Surf therapy is harnessing the environment of the ocean and using it to improve oneself. Through being out in the sun, on the water, with trusted friends and/or coaches, surfing can be an exceptionally useful tool and channel for which to improve the mind, body and spirit.

Surfing offers a quintessential balance between a serene meditative state and a healthy adrenaline rush. It requires focus on the present moment, which in turn is a practice of mindfulness and thus strengthens the mind and builds control over one’s thoughts.

Surfing introduces a space where people can be close to nature and active. Both of which are proven components for concocting a healthy life.

Surfing also helps develop self esteem, confidence, and bravery as it can be a demanding sport, mentally and physically. It has the potential to build self respect and self kindness that can be taken into other aspects of life and allow people to approach other matters in a happier and healthier way.

Sometimes, trusting someone to help you in your path to feeling better can be scary. Especially when you are expected to trust a person that you don’t know. Surfing can be a beneficial medium for building trust and establishing foundations for friendships, support and being open to receiving advice and counselling from others.

People who could benefit from surf therapy include disadvantaged children and youth, people struggling with addiction and recovery, autism spectrum disorder, physical impairments, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety and other kinds of mental illness.

Below are a few organisations that specialise in offering surf therapy for different kinds of people, and aim to make a positive impact in the lives of children and adults worldwide.

Focussing on improving mental health for 18+ individuals and above, is Ripple Surf Therapy. Located in various places around Europe, Ripple makes waves in innovative surf therapy through retreats that help people navigate trauma, grief and personal life hurdles.

Waves of Wellness Foundation aims to empower all through innovative mental health support. Located in Australia, Waves of Wellness utilises trained medical professionals as surf coaches and creates a space for self-improvement and self-trust.

A Walk on Water hosts events for children with unique needs through the practice of surf therapy, in conjunction with massage as well as art therapy. Taking place all along the coast of California, this organisation aims to provide kids with water based opportunities that they would otherwise not have access to.

Based in New Zealand, Live for More provides surf coaching on top of one on one counselling and group therapy sessions for marginalised people. Their mission is to keep people safe and healthy, both physically and mentally.

The International Surf Therapy Organisation is an online database of organisations worldwide that offer different forms of surf therapy for different kinds of people. If you’re looking for any programs near you, this is an excellent site to visit for information. They are committed to developing standards and studying the impact and effectiveness of surf therapy.

Surfing is an effective and innovative mode of therapy that should not be overlooked in thinking about alternative wellness practices.

Written by Kayli Wouters

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