New Jersey mall wave pool helps those who help us
Non-profit organization Alpha Wave held an event at SkudinSurf in the American Dream Mall recently. The group is focused on reducing isolation and suicide among veterans and first responders by lifting the spirits of participants.
Studies show that surfing acts as a healing agent for people with a variety of special needs. Everything from a simple boost in mental health to dealing with trauma and loss of limbs.
Alpha Wave’s event at the New Jersey mall booked out and the group looks forward to more in the near future.
“Surfing is such a good activity,” operations director Kyle Rodgers told NewsBreak. “When you’re in the water, you’re connected with nature, you’re sharing an experience with those around you, and you’re disconnected — you don’t have your cellphone on you, you’re not standing in front of a screen. It’s you, the water, the waves, and the folks that are around you.”
The organization’s goal is to help the Veteran community by enhancing alpha brain wave activity among participants. Alpha Wave emphasized that surfing reduces stress and promotes mental well-being and this work among veterans helps them reconnect with themselves and others, to find a sense of belonging and purpose.
More about SkudinSurf American Dream from operator Will Skudin
“The waves are 3-4ft with a few bigger peaks,” said Will. “It’s like surfing a fun summer day but super consistent. If you come just to mess around and have fun with your friends, you will enjoy the experience. Most waves allow for one maneuver. The tube is small, tight and technical but is great training for your under-the-lip takeoffs. It takes about 90 seconds to switch settings if you want to change from air section to barrels in the middle of your session. Section waves for maneuvers can be programmed to come every 22-25 seconds and barreling waves every 80 seconds. If we were to make a comparison, this wave pool is like having a few sick little mini skateboard ramps in your backyard.”
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