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Surf therapy is an innovative approach that leverages the principles of surfing to enhance mental health. During a surf therapy session, participants learn to ride waves, which can be both exciting and therapeutic. This activity helps build confidence, promotes relaxation, and encourages physical movement.
Surf therapy is an innovative approach that leverages the principles of surfing to enhance mental health. During a surf therapy session, participants learn to ride waves, which can be both exciting and therapeutic. This activity helps build confidence, promotes relaxation, and encourages physical movement.
Tailored Sessions: Enjoy a session customized to your skill level and goals.
Focused Attention: Get the undivided attention of your coach to improve your technique faster.
Exclusive Experience: Surf with just your crew for a more intimate and fun experience.
Group Flexibility: Private sessions are available for groups of up to 6 people, making it a great option for families or friends.
Special Requirements 1-1 Private Session:
Book your private lesson today and ride the waves like never before!
Please note that at your discretion these sessions can also explore topics of conversation around topics such as resilience, anxiety, online vs living IRL, breathing and HRV benefits. Please let me know if you would like to explore something in our time together.
If meeting some new people and building into your social skills and you surf skills is more to your liking then perhaps you can launch into one of our group programs.
Group sessions are structured not only to teach you how to surf but also to explore elements of resilience, self-confidence, anxiety management, finding balance in a busy world, emotional intelligence, and living more in real life (IRL) with more green time in nature instead of screen time.
All group sessions are limited to 6 people to ensure you receive the small group connection and attention you deserve.
We offer several program options based on age and special interests, which will evolve and be added following expressions of interest:
Programs operate for 6 weeks each school term or as 5-day holiday camps. Click here for our current program schedule options.
Cost: $350 per participant for the program
This is a 6 week course for only $240. Our sessions run from 7-8am. Each group is limited to 6 people, ensuring personalised attention. This small group size helps foster deeper connections and more meaningful conversations.
Our sessions are designed to build community and encourage open, honest discussions about what it means to be a man, father, son, and husband in today’s world. After our surf lessons, we wrap up with a reflection on a topic, providing an opportunity to share and bond.
Come learn to surf, make new mates, and be part of a meaningful community. All are welcome!
Click here for our current program schedule options.
To save your spot, call us below
All our programs are held at the northern end of Miami Beach on the Gold Coast. The countdown to our next program is on!
16 - 20 DECEMBER 2024
16.12.24
5 Day Holiday Program
16.12.24
5 Day Holiday Program
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025
1.1.25
Ages 5 and Up
7.2.25
6 Week Program
7.2.25
6 Week Program
7.2.25
6 Week Program
This was around 1981, and just one wave was enough to hook me! Since then, surfing has been a constant in my life, helping me navigate through the many challenges life brings—loss, tragedy, grief, hurt, fear, stress, anxiety, and PTSD. For a long time, I didn’t understand why surfing felt so good for me during these tough times. Now, science is beginning to shed light on the therapeutic benefits of riding waves. For those of us who have been fortunate enough to enjoy surfing throughout our lives it will often be referred to as Saltwater Therapy- makes sense right!
Your Coach/Mentor Chris Emert
Father of 2 young adults & married since 1998
Saltwater therapy is our expression of Surf Therapy and an extension of Shaping Futures Co services.
Surf therapy is an innovative approach that leverages the principles of surfing to enhance mental health. During a surf therapy session, participants learn to ride waves, which can be both exciting and therapeutic. This activity helps build confidence, promotes relaxation, and encourages physical movement1.
While surf therapy might not be the primary treatment for mental health conditions, it can be a valuable complementary therapy. It offers a unique environment that can be particularly beneficial for those who haven’t spent much time by the ocean1. The calming and sensory experience of being in the ocean can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression2.
In summary, surf therapy combines the excitement of surfing with therapeutic benefits, making it a unique and effective approach to improving mental health.
Scientist Wallace J Nichols in his book ‘Blue Mind’ points to why surfing is so addictive.
“…Dopamine release is associated with novelty, risk, desire and effort activity; it’s also a key part of the system by which the brain learns. All of these factors, Zald points out, are present in surfing: ‘as surfers are first learning, there’s an amazing burst of dopamine simply when they stand on the board….Novelty? Check. Risk? Check. Learning? Check. Aerobic activity? Check. Dopamine? In spades.” But that’s not all…aerobic exercises (such as surfing) produce endorphins, the opioids that affect the prefrontal and limbic areas of the brain involved in emotional processing, and create the feeling of euphoria, known as runner’s high. The beauty of the natural environment where people surf also increases the sense of peak emotional experience. Add the dopamine, the endorphins, and the natural settings to the adrenalin rush produced by the amygdala’s fight or flight impulse when a surfer is faced with a large wave (or a wave of any kind when you’re first starting out), and you’ve got a seriously addictive experience.”
It’s hard to imagine who wouldn’t benefit from this experience. Feeling stressed and overwhelmed, perhaps wanting to build new connections or just wanting to learn how to surf! Surf therapy offers a natural solution for everyone, from kids to adults. In a world of constant grind and digital overload, surfing lets you connect with nature, be present, and harness its power.
Globally embraced, surf therapy boosts wellbeing and helps with:
The success of this approach can be due to multiple factors, the ocean, the thrill, learning a new skill, being present, the salt air, the supportive people around you.
Perhaps traditional therapy feels daunting or you're seeking a complementary approach, consider surf therapy with us. Learn to surf in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Let's chat and see if we can navigate this journey together. My goal is to not only get you riding waves but to empower and equip you to harness the power as you learn to surf the waves of life's challenges.
Great question! Let’s start with what remains the same.
You will learn how to surf and receive quality coaching, along with all the necessary surfing equipment, ensuring a fantastic surfing experience just like other providers.
You will be mentored by a qualified mental health professional who creates a safe space for conversations on topics that support your overall wellbeing. Additionally, we offer techniques and tools designed to unleash your potential and enhance your personal growth.
While your Coach is also a qualified Counsellor, Salt Water Therapy is more about mentoring. Here, you’ll receive guidance, encouragement, and engage in discussions on key topics.
If you feel you need more therapeutic support for emotional and psychological issues, we can suggest a referral to a suitable counsellor or discuss whether you might be a good fit for the counselling services at Shaping Futures Co.
A: No prior experience is necessary! Our classes are designed to teach you how to surf!
A: Yes, all our instructors are certified by Surfing Australia and have extensive experience in facilitation and surfing.
We surf at the beautiful Miami Beach on the Gold Coast.
We have a few options we will consider if the conditions are not good for surfing at Miami on the day. The following options will be evaluated in this order:
Whilst our coaches are qualified in water rescue, we hope to never have to use it! So Yes. We need all participants to be able to swim. Although the beginner surf sessions will always endeavor to be in water that you can stand up in, we do require you to have basic swimming skills.
What’s included?
We will provide you with the following:
A: Yes, it’s important to let us know about any medical conditions or other factors that could influence your health, safety, or ability to participate. This information helps us ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Please call us before you book so we can discuss this together.
A: Our standard lessons are 90 minute long. However, some programs durations vary and private lessons may be 60 minutes for 1-1 sessions. See the specific offering you are interested in for exact durations.
A: Absolutely! We offer private lessons for individuals or small groups who prefer personalized instruction.
A: Yes, we have special classes designed for children aged 7 and up, focusing on safety and fun.
A: You can book a lesson here through our website or by calling our office. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time slot or program.
A: We offer a full refund for private cancellations made at least 24 hours before the scheduled lesson. For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance, we offer a rescheduling option. For those in a program, cancellation shall be no later than 96 hours before commencement of the program start date or a reschedule (for a subsequent program) option is provided if cancelled within this time. If we have to cancel a session due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, private sessions will receive a full refund within 48 hours of the cancellation. For those on a program, we will add this missed lesson onto the end of the program.
A: We deliberately maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio to ensure personalized attention and safety. Typically, our group lessons have a maximum ratio of 6 students to 1 instructor. This allows each student to receive ample guidance and support throughout the lesson and is well within the allowable standard of 8 students to 1 instructor.
A: Safety is our top priority. Here are some of the measures we have in place:
These measures help us create a safe and enjoyable learning environment for all our students.
A: In addition to life jackets, we provide the following safety equipment:
These measures ensure that our students have a safe and enjoyable surfing experience. If you have any specific safety concerns, feel free to discuss them with us before your lesson.
A: We offer lessons for all age groups, from children aged 7 and up to adults. We have specific classes tailored to different age groups to ensure everyone gets the most out of their surfing experience. For those under age 7 we offer private lessons and require parents to stay.
A: Yes, we offer surfboard and wetsuit rentals for those who want to practice on their own. Our rental equipment is well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels.
A: To prepare for your first lesson, make sure you are well-rested and hydrated. Wear comfortable swimwear, apply sunscreen, and bring a towel and water bottle. Arrive 10 minutes early to get settled and meet your instructor.
A: We accept various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, online payments, and cash. Payment details will be provided during the booking process.
A: Yes, you are welcome to bring your own surfboard and wetsuit. However, we recommend using our equipment for beginners as it is specifically designed for learning.
A: If you need to reschedule your lesson, please contact us as soon as possible. We will do our best to accommodate your new preferred time. See also cancellation policy.
Privacy Policy
We value your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. This privacy policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your data when you interact with our services.
We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties, except as necessary to provide our services or comply with legal obligations. This may include sharing information with payment processors or regulatory authorities.
We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. This includes using secure servers and encryption technologies.
You have the right to access, update, or delete your personal information. If you wish to exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided below.
We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on our website, and we encourage you to review this policy periodically.
If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact us at:
info@shapingfutures.com.au
By using our services, you agree to the terms of this privacy policy.
Shaping Futures Co acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, and pays respect to elders both past and present.
