Unplug and Unwind With Sense Deprivation

Feeling overwhelmed? In need of a break from the constant noise and distractions of everyday life? Look no further than sensory deprivation, one of the few ways to actually unplug, unwind, and truly disconnect from the outside world.

Floating in a tank filled with saltwater, your senses are deprived of external stimuli, which harbors an environment of complete relaxation and tranquility. The warm temperature of the water and the absence of light and sound provide an amazing escape from city life.

Don't let the chaos of everyday life consume you; take the time to rejuvenate your mind and body in a sense deprivation tank near you.

What is a Sensory Deprivation Tank?

A sensory deprivation tank, also known as an isolation tank or floatation therapy tank, is a soundproof, lightproof tank filled with saltwater. The water is heated to skin temperature (93.5° F), making it almost impossible to feel where your body ends and the salt water begins. The tank is designed to create an environment of sensory deprivation, allowing you to shut out the outside world and focus solely on your own thoughts and sensations.

Benefits of Sensory Deprivation Tanks

Sensory deprivation tanks can offer a wide range of benefits, both for your physical and mental well-being.

Stress Relief

One of the most common reasons people use sensory deprivation is to relieve stress. When you're floating in a tank, your brain is able to relax and let go of the worries and stressors of everyday life. The absence of external stimuli allows your body and mind to enter a meditative state, reducing stress hormones and promoting a sense tranquility.

Pain Relief

Float therapy can be an effective tool for those looking to manage chronic body pain. The weightlessness of floating in the tank takes the pressure off your joints and muscles, while the warm water helps to soothe aches and pains. The relaxation response triggered by floating in the tank can also help to reduce muscle tension and alleviate joint pain.

Improved Sleep

Many find that floating in a sensory deprivation tank helps them to sleep better. The relaxation and stress relief provided by the tank can help not only to improve sleep, but also to calm a racing mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. People have even reported experiencing lucid dreaming or enhanced dream recall after using a float tank.

Increased Creativity and Focus

Sensory deprivation has also been said to improve creativity and focus. By shutting out external distractions, your mind is free to explore new ideas and make connections that might not be possible in a busy and noisy environment. Many people find that they come out of the tank feeling refreshed, energized, and more focused than before!

How Does A Sensory Deprivation Tank Work?

So, how does a floatation tank work? When you enter the float tank, you lie down in the water, which is heated to skin temperature and infused with Epsom salt. The high concentration of salt makes the water incredibly buoyant, allowing you to float effortlessly without any effort.

The tank is soundproof and lightproof, which creates an environment of total sensory deprivation. This means that all external stimuli, such as light, sound, and touch, are eliminated, allowing your brain to enter a state of relaxation. The warmth and weightlessness of the water create a sense of safety and comfort, while the absence of external stimuli allows your mind to enter a state of introspection and relaxation.

Finding A Sense Deprivation Tank Near Me

If you're interested in trying a sensory deprivation tank for yourself, the first step is to find a float room or float center near you. While there are many wellness centers that offer sensory deprivation as part of their services, they each vary greatly in their offerings. We at Vessel are 1 of only 2 float centers in NYC that exclusively offer sensory deprivation, and are the largest on the East Coast!

Pre-Float

So, what can you expect during a sensory deprivation tank session?

Clothing - Many facilities recommend that you float in the float tank nude, as clothing can interfere with the sensory deprivation experience. However, if you're uncomfortable with this, you can of course wear a swimsuit in the float tank.

Showering - Before entering the tank, you'll be asked to shower using our charcoal body wash to remove any oils or lotions from your skin.

Floating - Once you're in the float tank, you'll lie back and let the water do the work. The high concentration of salt in the water makes it almost impossible to sink, so you'll float effortlessly on the surface. You can choose to keep the float tank door open or closed, depending on your comfort level.

Time - Most sessions last 60 minutes, although you can choose a longer session depending on your preferences!

Post-Float

After your float session is over, you'll shower again to remove the saltwater from your skin. Many people report feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after a floating session, so take some time to enjoy the post-float glow in our lobby with a selection from our drink menu.

Getting The Most Out of Your Sensory Deprivation Tank Experience

Relax - The most important thing to remember when floating in a sensory deprivation tank is to relax. Let go of any expectations or worries and allow yourself to fully immerse in the entire experience.

Breathe - Take deep breaths throughout your session to help you relax and stay focused. This can also help to reduce anxiety.

Visualization - Some people find it helpful to visualize a calming image or scene during their session. This can help to quiet the mind.

Experiment - Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques or positions during your session. Try different breathing exercises or body positions to find what works best for you.

Float FAQs

Can I Fall Asleep in the Float Tank?

We commonly get asked, “What will happen if I accidentally fall asleep in a float tank?” And frankly, it's a good question! Yes – dozing off in a float tank is possible, although it’s surprisingly unlikely. What is common, however, is reaching a state of hypnagogia, or otherwise put, the space in between wakeful alertness and sleep. This state of mind is also called the Theta brain state—which we achieve during deep meditation, just before sleep, just before awakening, and during times of deep relaxation. This a lucid state of consciousness will often times be misunderstood as falling asleep, since it can be difficult to distinguish whether you’re awake or dreaming during this time.

All things considered, it is still possible to completely fall asleep in the tank. Rest assured, even if this were to happen, you are still completely safe. For starters, the tanks are only filled with about a foot of water, and the weight and buoyancy of your body in the epsom salts water make it nearly impossible to roll over (as a reminder—our tanks have 1,500 lbs of dissolved epsom salt in each tank—thats an even higher salt content than if you were float in the Dead Sea!).

Do People Ever Get Claustrophobic in the Float Tank?

It's a common misconception that sensory deprivation tanks can induce claustrophobia. That said, our tanks are designed to create a spacious and comfortable environment. Our tanks are 8 feet long and room-like, which is significantly larger than the coffin-like pods you may have heard of. Most people find the experience to be relaxing and non-restrictive, but if you're concerned about feeling claustrophobic, you can opt to leave the tank's door partially open during your session.

Do I Have To Be In Complete Silence and Darkness In The Floatation Tank?

Not at all! While you can choose complete sensory deprivation, we also have different sound baths and guided meditations to enhance your float if complete silence isn't your thing. You can also turn the sound/lights on and off throughout your session.

Do People Ever Experience Hallucinations in the Floatation Tank?

Yes, some people report having mild hallucinations during sensory deprivation sessions. These hallucinations are typically visual or auditory and are a result of the sensory isolation. Don't worry; they are not harmful and often add to the unique and profound experiences people have in the tank!

Is There a Time Limit for Sensory Deprivation Sessions?

Our standard float sessions are 60 minutes, although you can opt to extend your float to 3 hours!

Are There Age Restrictions for Using a Floatation Tank?

We don't have an age minimum, but we require that those under 16 be accompanied by an adult.

Can Float Therapy Enhance Athletic Performance?

Sensory deprivation tanks are sometimes used by athletes as part of their training and recovery routines. The relaxation and pain relief benefits can aid in muscle recovery and stress reduction.

Do You Really Float Naked in a Sensory Deprivation Tank?

Most people choose to float in the nude in the sensory deprivation tank because it allows for the most comfortable experience. However, if you prefer to wear a swimsuit, we recommend a tight-fitting suit.

Can You Share a Sensory Deprivation Tank with Someone Else?

While some floatation centers do offer larger float pools that can accommodate couples, we only permit people to float solo (trust us, it's much better experienced alone!) Instead, we recommend reflecting together after your float.

Can Floating Alter One's Perception of Time?

Many report that their perception of time is distorted in the tank. It may feel like the session is much shorter or longer than it actually is. This altered perception is a part of the unique and immersive experience of sensory deprivation.

Debunking Myths About Float Therapy

"Sensory Deprivation is Risky"

Sensory deprivation is completely safe when done in a professional setting with the right safeguards. The tanks are designed to keep you afloat, so there's no inherent danger. We also pride ourselves in having exceptionally clean facilities!

"You Can't Breathe during a Float Session"

There's no breathing trouble in floating the tank! The saltwater in the tank is super buoyant because of all the Epsom salt. You'll float easily on the surface and breathe normally.

"It's Claustrophobic"

Maybe in the old-fashioned coffin-like float pods, but our spacious float rooms have 8' ceilings to ensure comfort and avoid that cramped feeling. If you prefer, you can even leave the door ajar for a more open feel.

"You Can Get Trapped"

Don't worry, you won't get stuck in there; the tanks are made so that you can easily open them from the inside!

"It's Just Pseudoscience"

Sensory deprivation therapy has been studied by scientists and used in clinical settings. Research suggests it can help with relaxation, stress reduction, anxiety and pain management.

That said, personal experiences differ, and some might find sensory deprivation therapy a bit uncomfortable at first. As with any wellness practice, it's good to approach it with an open mind and consider your own preferences and health concerns. If you have specific medical worries, talking to a healthcare pro before giving it a try is a smart move.

These tanks have come a long way, and have a lot to offer when it comes to taking care of your physical and mental well-being. If you're looking for a way to unwind, manage pain, or even explore your inner self, sensory deprivation could be the perfect choice for you.