Imagine holding your breath for over six minutes and descending deeper than most dare to dream. Meet Nataliia Zharkova, a real-life mermaid and five-time World Champion freediver whose story will leave you breathless.
Nataliia’s journey into the deep wasn’t a pursuit; it was a discovery. Host Dawn Barnable experienced her captivating presence firsthand during a freediving lesson in Dubai at Deep Dive Dubai, marveling at the serene strength required for this extraordinary sport.
Prepare to be amazed by Nataliia’s seemingly effortless ascent to the top, boasting five World Championships and six World Records, She’s one of only two women to conquer the Arch of the Blue Hole with a single fin and the seventh woman globally to reach an astounding 102 meters on one breath.
In a world often obsessed with relentless achievement, Nataliia’s sharing her perspective in this episode, published December 12th, 2022, offers a refreshing counterpoint.
She discusses her Ukrainian roots, her swimming beginnings, the immense power of the mind in freediving, and the art of slowing down both beneath and above the surface. Discover why Nataliia sees freediving as a sport brimming with hope and the promise of the future.
Dive deeper:
🎧 Listen to the episode now
📸 Follow Nataliia’s journey: @zharkova_freediver
Experience freediving at Deep Dive Dubai: www.deepdivedubai.com
Learn more about freediving: https://www.aidainternational.org
🤿 This episode is supported by Deep Dive Dubai
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