10 Advantages of Surfing for Your Health and Happiness

Well howdy y'all! So you've made the wise decision to trade in your cornfields for some gnarly waves, huh? You must be ready to swap out those overalls for some board shorts and get ready to shred! 

Here are ten reasons why surfing is the perfect activity for you:

1. Connection with nature 

There's just something about standing on a board, feeling the power of the ocean beneath you, and riding the waves that makes you feel alive. It's like nature is giving you a high five, and saying "Hey, you're pretty cool too!"

Sure, there are plenty of activities that can get you outside and surrounded by nature. You can go for a hike, take a swim, or even just sit in a park and people-watch. But there's nothing quite like surfing. It's like all the elements of nature are coming together to create this magical experience.

First, there's the water. The ocean can be a fickle mistress, but when she's on your side, she's unstoppable. There's nothing quite like paddling out into the water, feeling the cool mist on your face, and waiting for the perfect wave. And when you catch it, and feel yourself being propelled forward by the sheer power of the ocean, it's like you're one with the water.

Then there's the wind. A good surfer knows how to read the wind, and use it to their advantage. It's like a dance between the surfer, the board, and the wind. You have to be in tune with all of them to really ride the waves like a pro.

And let's not forget about the sun. There's something so rejuvenating about being out in the sun, feeling the warmth on your skin, and getting that Vitamin D boost. It's like all your worries just melt away, and you're left with nothing but the joy of the moment.

But perhaps the most magical part of surfing is the wildlife you get to experience. Dolphins, whales, and even sharks (don't worry, they usually don't bother surfers) are all part of the ocean ecosystem. And when you're out there riding the waves, it's like you're part of that ecosystem too. You're not just a visitor, you're part of the family.

So if you're looking for a way to connect with nature, look no further than surfing. It's like a big, watery hug from Mother Nature herself. And who doesn't love a good hug?

2. Beach bod

Alright folks, let's talk about the physical benefits of surfing. Not only is it an awesome way to show off your tan lines and catch some waves, but it's also a killer workout. Here are a few reasons why surfing is the perfect way to get in shape:

Balance. When you're out there on the water, you're constantly working to maintain your balance on the board. It's like a never-ending game of "Don't Fall In!" But all that hard work pays off, because your balance will improve significantly over time.  

Core strength. To stay upright on your board, you need to engage your core muscles. And let's be real, who doesn't want a killer six-pack? When you're standing on the surfboard, you're using your core muscles to maintain your balance, which helps to strengthen your abs, back, and hips. This can be especially beneficial for people who spend a lot of time sitting or have a sedentary lifestyle, as it can help to reduce the risk of back pain and improve your posture.

Cardiovascular health. One of the most significant physical benefits of surfing is that it provides an excellent cardiovascular workout. Paddling out to the waves is no joke, my friends. It's like a mini arm workout, but it also gets your heart pumping and your blood flowing. When you're paddling out to the waves, you're using your upper body, which helps to increase your heart rate and improve your overall cardiovascular health. And once you're riding those waves, you'll feel like you could conquer the world (or at least the ocean).

Endurance. Surfing requires a lot of stamina, especially if you're out there for a few hours. But with practice, you'll build up your endurance and be able to ride those waves like a pro. Riding the waves also requires a lot of energy, which helps to burn calories and increase your endurance.

Full-body workout. Surfing works out pretty much every muscle in your body. You're using your arms to paddle, your core to balance, your legs to control the board, and even your neck muscles to keep your head up. It's like a one-stop-shop for fitness. The water also provides a natural resistance that helps to strengthen your muscles without putting too much strain on your body.

Low-impact. Unlike some other sports (looking at you, basketball), surfing is a low-impact activity that's easy on your joints. Plus, you get to do it in the beautiful, soothing waters of the ocean. Win-win. 

3. Mindfulness

Surfing is not just a physical activity, it's also an opportunity to practice mindfulness and find some peace in the midst of the waves. When you're out on the water, you have to be completely present in the moment, paying close attention to the waves, the wind, and the ocean currents. This requires a deep level of focus, which can help you quiet your mind and find a sense of inner calm. That's right, surfing can help you achieve a state of mindfulness that'll have you feeling like a Zen master in no time. Here's how:

The act of surfing itself requires a lot of focus and concentration. You have to time your movements just right to catch the waves, and you have to stay alert and aware of your surroundings to avoid colliding with other surfers. This means that your mind is fully engaged in the present moment, which can help you let go of any distracting thoughts or worries that might be weighing you down.

In addition to the mental focus required to surf, being out in nature can also have a calming effect on the mind and body. The sound of the waves and the fresh ocean air can help you relax and unwind, which can be incredibly beneficial for those who are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Surfing can also help you develop greater resilience and adaptability. The ocean is an ever-changing environment, with waves and currents that are constantly shifting. In order to be successful as a surfer, you have to learn to go with the flow and adapt to the changing conditions. This can help you develop a mindset of flexibility and resilience that can translate to other areas of your life.

Finally, surfing is a great way to take a break from the distractions of technology and modern life. When you're out on the water, there's no cell phone, no social media, and no emails to distract you. This can be incredibly liberating and can help you reconnect with the natural world and your own inner self.

4.  Accomplishment

There's nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment that comes with mastering a new skill, and surfing is no exception. Riding waves is a challenging and technical sport that requires a lot of practice and determination, but once you've achieved it, the sense of accomplishment is immense.

Learning to surf takes time, patience, and a lot of hard work. It requires you to learn how to balance on a moving board, paddle out through the waves, and catch the perfect wave at just the right moment. Let's be real, surfing is hard. It takes time, practice, and a lot of wipeouts before you can ride a wave like a pro. So when you finally get there, it's a big deal.

Surfing requires both physical and mental toughness. You need to be able to read the waves, stay balanced on the board, and push through the fatigue. But when you can get your mind and body working together, it's an amazing feeling.  With persistence and practice, you'll start to see improvement in your skills. You'll catch more waves, stay on your board longer, and feel more confident out on the water. Each small improvement will give you a sense of satisfaction and motivation to keep pushing yourself.

Finally, there will come a moment when you catch that perfect wave, ride it all the way to the shore, and feel the rush of adrenaline and excitement that comes with it. It's in that moment that you'll realize just how far you've come and how much you've accomplished.

That sense of accomplishment is not just about the physical act of surfing, but also about the mental and emotional strength that it takes to get there. It takes courage to face your fears and overcome the challenges that come with learning to surf. It takes determination to keep going, even when it feels difficult or frustrating.

Mastering the skill of riding waves can be an incredibly empowering experience. It shows us that with hard work and dedication, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Whether it's catching a wave or achieving a personal goal in another area of our lives, the sense of accomplishment that comes with it is invaluable.

5. Mental health

Surfing is not just a fun and exhilarating activity, but it can also be incredibly beneficial for our mental health. Being out on the water, surrounded by the beauty of nature, can help us find a sense of peace and calm that is often hard to come by in our busy lives.

One of the most significant benefits of surfing for mental health is its ability to provide an outlet for stress and anxiety. When we're surfing, we're focused on the present moment and the waves, which can help us forget about our worries and concerns. The physical exertion involved in surfing also releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters that can help us feel happier and more relaxed.

Moreover, surfing requires a lot of mental focus and discipline, which can help us develop greater mindfulness and self-awareness. By paying attention to our movements and the waves, we become more in tune with our bodies and our surroundings. This can help us develop greater resilience and adaptability, which are important qualities for managing stress and anxiety.

Research has also shown that spending time in nature, like surfing, can have significant benefits for our mental health. Being in natural environments has been linked to reduced levels of stress and anxiety, as well as improved mood and self-esteem. Surfing provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a way that is both exhilarating and calming, allowing us to reap the mental health benefits of both.

The ocean is therapeutic. There's something about being in the ocean that just makes you feel better. Maybe it's the saltwater, or the sound of the waves, or the feeling of being surrounded by something bigger than yourself. Whatever it is, the ocean has a way of soothing your soul.

Lastly, surfing can also provide a sense of community and social support, which are important factors in promoting overall well-being. Many surfers enjoy the camaraderie and friendship that comes with the sport, and the sense of belonging and connection that it provides.

6.  Community

One of the greatest aspects of surfing is the sense of community that comes with it. When you're out on the water, you're not just riding waves - you're connecting with a community of people who share your passion for the ocean and the sport of surfing.

Surfing is a social sport, and many surfers form close bonds with others who share their love of the waves. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's always someone in the water who is willing to offer advice, share tips, or simply enjoy the ride with you. This sense of camaraderie can be incredibly uplifting and can make the surfing experience even more enjoyable.

In addition to the bonds that are formed in the water, the surfing community also extends beyond the beach. Surf shops, local surf clubs, and online forums are all places where surfers can connect with each other and share their experiences. These communities can be incredibly supportive, offering advice, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that can be hard to find elsewhere.

Surfing is also a sport that transcends age, gender, and cultural barriers. Whether you're a teenager or a retiree, a man or a woman, a local or a visitor from another country, there's a place for you in the surfing community. This diversity can be incredibly enriching, providing opportunities to learn from others, share different perspectives, and connect with people from all walks of life.

Finally, the sense of community that comes with surfing can be incredibly empowering. When you're part of a supportive group of people who share your passion and values, you feel like you're part of something larger than yourself. This can help you feel more confident, more resilient, and more capable of achieving your goals - both on and off the water.

7. Creativity

When you're out on the water, there's no one "right" way to ride a wave. Instead, each surfer has the freedom to express themselves and experiment with different techniques, styles, and approaches.

This freedom of expression can be incredibly liberating, and it can also foster a sense of creativity that carries over into other areas of life. When you're surfing, you have to be constantly thinking on your feet, adjusting to the changing conditions of the ocean and the waves. This requires a great deal of creativity and problem-solving skills, which can help you develop a more flexible and adaptable mindset.

In addition to the problem-solving skills that come with surfing, the sport can also be a great way to tap into your imagination and explore new ideas. When you're out on the water, you're surrounded by the beauty and power of nature, and this can be incredibly inspiring. Whether you're trying out new moves, experimenting with different board shapes, or simply enjoying the sensation of riding the waves, surfing can help you tap into your inner creativity and express yourself in new and exciting ways.

Finally, the sense of creativity that comes with surfing can also help you develop a greater sense of self-confidence and self-expression. When you're surfing, you have the freedom to be yourself, to try new things, and to express yourself in ways that feel authentic and true to who you are. This can be incredibly empowering, and it can help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-esteem.

8.  Travel 

One of the most exciting aspects of surfing is the opportunity to travel and explore new destinations. While surfing can certainly be enjoyed close to home, it's also a sport that can take you to some of the most beautiful and remote locations in the world.

From the tropical beaches of Indonesia and Costa Rica to the rugged coastlines of Ireland and South Africa, there's no shortage of amazing surf spots to discover. And while the waves may be the main draw, these destinations often offer much more than just great surf.

When you travel for surfing, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures, try new foods, and meet new people. You may find yourself camping on a remote beach, staying in a surf resort, or even living with a local family. Regardless of the accommodations, the experience of traveling for surfing can be incredibly enriching and rewarding.

In addition to the cultural experiences, traveling for surfing can also provide opportunities for adventure and exploration. When you're in a new place, you're often more open to trying new things and stepping outside your comfort zone. Whether it's hiking to a hidden waterfall, exploring a local market, or simply getting lost in a new city, surfing can open doors to a world of exciting experiences.

Of course, traveling for surfing can also be a great way to improve your skills and challenge yourself as a surfer. By surfing in different conditions and on different types of waves, you'll be forced to adapt and improve your technique. And as you explore new destinations and surf with different people, you'll be exposed to new approaches and styles of surfing that can help you grow as a surfer.

9.  Fun 

Simply put, surfing is a lot of fun. The feeling of riding waves and the rush of adrenaline can be addicting.

At the end of the day, the main reason many people choose to surf is simply because it's a whole lot of fun. From the feeling of paddling out to the exhilaration of riding a wave, surfing provides a unique and thrilling experience that is hard to replicate.

There's nothing quite like the feeling of catching a wave and riding it all the way to the shore. It's a rush of adrenaline and excitement that is difficult to describe. And even when the waves aren't perfect, the act of being in the ocean and enjoying the natural beauty around you can bring a sense of joy and contentment that few other activities can match.

Surfing can also be a social and enjoyable experience. Whether you're surfing with friends, family, or a group of fellow surfers, the act of sharing waves and encouraging each other can create a sense of camaraderie and community.

It's not just the act of surfing that can be fun. The lifestyle that comes with surfing - the beach culture, the travel opportunities, the gear and accessories - can all add to the enjoyment of the sport.

10.  Sense of freedom

Surfing can provide a sense of freedom and escape from the stresses of everyday life that is difficult to find in any other activity. When you're out in the ocean, surrounded by nothing but water and waves, it's easy to disconnect from the distractions and pressures of the modern world and focus on the present moment.

The act of surfing itself can feel incredibly freeing. When you catch a wave, it's just you and the ocean, moving together in a beautiful dance. The feeling of gliding across the water, weightless and graceful, can be incredibly liberating.

But surfing also provides a mental escape from the stresses of everyday life. When you're out in the ocean, the worries and anxieties that may have been weighing on you before can fade away, replaced by a sense of peace and calm.

This sense of freedom and escape can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety or depression. The act of focusing on the waves and the present moment can provide a sense of clarity and perspective that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Moreover, surfing can help you to develop a more positive mindset. When you're surfing, you're often dealing with unpredictable conditions, unexpected challenges, and the occasional wipeout. Learning to navigate these obstacles with grace and resilience can translate to other areas of your life, helping you to approach challenges with a more positive and determined attitude.

Summary

Surfing offers a wide range of benefits for those who take it up. Whether you're looking for physical exercise, stress relief, or a sense of adventure, surfing can provide a fulfilling and rewarding experience. When you're out in the ocean catching waves or simply enjoying the natural beauty around you, the act of disconnecting from the stresses of everyday life can be incredibly rejuvenating. So if you're looking for a way to escape the pressures of the modern world and focus on the present moment, give surfing a try - you might just find the sense of freedom and peace that you've been looking for.