Conquering Fears: A Surfing Retreat Experience in Morocco
Fear of Waves: My personal journey with water has been tumultuous, marked by a pivotal moment nearly 20 years ago when a monstrous wave in Biarritz threw me into the depths and left me scarred, both physically and mentally. This traumatic experience, coupled with my long career as a journalist exposing the darker sides of humanity, has morphed my once carefree attitude towards the ocean into one of trepidation.
As the years have passed, I have developed an aversion to any body of water where waves rise above my waist. This has led to many moments of sadness, watching my family enjoy the sea while I remain rooted to the shore. Thus, upon changing jobs after 14 years, I decided it was time for a transformative experience—a week-long surfing retreat in Morocco.
A Holistic Retreat with Resurface
The retreat, organized by Resurface, aims to merge physical activity with emotional healing. Founded by psychologist Josh Dickson, the program combines:
- Morning yoga sessions
- Surf lessons
- Afternoon group therapy
Josh’s philosophy is to create a “flow” state that fosters healing through sunshine, cold water, and a break from daily pressures. Surfing, as I learned, is not just physical exercise; it immerses you in nature and demands full concentration, releasing beneficial hormones that aid in recovery.
The EMDR Experience
Initially, I intended to attend a resilience-focused retreat but instead found myself in an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) group retreat. Developed to help individuals process traumatic memories, EMDR has proven to be a transformative tool for many.
Upon arriving in the charming surf town of Tamraght, I felt anxious but eager. The town, quieter than its nearby tourist hotspot Taghazout, offers a serene backdrop for reflection and healing.
Surfing: A Journey of Meditation
Our days were filled with surf lessons led by the skilled instructor Youness Arhbi. The waves, small and manageable, allowed even a novice like me to face my fears. Learning to catch a wave, despite my frequent failures, became a form of meditation.
After each lesson, we gathered on the beach to share our experiences, triumphs, and frustrations over lunch, fostering a sense of community and connection.
Group Therapy Sessions
The afternoons were reserved for therapy sessions, which initially felt daunting but gradually became the most meaningful part of the retreat. Guided by Josh, I found that discussing my fears and traumas with a supportive group provided a sense of hope and connection that I hadn’t anticipated.
By the end of the week, I discovered that the environment allowed me to process emotions I had long avoided. This therapeutic experience was far more impactful than I had expected.
A Triumphant Moment
On my final day, despite feeling scared by the waves that had grown slightly larger, I persevered with encouragement from my instructor. In a moment of triumph, I managed to stand up on the board—a feat that elicited cheers from my fellow participants. The joy of that moment was a testament to the support and shared experiences we had cultivated throughout the week.
Conclusion
The retreat by Resurface not only provided surf lessons and therapy but also restored my faith in human connection. While my surfing skills may not have improved drastically, the emotional journey was invaluable, showcasing the healing power of community and shared experiences. If you’re considering a transformative experience, a surf therapy retreat might just be the answer.
For those interested in learning more or embarking on a similar journey, you can read the original news article here.