To all of the snow flowers, ocean lovers, earth shakers, and wind flyers… Getting out into the elements and harnessing a power that is greater than our individual selves… whoa what a treat. For the people who have not yet experienced the rush from being both in control and at the mercy of a force much greater than you… I hope this blog post can open you up to consider finding an outlet that fits you.
Why
Well why should someone start an outdoor sport. Well, for one being outside is a great compliment to our technology driven lives. It helps set a balance between being in front of screens all day.
Second, its a chance to get some time alone. Perhaps not entirely alone, for surfing in Southern California it can be difficult to ‘find yo Zen’ when the lineup is packed and you got to be a little more aggressive to get the waves you want. With that in mind its still a tranquil experience to be in the salt water, floating around as pulses of energy surge through the water for thousands of miles just to reach you and that shore line.
Now there are ton of different ways to get outside and enjoy some exercise. Some of you may be thinking well I can’t surf or skateboard. Its well too dangerous and I’m too old. And yes please practice precaution before getting out of your comfort zone. There is a good balance between being adventurous and well just being foolish.
It’s important to know the risk and dangers present. From an outsider perspective watching professional athletes they you may think that they are out of control and crazy to be preforming such risky maneuvers. And well what the outsider doesn’t see is the time and sweat that they put in for their moment. The numerous practice attempts and in addition to getting their bodies physically fit and ready their is the element of mental preparation.
To sum it up. Why… Well it’s about the connection. Once you get over the hump of worry, doubt, or just a mindset saying that you can’t… And you’re out there about to go for it. You take the leap of faith, drop in and then… Probably you fall or slip up. Failure is part of the fun here. You’re going to have to stick with it and depending on the learning curve for each sport it might just take a real long time before noticeable progress.
But then wait…. You’ve been putting in the hours keeping your spirits up, even though you keep messing up or falling down. And then that one ride, those few moments that it all clicks. That’s the hook. When you overcome the hardships and stay with it, and you’re rewarded with that magical moment that’s all yours. That’s the why. The connection you feel in that moment. Each sport has a variation and way of getting in the zone. So get out there and find the ‘stoke’ that your inner spirit is calling for. Yewww!
How
Move Yo Body friends. When getting in touch with your body and growing both your spatial and body awareness one starts to strengthen that mind-body connection. Start with stretching if you’re a very inactive person. Go on a easy walk around the block. Start increasing the challenge. Try a longer hike. Perhaps so frisbee golf. Whatever you’re curious about. Stop thinking about doing things and get out there!
Find a friend. When you have someone else that you can ride, hike, bike, or whatever with it can lead to fun adventures, but don’t wait for someone else to come along. Time alone out there is very restorative. When solo, try being more aware of your thoughts, feel your body, and notice your how you are breathing.
Now just got out there and have fun. You deserve to smile, laugh, and be happy. And, hey for some the pain and suffering is the good part. Get out there and find what is good or calling you.
Peace and love my friends – Keep a cool warmth out there, cheers!
