PAUL’S HERO: MERLE

“My passion for living an adventurous life fuels me,”

says Merle, a fashion designer whose hobbies include winter swimming and diving. The sea is her element, just as it is for Paul Berg. But what exactly draws her to it?

You’re a fashion designer, photographer, winter swimmer, diver, traveler, and a model for Paul Berg. Are these all your hobbies, or is there anything we missed?

My most important role, my greatest passion, and the love of my life is being a mother. With each passing day, I enjoy it more and more. Motherhood has brought incredible new friends into my life, offered me countless adventures, and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. I feel a profound sense of responsibility and pride for my wonderful daughters. And I’m truly grateful for every moment of it.

Amongst your hobbies, diving and winter swimming seem to be the most extreme. What emotions do they evoke in you? Do they feel completely different, or do they complement each other?

I don’t pursue anything in life just for the extremeness of it. For me, both of these hobbies come from a deep calling that I’ve felt since childhood. When you recognise and nurture that calling in yourself, life has a way of creating and presenting opportunities. I’ve been lucky in that regard. The sea is undeniably my element, which is why I’m so drawn to activities connected to it. Diving allows me to immerse myself in the mystical beauty of the underwater world, while winter swimming is something I do primarily for its health benefits. It keeps me energised and gives me a wonderful inner warmth.

Are there any other exciting activities you’d like to try in your lifetime?

I definitely want to travel to places that can only be reached as a diver. I’m always open to new tastes and sounds that inspire my senses and fuel my creativity. I also have several creative ideas and projects that need time and space to fully develop.

What drives you or motivates you to pursue such a wide range of activities?

A passion for living my life to the fullest. I don’t just want things to happen to me—I want to make them happen. I also make it a priority to stay in good physical shape, as it keeps me energised and boosts my confidence to pursue everything I’m passionate about.

Watching your busy lifestyle, one might wonder—do you ever rest? Do you ever just do nothing?

My energy and determination are traits I’ve inherited from my grandmothers from Saaremaa. One thing I’ve never mastered though, is the art of doing nothing. I’m energised by activity and momentum—they keep me feeling alive. But as time goes on, I’ve come to realize the importance of intentionally relaxing. Still, I’m naturally a doer, and there’s no hiding that.

What might be your next dream travel destination?

I don’t have any specific expectations—I prefer to let life and opportunities surprise me. That being said, I do have two diving trips planned for the coming years: Mexico and the Galapagos. Those destinations are truly a dream come true.

What’s your motto?

I like to believe that nothing happens by chance. Every situation and every person comes into our lives to offer us something—it’s up to us whether we recognize and appreciate it. I’m also learning to be fully present in the moment. When I manage to do that, it’s an incredibly fulfilling feeling.

How has Paul Berg supported you in your endeavors?

As a winter swimmer, having the right gear is essential, especially when it comes to staying warm. Paul Berg’s thick and cozy jacket is absolutely indispensable for me. And luckily, Estonia’s wild weather gives me plenty of opportunities to wear it beyond just winter swimming. Whenever I do, it always gets noticed, and I’m happy to share just how great the product is. I also value the energy and story behind the things that surround me, and Paul Berg’s products have both. Whether it’s a merino wool hat, a jacket, or a softshell, every time I catch a glimpse of them in my wardrobe, I feel a sense of warmth and security. Paul Berg is my element, just as the sea is in my life.

If you want to learn more about Merle’s activities, visit her Instagram pages by clicking @merle.lohmus or @merle.lohmus.design. 

You can also explore the products Merle uses and presents:)