IOLN Shared Island & Ocean Strandhill Regional Meeting 12/6/26. Panel 2 discussion.

This is a recording of the panel discussion "Waves of Wellbeing", moderated by Dr. Easkey Britton at the Irish Ocean Literacy Network's Regional Meeting in Strandhill (12 June 2026). Bringing together perspectives from research, filmmaking, surf therapy, and psychotherapy, this discussion explores the powerful relationship between the ocean and human wellbeing. Panelists reflect on how the sea shapes identity, resilience, and community, while highlighting the importance of storytelling in strengthening our connection with the marine environment. The conversation also examines the growing role of blue spaces in supporting mental health, the potential of surf therapy as an inclusive wellbeing intervention, and the need to remove barriers so that everyone can benefit from access to the coast. Panelists include: • Beth Brown (PhD researcher) • Allen Gilhooly (Allen Gilhooly Counselling) • Alice Ward (filmmaker, Salt) • Tom Losey (Liquid Therapy) The IOLN's Strandhill event brought together voices from across the marine and maritime sectors, including arts, heritage, grassroots groups, research, NGOs, industry, and tourism, to strengthen ocean literacy in practice and policy. The question "How does life on the edge of the Atlantic shape our wellbeing?" provided the theme for exploring marine identity in the region. The Shared Island & Ocean series of Regional Meetings is funded by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund.