Diving is a highly technical sport.

Once you start training, you realize there are critical factors that constitute a safe, enjoyable and enriching experience. That’s why it pays to educate yourself enough before going for your first dive.

One of the most important lessons beginner divers learn is descending. In fact, there’s almost an art to it — how you slowly make your way deeper into the ocean, making sure you’re doing it just right.

Keep the following tips in mind for a better descent.

1. Take your time. The last thing you want is descending too fast that the pressure changes become unbearable. Ensure your entry is controlled, relaxed and comfortable. Be sure to apply enough restraint to your descent that you have enough air space for your ears, sinuses and mask.
2. Equalize before you descend. Otherwise, you’re going to experience highly uncomfortable pressure changes that will be harder to adjust. Also, keep in mind that you will need to equalize with each breath during the first 30 feet of your dive.
3. Always have a dive buddy. You want someone who will be there right beside you should anything go wrong. It may look like a fairly simple and easy dive right now. However, emergencies happen everywhere. Try not to go over your head. You will need someone near you at all times.
4. Use a reference line. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just meant for amateur divers. To this day, pro divers find great use for it because it helps them control their descent and its speed. So never be shy about asking one.  
5. Go for it once you’re comfortable. Never be pressured into descending right away if you’re not completely ready yet. Check your equipment. Take a deep breath. Do everything necessary before going in.

image source: scubadiverlife.com