Now that you're in the water, put your face in the water and look around - see how everything looks a
little clearer and sharper than in air. That's because of the
magnification effect of wearing a mask in water. Objects will appear about
25% larger and closer (remember that when you see that "huge" fish!).
Relax and float face-down, using your
fins to move you around.
Keep your arms relaxed. There's no need to use them for
swimming - your fins have more than enough power.
Use your arms for changing direction, pointing at the exciting
things you see, and holding your underwater camera.
If you're a strong "nose-breather," you'll want to take a few
minutes to get adjusted to the face that you can't inhale through
your nose (at least not without snarfing water!).
Take it slow and let your body get used to the different
breathing pattern.
Enjoy the beauty around you!
When you're snorkeling in shallow water or
the pool, you'll often want to stand up (just don't do it on top of
fragile marine life).
The hard way:
While face down, try to pick up your head
and bring your legs forward to stand up.
