mask equalizing

[sambinoven]

Hi guys,
Im still a newbie when it comes to freediving, I just completed my AIDA course. (2 stars)
I have no issues equalizing my ears using either valsalva or frenzel manouvers..or any other major issues at all..
My only concern is with equalizing my mask when attempting to dive beyond 19-21 meters.. At that point I try to exhale through my nose.. But it feels like im out of air.. And end up attempting to inhale in an involuntary reflex..
So. . how can I equalize my mask at that point?
Note: I use a cressi nano mask in case your asking. .


Plz guide me.. I have tonnes of wonders to explore

 

[Apneaddict]

If you're "out of air" at -20m... Equalize the mask at say... 15-18m. That will last you a while and you wouldn't need to equalize it for a while at that point.

I think you're actually hit your "vital capacity" whereby you can no longer access air from your lungs.

Flexibility in the rib cage will increase this depth, as will diaphragmatic stretching.

Another way around the issue (as there will ALWAYS be a depth that you can no longer access air from the lungs) is to take a mouthful of air while you still can and use that for further equalization.

 

[NZFreediver]

I find when equalising if i let go of my nose just after i have equalised a little bit of air ends up in the mask and i only occasionally have to intentionally equalise my mask. Also the size of your mask makes a huge difference. I would recommend a aqualung sphere or micro if you don't already have one.

 

[baiyoke]

most likely your soft palate is being sucked up and get stuck because of negative pressure in mask. Equalize mask earlier and more often! Happened to me at around 15-20 m before.... It's not your residual volume most likely

 

[Hurlow]

A girl I've been diving with this week at dean's blue hole has been having this same problem. A couple of very well known competitive freedivers have been helping her with it. Their solution- do equilize the mask early, but if going around or beyond 30m use a mouthfill, open your soft palate, push the air through your nose to equilize the mask.

 

[Hurlow]

It looks like apnea addict already pretty much said the same thing- I'll read responses a little more closely next time - but it's worth practicing, even dry, just push the air from your mouth out your nose. As long as your epiglottis is closed and your soft palate is open it is pretty easy.