Getting over fear of swimming UNDER the water

[SirenGita]

I finally figured out today thanks to my fish of a fiance how to actually get my whole self under the water... and i promptly panicked.

Every time i got under today successfully it was so disconcerting!

Any tips? I feel so silly since i swim well in and out of my monofin otherwise!

Im a cork so this is so new to me lol

[Kwilena]

It might help to have something to focus on while you're there - a target on the pool floor, for example, to dive down and pick up.
I'm a cork too, so I highly recommend weights of some sort (I filled booze bracelets with gravel and sealed them up, which works well for me)

[SirenGita]

I'm going to pick up some tiny dive weights soon, and focusing is a good idea, right now my brain engages the clsustrophobia??? So embarrassing!

[Slim]

Use a goggle that also covers the nose the entire time while trying to get used of being underwater. Also try to have thoughts to embrace being underwater like being below the water is your own personal space.

[AniaR]

for me, practicing with full face goggles (that covered my nose) and ear plugs helped me build up my confidence!

[Kwilena]

What also contributes to the claustrophobia is not equalising the pressure in your ears, you will feel better if you do this.

Here's one guide that explains what's happening and various ways to counter it. https://www.diversalertnetwork.org/health/SmartGuide-Ear/index.html

But if you don't feel like a lot of reading just try swallowing or push your jaw forward.

And to help trigger your helpful dive response, wet your face before you dive, and try laying face down, looking down into the water for a while first.