#86 Laird Hamilton - Near-Death Surf Experiences and Surviving JAWS | Part 2
Nov 29, 2023
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Legendary big wave surfer Laird Hamilton discusses his incredible surfing career, the struggle to find his footing among sponsors and rules, and becoming a trendsetter. They also cover topics like bio-hacking, mental and physical preparation for surfing giant waves, overcoming fear, reinvention, pursuit, mental health, biohacking, breath work, healing power of nature, layered superfoods, functional mushrooms, and nutrient absorption.
Laird Hamilton became a trendsetter in big wave surfing by challenging industry norms and rules.
Hamilton's near-death experiences have fueled his passion for big wave riding and taught him to overcome fear.
Breath work has numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, including stress reduction and mental clarity.
Nature has healing properties and being in natural environments enhances physical and mental health.
Layered Superfoods focuses on creating natural, clean, and quality products to enhance daily health and well-being.
Deep dives
Conquering Big Waves: Laird Hamilton's Surfing Journey
Laird Hamilton, a surfing pioneer, has made a name for himself in the world of big wave surfing. From a young age, he was drawn to the challenge and thrill of riding massive waves, pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible. Through innovative techniques like tow-in surfing, Hamilton was able to ride waves that were previously deemed unrideable. His courage and determination led him to become a trendsetter in the sport, with his performances gaining attention and exposure through films, magazines, and sponsorships. Despite facing resistance and resistance from the surfing community, Hamilton stayed true to his unique approach to the sport, ultimately earning recognition and respect for his groundbreaking achievements. He has faced near-death experiences, including being held under the water and being lost at sea, but his passion for big wave riding fuels his determination to overcome fear and push the limits of what is possible in surfing.
The Power and Personality of Waves
Hamilton compares waves to dogs, each with their own unique personality. Waves can be small and fierce, or big and mellow, just like different breeds of dogs. He believes that waves have a certain energy and character, and that measuring them solely by size is inadequate. Hamilton has had numerous close calls with death, including being blown out of the water by an explosive wave at Jaws, getting pinned on the bottom of a waterfall, and suffering a near-drowning experience. However, these experiences have only fueled his passion for surfing and his love for the challenge and adrenaline rush that comes with riding big waves. He has learned to adapt and overcome fear through exposure and experience. While facing danger and near-death situations is a part of his journey, Hamilton believes that preparation, respect for nature, and living a well-rounded and fulfilling life outside of surfing are essential to maintaining stability in such extreme conditions.
Overcoming Fear and Post-Traumatic Big Wave Riding
Hamilton has faced fear head-on throughout his surfing career, and has been able to overcome it through exposure and experience. He has been through numerous near-death experiences, including being held underwater, getting trapped under a waterfall, and being lost at sea. These experiences have led to post-traumatic big wave riding, a period of time when he would spiral into negative thoughts and behaviors. However, Hamilton and his fellow surfers have found ways to nurture their minds and bodies, recognizing the toll that extreme conditions can take on their mental state. By prioritizing self-care, sleep, nutrition, and being conscious of their mental health, they are able to maintain their stability and continue riding big waves.
The Healing Power of Breath
Breath work, such as nose breathing and conscious breathing, can have a profound effect on overall health and well-being. By focusing on breath, individuals can increase oxygen absorption, improve cardiovascular capacity, and experience feelings of calmness and clarity. Breath work can also aid in stress reduction, enhance sleep quality, and improve digestion. It is a simple yet powerful tool that can be incorporated into daily routines with immediate benefits.
The Importance of Nature
Nature has healing properties that can positively impact physical and mental health. Simply being in nature and experiencing its beauty can promote feelings of tranquility and wellness. The color green is particularly soothing to the brain. Exposure to natural landscapes, trees, fresh air, and sunlight can have a profound effect on overall well-being. Nature provides a sense of belonging and connection, and spending time in natural environments can enhance metabolism, increase oxygen intake, and boost mood and vitality.
The Significance of Breath and Nature Connection
Breath is the source of life and fostering a conscious relationship with it can yield numerous benefits. Incorporating breath work techniques can enhance athletic performance, improve overall health, and promote mental clarity and focus. Additionally, spending time in nature complements breath work by providing a calming and invigorating environment. The combination of conscious breathing and nature connection can truly enhance well-being and vitality.
Getting Started with Breath Work and Nature Connection
To begin incorporating breath work into daily routines, consider using breathing apps or resources that guide patterns and techniques. Start with simple breath work exercises like nasal breathing or practicing breath holds for short durations. Engaging in activities in natural settings, such as walking in the forest or spending time near bodies of water, can also foster a deeper connection with nature. Over time, these practices can lead to improved overall health and a greater sense of well-being.
The Importance of Nature and Connection
The speaker emphasizes the importance of being connected to nature and how it can put one in the right state of mind, especially in dealing with daily stresses like work and family. The sophistication, elegance, beauty, and power of nature remind us that we are part of something greater. The podcast explores the significance of nature in improving mental well-being and encourages a reconnection with the natural world.
Water Absorption and Its Benefits
The podcast discusses the importance of water absorption by the body and how it can be enhanced. Water is a complex substance that goes through different elemental phases, and its proper absorption is crucial for overall health. The speaker mentions a water vortator that can enhance the shape of water and improve its absorption in the body. Additionally, the speaker and host touch on the potential effects of fluoride and calcium in public water systems, highlighting the need to explore water quality and its impact on health.
The Philosophy behind Layered Superfoods
The discussion centers around the origins and philosophy behind Layered Superfoods. The speaker shares that the company started with a personal recipe for a morning energy drink and grew from there. The emphasis is on creating products that are natural, clean, and made with quality ingredients. The speaker believes in the importance of consuming everyday items that are beneficial for the body, like toothpaste or soap, and applying the same principle to food and beverages. The goal is to provide products that are accessible, affordable, and designed to enhance daily health and well-being.
Laird Hamilton is a legendary American big wave surfer, known for riding some of the most dangerous waves ever to break. Laird is also a fitness icon and creator of Laird Superfood.
Part two is the story of Hamilton's incredible surfing career. He recounts his struggle to find his footing among an industry set on sponsors and rules and how he ultimately became a trend setter rather than a follower. Shawn and Laird discuss "bio-hacking" and how Laird Superfood was created.
