People in recovery from drug or alcohol abuse have a range of options, from traditional residential programs to newer, more natural approaches. As part of today’s holistic recovery programs, surf therapy offers a refreshing, ocean-based alternative therapy for addiction recovery, especially popular in coastal cities. Research shows that this unique therapy can support healing for issues like substance abuse, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more, helping individuals tap into the physical and mental benefits of surfing to foster mindfulness and resilience.
Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, CA, offers a unique rehab with surfing, blending traditional treatments with surf therapy for holistic healing. If you’re interested in exploring how surf therapy might support your recovery for yourself or a loved one, reach out to us at Oceanfront Recovery to discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Benefits of Surf Therapy
Surf therapy may be new to gain popularity, but surfers have long recognized the healing power of the ocean. Studies indicate that activities like surf therapy can benefit mental health, reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and stress through a combination of physical exercise, nature exposure, and community support. This practice offers emotional release and promotes mental wellness through ocean therapy, especially for individuals dealing with PTSD and addiction. When surfing, the natural surroundings encourage unplugging from devices, focusing on the moment, and connecting to a unique path of recovery.
Benefits of surf therapy include:
- Unplugging. Society has gravitated more and more toward regular screen time, and these days, adults spend a lot of time in front of their phone or computer. Surfing gives people the opportunity to leave their devices on the shore and experience the outdoors with their own eyes instead of a camera lens.
- Focus. Activities like surfing require a degree of focus that you can’t always find in a traditional recovery setting. When you surf, all of your attention needs to be on your board and the water, and it’s easy to let cravings and worries slip to the back of your mind.
- Wonder. The ocean is massive, and anyone can look upon it or experience it in total awe. Surf therapy gives you an outlet to feel in awe of something larger than yourself, which is suggested to bring with it a host of psychological benefits.
- Adrenaline. A healthy adrenaline rush can give people struggling with addiction a better idea of their physical health and emotional well-being. Surfing is also an excellent form of exercise.
The Process of Surf Therapy
For those interested in rehab with surfing as part of their recovery journey, surf therapy provides mental and physical benefits.
Surf therapy is a form of outdoor therapy for addiction that combines physical activity with therapeutic practices, supporting mental health recovery through nature. When individuals engage in surfing, they’re not only working out but also tapping into the calming, meditative qualities of the ocean. This fusion of movement and mindfulness creates a powerful environment for healing, allowing participants to reconnect with themselves and build resilience in a supportive, natural setting.
Holistic Treatment Options and You
There are options for people in recovery that many don’t even consider, and a non-pharmacological approach can be best for some. By trusting in something like surf therapy, you may find that healing is easier for you in this setting than in a traditional treatment program. In other cases, it might be that combining a holistic approach with your regular rehabilitation program benefits you most.
Your emotional well-being is most important, and the adventure therapy offered by surfing and other holistic treatment options gives people the agency to continue in their healing journey. You may find that surfing is something you love, and it’s easy to continue once treatment has ended.
Explore Surf Therapy with Oceanfront Recovery
Our oceanfront recovery surf therapy program offers more than just a chance to surf; it’s a transformative approach to address addiction and mental health challenges. Surfing acts as a metaphor for balance and resilience, helping you navigate the waves of life. Whether you’re facing substance abuse or co-occurring mental health issues, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way. To learn more about our surf therapy program, reach out today at 877.296.7477 or visit us online.
