The bond between humans and animals has proven to be a powerful force, transcending the boundaries of traditional treatments. Mark, faces the challenges of an ABI (Acquired Brain Injury and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), and has found connection, and healing in the company of animals such as horses and birds on the path towards recovery.

Galloping Towards Healing
Horse-assisted therapy, has played an important role in Mark's rehabilitation. Horses possess a unique ability to mirror human emotions, providing an unspoken form of communication that goes beyond words.Mark's sessions with horses involve activities such as grooming, feeding and petting. A bond formed during these interactions is built on trust, empathy, and a shared understanding. Horses, being highly sensitive and intuitive animals, respond to Mark's emotions and body language, creating a safe space for him to express himself without judgment.

Wings of Comfort
In addition to horse-assisted therapy, Mark has discovered the therapeutic value of birds. Birds, with their vibrant plumage and melodious songs, bring a sense of calm and joy to Mark's life. The rhythmic flapping of wings and the delicate chirping create a soothing environment, fostering a connection that transcends the boundaries of verbal communication.

Mark has found solace in caring for and interacting with his feathered friends. The routine of feeding, observing, and spending time with his chicks and chooks has become a source of routine and structure in his life. Studies have shown that the presence of animals, such as birds, can reduce stress and anxiety levels, offering a natural form of emotional support for individuals with ASD.
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Animal-Assisted Social Interaction
One of the challenges faced by individuals with ABI and ASD is difficulty in social interactions. Animals, free from judgment and social expectations, provide a non-threatening avenue for practicing and refining social skills. Through interactions with horses and birds, Mark has learned to navigate the nuances of communication, cooperation, and empathy.

Working together with others to care for and communicate with horses fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. This social aspect of animal-assisted therapy has proven invaluable for Mark, creating a bridge towards improved interpersonal relationships.

Mark's journey with horses and birds showcases the profound impact that animals can have on individuals facing the challenges of ABI and ASD. The therapeutic alliance formed with these sentient beings goes beyond conventional treatments, offering a holistic approach to healing that encompasses physical, emotional, and social well-being.
As we continue to explore the therapeutic potential of animals, it is essential to recognise and celebrate the unique bonds formed between humans and their non-human companions. In Mark's case, the wings of birds and the hooves of horses have become instruments of healing, guiding him towards a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Planting the Seeds of Excitement
From vibrant tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers to aromatic herbs, Mark's backyard is full of flavours waiting to burst onto his plate!

With guidance from his support workers, Mark picks out seeds, and seedlings from local farmers' markets and cultivates a thriving garden. The seeds are sown, and it's time to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty, tending to his garden – watering, weeding, composting and watching with anticipation as tiny sprouts evolve into robust plants. Embracing the therapeutic benefits of gardening, whether it's for rehabilitation and reconnection, relieving stress or simply enjoying the fresh ocean air.

Harvesting Happiness
The moment has arrived – it's harvest time! Mark finds satisfaction harvesting his own ingredients and relishes the fact that he knows exactly where his food has come from. gaining a feeling of joy of picking his own produce for his family.

Culinary Kitchen Adventures
Mark explores the wonders of cooking with his homegrown ingredients making Argentinian food with his support worker Terisita and fermenting cabbage to make home grown sauerkraut.
 
For Mark, backyard gardening and cooking is a rewarding and rehabilitating journey from planting seeds to relishing the flavours of his harvest. Try it out for youself, grab your gardening gloves, sharpen your knives, and let your backyard culinary adventure begin!

Along the stunning southwest coastline of Western Australia, Gracetown and Margaret River have earned a well-deserved reputation as surfing meccas and local waves attract surfers from around the world seeking the thrill of the catching the ultimate wave. 

Gracetown, is home to several renowned surf breaks that attract surfers seeking a mix of challenging waves. So, wax up your board, catch a wave, and immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of surfing as we explore some of the best and most popular surf breaks in and around Gracetown.

Cowbombie

• Type: Reef break
• Experience Level: Advanced to expert
• Description: Cowbombie is renowned for producing some of the biggest and most powerful waves in the Margaret River region. Situated offshore, this reef break can deliver massive swells, attracting experienced big wave surfers seeking an adrenaline-pumping challenge. The wave is known for its fast, barrelling sections and the sheer size of the waves, making it an iconic destination for those who are up for the ultimate surfing challenge. Cowbombie is a remote and powerful surf break that demands a high level of skill and experience. Surfers who dare to take on Cowbombie are rewarded with an unforgettable and exhilarating experience, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking the thrill of riding some of the largest waves in Western Australia.
• Location: Cowbombie is offshore, so access is typically by boat.

Southsides

• Type: Reef break
• Experience Level: All levels
• Description: Southsides is a more versatile surf break located near Gracetown. It offers a mix of left and right-hand waves, making it suitable for surfers of various skill levels. The wave quality and relatively uncrowded conditions make Southsides a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
• Location: 

Huzzas

• Type: Reef break
• Experience Level: Beginners to Surf Groms
• Description: Huzzas is known for its consistent and rolling waves, making it a reliable spot for beginners learning to surf. The reef break produces both left and right-hand waves, it's a great spot for beginners to practice and learn, and it also provides a scenic backdrop with its sandy beach and coastal cliffs.
• Location: Drive through Gracetown and turn right onto Salter Street to South Point carpark. Huzzas is down the stairs straight out from South Point carpark.

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South Point

• Type: Reef break
• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
• Description: South Point is a somewhat hidden and less crowded surf break in Gracetown. It offers both left and right-hand waves, and its location away from the main breaks makes it a peaceful spot for surfers looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying quality waves.
• Location: Drive south through Gracetown to the southernmost point of Cowaramup Bay.​

These surf breaks contribute to the diverse and world-class surfing experience that Gracetown and the Margaret River region offers. Whether you're looking for challenging reef breaks, more forgiving beach breaks, or the rush of big wave surfing, Gracetown and its surrounding areas have a surf spot to match every surfer's preference and skill level.

Welcome, fellow wave enthusiasts, to our ocean-inspired haven of style and imagery – Anders Surf Photography and Clothing Shop. Nestled in the heart of the surf culture, in Gracetown, Western Australia 6284, our surf wear seamlessly blends surf art photography with the latest trends in surf clothing. Join us on a virtual ride through the world of surf legends, retro prints, and iconic surf prints that define the essence of Anders Surf Photography.

Surf Art Photography:
Anders Surf Photography stands out as a beacon for those who seek more than just clothing – it's an art gallery in its own right. The surf art photography showcased here captures the raw beauty of waves, the essence of surfing legends, and the timeless allure of the ocean. From surfing images frozen in time to stunning surf artwork, every piece tells a story of the sea.

Surf Clothing:
Step into the stylish realm of surf fashion at Anders. Here, surf clothing is not just about comfort; it's a statement. Explore a curated collection of surf shirts for men and women, each bearing the mark of quality and authenticity. Our affordable surf shirts offer a chance to embrace the surf style without breaking the bank. Dive into the treasure trove of surf clothing brands that cater to both the contemporary and vintage aficionados.

Vintage Vibes:
For those with a penchant for the classics, Anders Surf Photography and Clothing Shop proudly boasts a range of surf vintage themed shirts and surf linen. Unearth rare gems that carry the spirit of bygone eras, all while staying true to the everlasting allure of surf culture.

Surf Wall Art:
Transform your living space into a coastal haven with our exclusive surf wall art collection. Whether you're drawn to surf pictures framed elegantly or vibrant surf posters, Anders Surf Photography has the perfect piece to bring the waves indoors. Immerse yourself in the soothing visuals of the ocean with surf prints that capture the essence of the surfing lifestyle.

Surf Shop T-Shirts:
Our surf shop t-shirts are more than mere garments; they're a celebration of the surf spirit. Emblasoned with unique designs and crafted with the highest quality materials, these shirts effortlessly blend comfort and style. Dive into our surf shop to discover the latest surf t-shirts that define surf style in every thread.

Conclusion:
​Anders Surf Photography and Clothing Shop is more than a shop; it's a celebration of surf culture, a visual journey through the waves, and a haven for those who live and breathe the ocean. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just getting your feet wet in the world of surf, Anders Surf Photography has something to offer. Come, ride the waves of style and art with us!

Recently Mark has started Virtual Reality with an Occupational Therapist at XR Health in Melbourne, this is done remotely, with the assistance of a supporter worker with Mark, we can set up his tasks and through a casting app see what he is seeing in case he requires direction on a task. 

He is doing about 35 minutes,  5 days a week with set tasks, since the first day which was quite difficult to get Mark interested in something new, he has done this for nearly 1 month now, and is progressing with the set tasks.  He is getting faster and started using both his hands which will be helping both sides to the brain, he is also doing this with instant cognitive speed. 

What we are hoping to gain from VR 
Engaging Marks Memory and brain pathways, for cognitive function, getting his processing speeds faster, increasing his motor skills. 

Coordination is also a big part to VR, and he has starting to accomplish using both hands and colour matching in some of the exercises set out for him, each week the OT will adapt his tasks to get harder or his range of motion increased. 
There is even a meditation daily, which will consist of breathing techniques, or he could travel through Mt Everest watching the fantastic scenery, it all is relaxing.  This will help emotional regulation, management of stress and anxiety, and mindfullness.

To find out more about VR Therapy contact XR Health

Marks favourite place is the garden, before brain injury apart from being a surf photographer he also had a Horticultural Degree,  he did landscaping in the UK in the surf off season and various other project in WA.  

Even after his Acquired Brain Injury, Mark still knows the Latin words for plants.  He might not remember everything to do with the functionality of tasks like planting the plants and where is best spot in the yard for the plant or making fences, chicken coups and garden beds, but that is where Marli comes in.  Marli is an amazing support worker that we found on Mable.  She has a lot of the same loves for gardening and plants.  She goes through step by step in what is required, asking him questions to see what he thinks.  

Marks day is not just garden there are many other things that his support workers will do with him but we will touch on those in other blog posts. 

Mark has always lived in this Gracetown property, the house didn't look like this before, he lived in a surf shack which we knocked down and built our dream home.  To get our amazing ocean views we built a house on stumps, old Queensland style with balcony's that wrap around.  So obviously we had a clean slate of dirt with the new house that requires a lot of work and design, the property is sloping so it is a task for Marli and Mark to accomplish all they do.

This kind of day to day in the garden building, is so similar to an expensive OT appointment, he is actually putting to use his memory of old skills, with the help of Marli prompting him and coaching him.  She is a fantastic support and has a lot of experience with working with Brain Injury. 
She gets Mark to actually do things where as in the past we have had supports just sit down and watch TV with him. He doesn't need a babysitter, he needs activity and stimulation. 

After Stroke Mark had to learn to walk, make a cup of tea etc.  In the 7 months he spent in hospital it became very apparent that Mark can chat and recall everything about his life, but he cant say "cup" when shown a cup by the Allied Health Professional, he also had no idea how to make a cup of tea, (just the order of everything and where to get everything from).  (We could write another blog post just on Rehabilitation and the first year out of hospital) 

Its 2023 and we are 3 years after initial hospital admission. Mark can make his own cups of tea, prepare small meals like toast.  He will initiate tasks and offer assistance if he sees me cooking the dinner.  
As you can see from the couple of photos, Mark has done amazing work on the outside of our new home.  This is the best therapy for Mark just out enjoying his land and learning to function again.  
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Life often takes unexpected turns, and for Anders, a passionate surf photographer, the journey to his first day at the Margaret River Town Square Markets was nothing short of extraordinary. Overcoming the challenges of an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) in 2020 and pursuing his goal to return to work, Anders serves as an inspiring example of resilience and determination. 

The Road to Recovery:
Anders' story begins with a twist of fate. In 2020, he suffered a life-altering Acquired Brain Injury, leaving him with physical and cognitive challenges. The path to recovery was long and arduous, but Anders remained undeterred. With immense dedication, he worked tirelessly to regain his strength, relearn essential skills, and return to his passion that would reignite his spirit.

Rediscovering His Love for Surf Photography:
During his rehabilitation journey, Anders revisited his archive of surfing slides from his own work as a surf photographer that spoke to his soul. These slides transported him to the golden era of surfing, a time when the waves were pure and the spirit of adventure was boundless. This discovery became the spark that reignited his desire to share this passion with others.

Setting a Goal:
Setting goals is an essential part of recovery, and for Anders, one of those goals was to sell his vintage surf prints at the Margaret River Town Square Markets. Located in the heart of the picturesque Margaret River region in Western Australia, these markets are renowned for their vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. It was the perfect place for Anders to showcase his vintage surf prints.

Months of Preparation:
Preparing for this milestone was no small feat. Anders spent months meticulously curating a collection of vintage surf prints, each with its own unique story and connection to the surfing culture he cherished. He also designed a visually stunning booth that captured the essence of the ocean and the spirit of surfing.
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The Big Day Arrives:
As the dawn broke on the morning of his market debut, Anders was filled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. With the support of his family, friends and support workers, he set up his booth at Margaret River Town Square Markets.

​With the sound of live music, and the scent of delicious food wafting through the air, although the crowd was quiet, they were eager to explore the market's treasures.

Sharing His Passion:
Anders' vintage surf prints, carefully arranged and beautifully framed, drew the attention of passersby. As people stopped to admire his collection, Anders shared stories of the prints, the history behind them, and the profound impact surfing had on his life.

Inspiring Others:
What was most remarkable about Anders' first day at the Margaret River Town Square Markets was the way he inspired others. His story of overcoming adversity and pursuing his passion resonated with visitors of all ages. Many left his booth with a newfound sense of hope and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dreams can be achieved.

Conclusion:
Anders' first day at the Margaret River Town Square Markets was not just a milestone; it was a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one's passions. His journey from a successful surf photographer to a life-changing Acquired Brain Injury in 2020 to now selling vintage surf prints, serves as an inspiration to us all. It reminds us that with unwavering dedication, any goal can be within reach, and that the human spirit has an incredible capacity to overcome obstacles and thrive.
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As we celebrate Anders' remarkable achievement, let us also remember to embrace our own dreams and persevere, no matter the challenges we face. In doing so, we can find the strength to turn adversity into triumph, just as Anders did on that memorable day at the Margaret River Town Square Markets.

To find out when the next Margaret River Town Square Markets are on go to Dates we are on - Margaret River Town Square Markets

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Navigating a busy weekly routine is a constant, but Mark has found solace and transformation in a unique therapy called Neurofeedback. This therapy, involving the strategic placement of electrodes on his head, has become a crucial part of his life. The journey to Neurofeedback therapy was shaped by the unique challenges Ander's faced after experiencing an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Neurofeedback therapy has reshaped his brain, unlocked hidden potential, and reconnected him with his own memories and information.

Neurofeedback Therapy Unveiled:
Neurofeedback therapy is a cutting-edge approach that uses EEG technology to monitor and train brain activity. In Mark's sessions, electrodes are strategically placed on areas of his head that require attention or have inactive brainwaves. The process begins with Mark settling in to watch a movie, a seemingly simple task that holds the key to remarkable change.

The Power of Concentration:
As Mark watches the movie, his brain activity is closely monitored. The magic happens when he concentrates deeply on the film. When he achieves a state of focused attention, the therapy system rewards him with sound and vision. This reinforcement mechanism plays a pivotal role in retraining his brain pathways.

Transforming Brain Pathways:
Over time, the changes in Mark's QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalogram) photos have been nothing short of remarkable. The therapy has gradually rewired his brain, encouraging the activation of previously dormant neural pathways. These newly established connections have opened doors to existing memories and stored information, enriching his cognitive landscape.

A More Switched-On Mark:
One of the most significant transformations Mark has experienced is an enhanced level of alertness and mental clarity. As his brain adapts to the Neurofeedback therapy, he has become more switched on, both in his therapy sessions and daily life. This heightened state of awareness allows him to tackle challenges with newfound confidence.

Reconnecting with Memories:
Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of Mark's journey is the ability to reconnect with memories that were once distant or difficult to access. As his brain pathways realign, he finds himself effortlessly recalling treasured moments and long-lost information, enriching his life with a deeper sense of self.

Conclusion:
Mark's extraordinary journey with Neurofeedback therapy, framed by his experience with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), highlights the incredible capacity of the human mind to adapt and heal. Through this innovative approach, he has managed to rewire his brain, becoming more alert, focused, and attuned to the world around him. It's a testament to the potential for growth, even in the face of adversity.

The thread of ABI, woven into Mark's story, underscores the significance of finding effective treatments and therapies that can help individuals regain their sense of self and purpose. Neurofeedback therapy, with its unique rewards system, has allowed Mark not only to recover lost cognitive abilities but also to reconnect with cherished memories.
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Mark's journey is a reminder that while life may throw unexpected challenges our way, there is always room for renewal and rediscovery. As he continues his path towards healing and self-improvement, his story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone facing similar obstacles, showing that with determination and the right therapies, one can overcome adversity and find the path to a brighter, more fulfilling future.

To find out more about Neurofeedback therapy visit Perth Brain Centre.