The Ultimate Guide to Floating: Discover the Benefits and Science Behind the Sensory Deprivation Tank
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to effortlessly float? Or maybe you've heard about the many benefits of float tanks and want to understand the science behind this unique experience.
Floating, also known as floatation therapy or sensory deprivation, has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous physical benefits and mental health benefits. From stress relief and pain reduction to improved sleep and enhanced creativity, the effects are truly remarkable.
What is Floatation Therapy?
Float Therapy is a form of Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) or Sensory Deprivation Therapy. When you enter a float tank, you are essentially removing all external stimuli, such as light, sound, scent, and gravity. This creates a unique environment that allows your brain to enter a deep state of relaxation and meditation.
History of Sensory Deprivation
Float tanks have a rich history that dates back to the 1950s, when the concept of the sensory deprivation tank was first introduced by Dr. John C. Lilly, a renowned neuroscientist. Dr. Lilly was interested in studying the effects of sensory deprivation and isolation on the human mind and consciousness. He developed the first float tank, also known as the sensory isolation tank, which allowed participants to float effortlessly in a pool of skin temperature water filled with Epsom salt.
The popularity of float therapy and tanks grew in the 1970s as more people began to discover the benefits of using flotation therapy and sensory deprivation tanks. Since then, flotation therapy and sensory deprivation tanks have evolved and become more accessible to the public. Today, they are widely used in wellness centers, spas, and even in some people's homes.
Benefits of Float Therapy
Floating offers a wide range of physical and mental benefits that can significantly improve your overall well-being. One of the primary benefits of floating is stress reduction; the weightlessness experienced in a float tank can help calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. This can lead to reduced stress levels and a greater sense of tranquility.
In addition to stress reduction, floating has been found to provide relief for many physical ailments. The buoyancy of your body in the water takes the pressure off your joints and muscles, providing relief for conditions such as chronic pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia. The high concentration of Epsom salt in the water also helps to soothe muscle soreness.
Floating has also been shown to improve sleep quality. The relaxation induced by the float tank experience can help the body regulate sleep patterns and promote a more restful night's sleep. This can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
The science behind an Isolation Tank
During a float session, your brain enters a state of theta waves, which are associated with deep relaxation and creativity. This state is often experienced during deep meditation or just before falling asleep. The absence of external stimuli allows your brain to enter this state more easily, leading to a heightened sense of awareness and a greater connection with your inner self.
The high concentration of Epsom salt in the float tank water plays a key role in floating. To be exact, there are 1,500 lbs of magnesium-rich dissolved Epsom Salt in each sensory deprivation tank (that’s a higher salt content than The Dead Sea)! Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is known for its muscle relaxant properties. The same epsom salt solution in water creates a buoyant environment that helps you float comfortably and effortlessly. Because Epsom salts are rich in magnesium, they greatly benefit:
Heart Health – Magnesium improves heart and circulatory health by preventing hardening of the arteries, increasing blood flow and lowering overall blood pressure.
Bone health – Magnesium helps assimilate calcium into the bones.
Joint Relief – Promotes lymph drainage
Relieve stress – Excess adrenaline and stress are believed to drain magnesium, a natural stress reliever, from the body. Magnesium helps bind serotonin, the happy hormone!
Migraines – Eases muscle tension and prevents migraine headaches.
Diabetes – Improved insulin sensitivity aids blood glucose control which can aid in prevention or severity of diabetes.
Relaxation – Elevates chemicals in the brain that works to create a feeling of mental clarity and relaxation.
Detoxification – Flushes toxins and heavy metals from the cells in the body. This in turn helps ease muscle pain and clear out harmful substances.
Preparing for sensory deprivation
Before your session, it's important to prepare both mentally and physically. Start by hydrating yourself adequately by drinking plenty of water. This will help ensure that you are well-hydrated before entering the float pod or flotation tank. It's also recommended to avoid caffeine and heavy meals before your float session, and to avoid shaving the day of your float.
When it comes to clothing, floating in the nude is recommended to maximize the sensory deprivation experience. However, if you feel more comfortable wearing a swimsuit, a tight fitting swimsuit is recommended.
Maximizing your float tank experience
To make the most out of your float tank experience, there are some tips to consider:
Set an intention - Before entering the float tank, take a moment to set an intention for your one hour float session. Whether it's to relax, let go of stress, or gain mental clarity, having a clear intention can enhance your experience. At Vessel Floats, we begin your journey with time to set your intention, as well as a selection from our menu of adaptogens, tonics, and elixirs designed to help amplify your desired experience in the sensory deprivation tank.
Practice deep breathing - Focus on your breath throughout the session. Deep, slow breaths can help relieve stress, calm the mind and deepen your relaxation.
Experiment with different positions - Find what feels most comfortable for you!
Inside the flotation tank
The water temperature in the float spa is carefully regulated to be the same temperature as your skin (93.5°), creating a seamless transition between your body and the water.
As you lie back and fully relax, you will quickly feel the sensation of weightlessness as the Epsom salt water supports your body. The absence of outside stimulation will allow your mind to wander freely, and you may experience a sense of deep relaxation.
Throughout your float session, it's normal to experience a range of sensations and thoughts. Some people report feeling a sense of euphoria, while others may feel a deep sense of peace. Your experience will be unique to you, and it's important to embrace whatever thoughts or emotions arise without judgment.
Different types of float tanks
Float tanks come in various shapes and sizes, each offering a slightly different experience. The most common types of float tanks are:
Open Float Pool - These tanks are spacious and open. Though these float pools do not offer a full sensory deprivation experience, as they’re subject to air draft and have no insulation to keep out noise and light, they do offer a spacious option for those looking to experience a sense of weightlessness.
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Float pods - Pod tanks are compact and provide a cocoon-like experience. By nature of their retractable ceiling, some users do complain of inconsistent air temperature (draftiness), occasional noise, and occasionally a greater likelihood for claustrophobia or a feeling of potentially getting stuck (see J-Law’s experience at Lift 😒).
Float Pod | Zero Gravity | Sensory Deprivation Tank
Float Cabins - Float cabins provide, in our opinion, the best of both worlds - a more intimate and secluded experience, while still remaining comfortably spacious. Float cabins, by being an entirely enclosed space are designed to block out all external light and sound, creating a true sensory deprivation environment. In addition, with 8' high ceilings, it’s much easier to feel a sense of openness for optimal comfort and relaxation.
Is float therapy right for you?
Floating is a truly transformative experience that offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Whether you're seeking stress reduction, pain relief, improved sleep, or enhanced creativity, floating can provide it all. It's a unique opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with your inner self.
Just as we prioritize exercise and self-care, integrating sensory deprivation can become a vital component of your wellness routine, providing a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life. We offer 2 different membership options to help you incorporate sensory deprivation into your regular practice. If you're ready to experience the sensation of weightlessness and relaxation, give floating a try; book your float and embark on a journey of serenity and rejuvenation.
