What to Expect on Your First Dive
Freediving is a unique experience that combines the thrill of underwater exploration with the tranquility of the ocean. As a beginner, you may feel a mix of excitement and anxiety before your first dive. I know I did! And it’s completely normal! I always loved the water and felt very comfortable in it, so the last thing I expected was to have a mild panic attack on my first dive! My wetsuit felt too constricting, the weights felt too heavy, and the water looked so deep! All I wanted to do it get back on the boat and take everything off. It took some time for me to collect myself and get back in the water, but after that, everything felt better.
So the first thing to do is anticipate that you will feel some nervousness and that it’s completely ok!
On your first dive, focus on your breath. By this point your instructor already explained to you how to do relaxation breathing, and how to use your breath to control your anxiety, so put those new skills to practice while you are riding on the boat to your diving destination.
Before getting in the water, take your time to gear up slowly and calmly. Check with your instructor to make sure you have all the equipment you need, and get in the water when the captain and instructor tell you it is ok to do so.
As you prepare for the dive, take your time, look around and enjoy the beauty of being in deep blue water. It might feel unnerving at first, but try to stay calm and feel part of the ocean - just float on the surface on the water, relax to the rhythm of the waves, and continue to breathe. The first skill you are going to learn is weighting yourself properly, so with correct weighting, you should just float on the surface of the water with no effort and no kicking.
Now it’s time to do your first dive! Take a slow full inhale and start descending. Go slow, there is no rush, focus on your equalization, embrace the beauty around you, and let go of any tension. The sensation of weightlessness and the deep blues of water enveloping you will soon replace any initial nervousness.
Remember, it’s not about pushing your limits; it’s about discovering the joy of being underwater. Your instructor will guide you through every step, ensuring your safety and comfort. By the end of your dive, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the ocean and a sense of accomplishment that is hard to match.
