This conversation explores the profound connection between freediving and mental health, highlighting how the practice can serve as a therapeutic tool for self-regulation, anxiety management, and personal transformation. Elaine, a licensed therapist and freediving instructor, shares her journey and insights on how freediving can help individuals confront their fears, enhance their mental wellness, and build a supportive community. The discussion also covers practical techniques for breath control, the importance of the mammalian dive reflex, and the role of community in fostering a sense of belonging and safety.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Freediving and Mental Health
00:00 Cognitive Reframing and Skill Development
37:30 The Importance of Play in Learning
39:16 Emotional Releases and Catharsis Underwater
42:45 Practical Tools for Relaxation Before Dives
46:36 Land-Based Techniques for Divers
50:32 Transformations and Breakthroughs in Freediving
52:45 The Therapeutic Alliance in Healing
54:25 Mindset Shifts in Freediving
56:17 Building Confidence Through Freediving
57:42 The Social Aspect of Freediving
59:53 Personal Growth Through Freediving
01:00:33 Transformative Journey of a Therapist
01:04:05 Integrating Mental Health and Freediving
01:05:27 Upcoming Retreats and Community Building


Freedive Retreat Landing Page https://www.freedivenomadtaiwan.com/r...

Click to Get On Retreat E-mail Updates https://sendfox.com/lp/3e6znp

Elaine's Instagram / theunderwatertherapist

Elaine’s Website

In this episode, we pivot to a format we will do more of in the future, interviews. We have Adam Stern, multiple Australian national record holder to announce Deep Week in Taiwan, the premier freediving festival held globally in different freediving hot spots like the Philippines, Bali, Croatia, and Bahamas.

Mentioned in this Episode

Deep Week Taiwan landing page

Take courses or training from me - Freedive Nomad Taiwan

Leave a review on Apple Podcast

You Can Find Me At

My blog and where this podcast lives

Message me here

Information about taking a freedive course from me in Taiwan

Freedive Nomad Instagram Account

Freedive Nomad Facebook Group

Freedive Nomad Youtube Channel

Podcast Media Kit

In this episode we go over how to prepare for your first freedive course and a few things to note when you are on your course.

Mentioned in this Episode

Ted Harty's Freediving Summit

YouTube Playlist with Adam Stern's equalization lesson, VD Freediving soft palate exercise and reef safe sunscreen

Leave a review on Apple Podcast

Resources

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Free Beginner FAQ E-book Sign Up - perfect for the total beginner to learn the basics about freediving

Send episode topic ideas or questions to ray@freedivenomad.com

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Synctuition - my favorite meditation app and I've tried A LOT

Blue Cannatine - the BEST nootropic to get my brain to function optimally after diving. 10% discount with that link

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Online Theory Course with Me - 1.5 hours online class, manual and online test included

You Can Find Me At

My blog and where this podcast lives

Information about taking a freedive course from me in Taiwan

Freedive Nomad Instagram Account

Freedive Nomad Facebook Group

Freedive Nomad Youtube Channel

Podcast Media Kit