The Ultimate Escape: Sensory Deprivation in NYC

What better way to escape from the commotion of New York City than by stepping into a world of tranquility and peace? In recent years, float tanks have become the ultimate haven for unwinding and rejuvenating. By removing external stimuli such as light, sound, and even gravity, these tanks offer an unforgettable experience for those seeking a break from the chaos of everyday life.

In NYC, where the pace seemingly never slows down, sensory deprivation provides a much-needed retreat for the mind, body, and soul. Float effortlessly in salt-infused water, and let your worries drift away. The absence of external sensory input in a float tank allows your mind to enter a deep state of relaxation: alleviating stress, reducing anxiety, and promoting mental clarity.

Whether you're seeking relief from an overstimulating environment, exploring mindfulness practices, or simply looking for a way to disconnect from the outside world, sensory deprivation offers an escape like no other.

What Are Sense Deprivation Tanks?

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Sensory deprivation tanks, also known as isolation tanks or floatation therapy tanks, are enclosed cabins filled with water and Epsom salt to create a buoyant environment. The tanks are designed to eliminate all external stimuli, including light, sound, and gravity, and allow the user to float effortlessly in a state of weightlessness.

The History of Sensory Deprivation Tanks

Though the idea of sensory deprivation has been around for centuries (with forms of isolation and sensory reduction being used for spiritual practices and psychological experiments), it wasn't until the 1950s that the first sensory deprivation tank was created by John C. Lilly.

Initially, the tanks were used primarily for research purposes, with Lilly studying the effects of sensory deprivation on the brain and consciousness. However, as the benefits of the tanks became more widely recognized, the tanks began to be used for relaxation, meditation, and beyond. Today, many people use them as a way to escape from the overstimulating world around them

Benefits of Sensory Deprivation Tank Therapy

The benefits of sensory deprivation tank therapy are numerous, with people reporting a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional health benefits including:

Pain relief - The weightlessness and buoyancy of the tank can help to relieve pressure on joints and muscles, making it an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Stress reduction - The absence of external stimuli allows the mind to enter a state of deep relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety levels and promoting feelings of tranquility.

Improved sleep - Many users report improved sleep quality (and duration) following their time in a float tank, with some even experiencing lucid dreaming!

Increased creativity - The deep state of relaxation and reduced sensory input can help to boost creativity and enhance problem-solving abilities.

Enhanced meditation - The tank provides a distraction-free environment for meditation, allowing you to deepen your practice and achieve a greater level of mindfulness.

How Float Tanks Work

Sensory deprivation tanks work by eliminating all external stimuli and allowing the body and mind to enter a state of relaxation and stillness. The float room tanks are filled with water that is heated to body temperature and infused with Epsom salt, which creates an environment that allows you to float effortlessly.

Once inside the tank, you can close the door to create complete darkness and silence, further enhancing the sensory deprivation experience (though you do have the option to keep the light on!) The lack of external stimuli allows the mind to enter a state of deep relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety levels and promoting feelings of calm and tranquility.

What To Expect During A Float Therapy Session

Before entering the float tank, you will have time to set your intentions for your session while you enjoy a selection from our dose menu. You'll then be led to your private room for your float.

At first, you may feel a bit anxious or claustrophobic, but this will usually pass within a few minutes as you become accustomed to your surroundings. Once you are comfortable, you can start to relax and let your mind drift.

Most sensory deprivation tank sessions last between an hour and 2 hours, although some centers offer shorter or longer sessions depending on the facility (and your preferences). During your appointment, you may experience a range of sensations, including feelings of weightlessness, tingling, and warmth.

After your float is over, you will shower again to remove the salt from your skin and hair, and make your way to our lobby to enjoy a post-float drink and reflect on your experience.

Preparing For Your Float

Avoid caffeine and heavy foods before your appointment - These can interfere with your ability to relax and enter a state of stillness.

Practice mindfulness beforehand - This can help to prepare your mind for your experience.

Don't worry about falling asleep - Many people fall asleep during their floatation therapy session, and that's perfectly fine and safe!

Experiment with different positions - Some find it helpful to stretch or move around in the tank to release tension in their muscles.

Sensory Deprivation Tank NYC: Find Your Float Center

There are several isolation tank centers located throughout New York City, each very different and offering a range of tanks and services.

Lift / Next Level Floats

Located in Brooklyn, Lift / Next Level Floats offers a variety of float tanks, including 3 closed pods and an Ocean Float Room. Float pods are generally more compact than tanks, with an enclosed egg-shaped or pod-like structure. This can be less accommodating for people who have claustrophobia.

Vessel Floats

Vessel Floats, similarly to Lift Floats, is the only other wellness studio in NYC that specializes in sensory deprivation therapy exclusively. The largest float center on the East Coast, we have 6 large walk-in flotation tanks with 8' ceilings throughout (no coffin-like pods here!) When you come in for your float session, you'll have ample time for changing and showers, as well as an included pre-float dose and post-float reflection drink.

Holos NYC (Formerly Infinity Float)

Holos NYC (Formerly Infinity Float) is a wellness center which offers floating in addition to Theraphi, Hyperthermic Ozone and Carbonic Acid Transdermal Technology, Quantum Flo and other alternative forms of wellness.

Pricing of Float Therapy Centers in NYC

The cost of a sensory deprivation tank session in the city can vary greatly depending on the center and the length of the session. Many centers offer packages that can help to reduce the cost per session. Our standard and unlimited memberships are a great budget-friendly way to incorporate sensory deprivation into your routine!

Incorporating Sensory Deprivation Into Your Life

If you're someone who's looking for a way to escape from the chaos of everyday life and find a deeper sense of relaxation and stillness, don't be afraid to try float therapy! Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain, stress, anxiety, or simply looking to enhance your meditative practice, sensory deprivation offers a unique and transformative experience.

By immersing yourself in the weightless, sensory-free environment of a sensory deprivation tank, you can allow your mind and body to relax. We can't think of a better way to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City!