Surfing as Therapy: Testimonials and Benefits
Introduction: Surfing, much more than a sport
Surfing is much more than waves and a board. It's an experience, a lifestyle, and for some, a true form of therapy . A growing body of research, initiatives, and personal accounts confirm the benefits of surfing on mental and physical health.
Anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, physical disabilities… Surfing acts as a natural medicine, a breath of fresh air for the mind and body. Today, surf therapy programs are emerging all over the world, proving that getting in the water can literally change lives.
But how can we explain this phenomenon? Why do we feel so good after a session in the ocean? That's what we're going to explore together. 🏄♂️🌊
1. Why is surfing so good for the body?
Even before discussing the mental aspect, surfing already has incredible effects on the body . Looking for a complete and highly beneficial activity? Surfing is the perfect choice.
🏋️♂️ A Complete Workout
Surfing is an extremely complete workout :
- Upper body : rowing engages the shoulders, back and arms.
- Lower body : standing up on the plank works the thighs, glutes and calves.
- The core (abdominal belt) : constant balance strengthens deep muscles and core stability.
Basically, after a session, your body thanks you (even if your arms are screaming a little!).
❤️ A Cardiovascular Boost
Continuous rowing works your heart and improves your respiratory capacity. The result: better endurance, better oxygenation of the body, and a healthy heart.
🔥 Burn Calories Without Realizing It
An hour of surfing can burn between 400 and 800 calories , depending on your intensity. And since it's so much fun, you don't even realize you're exercising!
🤸♀️ Flexibility and Coordination
Surfing boosts joint mobility and agility . Fluid movements and constant adjustments improve flexibility and coordination.
2. The Ocean, A Natural Remedy for the Mind
Okay, surfing sculpts the body, but what interests us here is its magical effect on the mind .
😌 Stress and Anxiety Reduction
Just being in the water is instantly relaxing. But surfing is even more powerful:
- The sound of the waves soothes the nervous system .
- The necessary concentration occupies the mind and keeps negative thoughts away .
- Adrenaline creates a feeling of euphoria that chases away stress.
A true mental reset with each session!
😊 Happiness Hormone Boost
Like any sport, surfing releases endorphins (the feel-good hormones). Add to that dopamine (pleasure and motivation) and serotonin (mood regulation), and you get a 100% natural anti-depression cocktail .
💪 Self-Confidence and Self-Improvement
Surfing is about learning to fall… and to get back up . Every step forward is a victory, and this feeling of overcoming adversity strengthens self-confidence.
🌊 Reconnecting with Nature
The ocean has an impressive therapeutic power . Being in the water, feeling the energy of the waves, breathing the sea air… All of this recenters us and reconnects us to the present moment.
3. Testimonials: When Surfing Becomes Therapy
People from all over the world have discovered how surfing can change a life . Here are some inspiring stories.
👨⚕️Guillaume Barucq, doctor and surfer
Guillaume Barucq, a doctor in Biarritz, has seen the benefits of surfing on his patients. According to him:
"Surfing activates blood circulation, boosts immunity and acts as a natural antidepressant." He also campaigns for surfing to be considered a natural medicine .
🏄♀️War Veterans and Surfing
In the United States, several surf therapy programs help veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress. Operation Surf and Waves for Change show that surfing reduces anxiety and improves quality of life .
The testimony of John, a US Army veteran:
"Before, I was a prisoner of my stress. Since I started surfing, I've regained true serenity."
🌍 Autistic Children and Surfing
Some autistic children find in surfing a unique means of expression and liberation . The water provides them with a soothing sensation and helps them to interact better with the outside world.
A mother's testimony:
"My son has always struggled to manage his emotions. Since he started surfing, he's opened up more and seems calmer."
4. Surf Therapy: Programs That Change Lives
More and more specialized programs are emerging:
- Waves for Change (South Africa) : surfing for disadvantaged youth.
- The Wave Project (UK) : helping children suffering from anxiety and depression.
- Operation Surf (USA) : therapy for veterans.
- Surfeurs Solidaires (France) : access to surfing for people with disabilities.
What do all these projects have in common? Using the ocean as a healing tool.
5. Why Everyone Should Try Surfing At Least Once
Even if you don't have any psychological problems, surfing can bring you enormous general well-being .
🏄♂️ Accessible to All
There are surf schools for all levels and all ages.
🌊 A Natural Depression Reliever
Forget the antidepressants, go catch a wave!
👏 A Sense of Community
Surfers share a culture of mutual support and friendliness .
🏖 A Healthier Lifestyle
Eat better, sleep better, be more active… Surfing encourages you to take care of yourself.
Conclusion: Let yourself be carried away by the wave of well-being
Surfing isn't just a sport, it's a state of mind, a therapy, a revelation . Whether it's to let off steam, regain self-confidence, or simply enjoy yourself , salt water is a magical remedy.
Are you ready to discover the therapeutic power of waves ? 🌊🏄♀️