HEALTHY BENEFITS
BY SANDI SCHWARTZ
FLOAT AWAY
I magine closing your eyes and being transported to a tranquil world, as if you are floating on a fluffy cloud. You haven’t a care in the world as you feel weightless and calm in a silent space far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can enjoy the profound benefits and captivating experience of float therapy (also known as sensory deprivation or isolation tank therapy) at a spa or float center in your city.
TAKE THE PLUNGE The experience involves relaxing in water that is about 10 inches deep in a dark, private room or tank for 45 to 90 minutes per session. You easily float because of the high concentration of Epsom salt in the water that creates a buoyant environment. Float therapy is so healing and calming because of the weightlessness and sensory deprivation. By removing sound, light, and other outside stimuli, you can focus on the moment. BLOW OFF STEAM Float therapy triggers mindfulness. During floating, our brain actually transitions from a waking state to a state of deep meditative consciousness, similar to the moment between waking and sleeping. It can alter our brain waves and reduce stress hormones, resulting in lower heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure, while improving overall well-being. RIDE THE WAVE Here are some tips to get the most out of your floating experience. After a quick orientation by staff, you will be led
to a private area where you can shower and change into a swimsuit or disposable suit provided by the center. The floating chamber is either part of this room or in a separate area down the hall. You will be given earplugs to wear during the session to keep the water out of your ears and a floating device to use under your neck to keep your head afloat. You will be able to adjust the lighting and music inside the tank. The chamber door can be either closed or left ajar, depending on your comfort level. Once you’re left alone, the timer begins. Some people prefer to meditate to music, while others enjoy total silence. This is your special time to lay back, relax, and get lost in the moment. When the session is over, you shower to remove all the salt. You may also be provided with a special moisturizer to apply after floating so the salt does not dry out your skin. Drink plenty of water the rest of the day to stay hydrated. Whether you decide to try float therapy once, add it to your weekly or monthly self-care routine, or enjoy it on your next vacation, you can find float centers at floatationlocations.com.
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