One of the recurring question I get is how do I keep healthy and strong hair as a Freediver.

Be reassured, here are my best practical tips.

My Hair Routine as a Freediver

Pre-Dive routine

Preparation is key. Before going in the water I apply natural coconut oil all over my hair and scalp. Then I brush and untangle my hair to make a high pony tail. Then I bride the tail.

In this way, under my hood or my swim cap, my hair are protected, nourished and away from getting tangled.

Weekly Ritual

Once a week, I gift myself of a full body/hair ritual at home. I use Ayurvedic oils that match my doshas and I proceed to what is called an Abyanga. This practice comes from India. If you are interested in knowing more about Ayurveda and how I use it, send me a note and I'll include that in a next article.

Back to my routine: I will set a 30 minutes time where everything is turned off: no phones, no music, no distractions. Doors are closed, I light up a stick of encent, and I apply the Ayurvedic oil to my entire body.

I start with the head. The scalp being the most important area to keep healthy and nourished hair - it all starts from here. Then I apply generously the oil to the whole length of my hair as well.

The smell of the oils, and massage movements take you to India, at least it does it for me.

I leave it on for at least 12 hours. Often I sleep with the oils on me. Protecting my bedsheets with bathroom towels.

To remove it, easy: rinse abundantly with warm water and shampoo as usual.

This ritual is a game changer. I learned it during my time in India and I never miss the abyanga date with myself since.

Now you might wonder: "Laura, where do I find Ayurvedic oil?"

Here is a link to my favorite website in Europe: Sat Nam Ayurveda

If you are based outside of Europe, don't hesitate to send me a note, I'll send you other recommendations.

The other important aspect is to get the Ayurvedic oils that match your doshas. So first take the test to see which one(s) you have as dominant. You can find doshas tests on the Internet super easily.

Keep me posted on how this routine works for you.

Much Love,

Laura

Post-Dive routine

After a freediving session or photoshoot, I''ll jump in the shower and use regular shampoo to remove the remaining oil, rinse my hair well and often add a conditionner at the end.

If I choose to blow-dry my hair, I will always apply a healing oil when done with the heat. These days I am using Virtue Oil. Don't forget to shake it before using.

If I opt to let my hair dry naturally, I will spray them with a leave-in conditioner. I like using Kevin Murphy Un.Tangled.

Stay tuned

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