If it’s your first time floating with us, we’ll try to give you a call a few days before your float session to go over any important tips and policies we have, and to make sure we answer all of your questions so you’re as prepared as possible and can make the most of your float. It’s important to remember that it can take up to 3 float sessions to fully get used to the sensation of floating, and the first time is definitely a very unique experience! Some people can relax right away, and even fall asleep their first time (it’s totally ok to sleep in the float tank- there is 1200 pounds of epsom salt to keep you afloat- and it can be the most restful sleep you’ll ever get), but others need more time to be able to fully relax their body and mind, and that’s ok too!
Even if you’ve floated many times, it’s always helpful to keep certain things in mind before, during, and after a float to have the best possible experience. Read on for some tips that we’ve collected over the years, and let us know if you have any of your own.
- Avoid shaving the day of your float: Shaving can create skin irritation or nicks and cuts that you can’t see, which can cause stinging when you first step into the float tank. It doesn’t last more than a few minutes, and the salt water can actually be quite healing, but in order to avoid any discomfort we recommend not shaving the day of your float. We’ll also provide you with a packet of A&D ointment that you can apply to any small cuts or scrapes before getting into the tank.
- Avoid caffeine before floating, but do eat a light meal: Avoid caffeine four to six hours before your float to prevent anxiety or feeling “jittery”, and making it more difficult to calm your mind and body. It’s a good idea to eat a light meal within a few hours of floating, but nothing too heavy or greasy.
- Use earplugs, and avoid getting salt water on your face: While wearing earplugs in the tank is not a requirement, it is definitely recommended, as your ears will be at or below the water line while you float. We will provide you with two different types of earplugs to choose from: foam, which are inserted into the ear canal, and wax, which can be molded to fit the outside of your ear and create a seal. If you float often and would like a more sustainable option, there is a variety of reusable earplugs that are made of silicone and designed for swimming which can be purchased online.
It’s best to put in your earplugs before your pre-float shower, while you are still dry, so they stay in more easily. If you do get some salt water in your ears, we also have an ear cleaner solution available in the float rooms, which is comprised of half isopropyl alcohol and half white vinegar and helps to dissolve any salt. Once you are in the tank, avoid touching your face so the salt water doesn’t drip into your eyes, as it can sting a bit if it does. We will give you a face cloth that you can take into the tank with you in case you need to dry your face. If you do get salt water in your eyes, you can step out of the tank and rinse it off in the shower quickly and then resume your float.
- Set your mind; tell yourself that you’re going to be in the float tank for 90 minutes: While you can always exit the float tank at any time, research has shown that 90 minute float sessions are the most beneficial. Many people find that it can take up to 30 minutes or even longer to get their mind to slow down and enter a state of deep rest. Often, those who have the most busy minds will benefit the most from floating. Before you get in the tank, set your mind that you’re going to give yourself 90 minutes to float and stay in until you hear the exit track. It can take up to three full float sessions to really get used to the sensation of floating- give yourself a chance to get the hang of it, even if it feels a little strange at first!
- Find a comfortable position: When you first enter the tank, lay back, take a deep breath in through your nose, hold it for a count of four, and exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing tension from your body as you exhale. Let your body find its natural resting position and see how this feels- you may find that your body knows what to do on its own. In your tank you will find a circular foam pillow called a float halo- you can put this behind your head to help support your head and take tension off of your neck and shoulders. Try floating both with and without it to see what you prefer. If you feel discomfort or tension in your upper body try a different arm position (palms up, palms down, arms by your side, or over your head). If you feel any lower body discomfort try shifting your legs slightly- some people find that letting their feet turn naturally so that the toes point slightly outward is most comfortable, while others may prefer to keep their toes pointing up, or even bending one knee slightly. There’s no wrong way to float.
- Try shutting off the lights and sound: Our float tanks are equipped with a colored light and speakers, as well as buttons inside so that you can turn the light and music on and off while floating. Before you go into your float suite, we’ll give you options to choose from for both, and we’ll show you the buttons and explain how they operate. The float tanks are lightproof and soundproof, and have vibration absorbing material under the flooring. We recommend trying to float with the lights and sound turned off once you get situated in the tank, as it will help your mind enter a deep state of rest much quicker. Plus, in today’s digital world, where else are you going to get 90 minutes away from any light and sound source?? Even when we sleep, there is ambient light and sound all around us. The quality of rest you get in the float tank without all that background noise and light is unmatched.
- Practice box breathing/other intentional breathing methods (but NOT hyperventilation methods): Floating is a great time to practice breath work because you’re laying back with your torso stretched out and the saltwater is supporting you without creating much resistance like if you were laying on a bed or on the floor, allowing you to take deep breaths in easily. Breathwork also helps you reconnect with your body and quiet your mind. Try box breathing: inhale for a count of four, hold for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, and hold for a count of four, and then repeat. You can try other intentional breathing methods as well, but never practice hyperventilation methods (such as the Wim Hof method, or other methods used in free diving that are meant to lower your CO2 levels) in the float tank.
- If you get motion sickness or vertigo, it’s ok to take a motion sickness medication before floating: Most people find that they feel comfortable and relaxed in the float tank without any issues. However, once in awhile people who are prone to motion sickness can get a bit dizzy in the tank. If you’re concerned about getting “the spins” or feeling nauseous, it’s totally fine to take motion sickness medication before floating. Sometimes turning the light on in the tank can help you get your bearings as well.
- If you’re worried about feeling claustrophobic, it’s ok to float with the tank door open: Our float tanks are extremely spacious, with the standard tanks measuring 7’10” long and 4’2” wide, with a ceiling height of 7’4”. The deluxe tank is the same in length and height, but has a width of 7’6”. However, at any point you can open the tank door and are free to float with it open if you are more comfortable. The float tank is in a private suite with a door that locks, so you will still have complete privacy during your float.
- Take some time to relax after your float, reflect on your experience, and slowly come back to reality: After you’ve washed off all of the salt, feel free to head to our post float lounge area, enjoy a complimentary herbal tea or a cup of water, and relax and reflect on your float session. We have comfortable couches, reading materials, and a logbook for our guests to write (or draw!) in. Leave us with your thoughts about the experience, or just flip through and take a look at what others have had to say. We also have a powder room with a hair dryer, Q Tips, and lotion in case you need to get ready before you leave.
These are just some things we’ve found to be helpful over the years, especially if it’s your first few times floating and you’re not sure what to expect. Do let us know if you have any questions or concerns at all, or if you’re an experienced floater with tips to add to our list.
If you’re reading this and you’ve been thinking about trying floating but have been unsure, this is your sign to book your first float with us! Book now or call us at 207-605-0146.
