The Therapeutic Benefits of Surfing

There aren’t a lot of places I would rather be than sitting out on my surfboard, sharing waves with friends, and admiring all the beautiful views mother nature has to offer. Sharing my love of surfing with others has been my life’s journey, and I have enjoyed every second of it. We all go through up and downs and surfing has most definitely helped me through some of my life’s greatest challenges.

Surfing can be extremely beneficial for people’s physical health, but also for their mental health. Many people know that exercise is a great combatant to mental health disorders, but performing physical activity in an outdoor environment is even more so. Not only have we, at WB Surf Camp, experienced this first hand, but science is starting to prove the therapeutic benefits of surfing for those suffering with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more disorders.

According to the Washington Post earlier this year, the US Navy has begun conducting a $1 million research study to prove the therapeutic value of surfing. The US Navy already strongly believes in the therapeutic benefits of surfing, however this study will provide the military with scientific proof of the positive effects surfing can have on veterans suffering from PTSD. The results of the study could provide numerous veterans with outlets to learn how to surf and a new way to manage their daily struggles. According to the article, there have been earlier studies done by the American Occupational Therapy Association in 2014, showcasing the benefits surfing has on veterans suffering with PTSD. One physician described how surfing shows people the true beauty of nature, and for extremely introverted individuals, the awareness of this beauty can help bring them back into the world.

Over the years we have seen the healing powers of the ocean first hand through many of our give back programs here at WB Surf Camp. We have helped children cared for by the Cape Fear Guardian Ad Litem Association, those with autism, and those who are visually impaired, and kids suffering with Autoimmune Alopecia learn to surf. When they are out on the waves, we see them gain confidence and have an amazing time connecting with the ocean. It all leads back to our company mission, changing lives one wave at a time.

To learn more about the local charities WB Surf Camp is involved with, click here!