When I’m teaching, I’m not just standing on the sidelines observing - I’m right there with them, trying to feel what they feel. It’s almost like I step into their experience, imagining their emotions, their fears, their challenges. This connection is what makes freediving more than just a skill or a sport; it’s a shared journey into something much deeper🧠 After dives, the conversations we have on the buoy are some of my favorite moments. That’s when everything comes together - the physical effort, the emotions, the mental focus. It’s in these reflections that I see how freediving strengthens not just the body, but also the mind. And for me, as an instructor, it’s a reminder of why I do this. Freediving has taught me to be fully present - in my dives, in my teaching, in my life. My purpose is to guide my students toward that same feeling, to help them connect with themselves in a way that carries far beyond the water. How do you connect with yourself? What brings you that sense of balance and clarity?🤔 PH: @eslampiko #freediving #freedivingdubai #freedive #freediver

For me there’s no greater reward than watching someone discover their own potential underwater and feel that powerful connection to the ocean😍 This camp was special in so many ways. Not only did we dive at some of the most iconic locations like the Lighthouse, Gabr el Bint, and the famous Blue Hole, but we also shared unforgettable experiences together. We watched stars at the desert, enjoyed breathtaking sunsets, had dinners around campfires, and dove along lively reefs. One of the most exciting highlights was seeing our first students dive using the more advanced technique—without fins! This not only speaks to their growth but to our development as instructors. It’s such a privilege to witness our students’ progress and be part of their journey, step by step. As we reflect on this camp, the energy and passion from our students have left us feeling fulfilled, even though we’re physically exhausted. There’s a unique kind of magic of beautiful teamwork that shows how far we’ve all come. Their passion has been a source of strength and inspiration for us every single day. Looking ahead, we’re already preparing for our next adventure in April. We’ll be returning to Dahab for another week of freediving, followed by a special week in Marsa Alam, where we’ll train and dive alongside dolphins at the incredible Sataya Reef🐬 How would you like joining us?⬇️

The adventure is on! Our two-week autumn freediving camp in Dahab has officially started on Sunday, and I couldn’t be more excited to be back training in this magical place!😍 We’ve already had a few days before camp and dived together with @natanielliu for the first time as buddies at the Blue Hole, explored the stunning Lighthouse reef and ventured to the beautiful Gabr el Bint with our group, but the real thrill is still ahead🔜 Next up, we’ll be diving into the legendary Blue Hole, mastering our breath-hold techniques, and discovering the hidden treasures of Ras Abu Galum. And after days filled with thrilling dives, we’ll unwind under the desert stars, sharing stories by the campfire. Stay tuned for all the best highlights of these few weeks- can’t wait to show you what’s next🙌

When I was growing up, missing training because of your period wasn’t up for discussion. More than that — if a girl asked to skip a session due to “those days,” some coaches would even demand proof and escort her to the washroom to verify if she was really bleeding. So, we toughened up and pushed through. We’ve come a long way since then, and now there’s even period coaching available. Some of us feel low-energy during periods, while others may actually feel more energized. I personally learned to take a day off on day one — when I feel most drained. But on day two, three, and beyond, I feel good again and jump back into the water happily. Of course, I don’t push myself too hard on those days, but it’s not a reason to stay dry either. My message to you, my freediving ladies: There is no strict rule to stay away from freediving during your period. If you feel good — go diving. If you don’t — give yourself a break. If you choose to dive, I highly recommend trying out menstrual cups or discs. I’ve personally tested them up to 70 meters deep — they work and feel comfortable. Pressure doesn’t seem to affect the “user experience” 😅 (pic 2) So, how do you handle your period days when training? Do you dive or take a break? Let’s share our experiences! #girlswhofreedive #girls

Ever wondered how boosting your lung power can change your life? This isn’t just another workshop. It’s a journey into the depths of your breathing, guided by 8-time world champion freediver Nataliia Zharkova 🗣️ «We’ll learn techniques to boost your endurance, manage CO2 levels in your body, and unlock the potential of your lungs,» says @nat_freediver These skills aren’t only for those in the water — they’re beneficial for everyone, from endurance athletes to office employees! 💨 When: 6th October 📍 Where: Wellfit Meydan ⌚ Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (full program) or 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (dry session only) 💰 Price: Starting from 200 AED 🌊 Who’s it for: If you can swim 25 meters in any stroke, this workshop is for you! Book your spot now! Don’t miss the chance to learn new breathing techniques and enhance your endurance with a world champion 🏊‍♂️

As I ended my swimmer career, I began working as a lifeguard at a pool. That’s when I met freedivers. Coach noticed my abilities and suggested I try. So I did and set a national record at the very first competition in 2008. In 2009, I participated in my first international freediving competition in Aarhus, Denmark. These were pool disciplines, and at that time, I was already a national record holder for Ukraine (pic 2) I had my first experience of freediving in the sea in Crimea, but the real breakthrough came in 2010, when I trained under the guidance of Natalia Molchanova in Dahab (pic 3) This experience motivated me even more, and in 2011, I took part in my first depth World Championship in Kalamata, where I placed 6th (pic 5) Starting in 2013, I regularly appeared at the podium of World Championships in depth disciplines (pic 6) One of the significant moments in my development was diving in Dahab in 2016, when I swam through the famous Arch of Blue Hole — one of the most mystified and stunning underwater locations in the world (video 7) It was a true challenge that made me feel even closer to my then deceased mentor Natalia as she was the first one to complete this dive🧜🏼‍♀️  In 2017, I set two world records at the European Championship, and I repeated this success at the World Championship in 2018. In 2019, I reached a major milestone in my career: diving to a depth of 100 meters on a single breath, becoming the seventh woman in freediving history to achieve this (pic 8) That same year, I set two more world records at the CMAS Championship in Honduras. In 2020, during the lockdown, my husband and I moved to Kyiv, where I developed the Deep Division freediving school with friends. The school is still active and is now led by my partner @natanielliu . In 2021, we moved to Dubai, where I started working at @deepdivedubai — the deepest pool in the world. Later, I decided to adopt a more flexible schedule and focus on my personal development. Being back self-employed now feels like it suits me better 😉 as it allows me to continue improving my own skills For me, freediving is a way to understand myself and the world. It can be something for you too!🙌