Equalizing underwater is an important skill for scuba divers and free divers to prevent discomfort or injury caused by pressure changes in the ears and sinuses. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to equalize your ears while underwater:

1. Start Early: Begin equalizing your ears before you feel any discomfort. It’s easier to equalize when there’s minimal pressure difference between your ears and the water around you.
2. Understand the Technique: The most common equalization technique for divers is called the Valsalva maneuver. This involves gently pinching your nostrils closed, closing your mouth, and gently blowing through your nose while attempting to breathe out against the closed airway. This action helps to open the Eustachian tubes, which connect your middle ear to the back of your throat, allowing air to flow in or out and equalizing the pressure.
3. Practice on Land: Before you go diving, practice equalizing your ears on land to get a feel for the technique. You can do this by pinching your nostrils closed and gently blowing while paying attention to the sensation in your ears.
4. Equalize Often: Equalize your ears frequently during your descent, especially in the first few meters of depth. This helps to gradually equalize the pressure and prevents discomfort.
5. Descend Slowly: Take your time descending to allow your ears to equalize naturally. Avoid descending too quickly, as this can make equalization more difficult and increase the risk of barotrauma (pressure-related injury).
6. Listen to Your Body: If you experience any discomfort or difficulty equalizing, ascend slightly until the discomfort subsides, then try equalizing again. Never force equalization if it’s painful, as this can lead to injury.
7. Use Alternative Techniques: If you have difficulty equalizing using the Valsalva maneuver, you can try other techniques such as the Toynbee maneuver (swallowing while pinching your nose) or the Frenzel maneuver (closing your vocal cords and using your tongue to create pressure in the mouth).
8. Seek Training: If you’re new to diving or struggling with equalization, consider taking a scuba diving course where you can learn proper equalization techniques and receive guidance from a certified instructor.

Remember, equalizing your ears should be done gently and consistently to avoid injury. If you experience persistent difficulty with equalization or have a history of ear problems, consult with a medical professional before diving.