Embracing Mindfulness Through Surfing: Three Essential Lessons
Written on
Chapter 1: The Lessons from the Ocean
Surfing is not merely about catching waves and enjoying sunny days at the beach; it has imparted invaluable lessons about my mind and overall life. After more than five years of riding waves, even though I often find myself under the water rather than on top, I cherish every moment spent chasing surf. Beyond the skills I’ve acquired, here are three critical insights that surfing has taught me:
Section 1.1: The Importance of Position
Your position in relation to a wave, much like your stance in life, is crucial. Being in the heart of the wave can either sweep you away, causing you to tumble in the water, or you can find yourself far enough out that it simply passes beneath you, leaving you untouched. A mere shift of a few meters can drastically alter your experience. The wave itself remains unchanged; it’s your relationship with it that makes all the difference.
Just as a wave can evoke feelings of anger or anxiety, your emotions can also be managed by adjusting your perspective. When faced with strong feelings, a small pause and a conscious breath can help you navigate through challenges without being overwhelmed. With practice, you can learn to ride these emotional waves with grace and composure.
In this video, "Mop Rides the Waves of Life: a story of mindfulness and surfing," we explore how surfing can teach us about being present and mindful in our everyday lives.
Section 1.2: The Art of Forgiveness
After being caught off guard by a powerful wave and feeling disoriented, you have two choices: harbor resentment towards the ocean or move forward. If you choose to dwell on the negative experience, you’ll find it challenging to embrace the joy that surfing can bring.
Returning to the waves requires a willingness to forgive the ocean for its initial aggression. The sooner you let go of resentment, the quicker you can re-engage with the present moment. Forgiveness does not equate to forgetfulness; rather, it allows you to learn from past experiences and prepare for future challenges. Your body will remember the lessons learned, and with time, you'll find it easier to navigate the waves.
Chapter 2: The Power of Incremental Changes
The "Ride the Wave" Guided Meditation video provides insights into how small adjustments in our mindset can lead to significant improvements in our overall well-being.
While being in the right spot is crucial, refining your movements can also enhance your surfing experience. It's often the subtle adjustments—like the position of your head or the way you shift your weight—that can mean the difference between success and falling off your board.
This principle extends to our minds as well. It’s the accumulation of small, consistent practices—such as daily gratitude, visualization, and moments of reflection—that can transform our experiences. While everyone’s journey is unique, the impact of these small changes is undeniable.
Ultimately, it’s about recognizing that you are the observer, not merely the sufferer. This shift in perspective—seeing yourself as the awareness that watches—can lead to profound changes in your life. From this vantage point, you realize that you are always surfing the waves that life presents.
The final question remains: Why do we often overlook this inherent freedom? Why do we wait for peak moments to fully engage with life? Learning to surf through every moment can bring us closer to a fulfilling existence.
Photo by Mohamed Nohassi on Unsplash
I share mindful insights daily. Join me to gather more wisdom.