What inspired Dana to start hosting surf retreats? How does her love for community and connection guide her work? And what keeps her grounded when she’s not in the water?
We caught up with Dana Hamann, a longtime friend and collaborator of SEPTEMBER, and co-creator of DanceLightly Surf & Awareness Retreats, for a quick chat between surf sessions. From her favorite rituals to the memory that still gives her goosebumps, here’s a peek into the soul of a true surfer and retreat host.
Watch the full 4-minute video below and get to know Dana, in her own words.
In this short interview, Dana shares:
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Her dream surf destination (spoiler: it’s not a tropical one this time!)
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Why she started leading surf retreats in the first place
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A special retreat moment she’ll never forget
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What she does to unwind when she’s not surfing
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Her deep connection to Lombok—and how the island is evolving
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A few words that sum up what SEPTEMBER means to her
Dana’s story reminds us that surfing is about more than waves—it’s about connection, freedom, respecting local communities, and finding balance in life.
