Floating FAQ

What is flotation?

Quite simply, flotation is the most effective method for stress relief and relaxation. The flotation tank has 10″ of water saturated with 1000 pounds of Epsom salt, creating incredibly buoyant water for you to float on. The water is heated to skin temperature (93.5 F). Once you’re settled, it is virtually impossible to distinguish what parts of your body are in contact with the water and which aren’t.  Since your senses are void from input, the tank is sometimes also called a sensory deprivation tank.  However, we often notice our senses go into hyperdrive while floating right down to hearing yourself blink, which makes for a pretty amazing experience.

That tank looks scary…what if I’m claustrophobic / afraid?

It’s not as bad as it looks. The space inside the flotation tank is 4 wide by 7.5 feet long. You are in complete control and can open the door and go in/out as you’d like. You can even float with the door open.  If you’re unsure, come on in and check the float tanks out first!  Most people feel so much better seeing them and realizing how much space and control they have.

How often should I float?

While you can float every day without harm, we find that the relaxing effects of a one-hour float typically last beyond that day. For best results, we recommend regular sessions, and many clients find that floating once or twice a week provides the most benefits.  If using floating as a type of self-therapy, we often hear to stick with at least 7 float sessions.

I’m a bigger guy / gal, can I still float in your tanks?

Unless you’re over 7 feet tall or over 500 pounds, you’re good to go.

How long do people usually stay in the tank?

We recommend 60 or 90 minutes for first time floaters. As you become more experienced and aware of the effects, you may find that 60 or 90 minutes are effective. Others may want to float for 2, 3, or more hours.

What will it be like for me?

We don’t know what it will be like for you since it is such an individual experience. Nearly every customer reports having profound peace and relaxation, deep concentration and creativity. We like to avoid saying too much before people use the tank, so that they aren’t influenced by what someone else says. Not only will it be different for you than it is for anyone else, it will be different each time.

Will I be able to resume my daily activities when I get out?

Yes. And it may be good to arrange your time so you don’t have to rush. Many people enjoy savoring the peace and quiet before jumping into something hectic.

Is there a cumulative effect of using the tank on a regular basis?

Yes. There seems to be a cumulative effect with consistent use of the tank. This is not documented by research, it is the tank users who know it is true.  Sadly, relaxation has become a learned art that needs practice.

Do you wear anything in the tank?

Since it is a private experience, most people don’t wear any clothing. You’ll have the room to yourself and be required to shower before and after.  Anything you wear will press against your body, becoming a distraction.  Plus, who wants to take a salty, crusty bathing suit home in a plastic bag?!  Be free!

What do I need to do to prepare for this experience?

Most importantly…relax. The tank will help but if you arrive relaxed, the experience will be more beneficial for you. There are a few additional things to consider.

• Try not to shave right before arriving. It isn’t the end of the world if you do…but salt water on freshly shaven legs isn’t the most pleasant thing on Earth.
• Remove your contacts prior to floating (bring a container to store them in).
• If you have caffeine before you float, it may interfere with your ability to relax.
• Ladies, if it’s that dreaded time of month, give us a call to reschedule.

Would I drown in the flotation tank if I fell asleep?

It is nearly impossible to drown in the tank. Since you are floating you do not need to know how to swim. The water is only about 10″ deep and has a very very high density of salt. This water is buoyant and will support you regardless of your size or weight. Since the water is pushing you to the surface, rolling over requires conscious effort, unlike in your bed.  IF you were to manage to turn over, the salt in the water would sting your eyes and wake you.  Additionally, it’s not dangerous to fall asleep in the tank.  Some people even use floating for this purpose!  One hour of sleep in the tank is roughly equivalent to 4 hours of regular sleep.

What happens if I get salt water in my eyes?

It’s going to sting like hell. But no worries…you can just open the door, grab a towel, dab the salt water off, then get back in the tank.  There’s also a squirt bottle of clean water hanging on a hook inside the tank incase you need it.

Can two people float in one tank?

No. Flotation therapy is a solitary act. You would not want another person in your tank. We have two tanks for a reason!

Are there situations in which I will not be permitted to use the flotation tank?

We will not allow you to float if you:

• Have infectious skin or respiratory disorders
• Have open wounds or recent tattoos
• Have incontinence
• Have uncontrolled epilepsy or serious mental conditions
• Are a high-risk pregnancy
• Have colored or permed your hair within 7 days
• Are under the influence of any drug or alcohol
• Are currently menstruating
• Are under 18 without parental presence

We expect you to inform us of any conditions for your own safety and the safety of other floaters! We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone at any time.

How are the tanks kept clean and disinfected?

There are 1000 pounds of medical grade Epsom salt dissolved in each of our tanks. Salinity is at 1.30 grams per cubic centimeter. The higher and higher the salt concentration, the lower and lower the ability for microorganisms to thrive in the water.  This automatically gives floatation tanks a leg up on cleanliness when compared to public pools and hot tubs.  After each session, the entire volume of the solution is  filtered through a three part filtration and sterilization system utilizing Ultra Violet light and H2O2.  UV is the safest most effective system available. It’s what water treatment facilities use to give us drinking water! It maintains the water’s soft, clean and crystal clear appearance. In addition all clients are required to shower prior to entering the tank.

Will my skin get wrinkly?

No. The high Epsom salt content of the water means that the water will not draw the salt from your skin and cause wrinkles like a long bath does. Epsom salt has been used for centuries as a medicinal treatment for various skin conditions. It is non-toxic and is not harmful if swallowed (although it does not taste good!). Epsom salt is actually quite nourishing for the skin, which is why many people feel silky smooth after their float session.

I’m pregnant. Can floating harm my baby?

Absolutely not. In fact, pregnant women probably get more relief from the float tank than anyone else. Just lying on a bed can be extremely uncomfortable for a woman in the later stages of pregnancy due to the massive gravitational strain placed on the body. The float tank is a wonderful haven for pregnant women. We do, however, recommend that pregnant women avoid floating during the first trimester. If you have any concerns about the effects of floating on your pregnancy, we ask you to consult and get permission from your physician before you float.