In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to become disconnected from the very essence of human experience. Including our ability to face challenges, embrace fear, and grow from the process. To help override this disconnect, we I believe in taking deliberate steps away from digital distractions and returning to more meaningful, real-world connections.
A lesson in facing fear
A seemingly simple hike up a local escarpment, turned into an unexpected lesson for me when I found myself facing an old fear of heights. What started as a leisurely walk with friends quickly became a confrontation with my own limits. A steep incline and exposed rock face stirred a psychophysiological cascade that included quickened breath, a tight chest, and frozen limbs.
Whilst clinging to the side of that mountain I came to a moment of acute self-awareness and decision. Would I succumb to the fear, or could I draw upon the tools I’ve practiced and taught for over a decade? Step by step, I focused on controlled breathing, rationalised the emotionally driven chatter in my head, and gradually regained movement of my limbs. By the time I reached the summit, fear had transformed into exhilaration. Months later, I returned to the same peak, this time with confidence and control, and unfazed by the height. Proving that fear can be reshaped with practice and intention.
Understanding Fear
Fear is a natural response, a survival mechanism that protects us from real danger. But when left unchecked, it can spiral into irrational panic, limiting our actions. At Apnea Survival, we teach tools to intercept this spiral and maintain control, fostering resilience through the connection between body, breath, and mind.
Box Breathing: A Simple Yet Powerful Tool
One of the techniques we rely on is box breathing, a rhythmic pattern (stepped out below) that restores balance and calm:
- Inhale for 5 seconds.
- Hold for 5 seconds.
- Exhale for 5 seconds.
- Hold for 5 seconds.
This practice, used by everyone from elite athletes to first responders, calms the body’s systems and sharpens mental clarity. On the side of that rock, it became my anchor, guiding me from chaos to control.
Befriending Fear
Fear is not our enemy. With awareness, practice, and tools like box breathing, it becomes a partner in growth. Next time you face a challenge, pause and breathe, you might just surprise yourself with what you’re capable of achieving.
Through stories like these, I hope to inspire you and others, to explore the depths of your potential. The challenge is to join the journey of self-discovery and resilience, by becoming your own dolphin, embracing the challenges life throws your way, and diving fully into life.
Just like the breath, may we tackle any fears that naturally arise in our quest of living fully with awareness and know-how. May we remember to feel all the emotions of the human spectrum, for they each have a place and purpose in making us whole. May we never forget that we are the captains of our own ship, and at any moment, can choose how we react and respond. This is the essence of the radical responsibility we take on by turning within to find our power, rather than outsourcing the innate intelligence that we all have within.
Join the Pod
Explore our courses and teachings to deepen your connection with your breath, nature, and yourself. Dive deeper into these stories and more in our ‘Monthly Medium’ newsletter, where we offer extended insights, tools, and tales to fuel your journey. Let’s embrace the trek together, one breath at a time. I invite you to take a moment to reflect on what ‘being your own dolphin’ means to you, and then weave that understanding into your purpose and life.
Yours in wild stoke,
Jason
All images on 35mm film