The Ocean Reset
Ocean Healing & Wellness Freediving Course: A Trauma-Informed Experience with Elaine Hicks aka the Underwater Therapist
Join us for a transformative 4-hour wellness experience designed for those with lived experiences such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Led by Elaine Hicks, an SSI Freediving Instructor and licensed clinical social worker, this course offers the opportunity to learn the basics of freediving through a trauma-informed and wellness-centered approach.
Elaine has presented the core of this workshop at 5 international freediving events, and has been featured on several podcasts for her innovative approach to freediving and mental health. Come experience what freedivers of all skill levels internationally!
This course is designed with the understanding that healing is a journey, and the ocean provides an ideal environment for self-discovery, relaxation, and nervous system regulation.
We’ll dive into adaptive breathwork, giving space for somatic release and emotional processing, while connecting with both the ocean and others.
Learn to release tension and find a deeper affinity with yourself and your environment as we explore how the water can help reset the nervous system and promote overall wellness.
The session includes a classroom segment (by the beach), where we’ll cover the fundamentals of the nervous system and discuss evidence-based breath techniques to soothe and regulate the vagus nerve, enhancing relaxation.
We’ll also touch on how the ocean environment plays a key role in somatic healing and provide a safe space for processing and reflection.
Next, we’ll head into shallow water (hip-deep) to practice relaxation techniques with dive buddies, incorporating mindfulness and breath control into our movements. We’ll then move to basic freediving skills like buoyancy, flotation, finning, streamlining, and equalization. The focus will be on relaxation, recovery breathing, and releasing tension.
Finally, we’ll have the opportunity to dive to 5 meters, working on relaxation and release, with the focus on fun and exploration in the water. This course is all about connection—connecting to yourself, others, and the ocean.
Important Information:
You must know how to swim for this course.
You’ll receive a certificate of completion and a Try Freediving recognition card from SSI Freediving.
The adaptive group course is for a maximum of 4 people.
We’ll review mental health and safety concerns as well as confidentiality.
Insurance does not cover this therapeutic modality.
What’s Provided:
Fins
Masks
Other snorkeling gear
Drinking water
Worksheets
Guide to the Nervous System
What to Bring:
Reef-safe sunscreen
Towels
This course offers a powerful introduction to freediving while promoting emotional and physical well-being in a trauma-informed and healing environment. Whether you’re looking to release stress, improve self-regulation, or simply enjoy the therapeutic power of the ocean, this course will leave you feeling restored and connected.
Book your spot today and take your first step toward healing with the ocean’s support.
