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How Surfing is Mentally, Physically and Emotionally Therapeutic
Surfing as a form of therapy? It sounds odd, right? As a lifelong surfer, I’ve felt better after surfing—the act of riding a wave in the ocean on a surfboard—but I didn’t know it could be therapeutic.
I wanted to learn more about it, so I began talking with surf therapy practitioners and surf therapy organizations around the world. And what I found out I put in my book Surf Therapy: The Evidence-Based Science for Physical, Mental & Emotional Well-Being.
“Surf therapy” is defined by the International Surf Therapy Organization as “the use of surfing as a vehicle for delivering intentional, inclusive, population-specific, and evidenced-based therapeutic structures to promote psychological, physical, and psychosocial well-being.”
There is a treasure trove of evidence-based data and testimonials that shows how surfing is therapeutic—even life saving—for many afflictions and traumas, including:
1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Whether you’re a military veteran, police officer, or you’ve experienced Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in your life, surfing can serve as a form of treatment. How does PTSD affect you? Stress causes your amygdala (the almond shaped area in your brain that involves emotion) to release toxins, and too much of it can damage your hippocampus (which helps you make sense and contextualize your experiences). This leads to thinking the past is present, and reliving trauma again and again. Surfing helps by requiring you to focus on the present so that you don’t relive the past. By surfing with a surf therapy organization, you’ll also meet others who may be going through a similar situation and can share their experiences.
2. At-Risk Youth: In areas around the world where there isn’t much opportunity for young adults, many surf therapy practitioners are stepping up and taking them surfing. Surfing not only has been proven to improve self esteem, reduce impulsivity, improve attention, improve heart rate; it also reduces toxic stress that is more prevalent in these communities. Surf therapy practitioners also act as mentors, encouraging good behavior and good grades to help to guide children and young adults who may be missing one or both parents, or have no family at all.
3. Physical Disability: The notion of surfing if you have a disability can be scary. Thanks to several surf therapy pioneers, adaptive surfboards ensure that you can experience the healing powers of the sea safely, even if you have a spinal cord injury, paralysis of any kind, cerebral palsy, amputation(s) or another disability.If a disability has taken away the ability to get an adrenaline rush, surf therapy can provide it. It also provides a cheering section of volunteers who root you on as you surf towards shore. The resounding theme from surf therapy events is that the act of surfing provides an incredible sense of freedom.
4. Drug Addiction: Surf therapy programs have been proven to help those with drug addictions stay clean. In a surf therapy program, you will find practitioners, counselors and therapists who can help you stay on the right track, along with a community of other participant seeking to do the same. Because surfing provides a natural dopamine release, along with an endorphins rush known as a runner’s high, it can still provide a natural hit that those with drug addictions may be craving.
5. Mental Health: Instead of therapy inside four walls, therapy on the beach with a surfboard has helped individuals across the world experience an increase in calmness, resilience, confidence, happiness and improvement in friendships.
Here’s the thing also, if you don’t have the means to travel to the ocean or the sea to experience surf therapy for yourself or a loved one, there may be a wave pool nearby that is offering this. Read more about surf therapy in my new book Surf Therapy. Available wherever you buy books.
About the Author
Cash Lambert is the author of Waves of Healing: How Surfing Changes the Lives of Children with Autism, as well as the Founder and Director of Editorial for American Surf Magazine. A former editor for Hawaii’s Freesurf Magazine, his articles have been featured in ESPN Outdoors, Surfing Magazine, Eastern Surf Magazine, the Outdoor Channel, Surfline, Stab Magazine, Flux, Patagonia and more. Cash lives with his wife and daughter in Florida.
Surf Therapy
Written by Cash Lambert
978-1-57826-994-5, $20.00 paperback
978-1-961293-01-4, $9.99 ebookPublished by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com -
Cheers to NoliQ: The Bold, Sassy Revolution in Non-Alcoholic Drinks
In a world where health consciousness meets the thrill of vibrant social experiences, NoliQ emerges as the sassiest alcohol-free cocktail in town. Created with the finest ingredients, NoliQ aims to satisfy sophisticated palates, nourish ambitions, complement dynamic lifestyles, and elevate social gatherings—all without a drop of alcohol. This summer, raise a glass to a drink that truly represents you.
The Vision Behind NoliQ
At NoliQ, the mission is clear: to shake up the beverage industry with bold, audacious flavors and an unapologetic flair. The goal is to redefine what it means to enjoy a drink by putting non-alcoholic options in the spotlight. NoliQ envisions a world where non-drinkers and those seeking alcohol-free alternatives are the VIPs of any gathering, enjoying a healthier, more exhilarating, and fulfilling lifestyle. With NoliQ, your taste buds will dance like nobody’s watching.
The Founder: Nyina
The story of NoliQ begins with its founder, Nyina, a physician, triathlete, and trainer who turned into a mixologist ready to revolutionize the world of non-alcoholic (NA) drinks. Born and raised in Kenya, Nyina draws inspiration from her rich African culture and advocates for healthier lifestyle choices. Her sophisticated, classy, and drama-free drinks are made with lots of love and are meant for everyone to share. With a deep commitment to health and wellness, Nyina created NoliQ to provide a delicious alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
“Sophisticated, classy, drinks-no-drama, made with lots of love, for everyone to share.” – Nyina
The Story Behind NoliQ
The idea for NoliQ was born from a shared frustration with the poor selection of alcohol-free drinks. Two friends, while freestyling to a beat at home, concocted delicious booze-less cocktails using herbs, spices, honey, and lime. This resulted in an epic night with 100% mental clarity, pure connections, and a wild idea to create a brand dedicated to alcohol-free living. Inspired by the magic of this lifestyle, Nyina embarked on a mission to raise awareness and make these treasures accessible to everyone.
She became a mixologist, bought a mobile bar, and served her creations at various events. After being repeatedly asked if she packaged her drinks, Nyina took the plunge, went to the lab, and worked tirelessly to perfect her formulas. The result? Mind-blowing alcohol-free cocktails that are bold in flavor, low in calories, and infused with essential vitamins to fuel ambitions and energize pursuits.
Introducing NoliQ’s Flavors
NoliQ offers three unique flavors, each designed to cater to different tastes and preferences. These drinks are perfect for summer parties, offering refreshing and flavorful alternatives that align with a vibrant, health-conscious lifestyle.
- Amaretto Sawa: This alcohol-free cocktail strikes a beautiful balance between rich, velvety caramel and almond flavors, with a hint of maraschino cherry sweetness and zesty Amalfi lemon. Infused with a special vitamin blend and magnesium, Amaretto Sawa helps you stay energized and ready to conquer tomorrow’s goals. Lightly carbonated, it’s a sweet and nutty delight perfect for any occasion.
- Gingerberry Burst: Combining blueberry sweetness with a zesty kick of ginger and a refreshing minty finish, Gingerberry Burst is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds craving more. This alcohol-free cocktail is perfect for those who love a bit of spice and sweetness in their drinks.
- MargnoliQa: A smoky, fiery twist on the classic margarita mocktail, MargnoliQa blends tart, sweet, salty, and smoky flavors with a kick of jalapeño. Infused with vitamins and minerals, it helps you rock today and slay tomorrow’s goals. Lightly carbonated, MargnoliQa is the ultimate party drink, offering all the flavor with none of the alcohol.
Perfect for Summer Parties
This summer, make NoliQ the centerpiece of your gatherings. These alcohol-free cocktails are designed to complement your dynamic lifestyle, allowing you to maintain your social life without compromising your health. Bold in flavor and low in calories, NoliQ drinks are infused with essential vitamins to keep you energized and ready for anything. Raise your glass to a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle and enjoy the thrill of vibrant social experiences with NoliQ.
For more information and to purchase NoliQ’s delightful non-alcoholic cocktails, visit their website and join the sassy revolution that’s taking the beverage industry by storm. Cheers to your success, your ambitions, and a future filled with extraordinary, alcohol-free moments.
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May is Anxiety Awareness Month
Anxiety and sleep disorders go hand in hand. Poor sleep causes anxiety and anxiety causes poor sleep. In fact, it’s likely not a coincidence that the number of Americans suffering from long-term sleep disorders and the number of Americans diagnosed with anxiety disorders every year are the same: 40 million.
It is currently estimated that 1 in 4 people experience sleep difficulty, including falling asleep, staying asleep, experiencing restless and unsatisfying sleep. Did you know? A sleepless night is known to cause a rise in anxiety by 30%.
Sleep problems affect how we function emotionally, mentally and physically. Poor sleep causes people to become more irritable, feel depressed and problem solve less effectively.
When poor sleep escalates into sleep deprivation, things deteriorate even further, negatively affecting our emotional functioning, overall mood, and anxiety level. Once we become disconnected from our emotions, our anxiety gets worse.
So, what is the solution to this vicious sleep-and-anxiety cycle?
1. Create a sleep routine before bed. It’s important to have good sleep hygiene for our mental health. Two hours before you go to bed, focus on relaxing and decompressing. Stay away from intense exercise in the evening or watching the evening news or movies with violence. Also avoid alcohol and caffeine in the evening.
2. Activate your senses. Stimulate your Parasympathetic Nervous System, your “rest and relax” nervous system, by activating your 6 senses: put a candle on, use your favorite bubble bath, do a foot massage bath, drink warm milk, or cuddle a pet.
3. Unload all your stress and worry. Worry is the fear of the future and can keep you up at night. Journal in a book, talk to a supportive friend, anything you can do to unload your stress and worry for the day.
For many more tips and strategies on how to decrease your anxiety and improve your mental health, check out my latest book The Instant Anxiety Solution.
About the Author
Michelle Biton is a Health and Wellness Coach and Educator. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Master’s Degree in Holistic Nutrition and a Certificate in Kinesiology, Health and Fitness Studies. She has been invited to write for the Encyclopedia of Natural Health, Alive Magazine, a variety of online publications, and has been featured on various television, radio shows and magazines as a health and fitness expert.
Praise for The Instant Anxiety Solution
“…full of practical advice and simple hacks on how to reduce your anxiety level. A must-read for anybody wrestling with anxiety.” —Beth Hedva, PhD, author of Betrayal, Trust and Forgiveness
“…a must-read for anyone suffering from anxiety. I particularly like Michelle’s holistic approach.” —Ramona Braganza, celebrity fitness trainer
“…an essential read for anyone suffering from anxiety. Michelle has a true passion and skill for her trade of helping people lead healthier lives.” —Michelle Lovitt, MSc, fitness trainer and author of Exercise for Your Muscle Type
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Unlocking the Magic of Cacao: Keith’s Cacao
In a world where purity meets purpose, Keith’s Cacao stands as a beacon of authenticity and connection to the ancient wisdom of the cacao plant. With a commitment to preserving the natural essence of cacao, Keith’s Cacao offers 100% pure Ceremonial Grade Cacao, unlocking a journey of heart-opening, mind-focusing, and spirit-energizing experiences.
The Essence of Cacao
At the heart of Keith’s Cacao is a deep reverence for the cacao plant and its profound impact on human well-being. This Ceremonial Grade Cacao is meticulously sourced from the revered mountain rainforests of Guatemala’s Pacific Coast, guided by the wisdom of the Cacao Spirit. The quest for Criollo (“native”) cacao beans ensures a consistent infusion of perfect energy and flavor in every batch, a testament to the time and intention invested in each step of the process.
A Tradition of Excellence
Under the stewardship of Andrés Jiménez and a dedicated local team, Keith’s Cacao is produced in the traditional manner, preserving its full potency, purity, and flavor. The involvement of Kaqchikel Mayan women from over 20 local families not only adds to the product’s authenticity but also provides them with independent income and flexible working conditions, empowering the community economically and culturally.
Crafting Perfection
The journey of Keith’s Cacao beans from harvest to cup is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. Utilizing time-honored techniques over wood-fired stoves, each bean is expertly toasted to perfection, ensuring the delicate balance of complex flavors without any hint of burnt taste. The hand-peeling process, overseen by at-home female entrepreneurs and the local workshop team, guarantees that only the finest beans make it through, free from any impurities.
Empowering Communities, Enriching Lives
Keith’s Cacao goes beyond being a product; it’s a conduit for social impact and cultural preservation. By upholding traditional methods passed down through generations, Keith’s Cacao not only honors the legacy of ancient shamans but also provides a platform for local artisans to thrive. The cacao workshop in the Kaqchikel Mayan community of San Marcos La Laguna, Guatemala, serves as a hub of empowerment, overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Atitlan.
Embrace the Magic
Packed with the goodness of plant medicine and superfood nutrition, Keith’s Cacao is trusted by practitioners for its ability to enhance insight, presence, and focus without the jitters of caffeine. Available in beans, paste, and mini-brick pastes, its minimal processing approach ensures that every sip delivers the highest quality energy and nourishment cacao can offer. Whether enjoyed as a hot beverage, a decadent hot chocolate, or incorporated into superfood treats, Keith’s Cacao invites you to unlock the magic within and embark on a journey of profound connection and well-being.
Price and Availability
Keith’s Cacao, priced at $50 for 16oz, is not just a product but a gateway to a world of holistic wellness and cultural appreciation. Explore the recipes, embrace the ritual, and discover the transformative power of pure Ceremonial Grade Cacao from Keith’s Cacao.
Discover a world of tradition, community support, and pure cacao essence with Keith’s Cacao. Trusted by practitioners and loved for its authenticity, each sip invites you to nourish your body and soul. Purchase your 16oz pack today and unlock the magic within.
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Unlocking Wellness with NATPAT: A Journey into Natural Solutions
In a world where health and wellness often feel like a maze of options, NATPAT shines as a beacon of innovation and simplicity. This Australian-based brand offers a unique range of patches and stickers designed to enhance daily life naturally. Let’s dive into what makes NATPAT a game-changer in the realm of well-being.
First and foremost, NATPAT’s commitment to crafting products with care is evident in every patch and sticker they offer. Whether you’re seeking tranquility amidst chaos or protection from pesky mosquitoes, NATPAT has you covered.
For those hectic days when calmness is elusive, NATPAT‘s calming patches and stickers provide a soothing escape. Their UV stickers are a smart tool for sun lovers, offering a practical way to monitor UV exposure. And when congestion strikes, the stuffy patch is a trusted ally, helping to ease discomfort.
Parents will find solace in NATPAT’s gentle yet effective solutions, such as the sleepy patch for kids and the sleep patch for adults, promoting restful nights for the whole family. The itch patch and bug bite patches offer quick relief from common annoyances, while the focus patch is a game-changer for concentration boosts.
Managing appetite becomes easier with NATPAT’s discreet appetite suppressant patches, and allergy sufferers can find relief with their allergy relief stickers.
But NATPAT isn’t just about products; it’s a lifestyle choice for those who prioritize health, wellness, and natural solutions. Their commitment to quality extends beyond ingredients to eco-conscious practices. With compostable, biodegradable materials and recyclable packaging, NATPAT is making strides in caring for the planet.
Moreover, NATPAT’s journey is one of passion and growth. From humble beginnings in 2020 to expanding globally and partnering with reputable retailers like Walmart and Costco, NATPAT’s impact is felt worldwide. Their dedication to quality, safety, and environmental responsibility sets them apart as a leader in the wellness industry.
In essence, NATPAT is more than a brand; it’s a testament to the power of nature, innovation, and caring for both ourselves and the world around us. Join the NATPAT journey and unlock the superhero potential in every aspect of your well-being.
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Revolutionizing Omega-3 Supplements: Introducing Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega
In the realm of health and wellness, the significance of Omega-3 fatty acids cannot be overstated. These essential nutrients play a crucial role in supporting heart, brain, and eye health, making them a staple in many dietary regimens. However, the traditional source of Omega-3s, fish oil, comes with its own set of concerns, including environmental impact and potential fishy aftertaste. Enter Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega – a game-changer in the world of Omega-3 supplements.
One of the standout features of Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega is its sustainable sourcing. Unlike traditional fish oil supplements, which are derived from marine life, Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega is plant-based, specifically derived from algae. Algae is where fish naturally obtain their Omega-3s, making this supplement not only highly potent but also more environmentally friendly. By choosing a plant-based alternative, consumers can support their health while reducing their impact on marine ecosystems.
Don’t let its plant-based origins fool you – Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega packs a powerful punch when it comes to essential fatty acids. Each serving delivers 770 mg of plant-based Omega-3s, ensuring that you get the recommended daily intake without relying on fish-derived sources. This supplement is rich in EPA and DHA, two Omega-3 fatty acids known for their cardiovascular, cognitive, and visual health benefits.
Aside from its nutritional value, Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega offers additional advantages that set it apart from traditional fish oil supplements. With no fishy aftertaste, this supplement provides a pleasant and palatable experience, making it easier to incorporate into daily routines. Moreover, its vegan-friendly formulation appeals to a broader range of consumers, aligning with ethical and dietary preferences.
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega is its commitment to environmental sustainability. By opting for a plant-based source of Omega-3s, consumers contribute to the preservation of marine life and ecosystems. Additionally, the recyclable aluminum container underscores Youtheory’s dedication to reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly packaging solutions.
In conclusion, Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega represents a paradigm shift in the Omega-3 supplement market. With its plant-based formulation, superior nutritional profile, sustainable sourcing, and environmental consciousness, this supplement stands out as a holistic and responsible choice for individuals seeking optimal health without compromising on ethics or quality. Make the switch to Youtheory® Ocean-Friendly Omega and embrace a healthier, happier, and more sustainable lifestyle.
