Tips to get back on the saddle

[swamprat]

Yeah, this.

Some info on your experience level will help. Lots of divers do OW, then immediately go to AOW. That can be a lot to handle so soon depending on the specific curriculum for AOW. PADI AOW, or actual specialties such as Deep, Night, etc. IMO, regardless of curriculum, it’s just too soon right after OW. Take some time to do shallow, good vis dives, and work into slightly more challenging conditions.

Boat/Ocean dives can be challenging. If you are near any springs or quarries, that might make things a bit easier. Plenty of shallow spots in the Keys. What part of the Keys you heading to? I’m more familiar with the Lower Keys, but there are good shallow spots all throughout.

For now, it sounds like your problems are mental (assuming your reg is working properly). Work to get the confidence back wit easy dives. Might also not be a bad idea to have your reg checked out. A simple IP check could confirm that it’s in spec.

Havent decided yet - took off a week next month - open to suggestions of easy, nice dives in the keys

 

[Belzelbub]

Havent decided yet - took off a week next month - open to suggestions of easy, nice dives in the keys

Looe Key is nice and easy. Not deep at all. We usually snorkel it, but you can dive it. Looe Key Reef Resort runs snorkel and scuba trips. I’ve never used them before as I usually dive off my boat, but I’ve seen their boats out there.

 

[Ana]

Sometimes the "idea" of doing something is more appealing than actually doing it.

When I get invited to a party (before covid) I love it, the bigger the better, enjoy thinking of the perfect gift to get for the occasion and very much look forward to it, when I'm finally at the party I want to get the hell out right away. Now I'm fine with very small gatherings.

If you enjoy diving in shallow waters why bother going deep?
I enjoy warm water, used to endure cold water with dry suit and tons of thermal protection. After not enjoying it for a while I decided that my dives will only happen in water above 75F. That's it, unless you are getting paid for diving it HAS to be fun.