WHY SURFING:

Learning to surf in a safe and supportive environment reminds us that challenging experiences and adversity (in life as in the water) can provide opportunities for growth and personal development. 

As women learn to surf, they recognize their inherent strengths and resources which enables them to confront and resolve challenges in their daily lives leading to greater satisfaction and wellbeing.

OUR BELIEFS:

·      Internal strengths and resources are present in all women.

·      Challenge and adversity can provide opportunities for growth and personal development.

·      Creating safe environments for women are essential to building connection and community.

·  Entering the saltwater connects us to the healing power of the ocean and awakens the healing power within.

·     Improving the physical and emotional health of women, creates stronger and healthier families and communities. 

EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION THEORY

Our program follows the experiential education model and includes the following components.

1) Pre-Surf Group Wellness Discussion: introduce wellness skills (i.e. practicing mindfulness and gratitude, identifying and enhancing strengths, and developing a growth mindset. )

2) Surfing (the Adventure Experience): includes both land and water instruction and practice. Provides participants with opportunity to practice the wellness skills (remaining mindful as they surf, paying attention to their self talk, and practicing ways to manage anxiety and uncertainty).

3) Post-Surf Debrief: Participants begin to reflect and learn from their experiences in the water and within the group.

4) Ongoing Reflection & Discussions: Participants begin to transfer new insights and healthy behaviors into their daily lives.