TAKE A DEEP BREATH
#113 Gert Leroy - Breath Hold Expert: CO2 Secrets Free Divers Know That You Don't (yet)
Feb 21, 2025
Gert Leroy, a breath-hold expert and former software programmer, shares his incredible journey into free diving, which he embraced at age 40. He discusses the transformative power of breath control and its impact on stress management and emotional resilience. Gert debunks myths surrounding breath-holding while explaining key techniques like visualization and tidal breathing. He also delves into the mammalian diving reflex and CO2 management, revealing how these concepts enhance performance and well-being in both diving and daily life.
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Quick takeaways
- Freediving serves as a transformative experience, promoting personal change through the integration of physical and mental disciplines after a career shift.
- Effective breath control techniques, such as visualization and mantras, enhance emotional resilience and help manage stress in everyday life.
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The Transformation through Freediving
Engaging in freediving often provides a transformative experience for individuals, acting as a catalyst for personal change. For someone who transitioned into freediving in their 40s, it marked a significant shift from a career in software programming and social media to a new purpose in life. The act of holding one’s breath underwater creates a unique sense of detachment from surface-level stressors, leading to a deeper self-awareness and clarity about life goals. This transition reconnects individuals with their childhood love for swimming but elevates it to a profound practice that integrates both physical and mental aspects.
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