The irresistible attraction of Surfing calls out to everyone, inviting them to join in the exciting experience that’s as ageless as the ocean’s tides. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a novice catching their first wave. There’s a primal connection to nature in surfing that awakens the soul, making it more than just a sport. It’s a spiritual odyssey of seeking harmony in the chaos of the sea. 

It takes a precise blend of mental discipline, strength, skill, and instinct, as surfers synchronize with the ever-shifting ocean rhythm. Not to sound too corny, but there is something deeply tranquil about being one with water. So, no wonder surfing is helping people overcome mental struggles. 

The Psychology of Surfing: Facing the Breaking Waves of Life

Speaking with Leilani Marie Labong of Shondaland, Natalie Small, said, “Duck diving is one of my favorite experiences in surfing.” Small is the founder of the Groundswell Community Project, a San Diego-based nonprofit organization. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Her organization helps women heal from trauma, anxiety, and grief through techniques that include but aren’t limited to surfing. 

“There is a lot of strength and power around noticing that the experience — the wave, the task, the emotion, whatever it may be — is coming at you,” Small explained, “and then you get to choose what you want to do. But you don’t have to be wiped out by it… Just feeling the essence of something that’s bigger than you can be really transformative, the ocean holds all.”

Isn’t this exactly like what happens when we are faced with adversity? Ducking and diving are one of the first few things a novice surfer learns, building their ability to face the waves. No one is prepared for the hardship life throws at us. The dire need of the moment is to keep calm and strive, just like the new surfer.

Dealing With Crushing Responsibilities and Overcoming Trauma

Marie Labong opened up about the strained relationship with her father and the waves of responsibility storming on her during his hospitalization. At first, she wanted to run from it. Sometimes, she tried to escape it. But the zoned-out, detached outlook employed and the guilt that comes with it later can be devastating. 

Read More: Surfers to Face 100 Waves Each in San Diego Charity Event for Next Generation

However, just as she learned to manage waves, she also pulled through the difficult time. Natalie’s words were a lesson to be remembered. We truly get to choose what we want to do during hard times, at our own pace. Employing our coping mechanisms, good or bad. Looking back, we should be glad that we pulled through and didn’t get wiped out by it. 

In addition to this, we would like to commend Labong’s willingness to share her deeply personal experiences. It is not only an act of vulnerability but also one of incredible strength. By sharing her story, she has shed light on the crushing weight of responsibilities elder daughters face. Her analogy to surfing and the insights offered are a beacon of hope for others who may be navigating similar challenges.

Watch this story: Alpine Skiing Legend Lindsey Vonn Faces the Wrath of a Poisonous Oceanic Creature While Enjoying Her Surfing Spree