Remember that with a snorkel, you are creating another 12"+ of 'dead air' space, ie: used air that has more carbon dioxide in it. Therefore, you need to breath deeper than normal. Breath slowly and with awareness of your breathing- this serves a few purposes, one of which is to relax you, whether you are going to dive or not. Relaxed is good!
Hold your tongue up near the back of your teeth to stop any water that slips into your snorkle from getting aspirated.
If you do get water in your snorkel either from diving or inadvertently, give a quick and short blast of air (don;t empty your lungs entirely to do it) that will clear it, then get your tongue back in position for the first few careful, slow breaths.
As for the mask getting sucked to your face, be aware that you are pumping air into and out of your mask and stop it when it happens. Eventually you will automatically close the passage that goes from your mouth to your mask.
The main thing here is relax, then relax some more. Be aware of tension in your muscles, including your face. Let the tension go, breathe slowly, deeply, and then you can enjoy the experience. Remember that you are fighting a genetic reflex that tells you you can't breath while your face is in the water... it will take a little practice to overcome, but it will come.
Cheers,
Erik
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