Some people are absolutely terrified of swimming in the ocean due to the creatures, waves, uncertainty, and so much more. This fear actually has a name — thalassophobia. It’s not known exactly how many people have a true phobia of swimming in the ocean or how many people just get nervous, but if you’re one of these individuals, there are ways to overcome your fear.
At Beach Boys Cabanas, we go the extra mile to make your time at the beach as enjoyable as possible with our beach rentals in Holden Beach, Sunset Beach, and Ocean Isle Beach. But we realize that’s not helpful to someone who has a true fear of the ocean. That’s why we’d like to provide some helpful hints.
Plan for Activities You Enjoy
Let’s say your main goal for this trip is to go into the ocean and feel what it feels like as the waves roll in and crash against your ankles. If it doesn’t quite go as planned, you still want to enjoy your trip to the beach. I mean, you are at the beach with the sun shining overhead and the waves rolling onto the shore.
Therefore, rather than making your entire vacation about getting into the water, plan for some activities you enjoy. For instance, if you’re usually the person who sits with their toes in the sand or the one who enjoys a good book while lounging on a chair in front of the water, make plans for it. Maybe you like to bicycle or grill, have these available to you.
Fortunately, there are plenty of activities you can do that don’t involve going into the water. And our beach rentals in Holden Beach, Sunset Beach, and Ocean Isle Beach can assist. We offer grills, bicycles, umbrellas, cabanas, and more to make your vacation enjoyable.
Know the Real Statistics of Shark Attacks
The media reports shark attacks every now and then, which can trigger fear in some people. And if you’ve ever noticed, they aren’t reporting them on a regular basis. There’s a good reason for that — they aren’t as common as you may think. In fact, there were only 42 shark attacks in 2023 as of this month. Of those, only seven were fatal, and some of them were provoked by the human.
When you think about how many people visit the beach, that really isn’t that many. Shark attacks are actually uncommon occurrences. When you really think about it, statistically you’re more likely to be struck by lightning.
Start Slow
Trying to overcome your fear full-throttle isn’t the answer. This can do more harm than good in the long run if you plan on returning to the ocean in the future. Rather than paddling as far as you can into the ocean on a surfboard rental from Beach Boys Cabanas, start by sitting at the edge of the ocean, where the sand and water meet. Whether you’re sitting or standing, let the water come to you. Remain there for a little bit until you feel comfortable.
Once you’re comfortable, go a little farther out and continue to go further out. If you plan on actually swimming, stay in the shallow end at first until you find that you’re calm and relaxed about being in the water.
Don’t Hesitate to Give Yourself a Break
If you’re still feeling fearful when you’re in the water, take yourself out of the situation. Go sit on the beach under your beach umbrella rental. Or, watch everyone else in the water from your cabana rental for a few.
Then, if you feel like you’re ready again, give it another shot.
At Beach Boys Cabanas, serving Holden Beach, Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and the surrounding areas, we offer a number of beach equipment rentals to make this trip one to remember. And you may be able to make it a bit more memorable if this is your first time going into the ocean!
Schedule your beach equipment rental today by using our form. If you have any questions, you can also give us a call at 910-712-3776.