Having the opportunity to paddle out with leading practitioners and surfing organizations is radically changing treatment options for some people.
The idea of ‘Surf Therapy’ might sound a tad unusual at first, but for many around the world, surfing has become so much more than a recreational sport.
Drawing on years of conversations with surf therapy practitioners and organizations as well as data from groundbreaking studies, a new book by Cash Lambert called Surf Therapy: The Evidence-Based Science for Physical, Mental & Emotional Well-Being highlights surfing is transforming lives.
Described as a deep look into today’s emerging surf therapy movement and its adventure focused therapists who are on the leading edge. Lambert’s work is at the forefront of this powerful new movement.
Defined by the International Surf Therapy Organization “surf therapy uses surfing in structured, inclusive ways to improve both psychological and physical well-being.” For those living with PTSD—whether veterans or civilians—surfing offers relief by pulling the mind into the present moment. The idea is to use the activity to quiet a racing mind.
Wave based guidance
Surfing can also be a powerful tool for at-risk youth. In communities with limited resources, surf therapy is said to improve focus, reduce stress, and help build self-esteem. Participating youth are often able to work with mentors who offer guidance both in and out of the water.
Living with a physical disability doesn’t rule out the opportunity to get out on the water. Thanks to adaptive surfboards and dedicated volunteers, people living with spinal injuries, amputations, or conditions such as cerebral palsy can safely ride the waves and experience the joy, freedom and adrenaline of the sport.
Filling the void
For individuals recovering from drug addiction, surf therapy offers natural highs (dopamine and endorphin boosts) that can help fill the void left after discontinuing substance use. It also provides community and structure: two essential elements related to recovery. And for those struggling with mental health, spending time near the sea can increase calmness, happiness, and build resilience.
Surf therapy is also showing amazing positive results in a wide range of mental, physical and emotional healing. It’s being recommended in some cases as an effective treatment for children and adults diagnosed with autism, the social development of at risk inner city kids and women who are recovering from abusive situations.
Bringing the ocean to you
Surfing can feel out of reach for some who live far from waters that are suitable for surfing but for those who are landlocked new creative options exist.
Wave pools around the world are also catching on to the healing power of running surf therapy programs and adding them to their menus.
A growing movement
Surf therapy combines physical activity with social support to provide a healing environment.
Rooted in somatic and trauma informed models, it offers improved resilience, emotional regulation and body acceptance.
Whether you are a client seeking support or simply curious, surf therapy is a fun and fabulous sport worth exploring. And, as the aficionado’s will tell you, it’s not just about surfing—it’s about connection, courage, and finding joy one wave at a time.
Photo: iStock
