5 Cool Reasons to Scuba Dive

FITNESS CORNER↓

Christine Abi-Abdallah Scuba Diving (Photo – Scott Raish).

Venturing into the open ocean is an experience that constantly has you playing on the line of vulnerability and liberation.

By Jake Vita

When diving into the deep blue you’re exposing yourself to an element that is likely far from your comfort zone, while surrounding yourself with an embracing silence that creates a primal connection between your mind and body. The anxiety of being in a state of vulnerability quickly diminishes as you’re surrounded by a new color palette, taking in the sights of exotic sea life and foliage dancing in the sun shafts breaking through the surface. The minimal movement, paired with controlled breathing, is therapeutic and allows for a state of relaxation and focus. Scuba diving is much more than an activity; it is a door into another world. It opens new perspectives, self-control, and appreciation for the planet in its natural state.

Here are 5 quick examples of why you should strap on a BC vest, slip on some fins, and dive in!

1- Patience is virtue!

Scuba Diving Selfie (Photo – Christine and James Abi-Abdallah)

Though scuba diving can be viewed by some as extreme, it is actually quite a relaxed sport. It isn’t about getting to a destination the fastest, or seeing how long one can endure trials of strength and agility; it is about being collected and patient, avoiding panic, and being in control. You quickly learn to trust your senses, observe your surroundings, and enjoy the oceans many natural wonders.

2- Be a pioneer!

Spanish Shawl (Photo – Christine Ab-Abdallah).

The ocean covers roughly 70% of our planet, yet 95% of it has yet to be seen by human eyes. There are constant discoveries being made including new life forms, geological findings, and history about our planet. The first time I ever dove off the shores of Catalina, I knew I wanted to explore every part of the ocean I could reach. I was mystified by the feeling that came over me upon swimming with sea lions through kelp forests, and gliding across the ocean floor with leopard sharks. If you ever dreamt of going where no human being has gone before, this is the perfect opportunity!

3- Connect with your inner thoughts

Horn Shark (Photo – Christine Abi-Abdallah).

Scuba diving creates a strong connection with mind and body. With conversation eliminated, you are forced to rely on visual cues, reading body language, and making decisions based on intuition and observation. The silence allows for uninterrupted, natural thoughts to blossom. This peacefulness is therapeutic and eye opening, simultaneously allowing for deep and vivid thoughts to expand, and for your mind to clear itself, leaving all worries and fears back on dry land.

4- Community!

NOCROP Marine and Aquatics class preparation for a dive (Photo – Christine Abi-Abdallah).

As I mentioned in my Rock Climbing article, I am a big fan of strong and supportive communities. The Cardinal Rule of diving is you always have a buddy. You rely on that buddy for emergency situations, being a second set of eyes, and most importantly, to share the experiences you will observe while underwater. Witnessing all the magnificent spectrum the ocean has to offer is incomparable to anything else I have experienced in my lifetime, and the reflective conversations I have with my dive buddies are truly special. The amount of trust and responsibility you put in one another is a feeling bursting with pride, honor, and friendship at its greatest form. Diving is an experience you can get into with friends and loved ones, or just as easily tackle alone and build great relationships through the process. The community is embracing, supportive, and constantly motivated to explore, expand, and protect our planet and its oceans.

5- Educate yourself!

Crowned Sea Urchin (Photo – Christine Abi-Abdallah).

The first time I went diving I was almost overwhelmed by the amount of information I was processing. Witnessing an entirely different ecosystem, watching creatures interact in such a way that was untouched by human development, and seeing the planet in a manner that literally breathed with life was so intense and captivating. Immediately upon stepping off the charter boat I was eager to learn more about the planet and oceans, and couldn’t wait to dive back in. Diving puts you in a position where you are no longer in total control of your surroundings. Instead, you are observing the world as an outsider, learning the rituals and actions of how life works below the surface. You are one among many, and that feeling is unlike any other. It brings such a grounding realization that I truly believe will change your life for the better.

Scuba diving off the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon (Photo – Christine Abi-Abdallah)

! Diving has brought me many blessings and opportunities. I am a more disciplined, patient, and observant human being. I am more aware of our planet and am actively engaging in ways to keep our environment safe. I have a deeper connection with both the ocean, and the life above the surface.

Whether you just want to try something new, witness the deep blue, or become the next Jacques Cousteau, scuba diving should be added to your list of “to do” activities in the near future.

Be safe, be observant, and most importantly, have fun!

Jake Vita is a native Southern Californian currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Awareness. Adventurous by nature, he spends his free time scuba diving, rock climbing, paddle boarding, backpacking, and enjoying the outdoors. Jake’s interest in photography and film goes hand-in-hand with his activities and he is always on the lookout for that spectacular photo or video opportunity. A committed environmentalist, Jake intends to continue his studies in the field of environmental awareness in the hope of inspiring those around him to take action to protect and preserve our natural resources.

Read more: 5 Reasons Rock Climbing Should be a Part of Your Fitness Routine