Float therapy relieves stress and anxiety. It offers multiple other health benefits.
How is float therapy performed?
Float therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or isolation therapy, is a treatment that involves floating in a specialized tank filled with saltwater. The water is heated to the same temperature as the air. The tank is designed to be completely dark and soundproof. This creates a sense of weightlessness and isolation, allowing the mind and body to relax and unwind. Float therapy effectively reduces anxiety, stress, and many other health concerns.
How does float therapy work?
The sensory deprivation aspect of the treatment allows the mind to quiet, and the lack of external stimuli can help the body relax. The water’s weightlessness and buoyancy also help relieve physical tension and pain.
Why should I consider trying float therapy?
Float therapy can be a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Flotation therapy tanks are beneficial for stress-related conditions like high blood pressure, tension headaches, and muscle pain. It can also be helpful for those with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and other conditions. Float therapy has several other benefits, including improved sleep, enhanced creativity, and increased focus and concentration. Float therapy is beneficial for individuals who have the following concerns:
- Chronic pain
- Tension headaches
- Muscle tension
- High blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Insomnia or other sleep disorders
Float Therapy has multiple mental health benefits. It helps relieve:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress levels high
- Fear-driven phobias
- Substance abuse disorder
With time and practice, you can learn to let go of your worries and stress and allow yourself to relax and unwind fully. If you’re interested in trying float therapy, consider visiting a specialized float center or spa near you.
What is it like to experience float therapy?
To experience float therapy, you must visit a specialized float center or spa. The treatment typically occurs in a float tank, a large, enclosed tub filled with water and Epsom salts. The water is heated to the same temperature as the skin, and the tank is designed to be completely dark and soundproof. Epsom salts contain magnesium, a naturally occurring relaxing element.
You will shower before entering the tank to remove any oils or lotions from your skin. You will remove your clothes and jewelry.
Once inside the tank, you will lie back and float on the water. Most people find it easiest to float on their backs with their arms and legs outstretched, but you can also float in any comfortable position. The concentration of Epsom salt allows you to float effortlessly, and the darkness and silence help to create a sense of relaxation and isolation.
What emotions might I experience during the treatment?
Depending on who you are, it can be frightening or exciting to experience float therapy. There are many benefits to float therapy, but everyone will react differently. During the float therapy session, you may experience a range of sensations, from deep relaxation to moments of anxiety or discomfort. This range of emotions is normal. It’s essential to let go of any expectations and allow yourself to experience the sensations without judgment. If you start feeling anxious or uncomfortable, try focusing on your breath or repeating a calming mantra. While many studies on the effects of floating therapy have shown little to no side effects, some people have reported experiencing hallucinations in the tank.
What should I expect after undergoing float therapy?
After the float therapy session, you will shower again and get dressed. Many people report feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after the therapy; some may experience a mild euphoric sensation. After the treatment, it is essential to take it easy and adjust to the outside world.
Is float therapy safe?
Float therapy is safe for most people, including children. Avoid float therapy if you have open wounds or cuts until they heal. Avoid float therapy if you have any infectious diseases. If you are pregnant, have a heart condition, or have other medical concerns, it’s best to consult your doctor before trying float therapy. No one with an uncontrolled seizure disorder should use a float therapy tank. Individuals with a history of hallucinations or claustrophobia are fearful of small spaces. Avoid alcohol and other drugs to decrease the risk of drowning.
How quickly will I see benefits?
Research is ongoing about float therapy and its benefits. Participants suffering from depression and anxiety can experience significant improvements in their moods after a one-hour session in a floating therapy tank.
How often can I practice float therapy?
You can do float therapy every day. Many people see the best results with just one to two weekly sessions.
Are there any side effects to floating therapy?
Adverse side effects of float therapy are infrequent. Some people may experience nausea after their first session. However, some may feel nausea after the first session. However, this will typically subside quickly.
How much does float therapy cost?
Prices for float therapy vary.
- They are typically between fifty to one hundred dollars per session
- Many float therapy providers offer discounted packages for multiple sessions
- Float therapy is not reimbursable by health insurance plans
Are there any benefits to purchasing a float tank for home use?
You may or may not save money by purchasing a float tank. Tanks range significantly from a couple of thousand dollars to over $30 000. But you also get comfort and convenience from having one. You can see below why floating at your home may be preferable to a float spa.
- You can relax throughout the treatment without having to travel
- You may feel more comfortable being naked at home
- You can decide the frequency and duration of your sessions.
- You can quickly recover your float tank cost by having more sessions. You may recoup the cost in as little as one to two years, compared to spending the same amount or more at spas.
Summary
Flotation therapy is an effective treatment option for many health conditions. Researchers created the first flotation therapy tanks over sixty years ago to help people with anxiety and depression. Although some people should not use the tanks, they have been studied extensively and reported to have few adverse effects.
Many people have found floating therapy to be highly beneficial. However, others may find it daunting due to the small space. No matter if you’ve tried float therapy before, whether you are considering it or have never done it yet, people with different health conditions can benefit from regular sessions of float therapy.
