Discover the Healing Power of Surf Therapy: A Tranquil Solution for Mental Health Struggles

Some people are finding relief from mental health challenges by hitting the waves. In a recent piece from CBS News New York, Cindy Hsu explored surf therapy at the Rockaways beach.

### Meet “Ride the Tide”

Gina Jurlando started the program “Ride the Tide” to help people through surf therapy. As a lifelong surfer, she knows the healing power of the ocean. “I often felt that traditional talk therapy wasn’t for me. I needed something calming, something where I could connect through surfing,” she explained.

Surf therapy aims to help those facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. Each session begins with land activities such as art, discussions, and a gentle warm-up, before participants hit the water.

Ashley Fallon, a surf therapy facilitator, noted that getting to the beach can be difficult for some. “We teach participants to challenge themselves at their own pace,” she said, emphasizing the importance of overcoming barriers.

### Finding Comfort in the Waves

For participants like Sharon Lew, Mick Arieta, and Narisara Vanichanan, the experience is transformative. “I felt mental clarity that I hadn’t experienced in a long time,” Lew shared. Arieta, who battles depression, said, “I feel safe here, in a non-judgmental community.” Vanichanan added, “It helps wash away other emotions.”

### The Science Behind Surf Therapy

While surf therapy shouldn’t replace traditional mental health treatment, studies suggest that spending time near water can significantly improve mood and social connections. “At the end, I feel calm. It’s like a switch just turns on,” Arieta remarked. Lew added, “It creates a peace that lingers throughout the day.”

Experts highlight that activities like surfing can contribute to healthy self-care, an essential topic that deserves attention.

Each session is supervised by mental health professionals and safety volunteers, ensuring participants are both safe and supported. “Ride the Tide” offers sessions in Rockaway and Asbury Park, with fees based on a sliding scale from pay-what-you-can to $75 for two hours.

Surf therapy shows how engaging with nature can be part of a holistic approach to mental health. It brings together community, healing, and the joy of surfing—proving that sometimes, the waves can guide us toward better mental well-being.

For more insights on the connection between nature and mental health, the National Institute of Health provides comprehensive studies and statistics on this growing trend.



Source link

Asbury Park, Mental Health, Rockaway Beach