11 Essential Scuba Diving Tips for First-Timers in the Andaman Islands

9. Manage nerves: breathing, buddy checks, and practice

Nerves are normal before your first dive. A simple breathing routine calms your body: breathe slowly in through the mouthpiece and out gently. Practice this pattern at the surface and during the briefing. Do quick buddy and equipment checks with your instructor—knowing your regulator and signals reduces anxiety. If a problem arises, signal your instructor immediately rather than trying to fix it alone. Short on-surface drills before entering the water help you rehearse what to expect, and that practice often removes the biggest fear: the unknown. Imagine breathing calmly like sitting at the tea table with a steady cup. That clear, calm rhythm is exactly what you want underwater.