Everything you need to know about Flotation Tanks
Flotation therapy has only been around since 1954. And was created right here in Bethesda, Maryland by Professor Dr. John C. Lilly.
Lilly was intrigued by the origins of consciousness in the brain, so he designed the float tank to study what would happen to the brain in the absence of external stimuli.
Little did he know, that float tanks would be adopted around the world by spas as a tool to achieve total relaxation. In Europe, floating is a normal and routine addition to a day at the spa.
We realize that the term “sensory deprivation” may sound a bit intimidating at first, so we’re here to calm all your worries and tell you what to expect during your first experience floating tank.
What is a sensory deprivation tank?
A sensory deprivation tank or floatation tank is a light and sound-proof pod.
Because the water is heated to your skin’s temperature and filled with 1,000 pounds of medical-grade Epsom salt, your body will effortlessly float, and you won’t even feel the water.
How big is the tank?
Flotation tanks are approximately 8 feet long by 4 feet wide by 4 feet high.
How long is a flotation therapy session?
Most people float for 60 or 90 minutes. You can get in and out of the tank anytime throughout your experience.
What is inside a float tank?
Inside the sensory deprivation tank, there is 6-12 inches of sterile saltwater. They are packed with 1,000 pounds of medical-grade Epsom salt, creating an environment that anyone will float effortlessly in.
The saltwater is heated to skin temperature and stays 94-95 degrees Fahrenheit throughout your experience. It doesn’t feel warm or cold to most people, and many say it feels like their skin blends into the water.
Zero gravity allows you to relax every single muscle, your neck, arms, back, and even ears.
The tank enables you to find those areas you are holding tense so you can let go.
When you start to float you are free from all the gravity computations and the physical world, which leaves the brain free to attend to other matters.
The tank creates a state of sensory relaxation as the mind and body are shielded from all external stimulation.
Why is it called sensory deprivation?
When you get inside, you won’t see, hear, smell, taste, or feel anything.
When you float on top of the water, your body can take a break from maintaining its posture so your body can relax all of its muscles.
The saltwater will hold your head upright, providing relief for your back, shoulders, and neck. Imagine relaxing your arms, ears, toes, and everything in between.
Many people don’t even think about or notice this, but our clothes hug our bodies and rub against our skin all day. We recommend forgoing all clothes and swimsuits so your skin can truly blend into the salt water and you can experience complete sensory deprivation for the first time in your life (since you were in the womb!).
This is a nice break for your body and mind.
Are float tanks claustrophobic?
People who say they are afraid to use the tank because they are claustrophobic probably assume they will be confined in an enclosed space without control.
You can use the tank with the door open if you wish and are in complete control of the situation.
You can get in and out whenever you want.
In our experience, most people who are afraid of being claustrophobic find they are okay once they are in the tank.
What does a float tank do for your body?
Chronic pain relief
Reduce insomnia
Accelerate healing
Strengthen the immune system
Reduce daily stress on the body
Improve athletic performance
Improve circulation
Reduce blood pressure
Plus, Epsom salt is 20% magnesium. The skin naturally absorbs magnesium while you float, helping to regulate the body’s magnesium levels, which leads to many additional health benefits.
What does a flotation therapy do for your mind?
Spark creativity
Encourages deeper meditations
Relieves depression and anxiety
Accelerates learning
Strengthens visualization
Enhances happiness and well-being
What does it feel like inside a float tank?
Floating in a sensory deprivation tank can feel different for everybody.
Most people describe feelings of weightlessness and serenity.
By definition, sensory deprivation means you can’t feel anything.
Can you listen to music in the float tank?
We have underwater speakers that will play meditative music for the first 10 minutes of the float and Tibetan chimes at the end to signal that your session is over.
If you would like to have relaxing music play the whole time, just ask. We have a variety of meditative sounds to choose from.
Are floatation tanks scary?
Many people have some fear or concern before they use a flotation tank for the first time.
Fears of flotation tanks include being alone in the dark, drowning, not having enough air, claustrophobia, and others.
The fears are usually the thought or the idea that YOU won't be in control of the situation, but in this situation, you are totally in control.
While at some times, it may feel a bit overwhelming to be in a completely dark and quiet environment. It may help to keep your eyes closed during the duration of the float to avoid disorientation.
While some may find it a bit strange at first, you will likely get used to it and be able to relax after the first few minutes.
You can go in and out of the tank as you please, and open the door at any time.
There is no particular way to use the tank that is more correct than another.
Any way you float, that is comfortable for you, is the correct way to float.
How often are floatation tanks cleaned?
The water in our float tanks is sterilized after every session through a UV light and water filtration system.
UV is the safest, most effective system available and uses the same technology as water purification systems used for drinking water.
We are constantly adding more salt and fresh water to the tanks.
By nature, Epsom salt is anti-bacterial. There are more than 1,000 pounds of medical-grade Epsom salt dissolved in the tank - a concentration so high no living microorganism can survive.
To maintain cleanliness, a shower is mandatory before floating.
Also, we use a solution of 35% Hydrogen Peroxide to wipe down the tanks at least twice a week.
We have a water filtration specialist who comes by weekly to clean the filters and test the water for pH and water quality.
Can you sleep in a sensory deprivation chamber?
Yes, some people fall asleep in the tank while they float.
The relaxing environment that the tank provides often allows the brain to produce theta waves, which is what the brain produces as you fall asleep and briefly when you wake.
It is safe and natural to fall asleep in the tank.
Your face (eyes, mouth, nose) will naturally float above water the whole time, even if you fall asleep.
It is very difficult to roll over in the tank because of the density of the solution.
Plus, if any of the salt solution gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, you will wake up immediately.
Even those who say they never sleep on their backs in bed are often able to fall asleep in the tank.
What do you do in a sensory deprivation tank?
After taking a quick shower to rinse off your body, you’ll put earplugs in, and climb into the flotation tank.
There is a bar at the top of the tank to hold onto as you get into the tank.
Once you’re in, lay back and test the waters. You’ll notice that your ears are below the water, and your eyes, nose, and mouth will naturally stay above water.
Each person will find whatever position is most comfortable for them. Some people float with their hands at their sides, some with hands folded across their chest or abdomen, or behind their heads.
You may float with the door open or closed, eyes open or closed.
Float tanks are a great place for meditation, regardless of meditation experience.
Float the way it is comfortable for you and explore what is best for you.
Does flotation therapy work?
There have been many scientific studies on the effects of sensory deprivation. Research suggests that it is effective for treating depression, anxiety, insomnia, and even aches and pains.
Some people feel fantastic after their first float however, it may take multiple sessions before you begin feeling the positive effects of floatation therapy.
You may find it difficult to relax or get comfortable during your first float, which is common because our minds are used to constant stimulation. Like anything, practice makes perfect. After a few sessions, your mind will get used to the environment, so it can focus on healing. Experienced floaters can enter a state of deep relaxation after only a few minutes.
How do I know if flotation therapy is for me?
To know for sure, you’ll just have to try it. Floating is not for everybody. It is also not a miracle cure-all. There is a lot of research in favor of its profound benefits for the mind and body. If you are curious about it, test it out for yourself.