How to Overcome Fear of the Water with a Tranquil Snorkeling Trip!
Did you know that fear of the water is actually one of the most common phobias people have? Don’t feel ashamed if you’re afraid of the water, but don’t let it stop you from enjoying the sights of snorkeling! While snorkeling might invoke fear in you, it can also serve as a great way of easing your fears about water once you start. Read the rest of this article to learn just how snorkeling can help you capture your fear of the ocean!
Is Snorkeling Dangerous?
One of the most-asked questions in regards to snorkeling is whether or not it is dangerous. Technically anything can be dangerous under the right circumstances, and snorkeling is no exception to that rule.
While there is some underlying danger associated with snorkeling, the activity itself is not dangerous.
The only time snorkeling really becomes dangerous is when you stop advocating for your own well-being. Anytime that you’re out in the water snorkeling, you do still need to keep an eye on the conditions of both the water and weather. Because Hawaii is located in the tropics, the weather can potentially change in minutes.
You probably won’t have issues with this, but there is a chance for calm waters and clear skies to turn into rough waves and an endless downpour. Anytime you’re dealing with the raw ferocity of the ocean, it can be quite overwhelming when you consider how powerful it is.
Something else you’ll also need to stay vigilant of are creatures in the ocean. As tempting as it may be to get up close and try and touch them, you should refrain from doing so at all costs. While most fish and creatures probably won’t try to hurt you, there absolutely are some that don’t have an issue seriously injuring you.
It is important to remember that you’re in the ocean, which serves as the wild for the fish and creatures you see. Creatures you find in the wild are not domesticated, and therefore don’t know how to interact with humans. This makes it a good choice to err on the side of caution and assume that every creature you see should be appreciated from afar.
What Causes Snorkeling Fear?
Now that you know that snorkeling isn’t naturally dangerous, but can be under the right circumstances, you’ll want to know what causes fear in people that snorkel. The biggest problem with understanding fear is realizing that there is usually a logical reason for it, but not always.
When it comes to snorkeling, there are some fears that are absolutely reasonable. If you’re snorkeling for the first time, you’re dealing with a giant unknown in a new environment. You aren’t in your comfort zone, which naturally puts you on edge. You’re lacking the experience that will tell you what to expect, meaning everything could potentially be scary.
When you begin to include the massive, uncontrollable ocean and the volatile nature of creatures you’ll find, it’s easy to understand how little control you have. This lack of control is what actually drives a lot of fear behind snorkeling.
In our everyday life, we have the ability to take action so that we can structure our lives so that they better suit us. In the ocean, you’re entirely at the mercy of mother nature.
While there are certainly valid aspects of fearing the unknown of the ocean, simply being afraid because you don’t have control isn’t. When you’re focused on trying to control and shape a situation, you’re actively on edge and paying attention.
When you aren’t concerned about control, you’re able to freely flow with the natural rhythm of the ocean, putting you right at ease!
Overcoming Fears
Now that you know that snorkeling fear is caused by a loss of control, you’ll need to know how you can overcome this. Snorkeling just isn’t an activity where you’re ever going to be able to assume control, because the ocean will always be the stronger force. Despite that, you can still have an incredible experience even without needing to have control of the situation.
One thing that goes hand in hand with fear is tension. Most people that are experiencing fear are likely also tense. Unfortunately, the two feed off of each other in an unhealthy pairing. The fact that you’re afraid can make you tense, while your ongoing tension can prolong how long you feel fear.
This means that one of the most effective ways of easing your fear of the water is by tending to your tension. The best way to do this is by employing relaxation techniques. Fortunately, the tranquil island of Maui is already perfect for helping to set a relaxing mood. With plenty of sunshine, no responsibility, and a laid-back atmosphere, Hawaii is excellent for those looking for a nice calm time.
You can also use dedicated techniques to help give you some extra zen. Things like yoga, meditation, and even a pleasant walk can do wonders for putting your mind at ease.
You can also try avoiding sugary foods or caffeinated beverages to keep your body’s chemicals in balance. The entire point of a vacation is to have a break to unwind and relax, but sometimes that won’t happen naturally.
Maui Snorkeling in Style!
By now you have a much better understanding of what causes fear when you’re snorkeling! Snorkeling isn’t naturally a dangerous activity, but it can become dangerous if you’re not vigilant about maintaining your safety. You’ll probably never have any safety concerns while snorkeling in Maui, but it’s much better to be safe than sorry!
There are some logical reasons for why people feel fear when snorkeling, but most of the fear is irrational. While you might not be aware of it, the lack of control is what truly scares people when they snorkel. Activities on the land make you feel far more in control of the situation, while the water can definitely make you feel helpless.
If you want to overcome your fear of the water, then you have to find a way to relax. The sunny beaches of Maui create a perfect setting for relaxation, but sometimes you need a little bit of extra help getting there. If you want a snorkeling tour that’s guaranteed to put you at ease and help you get over your fear of the water, then check out the tours offered by Kai Kanani! With courteous staff and expert knowledge, a Kai Kanani tour is the best way to relax in Maui!