Surfing and mental health: The positive effects of surfing on mental health and well-being

Surfing and mental health. Not a connection you might immediately make. However, over the past few years, surf therapy has developed as a new way to treat anxiety and stress, among other things. In this blog, we will discuss why surfing and mental health are a good combination.

Surfing and mental health

Joe Taylor, founder of “The Wave Project”, conducted research into the effect of surfing lessons on children with mental health problems. This research quickly showed that surfing made these children happier. This is partly due to the endorphins, a happiness hormone, that are released during surfing. In addition, the sun stimulates the production of vitamin D, which in turn stimulates the production of another happiness hormone: serotonin. Research has shown that after just 30 minutes of surfing, negative feelings are reduced and positive feelings increase.

Conquering waves, overcoming fears

Nature and physical activity are both proven stress reducers. Surfing combines these two elements. Surfing is now used as a form of therapy. It is used to reduce stress and anxiety levels in people with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other anxiety disorders.

The healing powers of the waves

Learning a new skill, or improving this skill, is satisfying. It can be a huge boost for your self-confidence and self-esteem. In Joe Taylor’s research, self-confidence was also the thing that increased the most. Surfing can therefore be a good way to gain more self-esteem.

Not counting sheeps, but counting waves

A good night’s sleep has a positive effect on your mental health. This effect is reciprocal. Your mental health also affects your sleep. One possible way to break this vicious circle is physical exercise. But be careful, do this at least three hours before going to bed. Physical exercise makes you alert, which makes it difficult to fall asleep. In addition, we have previously discussed the effect of sunlight on the production of serotonin via Vitamin D. Serotonin is used as a raw material for melatonin. And melatonin, also known as the sleep hormone, regulates your sleep-wake rhythm.

Connected on the waves

Finally, it has long been known that social connections have a positive effect on your mental health. A good social network increases your ability to recover from stress and setbacks. Surfing is usually not something you do alone. While surfing, you meet a lot of other surfers with whom you can form a bond. Being part of a close-knit surfing community will therefore also have a positive effect on your mental health.

Come surfing at Brunotti Surfcamps

Come surfing at Brunotti Surfcamps this summer to improve your mental health and build great friendships. Book your surfing holiday here now.