Surfing as a therapy to overcome stress and depression

Surfing is an effective therapy for successfully treating depression, stress, anxiety, addictions and other psychological and emotional problems. Learn why it’s beneficial and how anyone, surfer or not, can benefit.

The physical and psychological benefits of surfing are numerous, but today we’re going to focus on surfing as an effective therapy for anxiety, stress, addictions or psychological problems of all kinds, such as depression or neurosis.

Unfortunately, many people today suffer from these conditions and, associated with them, are problems such as being overweight, anorexia, insomnia or suicidal tendencies. All of these can be treated with surf therapy, as these scientific studies confirm.

The benefits of surfing for coping with psychological problems

The benefits of surfing therapy are many, like those of almost any sport, but they are enhanced by the fact that it is practised in the marine environment, in natural contact and with the adrenaline of gliding through the waves. For those suffering from psychological or emotional problems, surfing offers benefits such as :

1 – Emotional well-being

There is an improvement in the mental and emotional well-being of people who have suffered trauma and other psychological problems. Surf therapy produces consistent improvements, week after week, in self-management, communication and the development of a positive attitude in the lives of those who practice it.

2 – Surfing is a non-pharmacological therapy

The therapy requires no medication and is free from the side effects that accompany therapies based on the ingestion of pharmaceutical chemicals.

3 – It’s also a holistic therapy

It is a form of holistic therapy, i.e. a complete therapy that promotes physical, psychological and spiritual well-being. A holistic approach is much more effective than therapies that focus only on one part of the problem, for example by tackling only the symptoms and not the source that causes them.

4 – Do you think it is inexpensive?

All you need is a surfboard and the ocean to enjoy its benefits. At first you may need a coach if you’re new to the sport, a course at a surfcamp or an NGO dedicated to these treatments like the ones below, but the therapy will prove cheaper in the long run than other alternatives.

5 – Surfing allows us to disconnect

From the daily routine, the computer, the internet, television, mobile phones, social networks, etc. Teenagers and adults spend a lot of time in front of computer screens and mobile phones. Surfing disconnects us from the screen and connects us to nature.

6 – Surfing stimulates our attention 100%.

It requires a high degree of concentration or focus. It forces you to maintain this attention and balance while riding the waves. So keep other negative thoughts out of your mind, even if only for a short time. The fact that this activity takes place outdoors and that it’s fun helps to keep your mind focused and free you from this daily mental stress.

7- Surfing is also a psychotherapeutic treatment

Especially for those who do not respond to other forms of intervention. It has been found, for example, that surfing is effective with adolescents who do not find traditional therapies attractive.
It’s a fun and enjoyable form of treatment. That’s why participants see it as a fun way to have a good time rather than a monotonous treatment.

8- The adrenaline rush of surfing is extraordinary and healthy

Surfing is a form of exercise that promotes physical fitness. In one hour, a person can burn around 240 calories. It is also a low-impact form of exercise that is suitable for people of all ages if practised in the right conditions.

Numerous studies have confirmed the benefits of exercise in promoting self-confidence, the mind’s ability to cope with stress and relieving anxiety.

In addition, dopamine promotes a sense of well-being that offsets the suffering of people struggling with depression and various forms of addiction. This makes surfing ideal for treating mental health problems, alcoholism and other addictions.

To sum up, there are major advantages

Researchers confirm that surf therapy is a natural form of exercise and a sense of outdoor adventure that is suitable for all ages. The contact with nature associated with surfing is particularly effective in treating anxiety, depression and stress, as well as other psychological and emotional conditions.

Where and how can you practise this surfing therapy?

This beneficial, fun and effective therapy can be practised without any prior knowledge of our sport. All you need to do is go to a surf camp or surf school! Take heart and enjoy a better life with surfing!