Sensory deprivation tanks aka isolation therapy or float therapy has become more popular over the past couple of years. My first time hearing about float tanks was in grad school. One assignment was to try a new wellness experience and share it with the class. Two of my classmates did a float and came to class talking about this weird silent experience they had in a water tank. A little over a year later, I finally took the plunge and did my first float.

What is sensory deprivation?

By definition it is “a process by which someone is deprived of normal external stimuli for an extended period of time”.

What is a sensory deprivation tank?

A float tank is used in restricted environmental stimulation therapy to eliminate all external stimuli. They are soundproof pods filled with warm salt water and is normally dark or has optional soft lighting. There’s not much water so you’re not swimming and it is warmed to body temperature so it becomes hard to tell what of your body is out of the water and what is submerged.

Benefits of floating

A 2016 study found that floating helps to improve physical and psychological recovery for athletes.

A couple of studies in 2018 found that floating can help treat and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

A 2014 study found that floating can help reduce symptoms of physical pain.

All of the epsom salt in the water is high in magnesium which helps to relieve chronic headaches and migraines and detoxify the body of free radicals. Free radicals are particles that can damage cells and increase inflammation, possibly leading to autoimmune disorders and cancer.

Floating can improve circulation by eliminating the effects of gravity on your muscles, bones and joints.

A 2014 study found that floating helps reduce blood pressure and heart rate

Lower levels of cortisol have also been reported

Studies

A 2016 study found that floating helps to improve physical and psychological recovery for athletes.
A couple of studies in 2018 found that floating can help treat and reduce symptoms of anxiety.
A 2014 study found that floating can help reduce symptoms of physical pain.
A 2014 study found that floating helps reduce blood pressure and heart rate

Ready to try floating?

I would recommend anyone interested in trying float tanks be prepared to go 2 times before coming to any conclusions. My first float was full of getting salt in my eyes, it takes some getting used to. The first float was a lot of uncertainty and tension in my body trying to float lol. This is silly because the amount of salt in the water will naturally keep you afloat. Groupon is a great place to find local deals for first time floaters. Whenever I’m trying out a new float spa, I look for a few things: relaxation room for after the session, welcoming staff and the room setup ie if there’s an aux setup to play music.

At this point, I do a float every month. It’s something I look forward to and am intentional about scheduling. I joined the membership at my local float spa which includes a monthly float and session at the oxygen bar afterwards. As a therapist, I talk to my clients all the time about self care and replenishing themselves. Monthly float sessions are one way that I practice what I preach.

Check out my instagram recap video here!

Float Therapy