FROYOWS TRAVEL & FREEDIVING

You might think freediving is all about looking graceful underwater, showing off your best poses, and getting those dreamy, aesthetic shots. But freediving is so much more than that. In my years of recreational freediving, because I have no plans to compete (I don’t want any of that pressure, LOL), I’ve come to realize just how many life-changing benefits it brings. And honestly, I couldn’t be happier that I discovered it.

I didn’t grow up as a sporty kid. I tried track and field, but my short legs couldn’t keep up. I played badminton when I was 12 or 13 and enjoyed it, but I was never picked for official games. Sports and I just didn’t click. What I did have was a natural love for the water. Growing up in a coastal town, I always felt called by the sea. Unfortunately, swimming wasn’t popular in my province, even though we were surrounded by the ocean. Pools were rare, and every year, news of drowning incidents reminded me how many locals couldn’t swim, which was a sad reality in a seaside community.

The Discovery of a New Passion

When I was 28, turning 29, I discovered freediving. My main goal wasn’t competition or setting records; it was to connect more deeply with the ocean and explore the underwater beauty of the Philippines, and eventually, beyond. Before that, I was contented with taking photos at the beach, soaking up the sun, and admiring the marine world from the surface. But freediving revealed a whole new world, and with it, so many unexpected benefits.

Here are the five life-changing benefits I believe you’ll gain when you start freediving:

1. Makes You Experience Peace Like Never Before!

Living in Manila for over 15 years, I often felt swallowed by the noise, traffic, and endless rush. I’d wake up to blaring horns, rush through crowded commutes, and wonder if the chaos would ever stop.

Freediving became my weekend escape. Mornings started slow and quiet. I’d wake up in a cozy, non-AC bamboo bunk cabin by the sea, the cool breeze drifting in as fellow freedivers still slept. The only sounds were waves and birdsong. Soon, the smell of home-cooked Filipino breakfasts like tapsilog or tocilog would fill the air, and I knew it was going to be a good day.

Then came the dive. Colorful corals, curious fish, and gentle sea turtles surrounded me as I drifted in the ocean’s embrace. Underwater, everything fell silent. That kind of peace is rare, and once you feel it, you’ll keep coming back for more.

2. Builds a Deeper Connection With Nature

With just one breath, you can slip beneath the surface and witness a whole new world, from tiny plankton drifting in the light to majestic sea turtles gliding past. If you’re lucky, you might even cross paths with eagle rays or whale sharks.

Freediving made me realize how small I am compared to the vastness of the ocean. It reminded me that there are forces greater than me and wonders far beyond my everyday concerns. It also taught me respect, that I am a visitor in this world and I should leave it as I found it. I make it a point never to touch anything natural underwater, as a sign of gratitude and care for the ocean.

3. Improves Your Mental Strength and Focus

I still remember the first time I pushed past my comfort zone during a breath-hold. My heart raced, my thoughts scattered, and every instinct told me to surface. But with practice, I learned to slow my breathing, quiet my mind, and let the water hold me instead of resisting it.

The more I trained, the more I understood my true limits. I learned to separate fear from real physical boundaries. That discipline didn’t just stay in the ocean; it helped me handle stress and make clearer decisions in everyday life.

How freediving builds mental strength and focus:

• Better awareness of your limits – Know the difference between fear and actual boundaries.
• Increased confidence under pressure – Staying calm underwater trains your composure.
• Improved concentration – Focusing on breath, movement, and surroundings sharpens mental clarity.

4. Enhances Your Physical Fitness and Body Awareness

Freediving might look effortless, but it’s a full-body workout disguised as meditation. My body felt lighter in the water, my glutes strengthened from long fin kicks, and my core naturally engaged with every movement. I also became more aware of small posture adjustments that made me more efficient underwater.

That awareness carried over to land. I stood taller, moved with more balance, and felt more connected to my body.

How freediving improves physical fitness and body awareness:

• Strengthens glutes, legs, and core – Long fins engage multiple muscle groups.
• Increases endurance – Repeated dives build stamina and oxygen efficiency.
• Improves posture and balance – Core stability helps in and out of the water.
• Sharpens body awareness – You notice and respond to subtle signals from your body.

5. Empowers You to Overcome Fear and Gain Confidence

On my first open-water dive, I stared into the blue and hesitated. My mind filled with “what ifs.” What if I can’t hold my breath long enough? What if the ocean feels too big?

Over time, I learned that fear isn’t the enemy; it’s a guide. With each successful dive, I built trust in my abilities. The ocean taught me resilience, courage, and how to push past self-doubt. Every positive experience deepened my connection with the water and reminded me of my own strength.

How freediving helps overcome fear and build confidence:

• Transforms fear into focus – Channel nervous energy into calm action.
• Builds trust in your abilities – Each dive reinforces self-belief.
• Encourages stepping out of your comfort zone – Safely test your limits.
• Boosts resilience – Develop the mindset to handle challenges on land and sea.

Bonus. Enables You to Meet New Friends and Join a Supportive Community

When I took my first freediving class, I thought I was just learning a skill. I didn’t realize I was stepping into a family. From day one, I was surrounded by people who shared the same love for the ocean and the same drive to push their limits.

Between dives, we shared tips, laughed about awkward fin mishaps, and cheered each other on. These friendships followed me beyond the water. Whether at a local spot or across the country, I’ve found freedivers who make me feel welcome.

How freediving connects you with others:

• Instant shared passion – Bond with people who love the ocean as much as you do.
• Encouragement and motivation – Train with friends who celebrate your progress.
• Local to international connections – Join dive groups and events anywhere.
• Supportive learning environment – Exchange knowledge with divers of all levels.

Final Thoughts

Freediving is more than a hobby. It is a journey that reshapes how you see yourself and the world around you. It offers peace when life feels overwhelming, teaches respect for nature, strengthens both body and mind, and surrounds you with a supportive community. Most importantly, it transforms fear into confidence, both in the water and in everyday life.

If you’ve ever been curious about what lies beneath the surface, freediving is an invitation to explore, not just the ocean, but your own potential. With each breath, each dive, and each quiet moment underwater, you’ll discover that the greatest depths you explore might just be within yourself.

Want more stories from under the waves? Follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts @froyows.

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