Keeping Perspective - Lessons from Freediving

Photo by Corrina Carnes.

I’m about 40 seconds in and 10 meters under the surface when my lungs start begging desperately for air, my stomach twitching slightly as my diaphragm contracts.  I’ve done this enough to know that my body will never stop insisting that I need to breathe immediately - evolutionary forces have shaped this most basic of instincts quite impeccably, and my body has a point: I am slowly running out of oxygen.  But zooming out to observe these instincts, I also know my body is being a bit dramatic, and I have more time.  I consciously relax and glide slowly over the reef below me, herding a school of black triggerfish.  I note the location of my dive partner and track the seconds in my head, making sure I have plenty of time to ascend.  When the time comes, I kick slowly for the surface.

Freediving has taught me to use perspective shifts to navigate difficult situations, and I use this technique all the time in my professional and personal life.  I find it especially helpful when facing challenges related to conservation and broad-scale sustainable living - pursuits that at best can feel like an uphill battle (because they are) and at worst, like impossibilities.  When we are faced with discomfort or despair, there are moments when our instincts overwhelm us and tell us that the only thing to do is throw in the towel, to kick immediately for the surface or be paralyzed with fear.  I know I share these challenges with many of our The Next Swell followers, so as a gentle reminder from a freediver and aspiring better human:  If you are feeling discouraged, take a moment to zoom out.  Remember that we are in this for the long haul and that there is demonstrated power in our collective choices - in the products we consume, the way we travel, the research we support, the elected officials we vote for and our engagement with them.  Whether striving for another 10-20 seconds exploring the reef or a more sustainable world, the way forward is awareness coupled with thoughtful and deliberate action.  We are all in this together, and we appreciate you so much.

If you are looking for some inspiration + a small, deliberate action to take on this particular Friday, consider signing up for our upcoming Beer and Brain Cells virtual educational happy hour.  You’ll hear from some of our favorite marine science folks (including a The Next Swell scholarship recipient!) and your $10 admission will be used to support future marine science scholarships.  Email info@thenextswell.org to register.