Clinically reviewed by Sam Stone, Clinical Psychologist (registrar) at WOW

Third-wave Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a contemporary approach that builds on traditional CBT techniques. Third-wave CBT expands on traditional cognitive behavioural treatments, emphasising the overall enhancement of psychological and behavioural processes linked to wellness. These therapies frequently integrate concepts like metacognition, acceptance, mindfulness, personal values, and spirituality.

In a way, third-wave CBT can be thought of as “health by stealth” – facilitating wellness without the intense focus on the content of a person’s thoughts and feelings that is found in other therapies.

Here are some potential benefits of WOW surf therapy programs as a form of third wave CBT.

Mindfulness.

Mindfulness is defined as a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment. Whilst mindfulness is not a new phenomenon, its positive impact on the brain, body, and overall wellbeing is now widely recognised. Surfing is a fantastic way to practise mindfulness, and requires the kind of concentration on the present moment that allows one to escape from the distractions of everyday life and feel a sense of peace.

Scheduled Fun.

‘Behavioural activation’ or quite simply ‘doing things’ is a concept that is tied to the ‘behavioural’ component of CBT. It is based on the well-known premise that behaviour, ‘what we do’, is a key determinant of our mood and that we as individuals can take active steps to engage in activities that give us a sense of pleasure and achievement. Committing to a surf program is a great way to ‘schedule fun’ into our busy calendars and boost our mental wellbeing.

Acceptance and Self-Esteem.

Like any new skill or activity, learning to surf comes with its challenges and ‘failures’ – slips, missed waves, wrong timing; ‘failure’ is all part of the natural learning process. As participants improve and catch more waves, individuals report a great sense of accomplishment - a proven psychological method of enhancing self-esteem and mood.

Social Connection.

Surf therapy sessions are designed to be inclusive and supportive. In our sessions, participants share the experience of learning to surf, overcoming challenges, and enjoying the great outdoors. Social connection is well-known as an essential component of mental health and well-being, and surf therapy programs offer a unique and effective way to promote it.

Physical Activity.

Surfing, whilst highly accessible for all skills and levels, is a physical activity. As such, it provides a wide range of physical benefits that can positively impact the mind. Surfing is thus a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Moving our bodies releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, and can also improve sleep quality.

Nature.

Incorporating nature into our lives has numerous benefits for our mental health and well-being. As discussed above, research has shown nature is a great way to promote mindfulness, improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, improve social connectedness, and even enhance creativity. In our surf therapy programs, nature is often used to promote and discuss topics related to our mental health.

WOW surf programs are led by trained facilitators who draw on concepts and strategies from evidence-based psychological therapies such as CBT, metacognitive therapy, and acceptance and commitment based therapy.

Surf therapy brings these benefits and concepts listed above to the forefront of participants’ minds through supportive group discussion; participants are then encouraged to use this knowledge to improve overall well-being in their own lives.

Find out more about WOW Programs here.

How WOW uses Third-Wave Cognitive Behavioural Therapy