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Freediving: My Lifeline for Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Writer's picture: Anna-Karina SchmittAnna-Karina Schmitt

As we worked on this documentary, I reflected on how my journey with MS and freediving has been about finding balance—not just for myself, but for anyone navigating the chaos of modern life. The following YouTube video from ARD Gesund, produced by WDR, tells that story and offers a glimpse into the practices that have helped me growth healthier and stronger as an athlete, one breath at a time. For international viewers, subtitles are available in English.


Working with the WDR crew to tell my story was an intense and beautiful journey. From our travels to Kalamata, Greece, and Deepspot in Poland, to insightful interviews and moments shared with underwater photographer Daan Verhoeven, every step was a reflection on what has been, motivated to continue what is still to come.


Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) has shaped much of my life, but this is more than just my story. It’s a message for everyone. It’s about taking responsibility.



Freediving became my lifeline. It’s not just a sport; it’s a way to breathe, focus, and stay grounded. But breathwork is just one part of what I call the “Dive Into Life” approach. You find more about that on my website. This holistic lifestyle combines nutrition, yoga, meditation, physical training, and, most importantly, happiness.


Around the world, supermarket shelves are overflowing with processed, unhealthy options. At the same time, societal pressures demand we stay constantly "on," while environmental challenges like rising toxins and plastic pollution continue to grow. It’s clear that our world is out of sync—and it’s no surprise that this imbalance often reflects within us, leaving us struggling to find balance.


As I’ve opened up about my experiences, many people have trusted me with their own stories, revealing that nearly everyone carries something—be it autoimmune conditions, allergies, intolerances, or stress.





If you feel inspired to share your story,

I would love to hear from you.








 

If this resonates with you, don’t miss the ARD documentary "Atmen – Breathe Your Life" A film by Tanja Reinhard and Rebecca Kirkland. Alongside my story, four inspiring individuals share their journeys: Daniel Ruppert, a Wim Hof Method trainer; Tina Rupprecht, a boxing world champion; Hinnerk Polenski, a Zen master; and Yasin Seiwasser, a breath coach and german football trainer. Together, we explore how reconnecting with simple living and the transformative power of breath can change lives completely—making the impossible possible.


 

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Anna-Karina Schmitt

Athlete | Mentoring | Yoga | Freediving

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