So everyone’s talking about float tanks as a way to destress and relax. But floating is not a flash fad, it’s been around since the 1950s! Although in recent years it’s become increasingly popular in mainstream culture – possibly even in your neighbourhood – as a calming experience to enhance wellbeing in a noisy and frantic word. So if you’re thinking about trying out float therapy but feeling a bit uncertain as a first-time floater, here’s the lowdown on your lie down.
A float tank is a bath-like tub with a roof, which you can choose to keep open. The tank contains a dense Epsom salt and water solution, 30cm shallow, set at skin temperature which makes your body buoyant – like in the Dead Sea. You float effortlessly, horizontal, facing up. Float tanks are hygienic because the high saltwater solution is naturally sterile. The tanks are also filtered daily.
Float tanks are in a private room with a shower, and the tanks are designed for one. We also have a double float room with two tanks for couples, or to even float with a friend – although you’re still each in your own tank.Scientific evidence supports floating as a means to relieve stress, lower blood pressure, reduce tension and anxiety. With zero gravity, and lessened sensory input, floating can unlock a profound feeling of long-lasting relaxation and clarity of mind. Floating is also great for recovery after training.
Arrive with a bit of food in your stomach (eat something light an hour in advance) and avoid caffeine and other stimulants 4-6 hours ahead of your float session. This reduces demands on your body while you’re floating.
Bring nothing. Shower before floating to remove excess oils to keep the tank sterile. Also shower after floating to rinse excess Epsom salt from your skin and hair. Your private room has a shower with soap, shampoo, and clean towels. We provide earplugs and a neck-pillow to maximise your floating comfort, and Vaseline for any recent cuts. There’s also a lounge area to relax with some tea and an area to freshen up with a hair-dryer. Go nude or wear a swimming costume. Your choice. The more skin in the game, the greater the experience. Avoid shaving the day before or day of floating to avoid the saltwater irritating your skin. And if you’ve coloured your hair recently, please wait until the excess dye is completely rinsed out before booking your float. Hair dye can colour the water and stain the tank. If you wear contact lenses, bring a contact case or wear glasses. If saltwater gets in your eyes, contacts make it difficult for a quick and easy rinse. Don’t rush from a state of frenzy to float. Your mind and body need a bit of quiet time before floating to fully enjoy the experience. Keep an open mind, especially if you feel slight discomfort and tightening as stress unknots in certain areas of your body.You won’t roll over and you won’t sink. The water is only 30cm deep. Do nothing, just float. If you fall asleep, it’s also fine. And an additional benefit! Because one hour of sleep in a float tank is equivalent to six hours of extra sleep. Although float-tank sleep shouldn’t be considered as a replacement for regular sleep, it’s a highly effective supplement.
Your skin won’t prune. In fact, your skin and hair will benefit from soaking in Epsom salts. You don’t have to close the float tank’s door. You can keep it open if you prefer. The handle is inside so you can close and open as you wish. Most float sessions are 60 minutes – but it may feel much quicker. So consider a series of three float sessions over a few weeks. A second and third float can help achieve a more immediate and deeper state of relaxation because your body already knows what to expect. The more you use the tank the better each session becomes, and the more enhanced your floating experience becomes – because floating is a journey. Good luck and enjoy as you get your feet wet!
Bondi Junction Massage & Float Centre is a restorative and remedial oasis of calm and wellbeing in the heart of Sydney’s eastern suburbs, treating thousands of clients since 1985. To find out more about our float + massage combo package make contact today, or book now.
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