The Science Behind the Calm · Elaine Hicks
Freediving offers a rare entry point into the nervous system, a living laboratory where reflex becomes relationship. Each breath-hold becomes a dialogue between ancient biology and conscious surrender. This isn’t just about staying calm underwater it’s about teaching your body what safety feels like in motion.
In this immersive 8-hour experience, you’ll explore how freediving and nervous system regulation intertwine through 4 hours of lecture and 4 hours dive session. Learn practical tools for self-regulation, interoception, and underwater safety, along with Psychological First Aid (PFA) techniques to foster calm and connection.
You’ll take part in guided discussions, connect with a supportive community, and receive personalized feedback, worksheets, and reflection tools! This will help your body and mind carry this sense of calm and awareness far beyond the water.
Meet Elaine Hicks — The Underwater Therapist
Elaine Hicks, author of Behind the Mask: A Freediver’s Guide to Nervous System Regulation, Recovery & Resilience, is a licensed clinical therapist, SSI freedive instructor, and lecturer at the University of Hawaii.
She combines trauma and nervous system research with freediving physiology to teach the science of calm and connection underwater. Known internationally as The Underwater Therapist, Elaine has spoken at freediving events around the world and leads workshops and a private practice based on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi.
She was featured by Molchanovs in their article From Trauma to Transformation Through Freediving, highlighting her unique approach to nervous system regulation and emotional resilience in freediving.
Check out her website and her instagram profile!
📍 Location – Dry Workshop
• Name: Serways Standort Siegburg West
• Address: An der A3, Alte Poststraße 90, 53721 Siegburg, Germany
📍 Location – Dive Session
• Name: Div4Life
• Address: Zeithstraße 110, 53721 Siegburg, Germany
🗓️ Program
- Saturday 13 December 2025:
- Immersive exploration of nervous system education
- Advanced MDR science
- Self-regulation practices
- Integrative approach to nervous system safety
- Trauma-informed freediving practices
🕦 Times
- 8h30-9h: Meet and great
- 9h-11h30: Dry workshop
- 11h30-12h: Lunch break
- 12h-13h30: Dry workshop
- 14h-18h: Dive Session
💶 Price
📚 Dry Workshop – €217*
Included:
- ✅ 4h dry workshop with Elaine
- ✅ Snacks & drinks
- ✅ Warm Lunch
- ✅ Raffle entry for a signed book or a 1:1 session with Elaine
📚🧜♀️ Full Day — Dry Workshop + Dive Session – €342*
Included:
- ✅ Everything in the Dry Workshop package
- ✅ 4h entrance to Dive4Life
- ✅ 2 safety divers & 3 buoys
- ✅ Dive session with Elaine
Not Included:
- ❌ Transport
- ❌ Dinner
- ❌ Accommodation
- ❌ Gear rental (available on request — please tell us in advance 😁)
⚠️ Please Note:
- * – price per person
- Maximum 20 participants for the dry workshop
- Maximum 16 freedivers for the dive session
- Dive session is only for workshop participants (no “dive-only” option)
- Your slot is confirmed upon full payment of the invoice. This amount is non-refundable (see our T&C for more information).
🧜♀️Dive4Life General information🧜
- Maximum depth:20 meters
🗿 Underwater Attractions
- Rich underwater terrain: artificial caves, platforms, ruins, stairways
- Ideal for skills, photography, or fun dives.
- For all‑levels! Beginner intro dives, experienced recreational dives, freediving sessions, etc
🏗️ Facilities
• On-site amenities: dive shop, toilets, showers and locker rooms.
• Water access: Via easy-entry docks and steps
• Parking: Free
📅 Dive Times & Access
• Open daily
• Requirements: Valid dive certification or accompanied by instructor and medical certification
⚠️ Safety Guidelines
• Always dive with a buddy or under supervision
• Respect local rules
This event has already taken place
Please note that this event has already taken place and you can no longer sign up.
