About lecture:
It’s not magic! It’s a mechanism of brain and nervous system regulation backed by research, which shows that mindful, voluntary meditation triggers specific changes in the body:
– increases activity in the prefrontal cortex (responsible for concentration, decision-making and emotional regulation)
– increases alpha waves in the EEG (a state of relaxation and focus) and reduces stress-related theta waves
– activates the parasympathetic nervous system (‘rest & digest’) by stimulating the vagus nerve
– increases heart rate variability (HRV), which is a marker of stress resilience
– lowers heart rate and physiological arousal levels
– reduces anxiety and mental tension
– influences neurochemical systems (including acetylcholine and BDNF), supporting neuroplasticity
– synchronises the functioning of the respiratory, cardiovascular and brain systems
– supports regenerative processes and metabolic balance
The conclusion from the research is simple:
slow, conscious breathing acts as a natural tool for regulating the nervous system, simultaneously influencing the brain, body and emotions.
✨ And this is exactly what freediving makes use of.
It’s not just about ‘holding your breath’ – it’s about consciously working with your physiology to enter a state of deep calm and mindfulness. We invite you to an extraordinary talk on conscious breathing, breath-holding techniques, and the relationship between humans and water.
The lecture will be complemented by a practical session, during which participants will experience breath-holding exercises and a breathing session.
Our facilitator – Martin Petrus – is a breathing techniques coach and freediving instructor, a student of Wim Hof and Patrick McKeown.
About the facilitator:
Martin Petrus – Breathing techniques coach, Freediving instructor
His journey into breathing techniques began when he met Wim Hof. It was then that he learnt how conscious breathing can influence one’s mental state and break through emotional blocks. At the same time, he studied the physiology of breathing under the founder of the Oxygen Advantage, Patrick McKeown. He combines a scientific approach with a spiritual one by studying Integrative Breathwork techniques. He works with athletes using a combination of cold exposure, modern hypoxia training techniques and traditional Pranayama exercises. Freediving plays an important role in Martin’s life. He spends a lot of time in the water training, teaching and competing. He is a co-founder of the Quest club.
