What is Floating?
Floatation therapy is rooted in sensory deprivation therapy, which emerged in the 1950s as the brainchild of neuroscientist and physician Dr. John Lilly. The therapy involves laying in a large, enclosed tub filled with approximately 1000lbs of Epsom salts. The intention is to allow for deep rest of the nervous system by minimizing all sensory input. Some describe the experience as facilitated mediation because the environment is designed to minimize distractions while supplementing the body with a heavy dose of magnesium. This allows the user to more easily reach deeply relaxed brain wave states.
What can I expect from my first float experience?
Many experience the deep benefits of floating after and during their first float. However, floating should be viewed as a practice that gets more profound as you explore further. The first float is often an introductory process where you will experience relaxation, but you find your mind just getting familiar and comfortable in a new environment. As people work past this first phase, many report being increasingly able to relax and find deeper levels of rest.
During your float appointment, you can expect to take a shower both before and after your float at the facility. You will be provided with ear plugs, given options for light and music and have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. A float session emphasizes the individual's opportunity to explore their own needs and intentions in this quiet, supportive space.
During your float appointment, you can expect to take a shower both before and after your float at the facility. You will be provided with ear plugs, given options for light and music and have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. A float session emphasizes the individual's opportunity to explore their own needs and intentions in this quiet, supportive space.
Who can benefit from floating?
Most everyone can benefit from finding the true peace of mind that floatation therapy offers. We live in a society where we are constantly bombarded with sensory input and what you feel from its absence may pleasantly surprise you.
Those facing the following conditions may find floating particularly supportive, and even necessary:
Those facing the following conditions may find floating particularly supportive, and even necessary:
- insomnia or sleep deprivation (night shift workers, first responders, birth workers, parents of young children, etc)
- hormone dysregulation
- overtraining or high levels of physical training
- vagal nerve dysregulation
- autoimmune conditions (caution for skin irritation)
- mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety
Is floating dangerous?
Floating has minimal risk. Most people are fully able to participate in float therapy without concern.
That said, there are always populations for whom certain therapies are contraindicated, or who should approach the experience cautious and conscientiously. Those who have medical conditions should consult with their physician before participating in floating to ensure that their condition does not inherently put them at risk, OR that their condition is under sufficient control to participate.
That said, there are always populations for whom certain therapies are contraindicated, or who should approach the experience cautious and conscientiously. Those who have medical conditions should consult with their physician before participating in floating to ensure that their condition does not inherently put them at risk, OR that their condition is under sufficient control to participate.
Who should NOT float?
Floating is not advised for those:
- with uncontrolled high/low blood pressure
- under the influence of drugs or alcohol, especially drugs that induce heavy sedation
- with kidney disease, which can be aggravated by processing the excessive magnesium intake
- who are claustrophobic
- with easily irritated skin conditions or open wounds, including recent tattoos or piercings
- with open wounds or infections disease (including cold and flu)
- with severe nervous system conditions like epilepsy, psychosis, schizophrenia, or severe anxiety disorders
- who have recently dyed their hair
Can my teen or child float?
Yes! Floating has much potential for kids and teens. In fact, there is research showing that some children with autism can benefit tremendously from decreased sensory input.
There are some considerations for kids and teens. Firstly, children 12 and under must be accompanied in the float room with a designated guardian. Teens should be coming of their own volition with an understanding of what they will be doing and some preparation for tools that they have previously practiced to help with calming the mind -- this could be breathing techniques, meditation techniques, etc. Many modern teens do struggle with longer sessions in the tank, and it is advised that they do a few shorter sessions (~30 minutes) successfully before attempting the longer sessions (60 to 90 minutes). We are currently working to add more guided mediation options to better support youth in building their abilities to quiet the mind and experience floating.
There are some considerations for kids and teens. Firstly, children 12 and under must be accompanied in the float room with a designated guardian. Teens should be coming of their own volition with an understanding of what they will be doing and some preparation for tools that they have previously practiced to help with calming the mind -- this could be breathing techniques, meditation techniques, etc. Many modern teens do struggle with longer sessions in the tank, and it is advised that they do a few shorter sessions (~30 minutes) successfully before attempting the longer sessions (60 to 90 minutes). We are currently working to add more guided mediation options to better support youth in building their abilities to quiet the mind and experience floating.
Where can I learn more about floating?
The internet has many resources available regarding floating.
Here is a short list of additional resources - just click to access the site directly:
Floatation Therapy for Mental Health Conditions - National Library of Medicine
Sensory Deprivation Tank: Benefits and Side Effects - Forbes
Float Therapy During Pregnancy
Here is a short list of additional resources - just click to access the site directly:
Floatation Therapy for Mental Health Conditions - National Library of Medicine
Sensory Deprivation Tank: Benefits and Side Effects - Forbes
Float Therapy During Pregnancy
Proudly powered by Weebly