Imagine facing your deepest fears, head-on, in a breathtaking Moroccan surf retreat. But can this immersive experience truly conquer the terror of the sea?
The story begins with a chilling memory, a near-drowning incident in Biarritz, France, two decades ago. This might be the catalyst for a deep-seated fear of waves, but the author suspects it's a gradual process, a rational response to the very real dangers of the ocean: riptides, hidden rocks, sharks, and concussions. Yet, there's a deeper, more profound reason for this fear.
The author's career as a journalist, exposing the darkest aspects of humanity for almost two decades, has eroded their sense of safety and protection. This has led to an aversion to any sea with waves above waist height, despite being a skilled swimmer and a water lover. It's a sad reality that leaves them stranded on the shore while their family enjoys the waves.
But a career change brings a bold decision: a week-long trauma surfing retreat in Morocco. The author signs up with Resurface, a company founded by psychologist Josh Dickson, specializing in trauma, recovery, and personal growth. The retreat promises a holistic approach, combining morning yoga and surf lessons with afternoon group therapy.
Josh's vision is to create a 'flow' state, where the body and mind unite in healing, enhanced by the sun, cold water, and a break from daily life. Surfing, he explains, is more than a physical workout; it immerses you in nature, demanding complete focus. It also releases a cocktail of hormones: endorphins for mood elevation, dopamine and serotonin for happiness, and adrenaline and norepinephrine for excitement and concentration.
Initially, the author booked a resilience-focused retreat, but circumstances led them to the first EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) group retreat. Developed by US psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR aims to reduce distressing emotions linked to past traumas. The theory suggests that traumatic events are neurologically processed differently from regular memories, leading to their resurfacing. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, like eye movements or tapping, while focusing on the trauma, allowing the brain to process and store memories normally.
Arriving at the surf town of Tamraght, the author feels vulnerable, sharing intimate experiences with strangers. Tamraght, a laid-back counterpart to the bustling Taghazout, welcomes them with its charming streets, restaurants, and surf shops. The retreat's home, Riad dar Haven, hosts a diverse group for a delightful dinner.
The retreat starts with ice-breaking exercises, followed by surf lessons on various beaches. The instructors, led by Youness Arhbi, patiently guide the group, even those with stiff hips. The author finds the cold, salty water exhausting yet exhilarating, and the process of learning to surf, despite frequent failures, becomes a meditative practice.
After each lesson, the group shares lunch and stories on the beach before heading back for therapy sessions. Initially intimidating, these sessions become transformative. The author discovers that sharing personal struggles with others willing to confront their traumas fosters hope and connection, healing their faith in humanity.
The surfing journey ends with a challenging wave, and with encouragement and emotional release, the author stands up on the board, a triumph celebrated by the entire group.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is this retreat a guaranteed cure for ocean fears, or is it a unique, personal journey? Can a week-long retreat truly heal deep-rooted traumas, or is it a temporary respite? Share your thoughts below, and let's explore the power of surfing and therapy in overcoming our fears.
