program
WSF provides a holistic approach toward mental and emotional wellness. Our program works to help vets deal with the various traumas that can occur as a result of service plus be a new source of community post-transition. Learn more about our approach and discover how each element aids in the recovery and healing process.
SURF
One wave at a time.
Surfing was famously described as the “Sport of Kings” by Jack London when initially introduced to the western world. However, a more accurate interpretation of surfing’s origin and history in ancient Polynesia demonstrates that in reality, surfing is the Sport of Warriors. The Surf Ops component of the Warrior Surf Program aims to perpetuate this original spirit of surfing by encouraging our participants to grow, overcome challenges and conquer fears during their surfing experience. We believe that the powerful combination of mastering a challenging sport, submersion in the ocean and nature, and connection with a like-minded community serves to invigorate, encourage, and uplift all of those who participate.
Our 12-week long program provides the opportunity for up to three surf lessons per week, along with many additional opportunities for engagement in the surfing experience. The goal of Surf Ops is to support every participant in the development of the surfing skills, competency, safety, etiquette, and ocean-knowledge necessary to surf unassisted and independently by the end of the 12-week program. After completion of this program, we encourage participants to continue surfing wherever home is for them, and to continue engaging and surfing with the WSF community
WELLNESS
Calming the war within.
The WSF Wellness Program offers eight wellness sessions to Veterans, active duty service members, and their immediate families. Our wellness coaches are all licensed mental health professions who draw on CBT, positive psychology, and their own skillsets to help Veterans. While our program isn’t traditional therapy, the benefits of participating can be quite therapeutic!
Our goal in our wellness program is to offer new ways of thinking about situations to produce different, and better, results. Participants are paired with a wellness coach to work privately through their own unique experiences. Wellness coaching compliments what participants are learning in the water surfing and on their yoga mats. Sessions are offered in-person on the beach to remove the barriers of traditional treatment settings plus to utilize the skills being taught in real-time. Being in and near the water offers many benefits which is why this aspect of our program is critical.
Yoga
Breathe.
The WSF Yoga Program not only provides numerous physical benefits (increased flexibility, mobility, better balance, and relief of physical pain) and mental benefits (present moment focus, relief of stress and anxiety, and mental clarity), but the practice of yoga and meditation creates incredible shifts in our Veterans by empowering them to connect with and be the best version of themselves.
Overall well being is something that is not easily achieved. It takes commitment, effort, the right mindset, and continuous work. The variety of yoga classes and mindfulness tools we provide our participants encourages connecting with the breath, self-exploration, and connecting with intuition - a concept that seems foreign to most Veterans. Practicing in community with other Veterans and like-minded individuals is impactful. Mindsets begin to shift and through surf, wellness, yoga, and a strong sense of community. Warrior Surf Foundation empowers Veterans to change their mindset and take charge of their lives.
