Riding the Waves Through Menopause: Why Surfing and Water-Based Activities Are Transformational for Women
- eatcleanhealthandd
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
There’s something incredibly powerful about being in the ocean.
The sound of the waves, the salty air, the feeling of freedom and connection to nature. It has a way of grounding us, energising us, and reminding us just how capable we really are.
As I am someone who is deeply passionate about supporting women through the natural transition of peri to post menopause, as well as being a huge advocate for surfing and ocean-based activities. I have witnessed first-hand the incredible impact that the water can have on women’s physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.
Over the last few years, more and more studies have highlighted the many benefits of surfing and cold-water activities for women, particularly during the hormonal fluctuations experienced throughout menopause.
And honestly, it makes complete sense.
During this stage of life, many women can experience symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, sleep disturbances, joint aches, reduced confidence, weight changes, brain fog and increased stress levels.
Movement, connection, nature and nervous system regulation become more important than ever.
Surfing and water-based activities offer all of this plus so much more.
The Science Behind Surfing and Menopause
Research continues to show that regular physical activity during menopause can significantly improve both our physical and mental health. Activities such as surfing uniquely combine cardiovascular fitness, strength training, balance, mobility and mindfulness all in one session.
Water-based exercise has also been shown to:
Help reduce stress hormones and support nervous system regulation
Improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
Increase confidence and resilience
Support cardiovascular and bone health
Improve sleep quality
Enhance cognitive function and focus
Encourage social connection and community
Reduce inflammation and support joint mobility
And let’s not forget the huge impact that being outdoors and immersed in nature can have on our wellbeing.
Time spent in blue spaces - oceans, lakes and rivers, has been linked to improved mental clarity, reduced stress and enhanced emotional wellbeing.
For many women, surfing becomes far more than just exercise.
It becomes therapy.
Why Surf Therapy Works So Well for Women
One of the most beautiful things about surfing is that it teaches us to adapt, trust ourselves and embrace imperfection.
You cannot control the ocean, just like we cannot completely control the changes happening within our bodies during the menopause transition.
But what we can do, is learn how to work with them rather than against them.
There is something incredibly empowering about watching women in midlife challenge themselves, step outside of their comfort zones, laugh together, support one another and realise they are capable of so much more than they believed.
This is exactly why, over the last couple of years, I have worked alongside Michelle at North Devon Surf School to create our Surf Therapy Menopause Programme.
Together, we wanted to offer women something different, we have created a supportive, educational and uplifting experience that combines menopause education with the healing power of the ocean.
Our Surf Therapy Menopause Programme
Our programmes include:
A menopause seminar and educational talk.
Open Q&A discussions around symptoms, nutrition, lifestyle and general wellbeing.
Practical support and guidance for managing menopause naturally and proactively.
Surf lessons and coaching with an incredible surf instructor.
Time in the ocean connecting with like-minded women.
Plenty of laughter, encouragement and empowerment.
The feedback from these programmes has been amazing.
We’ve had so much fun while meeting so many engaged, supportive and inspiring women, all wanting to embrace this phase of life rather than fear it.
Many women arrive feeling nervous, overwhelmed or disconnected from themselves. They leave feeling energised, empowered, confident and proud of what they’ve achieved.
And that is exactly what this work is all about.
Menopause Is Not the End - It’s a New Chapter
There is still so much stigma and negativity surrounding menopause, but it truly does not have to be a time of decline.
With the right support, education, movement and mindset, women can absolutely embrace and thrive during this chapter of life.
Surfing may not solve every symptom, but the confidence, connection, joy and sense of freedom it creates can be genuinely life changing.
You are never “too old” to start surfing, try something new or reconnect with yourself.
Why Not Join Us This Year?
We are incredibly excited to be running another couple of Surf Therapy Menopause Programme this year, where once again we’ll be welcoming more wonderful women who want to proactively support their menopause journey while having fun in the waves with like-minded ladies.
If this sounds like something you’d love to be part of, I would absolutely love to hear from you.
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