Jervis Bay Ocean Therapy

Balance your health through the power of saltwater

About Russ

I’ve lived in Jervis Bay since 1988 and have spent most of my life in the ocean — surfing, swimming, kayaking, snorkelling and studying the ocean’s patterns, cycles, rhythms & the weather that makes it all happen.

After 27 years as a carpenter, I transitioned into coaching and mental health support because I felt called to work more directly with people. I hold a Diploma in Mental Health & Life Coaching as well as formal training in Ocean Therapy & Positive Psychiatry.

Jervis Bay Ocean Therapy brings these worlds together — professional mental health knowledge and a lifelong relationship with the ocean.

My approach is calm, trauma-aware and grounded. I don’t believe in pushing people beyond their comfort. I believe in creating safe experiences where confidence builds naturally and the nervous system can settle at its own pace.

The ocean has shaped my life.
This work allows me to share that experience in a way that supports others

Our Services

Explore our services and discover the experience that feels right for you.

Ocean Therapy Experience

This is a guided, one-on-one or small group ocean experience designed to calm the body, quiet the mind and rebuild confidence in natural environments. Sessions combine: • Saltwater immersion (always gradual and optional) • Breath and body awareness • Gentle nervous system regulation practices • Ocean safety education • Reflection and grounding time There is no pressure to swim far, perform or “achieve” anything. We work at your pace. The ocean itself becomes the therapeutic environment — the rhythm of waves, the temperature of the water, the horizon, the sensory experience of being present. Best suited for: Stress, anxiety, overwhelm, confidence building, mental wellbeing support, grounding and reconnection.

Ocean Knowledge & Safety

Confidence in the ocean begins with knowledge. These sessions focus on practical, easy-to-understand ocean education including: • Reading conditions (tides, swell, wind) • Identifying rips and currents • Understanding local geography • Safe entry and exit techniques • Personal confidence strategies This is ideal for: • Visitors unfamiliar with Australian beaches • Locals wanting stronger ocean awareness • Parents wanting to increase beach safety knowledge • Individuals building water confidence When we understand the ocean, fear reduces and respect increases. Education transforms anxiety into awareness.

Sunrise Ocean Reset

Begin the day grounded, calm and clear There is something powerful about entering the ocean as the sun rises. This early morning experience is designed to: • Regulate the nervous system before the day begins • Create clarity and mental space • Improve mood and energy • Build a consistent grounding ritual Sessions are calm, unhurried and simple. We arrive in silence or quiet conversation, move gently into the water, and allow the rhythm of the ocean and rising light to set the tone for the day. This is not a fitness session. It is a reset. Ideal for locals, visitors, professionals, and anyone wanting a meaningful start to their morning.

Why The Ocean

Modern life keeps our nervous systems in a constant state of stress. Screens, noise, pressure and responsibility leave many people feeling overwhelmed, disconnected and exhausted. The ocean offers something profoundly different. Saltwater immersion, rhythmic waves, natural light, breath awareness and sensory grounding all work together to calm the nervous system and bring the body back into balance. Jervis Bay Ocean Therapy was created to help people safely access this powerful natural environment with guidance, education and support. This is not just time at the beach. This is guided reconnection.

Minerals

Saltwater contains natural minerals such as magnesium, potassium and sodium that support muscle relaxation and nervous system regulation. Immersion in the ocean can help reduce physical tension, improve circulation and leave the body feeling restored and balanced

Connection

Time in the ocean reconnects us to something larger than ourselves. The horizon, the rhythm of waves and the vastness of open water create perspective, calm and a deeper sense of belonging

Self Care

Entering the ocean with intention becomes more than a swim — it becomes a ritual. It creates space to pause, breathe and reset, supporting mental clarity and emotional steadiness

Longevity

Regular connection with nature has been linked to improved wellbeing and reduced long-term stress. Making the ocean part of your routine supports resilience, sustained energy and a healthier relationship with both body and mind

If you’re feeling drawn to this type of experience but are not sure, get in touch with Russ to have a chat about a salty experience!