Robotixfan
Registered
I am going through certification right now and went to the pool to do the diving skills. Everything was simple except the taking the mask off with the regulator in mouth. Like all the other postings regarding this, I also had the feeling of drowning, which put me through a panic. I have been a swimmer all my life and never would have guessed I'd be that guy. I now think about it all the time since the pool incident. I was completely embarrassed and felt like I let myself down and the instructor. He patiently kept coming back to me and fill my mask at different levels and clear the mask. It wasn't an issue until the water filled up to my eyes and then the panic set in. I would clear my mask and then immediately had the heavy breathing for a few minutes after like my throat had closed up on me (Panic state). I was told to snorkel in the pool without a mask to get used to having water covering my face while still breathing through the snorkel. I have 2 weeks before I get into the Ocean and and practice my skills and it's killing me to think I might have to rip off my mask and clear it after returning it to my face. I don't have much time to do the pool thing because of work and wanted to know what kinds of techniques I can practice so I can become comfortable. I want this so bad, and I feel I will be scuba diving at least once every 2 months.
HELP, I need to overcome this stressful situation.
HELP, I need to overcome this stressful situation.