To Balance a Kayak you should pay attention to two key areas of your body. This is the stomach area and muscles of the torso. This enables you to stay stable in fast or cross currents, choppy waters or high winds. Remaining loose and not tensing your muscles up will enable you to adjust your balance far more easily. Balancing a Kayak
Whilst leaning is an acquired skill and something you will get better at with experience rather like learning to ride a bike.