Recovery breathing (hook breaths)

Recovery breathing is a specific way to breathe after a dive. You take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds before exhaling. This technique helps stabilize your blood gases when you surface from depth.

Divers use this method after deep dives or long decompression stops. I used this often during my 2018 trips in Komodo when nitrogen levels felt high. It works because the pause allows oxygen to move into your bloodstream more effectively.

Do not hold your breath while ascending. You must only use these pauses once you reach the surface or a safe decompression stop. A common mistake is gasping for air too quickly, which can actually cause a blackout. Keep your movements calm.