The Healing Impact of Water
There is a powerful combination of social interaction, connection, and the healing impact of activities on the water.
It may not be for everyone, but for some Veterans, it can be a lifesaver. The power of Veteran sports and Recreation Therapy was on full display last Monday on a lake in Portage. During this event, the Recreation Therapy Section partnered with 4THE22 and Warriors to Waves to introduce paddle boarding to some of our Veterans.
"Paddling has helped me a lot," said Navy Veteran Josh Flath from 4THE22. " I am so glad to share this with other Veterans," continued Flath. Bring
balance to Veterans Lives is the motto of 4THE22 . They strive to help others to find balance and purpose through the therapeutic activities of standup paddling, surfing, and exercise. 4the22 cultivates community and camaraderie through all of their activities, to help Veterans transition smoothly into civilian life and to allow both Veterans and first responders to look beyond their challenges and achieve their full potential. The group hosted a cookout with beach games before providing on-the-ground safety briefs and instruction. Then it was time to hit the water. Before you knew it, all of the Veterans were up and paddling. of course, there were a few falls, but the Veterans overcame and enjoyed the introduction to paddling.
Warriors to Waves focuses on more high adrenaline water therapy with surfing and other activities. Still, even a novice can get started with gliding on the water and seeking to overcome the challenge of learning. "Water therapy instills the warrior ethos," said Mathew from Warriors to Waves who is also a Veteran. "It is a good way to bring Veterans together." Aquatic therapy takes the stress off muscles and bones using the buoyancy of water. Being in the water helps reduce stress and anxiety as well.
It is important to have social and recreational activities for Veterans in the communities where they live. These two organizations are examples of helping Veterans to learn positive activities that build camaraderie. It is a moving experience to see the healing impact of water in action.