www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com | 79 isolated and lonely because of the COVID-19 pandemic, want reconnection. Many others are coping with some form of trauma or a variety of life stressors such as divorce, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, and substance abuse. The typical enrollee is comfortable in the ocean and has some basic swimming skills. Surfing is taught by experienced instructors. A firstaid-trained lifeguard, an experienced surf director, water support volunteers and wellness coaches complete the team that supports Waves 4 Women during surf clinics and keeps everyone safe – a top priority. A typical two-and-a-half-hour clinic involves six to eight female participants. Each class begins with a pre-surf wellness discussion focused on a specific skill – such as mindfulness. An hour of surf instruction with practice follows, and the session ends with a post-surf group debriefing, which encourages reflection and self-evaluation leading to the discovery of new insights and healthy behaviors that can be incorporated into daily living. Jones has exciting future plans for Waves 4 Women. She hopes to expand to year-round programs and include groups for both younger and older teen girls: “I want to also become more diverse by creating a safe space for women from all racial and economic backgrounds. Donations and our yearly fundraiser will help make that possible. New clinic volunteers are welcome to assist in a variety of ways: serving as ‘water support’ at our clinics, spreading the word about our program or assisting with administrative tasks. Finally, I would like to partner with similar-minded local organizations to more effectively meet the many diverse needs of local women. Such collaboration could be beneficial to us all.” With Jones’ contagious enthusiasm, it’s obvious she is determined enough to bring this women’s surf therapy program into its own place in the sun – and on the beach. For more information about Waves 4 Women, visitwave4women.org.
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