Freediving on the Aran Islands
How I Decided to Become a Freediving Instructor
Hi, my name is Julia. I am the freediving instructor at Dive Academy. Embarking on my freediving journey feels like a natural progression from my childhood, surrounded by the underwater world. With a scuba instructor dad, I found solace beneath the waves early on, laying the foundation for my love of freediving.
My professional freediving journey began back in the Netherlands where I was studying at the time. Since then, I had the opportunity to freedive in the Netherlands, Poland, Ireland, Indonesia, and Thailand where I completed my freediving instructor training.
The water always had a powerful effect on me, a second home. Outside the water I love meditation and relaxation breathing, when I discovered freediving, I knew it would be the perfect sport for me, combining both. Another aspect I love about freediving is the freedom of it, no restrictions with a lot of equipment. My favourite freediving discipline is with no fins. This adds to the feeling of being free and gliding through the water.
Freediving on Inis Mór Island
Freediving in colder temperatures can be very beneficial! Immersing yourself in the cold waters around Inis Mór activates the mammalian dive reflex, specifically Bradycardia, resulting in a decreased heart rate of up to 50% and more! This aspect of the dive reflex enhances oxygen efficiency and boosts your capacity for holding your breath.
The unique feeling on Inis Mór, contributes to the advantages of freediving, as the tranquil atmosphere promotes a sense of calm and mindfulness, helping with relaxation before and after dives.
I think it's cool how our mind can control and guide us in any direction we focus on. The theory and physiology of freediving captivated me. I learned more about biology than before, and this time also I enjoyed learning it.
We can do anything we set our mind to. Our bodies are our tools that are capable of incredible things. We just need to slow down, breathe and go for it.
Begin your freediving journey with the one-day Introductory Course, or join us for the exciting 3-day Level 1 Freediving Course. For already qualified freedivers with a minimum of a Level 1 certification, we offer 1 day of Freediving-Line Training.
