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my story

a dive back into life

In 2007, at the age of 20, I received a devastating diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. By 2013, its impact on my life became all too real. Suddenly, I found myself facing a harsh reality, I could have never imagined. I was struggling to manage basic motoric functionalities. That was a really tough time for me. I was hitting the bottom and started to think about everything I was doing and not doing in my life, trying to figure out its cause. 

 

Fueled by an innate desire to regain control of my life opposed to rely on doctors opinions and the pity of the society, I immersed myself in researching the immune system. Gathered information, research studies and a sense of intuition made me look at some key aspects, that I have refined over the years. Those are mainly consisting of: Physical Fitness, Mental Health, Plant-based nutrition and Contentment. 

 

Through substantial lifestyle changes and the cultivation of new habits, I found back to life feeling empowered and motivated to go on.  

 

In 2015, I started slowly integrating this holistic and healthy lifestyle into my daily routine. Since then, I've been medication-free and, with few exceptions, symptom-free.

 

Freediving has revived my passion for diving with one breath at just the right time. 

 

In 2018 I discovered freediving as a sport. Diving with one breath had always intrigued me since my early childhood days. I hadn't realized the mind-blowing human capabilities or considered freediving as a sport, because I did not know about it. Instantly captivated, I knew I wanted to explore it in alignment with my newfound healthy lifestyle. This way freediving became a central aspect of my lifestyle. I realized that what benefits my freediving also contributes positively to my overall health and in many aspects to the health of nature. I am incredibly grateful that this passion found me at just the right moment in my life. It has taught me valuable lessons in staying calm, growing with patience, being mindful, and fully present.

 

Unbeknownst to me at the time, I developed coping strategies that may never fully heal me but have significantly improved my quality of life. Independently from the diagnose, I am proud to say that I live my life with so much more awareness and purpose. And with that,

my view on the autoimmune-illness completely changed. I do no longer see it as a thread but as a guiding force that steeres me towards a sustainable lifestyle. 

As I continue sharing and listening to others' stories, I've realize that everyone! has experienced some form of physical, emotional, or mental challenge.

 

What's fascinating is that I haven't primarily relied on typical methods for my specific autoimmune condition. That way my “dive into life” approach holds potential for anyone seeking happiness and health from their daily routines.

 

I would like to inspire anyone looking for new adventures, greater meaning in life to explore the full potential that your mental and physical body is capable of.

Anna-Karina Schmitt

Athlete | Mentoring | Yoga | Freediving

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