Mer-media
ABOUT:
Mermaiding is a way of swimming. Also called dolphin kick, since it resembles the way dolphins swim and the use of a monofin like the dolphins up and down, vs fish that have their fluke vertical and swim from side to side.
In this way of swimming you dress up with a mermaid costume, often made by neopren that is the same as divers use, and we work on different ways of swimming and moving under water.
What I like about this hobby:
For me mermaiding combines creativity, movement, expression, aesthetics and socializing in a fun new way.As a dance-artist it also gets me to the swimming pool way more often than normal swimming ever did. Make it a good cross training for my job.
The merfolk community is also body positive and inclusive to all kinds of people. People can express their personality and creativity in a new way, and I see it makes them calm and happy, which I really appriciate.
Mermaiding in genereal I find is a great way to just relax and take a break from the world around you.
What I have done since started:
I started in January 2019 with a costume made tail, by the Norwegian tail maker, Viking Mermaid:
SINCE THEN I HAVE:
- Arranged Norway's first mermaid gathering and weekend in my hometown in June 21. Mermaids from different parts of the country gathered for a weekend full of swimming, inside and outside, socializing and networking.
- Joined gatherings in Oslo. Norways capital.
- Done four professional photoshoots.
- Joined a commercial for a show at Trøndelag Teater Havfruen - Trøndelag Teater (trondelag-teater.no)
- Got more tails and learned about different monofins and fabrics.
- Did an interview with the Norwegian newspaper Trønder Avisa. (on the top)
- Swimming more in both ocean, lakes, river and swimming pools.
- Practicing skills, tricks and swimming methods.
- Working as an admin for Norway’s Merfolk group on Facebook. Norways Merpod | Facebook
If you are in Norway and feel interested in joining this hobby, feel free to check out the group :)
Further on:
Through talking to people in the swimming halls, my Instagram Videos, interviews and the comment sections, I see there is a huge interest in this hobby and that many people of all ages would like to join.
As a dancer I think this hobby can be a lovely way for more people to get in touch with their creativity and learn how to move their bodies in fun, new ways.
- I see opportunities to share my knowledge and facilitate both events with professional mermaids and classes for the enjoyment of both kids and adults.
- I also have an idea for a show in a couple of years with other local mermaids from Verdal and a local singer.
