M_Boats: Following Seas

Off the wind in a following sea and current tends to want to drive the bow down,  In the trough the main is closer to the water and takes a little less velocity from the wind. As the following swell catches up, it will raise the stern, lower the bow while increasing the drive on the mainsail which can lead to rounding up, or worse, rounding down. Compensate by moving self and passengers aft.  This helps get the bow out of the rudder business and puts the rudder back in charge like it oughta be. Of course, a reef in the main and/or a smaller jib has the same effect, and as stated in another post, moves the center of effort inboard.  It also tends to minimize worried looks and hysterical wailing from your crew.....