Tips for learning to breathe without a mask without water up your nose?

[TMHeimer]

Check out this recent thread.

When the thought of taking your mask off underwater just freaks you out

Yes, very thorough. I'll repeat what I said there--simply practice on land completely closing off the passages your nose leads to then same with the mouth. A brick wall--no air in or out. Do that in water and no water goes into the nose passages. Into the nostrils yes, but that won't hurt you at all, and you absolutely have to get used to that.
Side note--Personally I hate ever opening my eyes in chlorinated water, and only did so as an assistant when absolutely necessary. As opposed to salt water in the eyes, which I almost enjoy.