It's a different world out on the water. You're not thinking about your job or what's happening with your house. Rowing nirvana is attained when eight bodies row in perfect unison. It's really a special treat. It's a high.
Sharp observers can detect it by watching the stern tip of the shell, just behind the coxswain.
If it hesitates markedly on the recovery part of the stroke, things are out of whack. But if it barely hesitates, the crew is clicking. Many sweep rowers say the social aspect of the sport is as important or more so than the fitness and competition components. This is just a wonderful support group. It forms bonds.