The Psychology behind surfing & relaxation
Coming from someone with years of experience in surfing and marketing, psychology is something I'm very familiar with and done plenty of research and study to become a self-proclaimed expert.
Understanding the physiological connections between you, your board and the waves is something that isn't necessary to know, but understanding can benefits you greatly.
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Visualisation
Mental preparation on waves approaching, as well as preparing mentally for a wipeout will help you get back on your board, back out and waiting for the next wave to come quicker.
Surfers no matter how much or little experience you have can come prone to frustration whilst waiting between waves. 11 time World Surf League Champion, Kelly Slater says himself "I watch the waves and feel the movements in my body which is kind of useful". He is in tune with the waves he mind surfs.
Although the perception of surfing involves a lot of physical attributes, the mental aspects are just as important, Understanding the movement of the waves, the calm peaceful ocean, you can train your brain to prepare yourself for takeoffs, turns and even barrels.
Meditation
Meditation has been used for thousands of years to clear the mind and set your mind to focus on something. Meditation is a rendezvous between you, and yourself. The key to a good meditation is training and soothing your mind, and entering a mode of freedom and self-awareness.
Photo Credit: Snowstone on Deviantart
Building your concentration, focus, and attention allows you to tune in with the elements of the ocean, air, and earth, but most important of all. Yourself.
Surfing offers an indescribable moment of zen, a spiritual experience of riding a peaceful wave.
Simply sitting still on your board, taking in the surroundings and becoming self-aware of the environment around you will greatly improve your state of mind whilst out surfing.
Psychological techniques improving excitement levels
Don't go out into any surf without first thinking about the situation, your mental state and psychological preparation of the waves, the number of people and the types of breaks you're on. This will prepare you for whats to come, whether you're preparing for large crushers on a reef with a packed crowd or small calm waves on a beach by yourself.
Assessing the conditions and discovering your ideal paddle route is and vision yourself on the waves will help your surfing performance.
Now arousal levels will have eased off from a state of anxiety towards a state of confidence and relaxation due to introducing a plan of attack.
Mind surfing unridden waves will give you the perfect pathway to success, boosting your confidence and lowing anxiety before tackling the situation.