SURFING IN FUERTEVENTURA
A Deeper Dive into my Surfing Journey from California to Fuerteventura
- 07. Sept 2024
- SURF
- Mia Bitterlin
The ocean as my Playground
My surfing journey brought me from surfing in California as a child to surfing in Fuerteventura today. A decade later…
Surfing has a way of staying with you, even when you’ve left it behind. As a kid growing up in California, surfing was as natural to me as riding a bike. The ocean was my playground, and the waves were my constant companions. But as life took its course, I sadly drifted away from the sport. Over a decade passed before I found myself drawn back to the sea. It was in Morocco, a place far from the beaches of my childhood, that I rediscovered the thrill and peace of surfing. This time, however, it felt different—more intentional, more connected.
Rediscovering Surfing: A New Beginning
How my journey of surfing in Fuerteventura began
When I decided to take up surfing again, I knew it wouldn’t be the same as when I was a kid. I had changed, and so had my approach to the sport. After staying in Morocco I moved here to the Island of Fuerteventura. Shortly after arriving in Fuerteventura, I bought a 6’8 hardtop board with a longboard shape. This board became more than just a piece of equipment; it was a symbol of my commitment to diving back into the sport with intention and focus. The board is stable and forgiving, perfect for someone rebuilding their skills, yet it challenges me in ways that keep me growing.
The Power of Consistency
One of the first lessons I learned in my journey back into surfing is the profound impact of consistency. Surfing is not something you can dip into sporadically and expect to improve. It demands regularity, persistence, and a willingness to show up, even when conditions aren’t ideal. Each session in the water, no matter how small, adds to your understanding of the ocean and your connection to your board.
Consistency also means surfing with people who are better than you. There’s something humbling and inspiring about watching someone with more experience navigate the waves. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and forces you to confront your limitations. Learning from others, observing their techniques, and absorbing their wisdom have been essential parts of my growth as a surfer. Once I started surfing in Fuerteventura – I felt safer to be in the right place – a Surfcamp in Fuerteventura learning from experienced instructors with knowledge about every single detail.
Mastering the Mind: The Role of Drysurf
Drysurf in Fuerteventura – the next step
Surfing isn’t just about what happens on the water; it’s also about what happens on land. One of the most transformative experiences for me has been dry surfing—practicing the fundamental movements of surfing on solid ground. With the guidance of Mauro, an incredibly skilled surf teacher, I learned to break down and perfect my pop-up technique, balance, and overall form.
Dry surfing might seem like an odd concept, but it’s incredibly effective. It forces you to focus on the details of your movements without the distractions of the ocean. This practice has not only improved my physical technique but has also boosted my confidence and mental readiness. By the time I get in the water, I feel more prepared, more grounded, and more in control.
Surfing as a Mental Discipline
Surfing is often seen as a physical activity, but the mental aspect is equally important. The ocean is unpredictable, and every session brings new challenges. Whether it’s dealing with the frustration of a wipeout or navigating the fear of a particularly large wave, surfing requires a strong mental game.
This is where my practice of yoga comes in. Yoga has taught me the importance of breath control and mental focus, both of which are essential when you’re out in the water. The ability to stay calm under pressure, to breathe deeply and evenly, is crucial for maintaining composure and making smart decisions in the surf. Yoga and surfing together create a powerful balance—yoga centers the mind, while surfing frees it.
Navigating the Ocean: Respect and Safety
Surfing in Fuerteventura has brought its own set of challenges. The island is stunning, but its waters can be rough. Rocky shores, strong currents, and shifting tides make it essential to approach each session with respect and caution. One of the most important rules I follow is never to surf alone, especially in unfamiliar spots. Having someone with you, particularly someone who knows the area well, can make all the difference.
Local knowledge is invaluable. Before paddling out, I always take the time to speak with someone who understands the spot—whether it’s a surf teacher or a seasoned local surfer. They can offer insights into the best places to paddle out, where to avoid, and how to navigate the conditions safely. In surfing, as in life, humility and a willingness to learn from others are key to staying safe and making progress.
The Nonlinear Path of Progress
One of the most profound lessons surfing has taught me is that progress is not linear. There are days when everything clicks—when the waves are perfect, your timing is spot-on, and you feel like you’re truly mastering the sport. But there are just as many days when nothing seems to go right. It’s easy to get discouraged when progress stalls or when you feel like you’re regressing.
However, surfing teaches you to embrace these fluctuations. Every session, whether good or bad, is an opportunity to learn and grow. The ocean doesn’t care about your plans or expectations; it moves according to its own rhythms. Accepting this reality has helped me become more patient and resilient, both in and out of the water.
The Unspoken Code:
Surf Etiquette
As a surfer, it’s crucial to understand and respect the unspoken code of the ocean. Surf etiquette isn’t just about following rules; it’s about fostering a sense of community and mutual respect among everyone who shares the waves. Prioritizing those who have been waiting longer, respecting the locals, and understanding when to back off a wave are all fundamental aspects of being a responsible surfer.
Before I returned to surfing, I spent time educating myself on these rules—watching videos, reading articles, and observing others in the water. This groundwork has helped me navigate the often-crowded line-ups with confidence and respect. Surfing is a communal activity, and being mindful of others enhances the experience for everyone involved.
Final Reflections: The Ongoing Journey
Surfing is more than just a sport—it’s a journey, a continuous process of learning, adapting, and growing. It’s a reminder that no matter how much you improve, there’s always more to learn, more ways to grow. Each wave, each session, is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and the world around you.
For me, surfing has become a practice in patience, humility, and resilience. It’s about facing challenges head-on, accepting setbacks with grace, and finding joy in the process, no matter the outcome. So as I continue this journey, I remind myself to stay grounded, stay curious, and above all, to keep paddling out—because the best waves are always just beyond the horizon.
Flow with this wonderful inspiring soul Mia with us in Fuerteventura or explore her growing Yoga Platform.
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