Breath Awareness and Practical Application with Reis Peluso In this episode of the Surf Strong Show, host Greg Finch talks with Reis Peluso, a coach and educator specializing in breath awareness. Reis discusses his work with athletes and the practical applications of breath awareness in daily life, emphasizing the importance of noticing and adjusting one's breathing patterns.

They explore the concept of CO2 tolerance versus air hunger and the psychological impact of breath control.

Reis also shares insights on his Our Breath Collective community and how they integrate breath practices into various settings, including professional sports.

This episode provides valuable tips for anyone looking to understand and optimize their breathing for better performance and quality of life. 00:00 Introduction to the Surf Strong Show 00:09 Meet Reis Peluso: Breath Coach and Educator 01:05 The Importance of Breath Awareness 02:25 Practical Applications of Breath Techniques 03:36 The Role of Curiosity in Breath Work 05:11 Adapting Breath Techniques to Daily Life 09:56 Mechanisms for Breath Awareness 17:53 Understanding Breath vs. Respiration 30:34 The Breath Collective: Community and Practice 34:54 Breath Work with Professional Athletes 39:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Alo Slebir discusses his training and focus during the off-season as a big wave surfer. He emphasizes the importance of training out of the water and striving to be better in order to perform well in the next winter season.

He also talks about his circuit workouts, which include a mix of CrossFit and balance work. Alo explains the difference between off-season and in-season training, with a focus on building muscle mass in the off-season and maintaining paddle muscles during the season.

He also discusses the mental and physical challenges of big wave surfing, the importance of decompressing after a big day, and the role of jiu-jitsu in his training and mindset.

Alo highlights the connection between surfing and the ocean, and the importance of staying connected to the ocean in his life. He also talks about his tow partnership with Luca Padua and the trust and communication required in that relationship.

Alo shares his experience of learning and surfing Mavericks, and the challenges and rewards of pursuing big wave surfing. In this conversation, Greg and Alo discusses the intricacies of big wave surfing and the mental and physical preparation required. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the variables involved in surfing, such as swell direction and wave size, and the constant learning process that comes with it.

Alo also highlights the lifelong pursuit of improving surfing skills and the need to remain focused and calm in challenging situations. He shares insights into the safety protocols and checklists followed before tackling big waves, as well as the importance of the Junior Lifeguard program in fostering a love for the ocean.

Emily Hightower discusses her love for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, bow hunting, and kayaking. She explains the concept of skinning in skiing and the unique experience of being in nature.

Greg and Emily also discuss the power of water and the importance of being present and connected to the environment. They touch on the challenges of attachment to outcomes and the need to focus on the process rather than the result.

Emily shares practical tips for staying present and detached from outcomes, including visualization and down-regulating the nervous system. In this conversation, Emily Hightower and Greg Finch discuss the importance of regulating the nervous system and the role of breath and movement in managing stress and trauma. They emphasize the need to shift our perspective on stress and view it as an evolutionary tool rather than something to be avoided. They also highlight the power of reconnecting with nature and engaging in activities like surfing to improve overall well-being.

Emily and Greg share their experiences working with first responders and military personnel and how these individuals can benefit from breathwork and movement practices. They also introduce their company, Shift, which focuses on helping individuals understand and interact with their stress physiology to optimize healing and performance.

In this conversation, Sam Bleakley discusses the power of connection in the digital age and the positive and negative aspects of technology. He emphasizes the importance of in-person interactions and the value of surfing as a global connection.

Sam also highlights the significance of compromise and conversation in addressing challenges within the surf community. He explores the role of surfing in community and activism, as well as the inclusivity of adaptive surfing.

Additionally, Sam discusses the potential of integrating music into surfing events and shares his personal journey in the world of surfing. The conversation explores the themes of following your passion, the intersection of geography and surfing. Being present and grateful, future goals and hopes for the surf community, and sustainability and balance.

In this conversation, Brian McKenzie discusses the importance of breath training and its impact on overall health and performance. He emphasizes the need to understand and manage stress in order to optimize breathing patterns.

Brian also highlights the significance of walking as a foundational exercise and shares his personal experience with overcoming fear and trauma. Overall, the conversation explores the intersection of breath, fear, and performance.

Brian and Greg discuss the importance of prioritizing self-care and personal growth. They explore the concept of reordering priorities and letting go of non-essential tasks.

Brian shares his experience of investing in himself and overcoming codependency. They also discuss the dangers of multitasking and hyperconnectivity in today's society.

The conversation delves into the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior and the importance of breathing and self-reflection. Brian shares his insights on the power of walking and connecting with nature.

They also touch on Brian's experience working with Tim Ferriss and Laird Hamilton.

Finally, they discuss the benefits and misconceptions of heat and cold therapy, as well as Brian's training block and approach to competitions.

Scott Harrison, a photographer, shares his journey of discovering photography later in life and how it has become his passion and career. He discusses his approach to photographing landscapes, waves, and surfers, and how he balances his love for photography with his love for surfing.

Scott also talks about the importance of having a mindset that allows for financial freedom and the ability to make choices. He shares his experiences of traveling in Southeast Asia and how it influenced his perspective on wealth and financial security.

Scott emphasizes the importance of being present and embracing the unpredictability of photography and surfing.

Philip, the founder of Rise Up Retreats, discusses the evolution of his surf retreat business and the challenges and rewards of running a people-focused company. He emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for guests and the value of connection and community. Philip also shares his journey of finding balance between work and personal well-being, as well as his commitment to giving back to the community through Rise Up Kids International.