Nature of Surf Women

The Water Always Knew with PJ Palaunu

Ivana Bajic Season 1 Episode 6

From an early age, PJ felt different. While others looked inward, she looked toward the horizon—drawn to water with a pull she couldn’t explain. Even before she lived near the ocean, she bought her first surfboard, already sensing that movement, nature, and freedom would become her compass.

That sense of seeking eventually led her to Costa Rica—a place that felt like home, where she fell in love with the land and with a man. But beneath the beauty, there was heartbreak. After surviving an abusive relationship, PJ made the brave decision to return to the U.S., and with that, she began the long road toward healing.

In the years that followed, she kept moving—taking jobs in distant corners of the world, immersing herself in new cultures, expanding her skills, and quietly avoiding the inner conflicts she wasn’t yet ready to face. But with every step, she moved closer to the natural elements that would eventually heal her. Through climbing, river surfing, and ultimately surf therapy, PJ rebuilt her strength and confidence—and in the process, discovered love and her true calling.

Today, PJ is a dedicated healer, guiding women through their own journeys using somatic therapy, EMDR, and surf therapy retreats. She’s turned her pain into a path—one grounded in nature, resilience, and deep compassion.

Join us as we explore PJ’s extraordinary story of transformation—and how the water always knew the way back to her.


PJ Brown 

She/her

Surf Therapy Facilitator

Mental Health Counselor

LMT Thai Ashiatsu Bodyworker

Website: oneseawellness.com

Instagram: @oneseawellness

Facebook: Gunnison River Surfistas

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