Why Surfers Are So Chill? How Surfing Relieves Stress

There’s a reason why surfers are some of the most chilled-out people on the planet. It might be the sun and the waves, or the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with riding a wave on the open ocean.

Spending time in the water is known for being one of the best stress-relievers around, just ask any surfer and they’ll tell you that nothing beats the feeling of riding cranking waves.

But whatever it is, there’s no doubt that we as surfers are kinda laid-back people which seems to make us relaxed and happier in life.

So what is it about surfing that makes people who surf so relaxed and stress-free? In this post, we’ll discuss what exactly is it about surfing that has such a calming effect and how can you get that same sense of peace and tranquility, even without ever stepping foot on a board.

A Constant State of Meditation

One of the best things about surfing is that it takes you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For a few hours, you can forget about your problems and just enjoy the moment. At one point in my life, I heard about a lot of people meditating around me while I don’t.

Later on, I figured that surfing is practically a therapy and meditation for my soul. Just imagine this – you’re on your own without any interruptions, no phones or computers, just you and the next swell.

Any form of interruption can cause a cognitive load that interferes with your everyday actions.

And there’s more to it than that. When you’re out in the water, you’re completely focused on what you’re doing.

You have to be present at the moment, and even forced to, otherwise, you’ll fall off your board. You can’t daydream or think about your to-do list when you’re trying to catch a wave.

This is exactly what meditation is meant to do and this focus can help to clear your mind and make you feel more relaxed in the long term, let alone in your day-to-day.

Surrounded by Pure Nature

When I run into the water in my morning session, I immediately feel it: The wind in my hair, whispers in my ears, and the stunning views – it makes me completely forget about my stressful day-to-day life.

For a few hours, I am one with the ocean and it feels amazing. You’re essentially leaving your stress behind.

Spending time in the ocean and being around nature can have a calming effect on the mind and body.

Surfers are constantly surrounded by the natural world, which helps them to stay focused and peaceful.

Nature has a big impact on our mental health, mind, and body, and being in the water, feeling the sand between your toes, and absorbing sunlight (don’t forget the sunscreen!) is one of the best ways to connect with nature.

There are plenty of studies supporting that, including how it can help reduce anxiety and improve moods.

Research from Harvard University in 2019 showed that: “Spending just 20 minutes connecting with nature can help lower stress hormone levels” (Source). You should for at least part of that.

Failure Is Not An Issue

Surfing is all about trial and error, this is why surfers are not afraid of failure as they know they will fail for sure.

No matter how experienced you are, there are waves you just won’t catch – you’re going to wipe out a lot before you finally catch that perfect wave.

But surfers aren’t afraid of failing, because they know that each time they get back up, they’re one step closer to successfully riding the next swell, especially for beginners who might give up too soon, as surfing can be hard sometimes.

Surfers tend to learn from their mistakes as a tool for improvement and failing is not seen as a negative thing generally in any sport.

Failing also teaches you to be patient and to keep trying, even when it seems impossible, which is a great quality to have in life, both in and out of the water. Remember that the next wave is not a matter of “if” but “when”.

A Relaxed Attitude Towards Life

Surfing is a peaceful activity, as we mentioned earlier, the nature and the acceptance of failing – help us know that there’s more to life than just work and stress that might come with it, and we take the time to enjoy the simple things in life.

You should be doing what you can at work and do the best you can, but don’t let it affect you overall. This sense of perspective allows surfers to stay cool even in tricky situations.

Some surfers will tell you that If you are too tense, you will not be able to catch waves or even stay on your board.

If you’re afraid of a big wave coming or the deep ocean, it might cause a little stress and put you in freeze.

You need to be relaxed to catch a wave – grab your confidence and stay positive. “This time I’m gonna make it”, “This one is exciting, I’m gonna take this” – telling this to yourself can help you stay motivated and hungry for catching the next wave.

Doesn’t sound too relaxing yet? Well, it’s because to achieve this relaxed vibe you need to believe in yourself.

This is a lesson that can be applied to life as well – surfers have to be confident in themselves so that they could ride the waves, which then makes them feel great and reach fulfillment. Now that feeling is relaxing and therapeutic.

Conclusion

Surfers are the epitome of chill, the kryptonite of stress, and the zen masters of the ocean. They always seem to be happy and stress-free, no matter what the situation is.

They manage to maintain their coolness because the ocean has a naturally calming effect on the mind and body – nature positively affects our brain, also by unintentionally putting them in a meditative mode.

Additionally, surfers are used to failing – it’s part of the learning process and accepting failure as a friend, not an enemy.

When they’re out of the water, they apply these actions while surfing to their everyday lives. These reasons all culminate in making surfers some of the most relaxed people around.

If you want to experience some of the chill vibes that come with being a surfer, try incorporating some of these things into your own life.

Let us know how it’d go. Oh, and throw some shakas, it surely has some magical effect.