Have you ever wished you could breathe underwater? Every time I would go swimming as a child I would beg my parents to time how long I could hold my breath for. Unfortunately, I cannot hold my breath very long! After about 30 seconds I would have to lift my head to breathe again. Whenever I went to the beach I loved wearing my goggles and trying to explore the ocean floor. I loved spotting small fish, crabs, and cool shells but my explorations were always short because I had to swim back to the surface. I often wished I was a mermaid so I could just stay underwater for as long as I wanted!
Learning to scuba dive finally let me live out my childhood dream of breathing underwater! The first time I used scuba gear to breathe underwater I could not believe it! I could really take my time and explore the ocean. As a snorkeler, I had gotten quick peaks at coral reefs, but with dive gear, I could actually stay put and take a good look. I love being able to stay in the same spot and watching life on the reef happen around me. There were so many animals I had never noticed before that I now have the chance to really study. Sea slugs (Nudibranchs) are one of my favorite things to look for on a dive!
