RITUALS of HEALING: Swimming, Community, and the OCEAN

We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)

The ocean has a raw, powerful way of healing us—body, mind, and soul. In this episode of Don't Be Caught Dead, I'm joined by Fiona Basile, an internationally acclaimed photographer and writer who discovered that open water swimming is far more than just a hobby. It’s a lifeline, a community, and a space where stories of resilience and transformation come to life. Her stunning book, Immerse, shares faces and places shaped by the healing embrace of Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay.

Fiona’s journey into open water swimming began during the challenging COVID lockdowns and quickly became a daily ritual that transformed her world. Through her lens—and interviews with 35 incredible swimmers—Immerse tells stories of people who found courage, connection, and hope in cold, shared waters. Their stories reveal how swimming can change not only bodies but the way we face life, death, and everything in between.

Beyond the ocean, Fiona’s storytelling took her to Rwanda, where she witnessed stories of deep forgiveness and healing in a country still rising from its painful past. These moments of grace remind us all how powerful it can be to share our stories, face our fears, and embrace the connections that make life meaningful. This episode invites you to dive into the water, community, and stories that inspire us to live fully—even in the face of death.

Key points from our discussion:

●      The transformative power of open water swimming and community connection.

●      How storytelling illuminates the human experience, especially around adversity and grief.

●      The grounding power of rituals and being in nature.

●      Deep insights from Fiona’s experiences in Rwanda on resilience and forgiveness.

If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know! Share your thoughts, subscribe, and help us spread the word about the importance of discussing death openly.

Check out Fiona’s work:

●      Fiona Basile's book: Immerse

●      Fiona’s websitefor her photography and projects.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

Are your affairs in order? Critical Info helps you organise essential documents in just 10 minutes a day. Sign up now for early access! → criticalinfo.com.au/critical-info-platform

Lost a loved one? Our guide walks you through the next steps, from the first hours to the months ahead. Download it here → criticalinfo.com.au/product/my-

Contact Catherine

Business Website: https://dontbecaughtdead.com.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094865491683
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/critical_info_org/
LinkedIn Business Page: : https://www.linkedin.com/company/critical-info
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-ashton-73254528/

Podcast Editor: https://www.livvimusic.com/

Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/