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What are the physical and mental benefits of practicing freediving?

Dennie M'Quhan

As a freediving enthusiast, I can confidently say that there are numerous physical and mental benefits associated with this sport. First and foremost, freediving involves deep breathing and breath holding exercises, which can drastically improve our lung capacity over time. These exercises help our body to become more efficient at utilizing oxygen, and we slowly train ourselves to hold our breath for longer durations without feeling the need to breathe. This improved lung capacity can come in handy in our day-to-day life as well, especially in activities such as swimming, running, or any other physical activity that requires cardio endurance.

Secondly, freediving is an excellent way to improve our mental strength. It requires a lot of focus, concentration, and relaxation, which can help us learn to better manage our stress and anxiety levels. When we dive into the water for long periods, we detach our mind from the constant chatter in our head, which is a significant stress-reducing practice. Additionally, the ocean's calming effect can slow down our heart rate, and we become more in tune with our bodies as we focus on our breath and movements. This mindful practice can have a positive impact on our overall mental well-being.

Furthermore, freediving offers a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world and connect with nature, which can have numerous psychological benefits. Being surrounded by marine life in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience, and it can be incredibly humbling and grounding. The feeling of weightlessness that comes with freediving can also help us relax and let go of any physical tension. For some of us, being in the water is a form of meditation, as we let go of all our worries and immerse ourselves in the moment.

Additionally, freediving can help us become more mindful of our bodies and their limits. By pushing ourselves to deeper depths, we learn to listen to our body's signals and identify when we need to cut a dive short. This self-awareness practice can translate into other areas of our life and help us become better at self-care and identifying our boundaries.

Overall, freediving is an incredible sport that offers numerous physical and mental benefits. It teaches us to breathe more efficiently, helps us manage our stress levels, and allows us to explore the underwater world and connect with nature. It is a humbling and inspiring experience that has changed many people's lives for the better, including mine.