When you think of a surfer, what comes to mind? Someone signing shaka while saying “hang loose” with a goofy grin on their face? Or a devout surfer whose dedication means they wake at the crack of dawn to maintain their daily practice? No matter your image of a surfer, the truth is, there’s a lot to learn from their ability to practice mindfulness and sports at the same time.

In order to catch a wave, one must be completely focused and in tune with nature. There's a surrendering to outside forces and to the past and future—all that exists when riding a wave is the present moment. Surfing is an effective natural remedy for stress and anxiety. With its unique combination of physical activity, exposure to nature, and mindfulness, surfing can have significant benefits for mental health and well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the science behind surfing’s therapeutic effects, how it’s a natural stress and anxiety reliever, and how you can start enjoying the benefits of this amazing activity. So, whether you're a seasoned surfer or just curious about how surfing can help you manage stress and anxiety, read on and discover the transformative power of riding the waves.

The Science behind Surfing's Therapeutic Effects

Growing scientific evidence points to the physiological and psychological advantages of surfing, particularly in terms of enhancing mental health and wellbeing. Let's examine some of the research and studies that back up these assertions in more detail:

Physiological Benefits

• Reduced cortisol levels: The body produces the hormone cortisol in response to stress. Anxiety, depression, and sleep issues are just a few of the negative effects that high cortisol levels can have on one's physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that surfing can help reduce cortisol levels, leading to improved mood and better stress management.

• Improved sleep: Speaking of sleep, surfing can help improve the quality and quantity of sleep. Through the promotion of physical exhaustion, the reduction of stress, and the regulation of circadian rhythms, sleep after a day of surfing can be more profound and restful. According to the Global Journal of Community Psychology Practice, youth with disabilities that underwent surf therapy had better sleep after completing the therapy.

• Increased endorphins: Endorphins are natural chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of happiness and well-being. Physical activity, such as surfing, can increase endorphin production, which can lead to improved mood and reduced feelings of pain and stress. Several different parts of the body are being worked when surfing including the arms to paddle, the core to stay balanced and upright, and the legs to pop up on a wave. All of these activities release endorphins, reducing stress and promoting feelings of well-being.

• Heightened Immune System Function: Spending time in the ocean and engaging in physical activity can help boost the immune system, which is important for overall health and well-being. The ocean's natural elements and water may also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that boost immunity.

Psychological Benefits 

• Enhanced mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the present moment without judgment. In order to surf, one must concentrate and focus on the current environment and conditions, or in other words, be mindful. Studies have shown that surfing can enhance mindfulness, promoting feelings of calm, clarity, and well-being.

• Improved self-esteem and confidence: Surfing is a challenging activity that requires skill, practice, and perseverance. Not every day is a success out on the water, but there’s a grand sense of accomplishment that comes with successfully catching waves.

• Finding a Community: Surfing can be a social activity that connects people from diverse backgrounds. Surf communities are connected through their love of nature and the ocean. According to the Mental Health Foundation, “people who are more socially connected to family, friends, or their community are happier, physically healthier, and live longer, with fewer mental health problems than people who are less well connected."

How Surfing Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety

The combination of physical activity and connection to nature can have a powerful impact on reducing stress and anxiety. Here are some of the key ways that surfing can help:

• Exposure to nature: It’s proven that spending time in nature has a positive impact on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety. Surfing provides an opportunity to connect with the natural world, and has the added benefit of being exposed to the soothing sound of ocean waves, which create a calming effect.

• Mindful focus: We’ve mentioned this above, but the power of mindfulness to reduce anxiety shouldn’t be brushed over lightly. Being in the present moment is necessary when surfing. Surfing requires a high level of focus and concentration, which can be a form of meditation. Mindfulness is a form of therapy and way of life that can help individuals lower anxiety by eliminating the need to ruminate over the past or stress about the future. Focusing on the present moment and the rhythm of the waves can help clear the mind of distractions and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

Overall, surfing is an effective method for lowering stress and anxiety because of the exercise aspects, connection to nature, meditative elements, and sense of accomplishment it provides. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting out, the benefits of surfing for mental health and well-being are worth considering.

Surfing is good for the body and the mind

Surfing is not only a good way to lose weight and tone your body, it can also be very beneficial to your mental health and general wellbeing. Studies and research have shown that surfing can improve mood and mindfulness, lower stress and anxiety levels, and increase physical fitness. 

Additionally, surfing can improve sleep quality, strengthen the immune system, and offer chances for support and social interaction.

Surfing may be something to consider if you're looking for a natural way to enhance your mental health and wellbeing. You can find a sense of accomplishment and joy by incorporating surfing into your self-care routine. It can also help you feel less stressed and more mindful. As with any physical activity, it's important to start out slowly, get the right instruction and advice, and put safety first.

If you need help getting started on this mental and physical health journey, check out the Planet Surf website to book your first surf lesson today.