What is the tank like?
The tank is a large fibreglass capsule, approximately 1.5m high with a large, easy to open sliding door. Inside the tank is a 30cm deep, 25% epsom salt solution that is kept at a constant relaxed skin temperature of 34.6°C. The density of the solution ensures anyone can & will float effortlessly. The air in the tank is also maintained at skin temperature so your mind does not sense a difference between your body & the air or water surrounding it.
If you are someone who tends to feel the cold more than others – it’s a good idea to let us know as we can increase the temperature in the room.
Do I have to close the lid?
You don’t have to close the lid if you are claustrophobic or worried for any reason. If you leave the lid open, you may feel cooler, so please let us know if you think you will have the door open and we will monitor the room temperature accordingly.
Many people who are worried that they will feel claustrophobic find that once they are in the tank and see how much space there is and how easy the door is to open/close, they are not worried at all. When you first get in we recommend you sit down and close and open the door a few times to see how easy it is to help you feel more comfortable.
Do I need to wear bathers?
No, you do not need to wear bathers as you will be floating in complete privacy, much as you would if you had a bath in your own home! We don’t recommend wearing bathers or underwear as these can be uncomfortable and apply pressure to your skin which is detrimental to the tank concept of limiting your sensory distractions.
What if I can’t float or swim?
There is no need to be able to swim as the water is only 30cm deep. Anyone – even those people who say they are unable to float in pools or the ocean can float effortlessly in the tank due to the high concentration of salt & increased density of the water.
If you are afraid of water however it is worth mentioning this at your time of booking.
What do I need to bring?
You only need to bring yourself, a hair tie and any of your personal toiletries/make-up/hairbrush that you may need for after your session. If you have come straight from work or physical exercise you might want to bring a fresh change of clothes for afterwards. We provide one towel, body products & earplugs.
Is the water changed each time?
No, the solution is thoroughly filtered between each client for at least 30 minutes (ample time for the entire solution to pass through the filter 3 times) much like a pool or spa would be filtered. The salt solution contains a large quantity of high quality epsom salts and it would not be viable/possible to change it each time. It is so heavily saturated that it takes a significant amount of time for the all the salt to absorb. Our water & salt are topped up daily/weekly as required. The entire solution is changed 2 – 3 times a year (much more frequently than most float centres).
We test and record the bromine, pH and alkalinity levels in the tank twice daily and adjust as necessary to comply with the relevant regulations governing ‘pools’ and to ensure the health and safety of all our clients. We are regularly inspected by our Councils Environmental Health Inspector/Representative.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t float?
Anyone suffering from the following is advised not to float for their own safety as well as the safety of all clients:
Epilepsy ~Extreme low blood pressure ~Cryptosporidium ~Contagious disease or Infectious skin conditions, including infected wounds / skin opening ~Large open wounds ~Diarrhoea or Gastroenteritis (Anyone with these sorts of symptoms should not float whilst symptoms persist & for up to 21 days after).
Anyone with the following conditions is advised to check with their health practitioner prior to floating:
Heart condition ~Asthma ~Allergies to salts, bromine, magnesium ~Severe skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema) ~Mental illness ~Psychosis ~ Pregnancy.
All clients should be aware that advice from a medical practitioner should be obtained before using the flotation tank after recently suffering an infectious illness. If you or your health practitioner would like more information, please do not hesitate to email/ call us.
What if I have my period?
For hygiene reasons anyone who is menstruating we ask you not to float & reschedule your appointment for another time.
Can two people float together?
It is physically possible for two people to float together, but we do not permit more than one person in the tank at a time. Once you have floated you will realise that the experience is quite personal and worrying about disturbing someone else lying next to you really defeats the purpose of the experience.
What if I don’t like it?
If you are not enjoying your experience in the tank, then you can get out at any time. If you are at all concerned, then please let us know and we can discuss this with you and suggest alternatives such as not closing the lid if you are claustrophobic or playing the introductory music throughout your experience.
How will I know when it’s time to get out?
You can discuss with the person operating the tank for you regarding the sound that you would like whilst in the tank (you may even be able to bring along something of your own on your phone or Ipod – enquire when booking your appointment) & whether you would like no sound to start with, sound the whole way through, etc. Depending on what you choose, you will be aware of it being time to get out by either the music gently coming back on or turning off. We also have lights within the tank that we can turn on to indicate to you that it’s time to hop out.
How often should I float?
There are no rules as to how often you should float, however when you start floating, it is ideal if you are able to manage several floats within a fairly short time say one float per week or fortnight for 3-5 sessions. We know that this isn’t always possible however & most people will find they feel real benefit from even just one float.
For long-term benefits, it is preferable to float regularly (monthly, fortnightly or weekly) to help maintain reduced stress levels, muscle tension & improve overall well-being rather than using it as a reactionary treatment when stress & tension levels are already high. The common sense approach that prevention is better than cure also applies to floating.
Is it beneficial to have a massage/ infrared sauna & float together? If so, which order should I do it in?
A compression massage or sauna session before your float is an amazingly relaxing experience. It is best to sauna before your float, You can massage either before or after your float, though we do find it it more relaxing if you massage first particularly if it’s your first float. We use the Normatec pneumatic compression full-body suit. Normatec not only relaxes the body, it removes lactic acid build-up, assists with removing fluid retention and it’s one of the firmest lymphatic drainage massages you can have!
We find that clients who have experienced this combination once will book in again as many of them claim that it is the most relaxing experience they have ever had. Most clients who experience a float combined with a sauna or compression massage will leave feeling like they are walking on clouds & even look younger (due to the lack of tension being held in their facial muscles).
Whether to have a massage or sauna combined with your float is personal preference.
Either way – it is a wonderful experience!
FAQs
Does your hair get wet during float therapy? ›
+ Do I have to get my hair wet? Yes, it is IMPOSSIBLE to keep your hair dry during a float session, even if you wear a swim cap (many people have tried!). If your hair comes in contact with the water (as it inevitably will.)
What happens if you shave before float therapy? ›Shaving before a float can cause an itchy sensation during your session which will keep your mind preoccupied and active instead of relaxed and meditative.
Should I shower before float therapy? ›You also do need to shower before and after getting in the tank, so if you have special toiletries you want, you should bring those, too. If you have long hair, you might want to bring a brush. (We do provide soap, shampoo, and towels.)
How do I protect my hair from a float tank? ›You want to minimize the exposure your hair has to the Epsom salt in a floatation therapy tank. If you didn't use a swim cap, use a clarifying shampoo to remove the salt and buildup from your hair. It's also a good idea to shower with warm water to rinse out the salt.
Should you shower after floating? ›A post-float shower ensures that all salt is removed from your body. If you stepped out of the pod and went straight home, you'd develop a thick crust of white salt from head to toe! Best to wash that off before you leave.
What not to do before floating? ›Avoid caffeine or any stimulants 4-6 hours ahead of your float. That can interrupt the relaxation response! Have a bit of food on your stomach. A snack or small meal 60-90 minutes ahead of time can reduce the chances of your belly growling, which turns out is a super loud disruption when you're in the tank.
Why cant you do float therapy on your period? ›Women who are younger, older or in full swing of their menstruation cycle seem to be at a higher risk of irritation due to pH and hormone changes. Applying a layer of petroleum jelly (aka Vasaline) over the labia will prevent water from making full contact and minimize the irritation.
Can you lose weight from float therapy? ›Floatation Therapy is an effective tool as part of a weight reduction program, as it can be beneficial on many different levels. Not only is it incredibly useful in assisting weight loss, it is also helpful for overcoming habits and addictions such as being able to quit smoking or stop drinking alcohol.
What is best time of day for a float? ›Some people do much better floating in the early morning, while others have the most profound floats late at night. At certain times of day, you might feel more alert and energized, while other times you leave your float ready to relax and unwind even more.
Can I fall asleep in a float? ›The short answer is yes – falling asleep in a float tank does happen, although it's much less likely than you think. And even if you do nod off, the chances are your brain is in a state of hypnagogia – that is, the state between clear-headed wakefulness and slumber.
What are the disadvantages of float therapy? ›
Are there any side effects? Users may experience a heightened sense of smell, sound and light after a float session. First time users may experience nausea. Skin should not wrinkle as Epsom salts have an emollient (softening and soothing) effect.
Why am I tired after floating? ›Floating has been shown to alter brain wave activity leading to a deep shift in consciousness akin to light sleep which is where blood pressure and heart rate drops. It's a deeply restful state.
Do you wear anything in a float tank? ›The idea of floating is sensory deprivation and to maximise this experience most people don't wear anything when they float– just think of the tank as a big bathtub – though you can wear a swimsuit if you prefer.
Can you float on your period? ›Yes, you can float while menstruating. Just treat it like going to a swimming pool while on your period. Pro tip: if you happen to be using a tampon, consider coating the string with petroleum jelly (provided in the room) to prevent salt water from wicking into the tampon.
Does your face get wet in a float tank? ›It is recommended to dry your face and hairline well before entering the float tank, even though you will be getting wet again. A wet face can be distracting and itchy as the water moves or evaporates. Minimizing touching of the face is also advised.
Can you wear a shower cap in a float tank? ›Can I wear a bathing cap? Yes, if you choose, but it won't keep your hair dry. The compression required to successfully do so would be uncomfortable and distract you during your float.
Should I wash my hair before float therapy? ›You are required to shower before your float. A pre-float shower reduces the introduction of contaminants (lotions, shampoo, detergents, etc.) into the Float Pod. This shower also allows you an additional opportunity to be sure that your hair dye is not running.
What is the rule of floating? ›When a body floats in a liquid, the weight of the liquid displaced by its immersed part is equal to the total weight of the body. This is the law of floatation, i.e. while floating the weight of the floating body = Weight of the liquid displaced by its immersed part.
What is the best position to float? ›BEHIND YOUR HEAD
Rest your neck and head by placing your arms upward, keeping your hands underneath your head for support. Let your head fall into your arms, which will be supported by the buoyant water.
Those with more body fat and less muscle usually float more easily. On average females have a higher body fat % 21-24% than males 15%-20%. Consequently females generally float more easily than males. You can enhance your floating by inhaling and holding your breath until you have to exhale then inhale quickly.
Why do I feel sick after float therapy? ›
The tanks have a high content of salt, which can irritate the skin of first-time floaters. Regular visits will reduce this sensation. Post-Float: Why do I feel nauseous? It is the release of tension from the stomach and abdomen.
Can float tanks cause yeast infections? ›It can cause diaper rash in infants or vaginal yeast infections in women. Some women who have had thrush while floating reported stinging in their lower bits. It's best to wait until the thrush is resolved before scheduling time in the tank.
Do you wear a swimsuit for float therapy? ›What Do You Wear to Float Therapy? Float therapy is a strictly private experience. Although you may choose to wear a bathing suit, anything pressing against your skin can provide a distraction during your float. For this reason, we recommend that you don't wear any clothing.
Does float therapy help with inflammation? ›The primary benefits of float therapy are reducing inflammation in your muscles and joints and freeing your mind of distractions.
Does float therapy release toxins? ›Floating in a tank can also relieve migraines and provide stress relief and detoxification since Epsom salts are high in magnesium, which can remove harmful substances such as free radicals from your body.
What are the long term effects of float therapy? ›One of the best benefits of long term float therapy is that it can help improve your sleep quality. It is reported that spending around 90 minutes in a floatation tank can be compared to feeling like you are getting a full nights sleep and is very refreshing, therapeutic and rejuvenating.
Should I listen to music while floating? ›For the best float tank experience, effortlessly buoyant atop super saturated salt water, there are a few key considerations. Silence. Having silence, or an absence of ambient noise, is crucial. While the option to listen to music is a choice while floating, silence offers a way to go even deeper.
What is the best shape to float on water? ›Hollow, wide and long shapes are more buoyant because they have a larger surface area than compact shapes, such as a sphere. This means that in addition to density, shape also plays a role in an object's ability to float, because it can make use of the power of buoyancy.
Do you tip at a float spa? ›The usual tip for an hour service is $20. If you are doing a couples massage it would be $40, $20 for each masseuse. The average on a float session is about $8-10.
How long should I float first time? ›We recommend 60 or 90 minutes for first time floaters. As you become more experienced and aware of the effects, you may find that 60 or 90 minutes are effective. Others may want to float for 2, 3, or more hours.
Why can't you shave before a float? ›
Shave or wax within the 12 hours prior to your session – The salty environment of the tank means that any waxed/shaved areas will STING!!! Drink caffeine or other stimulant drinks before your session – These will make it difficult for you to relax into the tank environment.
What happens to your body when you float? ›Float Therapy Reduces High Blood Pressure
The body is completely relieved of contact points and pressure when floating with no gravity. This allows your blood vessels to dilate fully, immediately lower your blood pressure and maximizes how much oxygen, red blood cells, and blood your body is receiving.
Yes your hair will get wet while in our float pods. To prevent any tactile distractions, we recommend not using a shower cap or swim cap in the float pod (it won't hold the water out anyway). We ask that you shampoo your hair before your float to remove any dirt, oils or products that may contaminate the water.
Do you wear a bathing suit in a float tank? ›What Do You Wear to Float Therapy? Float therapy is a strictly private experience. Although you may choose to wear a bathing suit, anything pressing against your skin can provide a distraction during your float. For this reason, we recommend that you don't wear any clothing.
What not to do in a float tank? ›Don't shave or wax on the day of the float as the mineral laced solution that helps you float can irritate tender skin. Eat only a light meal before your float session as a large meal just before you float can cause noisy distractions. Avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol on the day of your session.
What time of day is best for float tank? ›Some people do much better floating in the early morning, while others have the most profound floats late at night. At certain times of day, you might feel more alert and energized, while other times you leave your float ready to relax and unwind even more.
How do you dress for floating? ›The idea of floating is sensory deprivation and to maximise this experience most people don't wear anything when they float– just think of the tank as a big bathtub – though you can wear a swimsuit if you prefer.
What should I bring to my float? ›Make sure you bring everything you need.
No swimsuit is necessary and we supply paraben-free & sulfate-free bath products, towels, earplugs, bathrobe, spa slippers, q-tips and even some vaseline should you have a small cut that needs to be protected from burning salt-water.
What is a floatation tank? A floatation tank (float tank) is a lightless, soundproof tank which is partially filled with salty water and is heated to outer skin temperature (approximately 35°C).
Do you close your eyes in a float tank? ›You shouldn't. Most of the time, our eyes are closed, but floating in the dark with our eyes open is one of the inherent beauties of floating, and a way to distract a busy mind. Seeing light affects the experience.
Can you get infections from float tanks? ›
Floatation Tank Filtration and Disinfection
32 Many floatation tanks also incorporate a UV disinfection unit that disinfects the water as it is recirculated. In these cases, the risk of infection is typically low, as UV systems are highly effective at destroying microorganisms in solution.
Just Breathe
When you're inside the tank, draw in deep breaths through the nose until your lungs can't hold anymore. Hold the air for a moment before slowly releasing it through your nose or mouth. Try to get a steady rhythm going – there are no “max repetitions” for this meditative exercise.
The salt water is not harmful. We provide you with earplugs if you desire; however, these are unnecessary but if you do use them, we recommend placing them in your ears before your shower for easier maneuvering.