Home / Latest / Feel the Magic: How to Become a Real-Life Mermaid
From Greek sirens and Japanese ningyo to Slavic rusalki and Scottish selkies, mermaid-like creatures have held a sacred space in the hearts of many civilizations spanning thousands of years. Mermaid sightings have also been an important part of folklore; even Christopher Columbus thought he saw a group of three in 1493 (although “not half as beautiful as they are painted,” according to his journal!). In today’s world, they are depicted as enchanting half-human, half-fish beings in clamshell bras, like in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and sometimes with a more ominous tone, like as carnivorous creatures in the Polish horror film The Lure.
But did you know that mermaiding has also become a modern-day lifestyle, dazzling art form, and magical means of self-expression? Keep reading to find out how the merfolk of today have created a vibrant community centered around transforming ancient legends into reality, and how you can become a part of it, too.
Members of the mermaid community are all about self-expression and bonding over a shared belief in the magic of mermaiding. Professional mermaid Dominique Abraham told Molchanovs, “When I slip into the mermaid tail, it's as if I've acquired superpowers, transporting me to a magical underwater realm where the unimaginable becomes real.”
Once you’ve become a certified freediver, you can dip your toes into the fantastical world of mermaiding with the Mermaid Training Program, a Base Training + program created by Dominique Abraham. In it, you’ll learn how to swim with a mermaid tail (using bifins or a monofin), improve your body awareness and comfort in the water, and explore your creative side by executing a 90-second mermaid performance underwater.
Remember, becoming a mermaid is more than just putting on a tail and learning a new swimming technique. It’s about celebrating imagination, self-expression, and exploring your timeless connection to the water. So whether you’re seeking a creative outlet, unique form of exercise, or new career, the merfolk community is waiting for you with open arms!
Want to learn more about fellow mermaids or stay updated on the latest gear launches from the Molchanovs store? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news.
Feel the Magic: How to Become a Real-Life Mermaid
Mermaiding, once confined to ancient myths and folklore, is a fun freediving activity anyone can pursue.
Channel your inner Ariel! The Molchanovs Mermaid Training program teaches you everything you need to know to become a mermaid. Photo © Chelsea Skyeater
From Greek sirens and Japanese ningyo to Slavic rusalki and Scottish selkies, mermaid-like creatures have held a sacred space in the hearts of many civilizations spanning thousands of years. Mermaid sightings have also been an important part of folklore; even Christopher Columbus thought he saw a group of three in 1493 (although “not half as beautiful as they are painted,” according to his journal!). In today’s world, they are depicted as enchanting half-human, half-fish beings in clamshell bras, like in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and sometimes with a more ominous tone, like as carnivorous creatures in the Polish horror film The Lure.
But did you know that mermaiding has also become a modern-day lifestyle, dazzling art form, and magical means of self-expression? Keep reading to find out how the merfolk of today have created a vibrant community centered around transforming ancient legends into reality, and how you can become a part of it, too.
The ancient Greeks have long been mesmerized by mermaids.
What Is Mermaiding?
Mermaiding, in a simple definition, is the practice of putting on and wearing a costume mermaid tail. This can be done purely as modeling for personal above- or in-water photos, or it can be a more sporty and active experience with underwater swimming and choreographed performances. But perhaps the most important part of mermaiding is that it is not just an activity but a magical experience, where creativity and individuality are celebrated within a thriving community.Members of the mermaid community are all about self-expression and bonding over a shared belief in the magic of mermaiding. Professional mermaid Dominique Abraham told Molchanovs, “When I slip into the mermaid tail, it's as if I've acquired superpowers, transporting me to a magical underwater realm where the unimaginable becomes real.”
Boost your mental health: Be a mermaid! Photo © Ash Embi
A Freediver’s Fantasy: The Wonderful World OF Mermaiding
Mermaiding has many facets: it can be a fun hobby, a sport, or even a career. But being a Mermaid is not just fun; it's also good for your health. See for yourself:- Boost Your Mental Health
- All-Around-Workout
- A Dream Job Opportunity
People who engage in recreational mermaiding can reap a ton of mental health benefits! After all, being near or in “blue spaces” (natural water sources and swimming pools) is beneficial for brain health, stress relief, and becoming more relaxed. Pair that with dressing up in costume and momentarily escaping reality through imaginative play, and the experience can be incredibly gratifying and fulfilling.
Mermaiding in the water is definitely a full-body workout! Swimming itself is a low-impact cardio activity, and an especially beneficial one for those with joint pain. Dolphin kicking and manipulating your body in the water also improves agility, constantly engages your core muscles, and helps improve flexibility. Plus, we can't forget that breathwork and the act of performing breath-holds boosts respiratory function and overall cardiovascular health.
Did you know that you can live out your dreams of being a mermaid—professionally? While becoming a mermaid instructor is always an option, there are also mermaids that put on whimsical performances at children’s birthday parties, aquariums, upscale events, and more. Additionally, they can use their skills to enter the arena of ocean conservation education and environmental awareness programs. There are even mermaid conventions, festivals, and competitions to participate in around the world!
Take one step at a time. Before becoming a mermaid, you should learn the freediving basics. Photo © Chelsea Skyeater
How To Become A Mermaid
The first step to becoming a mermaid is easier than you think once you’ve confirmed that you’re in good health and can comfortably swim and tread water. Take one step at a time: It’s always recommended to take a certified freediving course first since you’ll need to hone your breath-holding skills and understand how to move your body underwater.Once you’ve become a certified freediver, you can dip your toes into the fantastical world of mermaiding with the Mermaid Training Program, a Base Training + program created by Dominique Abraham. In it, you’ll learn how to swim with a mermaid tail (using bifins or a monofin), improve your body awareness and comfort in the water, and explore your creative side by executing a 90-second mermaid performance underwater.
Remember, becoming a mermaid is more than just putting on a tail and learning a new swimming technique. It’s about celebrating imagination, self-expression, and exploring your timeless connection to the water. So whether you’re seeking a creative outlet, unique form of exercise, or new career, the merfolk community is waiting for you with open arms!
Want to learn more about fellow mermaids or stay updated on the latest gear launches from the Molchanovs store? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news.