As long as you have light to medium wind, it will take the kite up. Once it’s up in the air you can pull on the line to get it to climb higher.
Watch the Sky
This part is not only about enjoyment, but it’s also about safety. You’ll need to keep an eye out for storms, strong winds, power lines, and other obstacles. Safely flying a kite means being observant of your surroundings. Of course, keeping your eyes peeled is also part of what makes flying a kite fun.
You’ll get to watch as your kite soars up into the air as if it has suddenly come to life. On the ground, a kite looks limp and lifeless. In the air, it becomes almost magical. You can finally take a pause in your day and enjoy the moment.
Flying a Kite is Easy and Fun
You might find yourself getting a little philosophical as you watch this delicate dance of the wind and the kite. The pressing matters of your workday may seem less pressing. The more you do it, the better you will get at judging the wind, at finding a good spot, and at getting your kite to climb higher.
