A gentle, salty breeze blows by the seashore as the sun shines brightly on the crystal-clear water. Many people are surfing the warm waters of the ocean and soaking their toes in the golden sand. A shadow of an ominous figure lurks in the water. Seconds later, screaming is followed by the word “shark.” Surfers quickly scurry to land, and paranoia spreads through the crowd.
According to the International Security Assistance Force, New Smyrna Beach is known as the shark attack capital of the world. In 2015 alone, up to ten people have been bitten by sharks. During the month of September, the highest number of shark attacks are reported, but regular beach goers try to put these statistics in perspective.
“There has never been a fatal shark attack at New Smyrna Beach,” senior and avid surfer Cameron Miller said. “Most of the shark attacks are small nips on the legs or feet. Once the sharks realize you are not a fish, they buzz off.”
The chance of getting bitten by a shark is extremely rare. Statistics show that your chance of getting struck by lightning is even greater than the chance of a getting bitten by a shark.
“Lightening will scare me out of the water faster than a shark ever will,” Miller said.
Although many people tend to focus on shark attacks, surfing has many benefits for your body.
“There is something about the water that lifts your spirit and calms your soul, being able to escape the daily life,” said Lenna Bowden,
English teacher and surfer in California.
People’s former worries are left behind, and are rarely unhappy while surfing. They are always smiling and wanting to have a good time.
“Yes, there are always those people who will drop in on your wave or get unnecessarily aggressive but that’s the case with any sport,” Miller said.
The sun’s healing effects along with the calming sound of waves allow for people to feel better and happier by increasing the oxygen content in the blood and lowering stress. The forces from the waves hitting our bodies also divert blood toward our abdominal region. This causes people to stay more active.
Surfing is also a great form of physical activity. It boosts your heart rate, and breathing fresh air is healthy for your lungs. The rush of adrenaline that runs through your body is also addictive.
“Surfing is so wonderfully addicting,” Miller said. “In Kelly Slater’s words: It’s like the mafia. Once you’re in — you’re in. There’s no getting out.”
Surfing is a great activity to enjoy regardless of your age. The warm weather Florida offers is an additional benefit, even if it might also attract an occasional shark.
“You’re in the shark’s home; the shark is not in your home. It is important for us to respect them,” Miller said.
