As winter stress and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affect millions of UK professionals, behavioural health specialist, Resurface, is launching three Moroccan retreats designed to restore mental wellbeing and cultivate resilience.
These week-long winter retreats and programmes in Tamraght, Morocco, combine surfing, meditation, creative workshops, and evidence-based therapies to help participants recharge, refocus, and strengthen long-term coping strategies.
Following this month’s sold-out debut, Resurface will host its second EMDR surf-therapy retreat in January 2026. This first-of-its-kind programme pairs Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – a gold-standard trauma treatment – with daily surfing, flow-inducing activities, movement practices, and psychoeducation workshops. Participants are supported in processing past experiences while immersing themselves in Morocco’s restorative coastline and exploring the vibrant souks of Agadir.
Founded in 2017, Resurface has developed a unique therapeutic framework centred on the flow science – the heightened mental state achieved through immersive activities such as surfing, painting, or pottery. Research shows that flow enhances problem-solving, creativity, learning, and sleep, all crucial for effective therapy and long-term wellbeing.
Josh Dickson, Founder and Clinical Director of Resurface, explains: “January and February are peak stress months, with long dark days and high work pressures. Surfing naturally triggers flow states, releasing dopamine, endorphins, and anandamide – the brain’s natural reset chemicals. By combining flow with EMDR and resilience training, these retreats provide a restorative boost when it is most needed.”
He adds:
“We’ve seen a surge in ‘reset sabbaticals’ – short, intentional breaks that restore health and prevent burnout. Winter is when the need is felt most acutely, and these retreats are designed to meet that demand.”
Upcoming Retreats:
Resilience and Preventing Burnout — 15–22 November 2025
Reset and recharge on Morocco’s coast with a retreat designed to prevent burnout and build resilience. Through daily surfing, guided workshops, and holistic wellbeing practices, participants will gain sustainable tools for health and renewal – leaving refreshed, rebalanced, and ready to thrive. The retreat is led by Resurface founder and clinical director Josh Dickson; Dr. Kristine Steffenak, medical doctor and RYT-500 yoga teacher blending science and holistic healing; and Robert Tame, certified Transformational Breath facilitator.
From £1,750pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, all activities, and meals.
Trauma Resolution EMDR Retreat — 24–31 January 2026
Following overwhelming demand, the world’s first group EMDR surf-therapy retreat returns to Morocco’s coastline. This pioneering programme integrates surfing, psychodrama, and NSDR techniques with daily group EMDR sessions to help participants process trauma and unlock their full potential in a safe, supportive environment. The retreat is guided by Josh Dickson, Resurface founder and clinical director; Amy Prior, EMDR consultant and DBT therapist; and Barnaby Hosking, mindfulness practitioner.
From £2,500 including seven nights’ accommodation, all activities, and meals.
The Reset Retreat — 21–28 February 2026
A powerful pause from the pace of modern life, The Reset Retreat invites guests to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover balance. Combining daily surfing for flow, positive psychology workshops, and intuitive movement practices, this immersive week offers deep restoration and practical tools for ongoing wellbeing. The programme is led by Josh Dickson, Dr. Kristine Steffenak, and Robert Tame, whose combined expertise bridges science, psychology, and breathwork for transformative results.
From £2,500 including seven nights’ accommodation, all activities, and meals.
For more information or to book, visit www.resurfaceuk.com
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