Immigrant Women, Waves, and Wonder: Maine Afro Yoga x More Women Surf at Pine State Beach

We showed up that morning at Pine State Beach with car seats, snacks, wetsuits, and laughter already bubbling. You know that mix of excitement and chaos that comes when immigrant women gather for something new? That was us — ready for a day of movement, connection, and saltwater joy.

The first adventure began before we even touched the ocean: finding parking, finding each other in this beautiful maze of sand, and getting all our gear in one place. But once we formed a circle, toes buried in the sand, everything slowed down.

We started with movement and breath — a few dances, deep stretches, and grounding moments to help us arrive. There was laughter, music, and that feeling of release that comes when your body finally gets to move without worry. The ocean breeze joined our rhythm; the sun kissed our faces.

Then came the surfboards.

The incredible women from More Women Surf guided us through each step — how to hold the board, balance on the sand, and trust the water. For many of us, it was a first. We were nervous, but we were also determined. There were tumbles, splashes, cheers, and so much laughter. Each wave became a lesson in courage, patience, and joy.

Watching women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds try, fall, float, and try again — that was powerful. We weren’t just learning to surf; we were learning to belong. To see ourselves reflected in the sea, in each other, and in the possibility that we could do something brave together.

By the end of the day, we were tired in the best way. The kind of tired that comes from sun, salt, and soul-level joy. We left Pine State Beach feeling lighter — connected to the water, to Maine’s beauty, and to one another.

For immigrant women, spaces like these matter deeply. The ocean didn’t ask where we came from or what language we spoke. It simply welcomed us, wave after wave.