The last blog post was about my latest endeavor, Break Through Waves and ocean therapy. Many of you asked about the organization and what surf therapy is. Break Through Waves is a non-profit motivated by my desire to bring out the best in individuals. The mission of Break Through Waves is for adults to learn to lead lives of balance in mind, body, and spirit. Together we harness the healing force of the ocean. This program is specifically designed for people who have experienced trauma or who have been diagnosed with PTSD and are looking for alternatives to wellbeing.
We provide ocean therapy-surfing, stand up paddle boarding, along with yoga and mindfulness and educational information on trauma. Our surfing program is offered at Easton’s beach in Newport, RI. Easton’s beach is the perfect place to experience the oceans gentle waves. In West Island, Fairhaven MA you are able to glide through calm waters on a stand up paddle board.
Surf therapy is method of intervention combining surf instructing and surfing and structured for individual or group activities that promote psychological, physical and psychosocial well-being. *Published in the Global Journal of Community Psychology Practice.
The physical and psychological benefits of surfing are something many enthusiasts can attest to. With surf therapy you get to be in nature and in the ocean. While connecting with nature, it’s a chance to unplug. Research indicates it is particularly effective in treating anxiety and stress.
There are countless physical and psychological benefits to surfing and being in the ocean.
· Promotes self-management
· Elevates Communication
· Cultivates a positive outlook
· No medication, it’s free from side effects
· Enhances mental, psychological, and spiritual well-being
· It’s fun and enjoyable
· An alternative for those want other forms of intervention
· Cheaper than other forms of therapy and other alternatives
· It’s physically and psychologically engaging
· Increases self confidence
There are several aspects of surf therapy that make it therapeutic.
Focus-you have to maintain focus and concentrate. Negative thoughts, even for a limited time will alleviate.
Connection to your body-It’s a low impact exercise. You use all your muscles and strength. It’s a physically engaging sport. It’s a way to connect with your body, mind and spirit.
Calm-Using techniques such as conscious breathing both in and out of the water can help you stay calm.
Researchers have established that surf therapy to be effective in treating conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, depression and prevent suicidal thoughts. Research indicates it is particularly effective in treating anxiety and stress.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or PTSD, you can join us and sign up for ocean therapy today. Our program has trained surf therapists for surfing and paddle boarding that guide participants so that they can learn coping skills and understand the mental health challenges they are going through.
Save the Date:
October 17, 2021 6pm Easton’s Beach, 175 Memorial Drive, Newport, RI.
Join us to close out our first season. The paddle-out ceremony is a spiritual symbol of surf culture. It’s a traditional Hawaiian tribute. It provides a transformational experience of emotional release while also creating and renewing bonds and group solidarity. Gather together for this inaugural event as we honor the people who have gone through our program for their courage and strength.
Margo Crawford is the President of Break Through Waves, a non-profit providing holistic health services and learn from the ocean to live in balance. She is also a Productivity Coach with Wave Productivity. If you are struggling with your workday and need to focus and get clarity, you are not alone. Margo works with entrepreneurs, small business owners and business professionals to help them get more focused, organized and productive in their workplace. Set up a consultation today. Margo coaches by phone nationally. If you want to get more organized in your office call 602-677-8275 or email [email protected]