Resurface, a community interest company that centres wellbeing at the heart of it's therapeutic surf, yoga and cold-water activity programme was recently awarded a grant by Active Dorset's Together Fund, to run a 10 week 'move and surf' programme for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
With the sessions now finished, James the Thriving Communities Regional Lead at Active Dorset, reflects on the surfing, yoga and wider programme offer.
Creating an inclusive culture is high on the priority list for Resurface's adult communities and I was looking forward to seeing how this would be replicated for children and young people. On arrival at Yellowstones Surf School, I was greeted by Eve Mansfield, an occupational therapist and facilitator for Resurface who would be delivering the session. Supporting Eve to coordinate the session were three enthusiastic Resurface volunteers who all had a fantastic approach to making the children feel welcome and at ease. After jumping into our wetsuits it was time to head down to the beach with the surf boards.
The session started with friendly introductions to all of the participants, staff and volunteers which helped to create and establish a connection between us. This was quickly followed by a game of duck-duck-goose, which certainly raised the spirits and body temperature. Eve had such a warm and reassuring tone when interacting with each child and I could tell they trusted her completely which was essential, given the nature of the activity.
This was the last surfing session for the aged 5-10 group and the conditions for surfing that day were far from perfect but that did not deter the children's excitement for getting into the water. Immediately, I noticed how each child was beaming with joy as the waves crashed over them as they waded through the water. Each and every one embraced the natural elements of the ocean with relentless energy. I learnt how over the past few weeks all of the participants had improved skills such as balance, communication and determination which had enabled them to stand up on the board, amazing! Some participants were particularly keen to show me this skill and I was equally impressed to see it.
With the session bringing to a close it left me thinking about the calming and healing potential of the ocean and how although each new wave presents different challenges, it also brings new possibilities that can help the children overcome fears, dissolve any worries and feel inspired.
A few weeks later, I also had the opportunity to participate in the last Yoga session for the aged 5-10 group which took place in The Old School House in Boscombe. Joining Eve to facilitate these sessions was local Yoga teacher Dani-Ford Horne, who through her teachings combines the fluidity of movement with breath and mindfulness.
Dani and Eve created a lovely environment during the session and one which allowed the children to feel connected and supported throughout. The session moved through a series of stretches and then gradually introduced more involvement from the children who selected and created some brilliant movements of their own based on animals or objects. The children were captivated by their imagination and fully focused on the intricacies of each movement, which grew more challenging as the session progressed. Dani ended the session by asking the children to take comfort on their mats as she read aloud a story, transporting them (and me) into a state of relaxation.
With research now showing that 1 in 6 children aged 5-16 are likely to have a mental health problem, it is vital that opportunities like 'move & surf' are accessible for a wide range of young people, regardless of their experience, ability or background. Prioritising the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people by creating opportunities for them to be active is essential to them leading healthy and happy lives in the future.
To find out more info for future sessions or to read more about Resurface in general, head here.
More information: https://www.weareresurface.com/