My Journey Into Freediving
- Lalena Desautels
- Feb 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 4
I wasn’t searching for freediving. It found me in a way I never expected.
One day, I flipped my kayak. As I tumbled into the water, instead of panicking or scrambling to the surface, I paused. For a moment, everything was still. The noise of the world disappeared, and I felt something I hadn’t before. A sense of calm, of focus, of presence.
That moment stuck with me.

I didn’t realize it at the time, but that brief pause beneath the surface was my first taste of what freediving would later become for me. A way to slow down, find clarity, and connect with the present moment. But as I explored it more, I discovered something just as powerful; the excitement of challenging myself in new ways.
From Curiosity to Passion
After that experience, I became curious about holding my breath. I wanted to understand why that moment underwater had felt so peaceful. When I finally tried freediving, everything started to make sense.
It wasn’t just about stillness and mindfulness. It was also about discovering what I was truly capable of. Holding my breath longer, diving deeper, and learning to move effortlessly through the water brought a sense of accomplishment that was both humbling and exhilarating.
At the same time, freediving helped me in ways I hadn’t expected. I had been struggling with lingering concussion symptoms—tinnitus, difficulty processing competing sounds, and sudden anxiety and panic attacks. Even when I tried to rest, my nervous system felt stuck in a constant state of overstimulation.
I was seeing a specialist for my concussion, but it wasn’t until I started freediving that my symptoms truly began to subside. The time spent in the water gave my mind and body the reset they needed, and to this day, freediving continues to support me when I feel overstimulated.
It also influenced how I approached daily life. I started stretching regularly, eating better, creating quiet space away from distractions, and paying more attention to my breath. These small shifts became part of a bigger transformation toward a more intentional and mindful lifestyle.
Why I Teach
Freediving transformed the way I see challenges, both in the water and in life. It taught me patience, trust, and how to find comfort in the unknown, a mindset I think is key in overcoming challenges to achieve your dreams and goals. That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing it with others.
I know how intimidating the idea of holding your breath and diving down can seem at first. But I also know the incredible feeling that comes when you realize you can do something you never thought possible. My goal as an instructor isn’t just to teach technique. It is to create a supportive and empowering space where you can explore your own limits safely and sustainably.
Your Journey Starts Here
Whether you are looking for adventure, personal growth, or simply a new way to connect with yourself and the water, freediving has something to offer. I would love to guide you through it.
Ready to explore what freediving can do for you? Check out my courses or reach out to start your journey today.
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