Kite Flying: Then and Now
As far as early records show, kite flying has been around since the 5th Century B.
C.
Kites made their appearance over three thousand years ago in China.
Because silk fabric and bamboo were so easily available, silk was first used for the sail, and bamboo was used for the kite frame.
Paper kites were introduced soon after the silk kites, and were used for military information and aided in battles.
It is interesting to note that kites were also used to banish evil, communicate with the heavens, and to measure temperature differences in altitude.
From China, kite making spread throughout Asia, then to Europe and now to modern day America, Australia, and other countries.
We also know that Benjamin Franklin used kites to collect electricity from the storm clouds, and the Wright Brothers flew kites to test their theories before the first flying airplane machine was invented.
Throughout the years, it is interesting to note how kite materials have evolved.
From silk to paper, to polyester, to rayon, to rip-stop nylon, and even ultra high polyethylene material, kites have progressed to be the "ultimate" in flying fun and control.
From single line kites to double and even quad line kites, flying a kite can be as relaxing, fun, and/or as challenging as one may want.
Even though the early days of flying kites seemed to have a definite purpose in mind, today kite flying has become one of the fastest growing outdoor leisure activities for the entire family.
The modern day merits and wonders of kite flying can be the ultimate carefree opportunity for health and well-being.
An article by Linda Wasmer Andrews in the April 2011 edition of Psychology Today, entitled "Kite Flying for Health and Happiness", supports the benefits of flying a kite.
In this article, Ms.
Wasmer Andrews emphasizes how kite flying fosters a relaxed mindfulness, allows one to experience nature, promotes exercise through outdoor play, encourages socializing, and creates beauty by "having happiness on a string".
http://www.
psychologytoday.
com/node/58450 Today also finds the fun and challenging art of sport or stunt kite flying competitions, both nationally and internationally.
These exciting and ever growing popular events are sponsored by the American Kitefliers Association (AKA).
Whether you are a novice or an avid kite flying pro, there are kites available for all experience levels -especially for that of stunt, trick, and stack kite flying.
During stunt kite maneuvers, trick/sport kites can reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour, and by pulling and pushing the lines, these kites can fly complex tricks through turns, loops and landings.
While performing stall maneuvers, stunt kites can also appear to be motionless.
Though the history of kites goes back many years, and kites were used for more practical purposes, kite flying today has become a growing recreational activity for fun and pleasure.
Americans, as well as people throughout the world, are now participating in the excitement, fun, and relaxing world of flying kites! This activity has now become one of the fastest growing outdoor events for the entire family.
Everyone can enjoy the open air of the kite flying experience: whether on the beach, in the desert, at the lake, a meadow, or a park.
With family and friends, flying kites and spending time together outdoors can provide much enjoyment and many fond memories for all ages.
It is exciting to know that there are so many types and designs of kites, from the simple to the very intricate.
No matter what a person's age or interest, there is a kite available for anyone.
C.
Kites made their appearance over three thousand years ago in China.
Because silk fabric and bamboo were so easily available, silk was first used for the sail, and bamboo was used for the kite frame.
Paper kites were introduced soon after the silk kites, and were used for military information and aided in battles.
It is interesting to note that kites were also used to banish evil, communicate with the heavens, and to measure temperature differences in altitude.
From China, kite making spread throughout Asia, then to Europe and now to modern day America, Australia, and other countries.
We also know that Benjamin Franklin used kites to collect electricity from the storm clouds, and the Wright Brothers flew kites to test their theories before the first flying airplane machine was invented.
Throughout the years, it is interesting to note how kite materials have evolved.
From silk to paper, to polyester, to rayon, to rip-stop nylon, and even ultra high polyethylene material, kites have progressed to be the "ultimate" in flying fun and control.
From single line kites to double and even quad line kites, flying a kite can be as relaxing, fun, and/or as challenging as one may want.
Even though the early days of flying kites seemed to have a definite purpose in mind, today kite flying has become one of the fastest growing outdoor leisure activities for the entire family.
The modern day merits and wonders of kite flying can be the ultimate carefree opportunity for health and well-being.
An article by Linda Wasmer Andrews in the April 2011 edition of Psychology Today, entitled "Kite Flying for Health and Happiness", supports the benefits of flying a kite.
In this article, Ms.
Wasmer Andrews emphasizes how kite flying fosters a relaxed mindfulness, allows one to experience nature, promotes exercise through outdoor play, encourages socializing, and creates beauty by "having happiness on a string".
http://www.
psychologytoday.
com/node/58450 Today also finds the fun and challenging art of sport or stunt kite flying competitions, both nationally and internationally.
These exciting and ever growing popular events are sponsored by the American Kitefliers Association (AKA).
Whether you are a novice or an avid kite flying pro, there are kites available for all experience levels -especially for that of stunt, trick, and stack kite flying.
During stunt kite maneuvers, trick/sport kites can reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour, and by pulling and pushing the lines, these kites can fly complex tricks through turns, loops and landings.
While performing stall maneuvers, stunt kites can also appear to be motionless.
Though the history of kites goes back many years, and kites were used for more practical purposes, kite flying today has become a growing recreational activity for fun and pleasure.
Americans, as well as people throughout the world, are now participating in the excitement, fun, and relaxing world of flying kites! This activity has now become one of the fastest growing outdoor events for the entire family.
Everyone can enjoy the open air of the kite flying experience: whether on the beach, in the desert, at the lake, a meadow, or a park.
With family and friends, flying kites and spending time together outdoors can provide much enjoyment and many fond memories for all ages.
It is exciting to know that there are so many types and designs of kites, from the simple to the very intricate.
No matter what a person's age or interest, there is a kite available for anyone.
