I retired from teaching scuba in 1984, having owned Aquarius Dive Shop in Monterey, CA, and a charter boat. This was taught to me in the '70's as part of NASDS instructor training (I later joined PADI as an instructor). Many divers who need to use a wetsuit, as in cold water diving, get nervous, overheat, and/or feel "butterflies" in the belly. On a hot summer day, any diver, regardless of experience, can overheat while gearing up. I incorporated this in my classes, and still use it myself on warmer days (even with a drysuit). Most everyone I introduce it to loves it and continues to use it. It's call the "cool down." Just put on your suit, no hood, gloves, weights needed - and go in the water. Lie down on the "biggest waterbed in the world" and relax. Splash, have fun! It gets rid of the jitters, cools, and makes gearing up much easier. Simple, effective. I know this is for more experienced divers, but for instructors, this will eliminate over half the anxiety attacks from students. Works great beach diving. On a boat, just jump in (with permission so crew knows what you're doing), sometimes from upper deck, and come around to the ladder (fins optional). It will start a trend and everyone will be smiling and having FUN!
