Psychology Today | 14.01.2026 04:35
I have had the privilege of taking veterans surfing on the Oregon Coast since 2019. Before each session, there is a nervous energy—some have never touched a surfboard, others have not been in the ocean since childhood. Once veterans hit the water together, something shifts. Laughter breaks the tension. Each effort is cheered on. Veterans look out for each other. Those new to the sport watch experienced surfers catching waves outside. The sense of safety, joy, and belonging—so often lost after trauma—is palpable. My experience is reflected in the research. As one veteran stated, “When I was surfing with those guys, I was surfing with family” (Marshall et al., 2020).
