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Float Tank Myths Busted

Thu, 15 May 2025 04:31:42 GMT

Float Tank Myths Busted: Separating Science from Saltwater Folklore

You’ve probably heard the whispers: “I’d feel trapped in there,” “Isn’t that just a fancy detox bath?”, or the ever‑popular, “Two hours of floating is like a full night’s sleep.” In our float center, we’ve heard every tall tale imaginable, and today we’re taking a look at seven of the most persistent myths, separating fact from fiction.

Myth #1

Floating causes hallucinations – you’ll see crazy visions like taking psychedelics.

PARTLY TRUE
Pop culture loves a good sensory‑deprivation freak‑out, but the reality is in fact much gentler. Most floaters experience mild hypnagogic imagery: soft colors, the occasional daydream, or a sense of drifting through space. Think “a screensaver for the mind,” not a full‑blown psychedelic trip. If a vivid image does pop up, it often doesn’t linger for very long. That said, some people experience stronger mental imagery than others inside the float tank, and experiences can vary wildly between sessions, even for the same person. There have certainly been countless reports of full-blown visual hallucinations and lucid dream-like experiences in the float tank – they just aren’t the norm.

Myth #2

Floating is likely to make you feel claustrophobic.

FALSE
It’s well documented that almost everyone, even people who actually have claustrophobia, doesn’t have any problem being in a float tank. The doors don’t latch, much less lock, and claustrophobia is more about being in control than it is about small spaces. In a float tank, you’re always in total control: you can crack the door, keep a soft light on, or float with the lid fully open. In fact, once the lights are out, your brain quickly loses its usual “room‑size” cues, and most people feel as if the space has expanded, not shrunk.

Tip for Your Float: It’s normal to be nervous when you’re going in for your first float (although, of course, this is more commonly a sense of excitement and anticipation). If you’re feeling nervous, consider easing in with a gradual progression. You can start with the lid open and the lights on. You don’t even have to lay down in the water. When you do feel comfortable, turn off the light and leave the lid open. And, if you feel like it at some point, you can even close the lid. If you can close your eyes in the shower, you can float peacefully in a tank.

Myth #3

Floating pulls toxins out of your body.

FALSE
We love Epsom salt – 11 inches of epsom salt saturated solution keep you buoyant and relaxed in our float tanks – but it isn’t a magical vacuum for heavy metals or mystery “toxins.” Your liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system already handle detoxification like champs, and there isn’t any evidence we’re aware of that floating in magnesium sulfate water sucks “toxins” out of your body. What floating does offer is a profound reset for your nervous system: lower stress hormones, calmer breathing, and muscles that finally unclench. Think of the tank as a spa for your mind and an off‑switch for your fight‑or‑flight response, not a detox footbath for your entire body.

Tip for Your Float: Hydrate before and after your session, just as you would for a massage or sauna. Your natural detox pathways will thank you.

Myth #4

Most evidence for floating is anecdotal – there’s no real science to back it up.

FALSE
Floatation REST or Floatation Therapy (the main research terms) has over four decades of peer‑reviewed studies behind it. Recent randomized trials funded by the NIH show significant drops in anxiety, muscle tension, and pain – even after a single float. Neuroscientists have documented lower cortisol, shifts into delta and theta brainwaves (the same waves linked to deep meditation), and improvements in sleep quality that last days. The science isn’t finished, but it’s far from folklore. In fact, universities and VA hospitals are actively studying floating for PTSD, burnout, eating disorders, addiction recovery, and more.

If you’re curious to learn more about the science of floating, the largest collection of peer reviewed float studies and presentations on the research are up at https://www.clinicalfloat.org/ .

Myth #5

One hour in a float tank is equivalent to 4 hours of sleep.

FALSE
Controlled trials report sharp drops in cortisol and significant boosts in perceived energy and mood after a single 60‑minute float, but the researchers never equate that boost to a specific number of sleep hours. In a float you enter a low‑stimulus state that resembles the earliest stages of sleep, but you don’t cycle through the full progression of NREM and REM that your brain needs for memory consolidation, immune regulation, and hormone release. No peer‑reviewed study shows a float substituting for those later stages.

This myth likely originated from a line in The Book of Floating , by Michael Hutchison, or from earlier comments by Dr. John Lilly, but these should be interpreted as subjective perceptions of the float experience, rather than scientifically backed claims.

Myth #6

You can’t float if you have tattoos – the salt will affect the ink.

PARTLY TRUE
If you’ve got fresh ink, put the tank on pause – saltwater can irritate healing skin and pull pigment from an open wound. Once your tattoo is fully healed (no scabs, no shine, typically 2–6 weeks), floating is totally fine. In fact, we’ve heard from many tattoo artists (with plenty of work themselves) who swear by floats for sore shoulders and back pain. The salt won’t strip color from a settled tattoo, and it turns out that the magnesium‑rich soak feels fantastic after a long day of standing at a studio chair.

Myth #7

Your fingers don’t prune in there.

TRUE (surprisingly)
Wrinkled fingertips happen in fresh water, when water moves into your skin. The full mechanisms at work with this pruning effect are still not fully understood, but what we do know is that in a float tank, the salt concentration is so high that it doesn’t have the same exchange of water. This leaves your skin completely smooth (and feeling soft from the epsom salt), even after 90+ minutes.

Final Thoughts

Myths are persistent, but so is good information. Whether you’re a nervous first‑timer or a seasoned floater arming yourself for the next round of questions from friends, we hope this helps you better navigate some of the pervasive myths around floating.

Ready to put the legends to rest? Book your next float and see what your next float holds in store for yourself. At the very least, your body – and your curiosity – will thank you.

Float First, Then Decide

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:15:30 GMT

Float First, Then Decide

Life is filled with decisions – some simple, others significant. The big ones, like choosing whether to change jobs, relocate, or navigate relationship challenges can often feel overwhelming. Floatation therapy can effectively reduce stress, quiet your mind, and foster greater creativity and clarity, empowering you to approach difficult choices with confidence.

When facing these major decisions, stress and anxiety significantly impact our thinking. The body’s stress response includes releasing cortisol, a hormone that triggers the “fight-or-flight” mechanism. While helpful in emergency situations, elevated cortisol can negatively affect everyday decision-making, often resulting in impulsive or overly cautious choice, or in general indecision.

Research highlights the negative effects of anxiety on cognitive functions essential for clear and strategic thinking. Hartley and Phelps (2012) reviewed literature demonstrating that anxiety leads to heightened risk-aversion, causing individuals to focus disproportionately on potential negative outcomes. Similarly, Paulus and Yu (2012) illustrated that anxiety disrupts the brain’s rational decision-making processes, causing choices that often prioritize short-term relief over long-term benefits.

Moreover, studies by Starcke and Brand (2012, 2016) underline cortisol's role in impairing judgment during stress. Elevated cortisol has been consistently linked to increased risk-taking behaviors, compromised reward assessment, and diminished cognitive flexibility – particularly under pressure (Maier et al., 2015; Pabst, 2013).

This is where floatation therapy comes in. Floating significantly reduces sensory input to induce deep relaxation. Inside a float tank filled with warm, Epsom salt-rich water, your body floats effortlessly, removing nearly all sensory stimulation. This environment prompts a profound relaxation response, leading to measurable reductions in stress hormones.

A significant study out of LIBR (Laureate Institute for Brain Research) by Feinstein et al. (2018) demonstrated that even a single floating session could significantly lower anxiety and improve mood among participants with anxiety and stress-related disorders. Similarly, earlier studies out of Sweden, including Bood et al. (2006) showed floatation therapy’s substantial anxiolytic effects, indicating its potential for ongoing anxiety management. These benefits are likely related to floating’s ability to decrease cortisol levels, enabling cognitive recovery from stress and anxiety-induced impairments.

Floating doesn’t simply reduce stress; it actively enhances key cognitive abilities required for decision-making such as creativity, focus, and problem-solving. Early evidence from van Dierendonck and te Nijenhuis in their 2005 meta-analysis demonstrates that floating not only reduced stress and enhanced feelings of well-being, they also increased performance across a range of physical and mental tasks. These cognitive enhancements suggest that floatation therapy indirectly supports better decision-making by fostering clearer, calmer, and more creative thinking.

Another study involved jazz musicians who regularly used floatation therapy, finding significant improvements in their improvisational performance – a skill inherently dependent on rapid, intuitive, and creative decision-making (Vartanian & Suedfeld, 2011). This enhancement in spontaneous creative expression parallels the cognitive flexibility and adaptive decision-making floating can foster.

Floating becomes especially beneficial when approached intentionally. Here are a few practical strategies to optimize your floatation sessions for decision-making:

Define Your Intentions Clearly : Before your float, consciously outline the issue or decision you wish to address. Clearly articulating your intention prepares your subconscious mind to explore it deeply during the float session. Writing down these intentions beforehand can further solidify your focus.
Embrace Mental Flexibility : Rather than actively forcing solutions during your float, allow thoughts and ideas to flow naturally. This gentle approach often reveals unexpected insights and creative solutions. Practice mindfulness by observing your thoughts without judgment or immediate analysis.
Immediate Post-Float Reflection : Directly after exiting the float tank, spend 10-15 minutes quietly journaling or reflecting on thoughts or insights from your session. Capturing these immediate impressions helps solidify and clarify your initial reactions and feelings.
Delayed Decision-Making : Research suggests a post-float refractory period – a time when your mind remains deeply relaxed and somewhat 'floaty.' During this period, it's beneficial to avoid making major life decisions immediately. Wait at least an hour or two, or even better, sleep on it. Allowing your mind extra time helps integrate insights gained from floating, ensuring you make decisions with clarity rather than impulse.
Consider Regular Sessions : While a single float session offers significant benefits, regular floating can provide sustained improvements in anxiety reduction, cognitive clarity, and creative thinking, offering long-term support for navigating complex life decisions.

Significant life decisions can become clearer and less overwhelming when approached from a place of calm and focus. Floatation therapy provides a proven method to reduce anxiety, boost creativity, and sharpen cognitive clarity, empowering you to make choices with greater confidence.

If you're facing important decisions or simply seeking greater clarity, scheduling a float session could be a valuable step forward.

Turning a Float Session into a Mini Self-Retreat

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 04:10:02 GMT

Turning a Float Session into a Mini Self-Retreat

Modern life can fill up fast. Responsibilities seem endless, and your calendar easily becomes so busy that days turn into weeks with little time set aside to truly rest. Creating a mini self-retreat – even if it revolves around just one float session – can offer a welcome pause. By adding a few simple enhancements and moments of mindfulness, your usual floats can blossom into an even more refreshing experience.

Retreats aren’t necessarily about taking days off or traveling to distant locales. Their real value comes from consciously choosing self-care, whether that takes a weekend or a single afternoon. Dedicating some extra space in your schedule, reducing distractions, and approaching your float with intention can revitalize both mind and body.

Preparation

Consider scheduling your float so there’s extra time before and after the session, giving you uninterrupted space to fully immerse in the experience. Turn off notifications on your phone, queue up a soothing playlist or audiobook for before and after you float, and wear clothing that helps you relax. Postpone major tasks until tomorrow or later in the week so you’re not juggling errands in your head while in the tank.

Before stepping into the float environment, do a few gentle stretches – roll your shoulders, release your neck, and gently move your spine from side to side. This approach helps your muscles loosen and prepares you for a more effortless transition into weightlessness. If your mind feels cluttered, spend a few minutes writing down any pressing concerns or new ideas. Clearing mental space helps transform the float into a restorative break rather than just another appointment.

Your Float Session

As you ease into the float tank, consciously relax and allow the warm saltwater to support your entire body. This is an opportunity to calm your mind and focus inward. If practical details pop up (like dinner arrangements or a pending work assignment), you can always gently redirect your attention to your breath. Notice the sensation of weightlessness. No special effort is required – give yourself permission to simply relax, which often leads to the deepest sense of rest.

When you step out of your float room, try not to immediately grab your phone or hurry away. Use a few extra minutes to sit quietly, or reach for your journal to note any thoughts or feelings that arose. This reflection can reinforce fresh perspectives and maintain the peaceful state you cultivated, rather than sacrificing it as soon as you leave.

Post-Float

Once you’re ready to head out, treat the next hour or so as a continuation of your personal retreat. Enjoy a cup of herbal tea, take a leisurely walk, or read a chapter from a book that uplifts you. If possible, stay offline until you’ve gently settled back into your daily routine. By doing this, you ensure your float session isn’t just a brief visit, but a dedicated window of genuine self-care.

Whether you float weekly, monthly, or only occasionally, a bit of thoughtful planning can help you step away from all of life’s busyness. Over time, taking this time yourself will help you to handle stress, spark creativity, and maintain a balanced outlook.

Floatation therapy already offers a unique chance to rest both mind and body. By weaving in just a few intentional steps like journaling, gentle movement, or a peaceful stroll afterward, you can amplify those benefits and return to everyday life feeling noticeably refreshed. There’s no need for airfare or an entire week away; all it takes is a float appointment, a purposeful mindset, and a little preparation to fully reset and recharge.

Ready for your own mini-retreat? Book your next float today and discover how setting aside a little extra time can help you return to daily life with renewed clarity and ease. You don’t need to do anything too elaborate – just a single float session, some mindful planning, and the willingness to nurture yourself is enough.

Floating as a Path to Greater Self-Confidence

Sat, 15 Feb 2025 04:03:34 GMT

Floating as a Path to Greater Self-Confidence

February is here, and along with it we’d like to share an important reminder: when celebrating those you love, take time to celebrate yourself as well. As International Self-Esteem Month, February is a call to action to cultivate your confidence and nurture positive feelings about yourself.

Why focus on self-esteem? Because it’s the foundation of how you experience life. It shapes your self-image, your decisions, and even how you interact with others. When self-esteem dips, it’s easy to get caught in cycles of self-doubt, comparison, and stress. But there’s a simple, powerful way to start feeling more grounded and confident: floating.

What’s Getting in the Way of Your Confidence?

Modern life is a breeding ground for challenges to our self-esteem. Social media bombards us with images of unattainable perfection. Work demands leave us feeling like we’re never doing enough. Even downtime is often consumed by digital distractions that drain our focus and present unrealistic expectations for our lives.

And then there’s the stress—the endless mental chatter telling us we’re not good enough, not accomplished enough, or just not “enough” at all. These pressures chip away at our confidence and can leave us feeling lost. Floating offers an antidote by giving you a chance to reset and rediscover yourself.

How Floating Boosts Self-Esteem

True confidence doesn’t come from external validation – it comes from within. But when we’re stuck in a cycle of second guessing our decisions, dwelling on past mistakes, and letting stress erode our confidence… it can be difficult to see our inner worth clearly.

Floating offers a way to step outside of that cycle. In the quiet stillness of the tank, there’s no pressure to perform, no distractions pulling your attention outward – just you, your thoughts, and the space to reconnect with yourself. Floating isn’t simply relaxation; it’s about cultivating self-trust, presence, and a deep appreciation that who you are is enough.

Here’s some of what makes it such a powerful practice:

A Quiet Space for Reflection: The sensory deprivation environment gives you a rare opportunity to tune out the noise – both external and internal. With no distractions, you can focus on positive self-reflection and self-acceptance.
Stress Relief That Lasts: Stress doesn’t just wear down your body; it nurtures negativity and erodes your confidence. By calming the nervous system and helping you feel centered, floating sets the stage for a clearer, more positive mindset.
Mindfulness Without Effort: Floating naturally brings you into the present moment, helping you let go of insecurities tied to the past or worries about the future. This sense of presence is a cornerstone of healthy self-esteem.
Reconnect with Your Body: The weightless environment of the tank encourages a deeper appreciation for your body as it is – no tension, no pain, just ease. For many, this experience fosters a renewed sense of body confidence and gratitude.

A Confidence Challenge for February

his month, approach your floats with intention. Before you float, take a moment to identify one positive message you want to focus on about yourself. Maybe it’s “I am capable” or “I deserve rest.” Maybe it’s more kindness toward yourself, or simply a sense of peace. Whatever it is, carry that intention into the tank.

Additionally, use the stillness of the tank to quiet negative self-talk. If a critical thought creeps in, try replacing it with a compassionate one, or ignoring it altogether and removing the power it has over you.

This International Self-Esteem Month, challenge yourself to prioritize your mental well-being. Your time in the tank is a rare opportunity to let go of self-doubt and reconnect with your inner strength – and you should remember to embrace that each and every float.

Starting the Year with Stillness

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 03:49:58 GMT

Starting the Year with Stillness

As the New Year begins, the world seems to erupt into a whirlwind of energy. Resolutions are declared, goals are set, and the rush to reinvent ourselves takes center stage. But amidst all the noise and pressure to get out there and do something, we’d like to suggest something a bit counterintuitive: doing nothing.

Floating offers an unparalleled opportunity for stillness. A chance to reflect and reset in order to create the calm and clarity needed to move forward with intention. Rather than racing to check off goals, floating helps you lay the foundation for a more balanced and mindful year—and it all begins by establishing it as a cornerstone habit.

Why Stillness Matters in the New Year

In a culture that glorifies busyness, we’re often tempted to leap into action without first finding our footing, prioritizing simply “getting things done” over a more mindful approach. This can ultimately lead to frustration, burnout, or setting goals that don’t align with what we truly want. Stillness is the antidote. It allows us to step back, reconnect with our inner selves, and find our way to our decisions for the year ahead with a clearer sense of purpose.

Floating provides the ultimate environment for cultivating this stillness. Your mind quiets, your body relaxes, and you’re left with the rare opportunity to simply be. This state of deep stillness fosters reflection and helps you gain perspective on what matters most.

Floating as a Cornerstone Habit

For the uninitiated, a cornerstone habit is a practice that acts as the foundation for positive changes in other areas of life. It’s a habit that sets the tone for how you approach pretty much everything in your life – your day, your goals, and even your relationships.

And floating fits this role perfectly.

By making floating a regular part of your routine, you’re not just carving out time for relaxation – you are establishing a ritual that supports your mental and physical well-being, as well as offers benefits which extend far beyond the time spent in the tank:

Stress relief: The weightless environment and sensory reduction help lower cortisol levels, leaving you calmer and more centered.
Mental clarity: Floating quiets the mind, creating space for creativity, problem-solving, and focused thinking.
Physical recovery: By reducing muscle tension and inflammation, floating helps your body feel renewed and ready for action.
Improved mindfulness: The deep meditative state achieved during floating carries over into daily life, enhancing your ability to stay present.

When you prioritize floating as a cornerstone habit, these benefits cascade out and naturally influence many other aspects of your life. You might find yourself more patient, more thoughtful in your decision-making, and better equipped to handle challenges – which is perfect for helping you to set better resolutions, and have the wherewithal to actually achieve them.

The Role of Discipline in Building Habits

One of the most powerful effects of floating as a cornerstone habit is its ability to nurture discipline. To put it shortly, discipline isn’t simply about sticking to a schedule, it’s about creating a mindset of consistency and intention that ripples into all areas of your life.

When you make floating a regular practice, you’re training your mind and body to value stillness and self-care. This discipline of showing up for yourself, even in the smallest ways, can foster greater focus, resilience, and follow-through in your daily life. Floating teaches you the importance of pausing, reflecting, and prioritizing what truly matters – a skill which naturally strengthens your ability to tackle challenges and pursue your goals with clarity and determination.

Discipline built through floating doesn’t feel rigid or forced, and, instead, it’s grounded in self-compassion and the understanding that caring for your well-being is the foundation for achieving balance and success.

Building Balance and Resilience

The New Year isn’t just about achieving goals. It’s about building the resilience needed to sustain you on the journey towards those goals. Whether you’re navigating work stress, personal challenges, or simply striving for a healthier lifestyle, floating gives you the tools to approach your goals, and continue working on them, with a steady and composed mindset.

Consistency is key. Like any cornerstone habit, floating becomes more impactful the more you commit to it. Consider scheduling regular sessions—weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly—to maintain that sense of balance and clarity throughout the year.

As you move into 2025, consider starting with stillness instead of rushing into action. Allow floatation therapy to guide you into a state of calm and clarity, setting the tone for a more intentional year. By making floating your cornerstone habit, you’re not only investing in your immediate well-being but also creating a foundation for long-term growth and resilience.

Ready to experience the power of stillness? Book your next float today and discover how this simple yet transformative practice can help you start the year with balance and intention.

Beating the Seasonal Blues_ Using Floating to Help Manage SAD

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 01:21:03 GMT

Beating the Seasonal Blues_ Using Floating to Help Manage SAD

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Boosting Athletic Performance and Recovery with Floating

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 01:11:17 GMT

Boosting Athletic Performance and Recovery with Floating

The pursuit of peak performance requires a delicate balance between intense training and sufficient rest to properly recover. Whether you’re a professional athlete or simply someone who regularly hits the gym, unless you prioritize your recovery, the demands placed on the body can lead to fatigue, muscle soreness, and even injury. Traditional recovery methods like stretching, massage, and proper nutrition are critical, but many athletes are now turning to floatation therapy as an innovative way to enhance both their performance and recovery.

The reason? Floating provides a unique environment where we experience a variety of physical and mental benefits which can contribute directly to improved athletic performance, and allow the body to recover in ways that are essentially impossible to achieve through other means.

Physical Benefits of Floating for Athletes

One of the key physical benefits of floatation therapy for athletes is its ability to promote muscle recovery. After strenuous exercise, muscles are often left sore due to the buildup of lactic acid and microtears in muscle fibers. The Epsom salts in float tanks not only help to soothe sore muscles but have also been shown to aid in reducing inflammation and in the clearance of metabolic waste, including lactic acid. This process accelerates the recovery time, allowing athletes to return to their training regimen more quickly and with less discomfort.

In addition to aiding muscle recovery, the zero-gravity environment of a floatation tank alleviates the pressure on joints and spine. This relief is particularly beneficial for athletes who engage in high-impact sports, where the joints and the spine can endure significant strain. By reducing this pressure, floatation therapy can help prevent injuries and support the overall longevity of an athlete's career.

The buoyancy of the floatation tank also contributes to improved circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles during recovery. Enhanced blood flow accelerates the healing process of injuries, and the improved circulation also helps reduce swelling and inflammation, further contributing to quicker recovery times.

Mental Recovery and Performance Enhancement

The mental benefits of floating are equally compelling. Mental clarity, focus, and resilience are vital components of athletic performance, and any edge you are able to gain on the competition can easily end up making the difference when the final buzzer sounds.

In the tank, we achieve a deep state of relaxation and mental calm which is an ideal environment for visualization techniques. That is to say it’s an environment where athletes can mentally rehearse their performance without any external distractions. Visualization has been shown to enhance motor skills and improve muscle memory, making it a powerful tool for athletes looking to refine their technique and boost their confidence.

The stress relief provided by floatation therapy is another critical factor in enhancing athletic performance. Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can interfere with muscle recovery and negatively impact an athlete's overall well-being. Floating offers athletes a space to mentally reset and recharge, free from the constant demands and distractions of their sport. By lowering cortisol levels and promoting this sense of calm, floating helps athletes maintain a more balanced mental state, allowing them to perform at their best both in training and in competition.

Moreover, the introspective nature of floatation therapy encourages mindfulness, which can improve an athlete's ability to stay present and focused during competition. The ability to remain calm under pressure, maintain focus, and manage emotions are all crucial for achieving peak performance – especially in high pressure situations. Athletes who regularly incorporate floatation therapy into their routine often report increased mental clarity, improved concentration, and a greater sense of inner peace.

Enhancing Sleep and Overall Recovery

Related to both mental and physical health is high-quality sleep, and intense training can sometimes disrupt sleep patterns, leading to restless nights and inadequate recovery.

Floating has been shown to significantly improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This deep state of relaxation can help regulate sleep patterns, making it easier for athletes to fall asleep and stay asleep – and it is during sleep that the body undergoes vital repair processes, including muscle growth and tissue repair.

In addition to improved sleep quality enhancing physical recovery, it also supports mental well-being, as restorative sleep is crucial for cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall health.

Athletes who prioritize sleep as part of their recovery process are better equipped to handle the physical and mental demands of their sport. By incorporating floating into their routine, they can ensure that they are getting the quality sleep needed to support peak performance.

Complementing Traditional Recovery Methods

Floatation therapy is not meant to replace traditional recovery methods but rather to complement them. When combined with other recovery strategies such as stretching, massage, proper hydration, and nutrition, floatation therapy can amplify the overall benefits. The holistic approach to recovery that floatation therapy offers can lead to more consistent and sustainable performance improvements.

For athletes looking to enhance their performance, prevent injuries, and expedite recovery, floatation therapy presents a compelling option. Its ability to address both the physical and mental aspects of recovery makes it a versatile addition to an athlete's toolkit. By incorporating regular float sessions into their training regimen, athletes can experience the myriad benefits of the therapy, each doing their part in facilitating the journey toward peak performance.

In conclusion, floatation therapy offers a unique and effective way to enhance athletic performance and recovery. Whether you're a professional athlete or someone who enjoys staying active, the benefits of floating can help you reach your goals more efficiently. By reducing muscle soreness, improving circulation, promoting mental clarity, and enhancing sleep quality, floatation therapy provides a comprehensive approach to athletic recovery that can lead to long-term success.

High-Stress Lifestyle? How Float Therapy Can Help

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:30:25 GMT

High-Stress Lifestyle? How Float Therapy Can Help

You can’t go 10 feet in the wellness space these days without hearing about how bad stress is for us. And that’s totally valid because chronic stress takes quite a toll on our bodies and our minds. But sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by all the chatter about how to deal with overwhelming stress!

So how are we supposed to minimize stress when our modern lives just seem to have stress baked in—jobs, kids, caregiving, commutes, groceries, meal prep, cleaning, laundry, bills, self-care, working out, drinking enough water, seeing friends, helping our communities…the list truly seems almost endless.

So, short of moving to a tiny, hand-hewn cabin a million miles from nowhere and churning our own butter, what practical and realistic steps can we implement to help us manage our modern levels of stress without feeling overwhelmed?

We’ve got you. Enter float therapy—a unique and effective way to manage stress.

Factors Contributing to a High-Stress Lifestyle

Stress can be triggered by various aspects of life, especially in our modern circumstances. Some of the most common stressors include:

Major life changes
Work-related stress (I believe you have my stapler…)
Financial problems
Relationship difficulties
Internal stress
Overwhelming responsibilities

The Physical and Psychological Effects of Stress

Our bodies are well equipped to handle brief bouts of stress (think: running from a tiger). In a life-or-death scenario, our autonomic nervous system instantly kicks in and floods our brain with vital chemicals that allow us to think and move quickly in order to survive the situation.

Very cool. But what happens when our stress levels are always turned on? Our ANS thinks we’re running from a tiger. All day. Every day. This type of chronic stress is very problematic in all aspects of health.

Physical Symptoms of Stress

Aches, pains, or muscle tension
Chest pain or heart palpitations
Exhaustion, headaches, and digestive problems
Difficulty sleeping
Weakened immune system

Psychological Symptoms of Stress

Anxiety, depression, or irritability
Panic attacks
Difficulty concentrating or feeling overwhelmed

Understanding Float Therapy

What is Float Therapy?

Float therapy, or sensory deprivation, is a therapeutic practice where you float in a tank filled with perfectly warmed water saturated with Epsom salts. This creates a gravity-free environment where your body can float effortlessly. (Think: Dead Sea.)

The concept of sensory deprivation is key. The tank is designed to minimize outside stimuli, meaning it's dark, quiet, and isolated—perfect for completely disconnecting from the stressors of daily life.

What Happens in a Float Tank?

Inside the float tank, the water is infused with Epsom salt, which increases buoyancy. The water temperature matches your skin, so you barely feel the water around you. The idea is to eliminate external sensations—no sounds, no lights, no distractions. This experience creates an environment that allows you to focus on relaxation.

How Float Therapy Helps Relieve Stress

The benefits of floating extend beyond physical relaxation. The weightlessness you feel during a float session enhances the feeling of detachment from the world, helping to relieve both mental and physical stress.

It’s as if gravity itself ceases to exist, offering you a deep sense of release. Studies show that float therapy can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. It gives your mind and body a chance to reset.

Benefits of Regular Float Therapy

Whether you’re dealing with long-term chronic stress or short-term life stressors, making float therapy part of your routine can bring relief. Regular sessions can help your body and mind cope with daily stress, making it easier to navigate life's challenges.

Studies have also shown that floating can reduce stress hormones by 30-40% in regular floaters; these study participants expressed feelings of increased "serenity" and "relaxation."

To learn more about studies on floatation therapy, visit ClinicalFloat.org.

How Floating Helps With Digital Overload

In today’s digital world, many of us suffer from stress caused by constant exposure to screens and notifications. Float therapy offers a way to unplug, allowing you to escape the barrage of digital stimuli.

What to Expect During Your First Float

Wondering what to expect on your first float? Just come with an open mind and be ready to relax. You’ll be guided through the process from pre-float prep to salty end.

Combining Float Therapy With Other Stress Relief Methods

Float therapy pairs well with other relaxation methods, such as meditation, sauna, or yoga. Together, these practices can provide an all-encompassing approach to managing stress.

Why Float Therapy is Ideal for a High-Stress Lifestyle

If your lifestyle constantly pushes you to your limits, float therapy can offer the respite your body truly needs. It’s a pocket of complete escape from the pressures of daily life, allowing your mind and body to recover.

In a world that seemingly never stops, managing stress can feel like a constant battle (we’re overwhelmed by overwhelm!). Float therapy offers a serene, effective, and predictable way to unwind and to alleviate stress. By making floating a regular part of your routine, you can reclaim control over your mental and physical health one float at a time.

Sauna 101: Your Guide to Infrared Sauna Wellness

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:37:56 GMT

Sauna 101: Your Guide to Infrared Sauna Wellness

No, we’re not crazy. Yes, we’re talking about saunas in June. While the fact that it’s 101° in the shade does not naturally make one think of voluntarily sitting in a box getting hotter and sweatier, we would posit that this is the perfect time to highlight an ancient staple in world-wide wellness practices. Welcome to the soothing world of saunas! If you're new to the concept, you're in for a treat. Saunas have been around for centuries and have stood the test of time because they offer a plethora of health benefits. Our ancestors intuitively and observationally understood this, and now science has backed them up in a big way. Here—in summer, in Texas—we’ll explore the unique advantages of infrared saunas at Float and why incorporating them into your routine can be a game-changer for your overall well-being no matter the time of year.

Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas

When you hear "sauna," you might picture a hot, steamy room with wooden benches and water poured over rocks. That's the traditional sauna, also known as a steam or wet sauna. In contrast, infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly without warming the air around you. This means no steam and significantly lower ambient temperatures, making it more comfortable for many people.

How Infrared Saunas Work

Infrared saunas emit infrared light, which penetrates your skin and heats your body from within. This deep, direct heat causes your body to sweat, releasing toxins and promoting various health benefits without the intense heat of a traditional sauna.

Physical Benefits of Infrared Sauna Use

• Improved Circulation

Infrared saunas enhance blood flow by dilating blood vessels and increasing heart rate, similar to moderate exercise. This improved circulation helps with muscle recovery and reduces pain.

• Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

The deep heat from infrared saunas can alleviate chronic pain, aid in muscle recovery post-exercise, and even reduce inflammation. Regular sessions can be especially beneficial for those with conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Mental Benefits of Infrared Sauna Use

• Stress Reduction

The heat from an infrared sauna promotes the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. This can help reduce stress levels and promote a sense of relaxation.

• Enhanced Mood

Alongside endorphins, sauna sessions increase dopamine and serotonin levels, which are crucial for mood regulation. This can lead to improved mental well-being and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Preparing for Your First Sauna Session

• What to Wear

Comfort is key! Wear light, breathable clothing or a swimsuit. Avoid wearing any metal jewelry as it can get hot and cause burns.

• Hydration Tips

Staying hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session. Consider adding electrolytes to your water to replenish what you lose through sweating.

What to Expect During Your Session

• Setting the Temperature and Duration

Our Infrared Saunas at Float are best enjoyed between 120°F and 150°F. This lower temperature compared to traditional saunas makes the experience more pleasant and easier to tolerate. Each session at Float lasts for 40 minutes, allowing you to fully experience the benefits of infrared heat. Whether you’re a seasoned sauna user or new to the practice, the comfortable temperature range ensures a relaxing and beneficial experience.

• The Float Sauna Experience

Float Wellness Spa in San Antonio offers a unique and relaxing sauna experience tailored to your needs. They have two types of saunas, each providing distinct benefits.

Sauna Options at Float

• Netflix and Roast Sauna

One sauna features a comfortable bench and a TV screen for watching Netflix, making it a perfect way to unwind and entertain yourself while sweating it out.

• Yoga Sauna with Red Light Therapy

The other sauna is equipped with a yoga mat and a Red Light Therapy panel. This combination allows you to practice gentle yoga poses while enjoying the added benefits of red light therapy, such as improved skin health and muscle recovery.

Tips for a Great Sauna Experience

• Listening to Your Body

Pay attention to how you feel during your sauna session. If you experience dizziness, nausea, or any discomfort, it's essential to exit the sauna and cool down. Your safety and comfort are paramount.

• Hydration and Aftercare

Hydrate well before and after your sauna session. After your session, allow your body to cool down gradually and take a lukewarm shower to rinse off sweat and toxins.

• Avoiding Overheating

Be mindful of your body's signals. Avoid staying in the sauna for too long, especially during your initial sessions. Overheating can lead to dehydration and other health risks.

Incorporating infrared sauna sessions into your wellness routine can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. At Float Wellness Spa, you can enjoy a tailored sauna experience that suits your needs, whether you prefer relaxing with Netflix or engaging in yoga with red light therapy. Remember to start slowly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body to make the most of your sauna sessions.

FAQs

How often should I use an infrared sauna?

For optimal benefits, aim for 2-3 sessions per week. However, always listen to your body and adjust based on your comfort level.

Can I use an infrared sauna if I have health conditions?

It's best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting infrared sauna therapy, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

What should I wear in an infrared sauna?

Wear light, breathable clothing or a swimsuit. Avoid wearing metal jewelry to prevent burns.

Can infrared saunas help with weight loss?

Yes, regular use of infrared saunas can aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and promoting sweating, which helps eliminate toxins and excess water weight.

Floating and the Hidden Productivity of Laziness

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 12:11:16 GMT

Floating and the Hidden Productivity of Laziness

In a world that never seems to stop moving, embracing laziness can feel like a revolutionary act. But with the many benefits that laziness can provide, we welcome August 10th as National Lazy Day, a day dedicated to slowing down, doing nothing, and celebrating the art of relaxation. And what better way to honor this day than by indulging in the ultimate lazy experience: floatation therapy.

The Value of Laziness and Boredom

Laziness often gets a bad rap, conjuring images of sloth and inactivity. It can feel as if being lazy is something that we should do in secret and with a sense of shame. But there's actually a lot to be said for taking time to unwind and let your mind and body rest, and perhaps we shouldn’t be ashamed, and instead be proud that we’re taking time for ourselves. In our hustle-driven society, we often forget that downtime is not just a luxury – it's a necessity. Laziness allows us to recharge, reflect, and rejuvenate. It’s a form of self-care that is as essential to our well-being as exercise and proper nutrition.

Closely related to laziness is the often overlooked state of boredom. Boredom is typically viewed as a negative experience, something to be avoided. However, when embraced, boredom can be incredibly beneficial. It provides a mental break and encourages your brain to reset. In our always-connected world, we rarely allow ourselves the luxury of being bored. Yet, it is during these moments of boredom that our minds start to wander, unlocking the subconscious and sparking creative ideas. Floatation therapy offers the perfect environment to experience this beneficial boredom. By removing external stimuli, it gives your mind the freedom to drift and explore new thoughts and possibilities.

The Hidden Productivity of Being Lazy

Laziness conceals a hidden productivity. When we allow ourselves to be lazy, we give our brains the opportunity to rest and recover, which can lead to greater efficiency and creativity in the long run. This downtime is crucial for processing information, consolidating memories, and generating new ideas. And floating exemplifies these benefits of laziness perfectly. When floating, you achieve a state of deep relaxation that enables your mind to wander freely. In this restful state, your brain can connect disparate thoughts and ideas, leading to breakthroughs and creative insights that are hard to come by in our usual, hectic environments. While there may be a slight dip in productivity in the moment, by preventing burnout, increasing creative thoughts, and allowing us a renewed vigor once we’re well rested and rejuvenated, laziness sets the stage for increased productivity in the long run.

Why Floating is the Perfect Lazy Day Activity

Floatation therapy is the epitome of productive laziness. It combines the benefits of physical relaxation with the mental clarity that comes from downtime and boredom. This leads to a variety of benefits that can have an impact both on your immediate and long-term ability to get things done.

Stress Reduction: Floating helps to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The tranquil environment allows your body to relax, reducing muscle tension and promoting a sense of calm.

Enhanced Creativity: As your mind drifts in the tank, free from distractions, you may find yourself coming up with new ideas and solutions. The boredom experienced in the tank can trigger a flow of creative thoughts, making it an excellent tool for brainstorming and problem-solving.

Improved Sleep: The deep relaxation achieved during a float session can improve the quality of your sleep. Many people report falling asleep more easily and experiencing deeper, more restorative sleep after floating, and being well rested can lead to much higher levels of productivity the next day.

Mental Clarity: The quiet, distraction-free environment of the float tank allows your mind to clear, improving focus and concentration. This mental clarity can help you tackle tasks more effectively once you return to your daily routine.

Embrace Laziness with Floatation Therapy

In a world obsessed with constantly being busy, it’s no surprise we need to actively remind ourselves to slow down and appreciate the value of doing nothing every once in a while. So, this National Lazy Day give yourself permission to embrace the art of downtime and harness the benefits of laziness. Book a float session, let go of your worries, and allow yourself to drift into a state of relaxation and creativity – your mind and body will thank you. Happy floating and Happy National Lazy Day!

Managing Chronic Pain with Floatation Therapy

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 22:45:26 GMT

Managing Chronic Pain with Floatation Therapy

For many people, pain is a temporary and easily managed inconvenience – a stubbed toe, a headache, or a sore muscle after a workout. It’s something that disrupts life for a few hours or days, but rarely has any long term impact on our lives. These encounters with pain, however, are a far cry from the persistent, often debilitating reality faced by millions who live with chronic pain.

Chronic pain isn't just a prolonged version of more fleeting acute pain – it's a complex, often misunderstood condition that can persist for months or even years, profoundly affecting daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Traditional treatments for chronic pain, such as medication and physical therapy, are essential, but complementary therapies like floatation therapy can also play a significant role in managing and alleviating pain.

Chronic pain can stem from a wide variety of conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back problems. It often involves a complex interplay of physical and psychological factors, making it challenging to treat effectively. The constant feelings of pain and discomfort can lead to a vicious cycle of decreased activity, increased stress, and poor sleep, all of which can exacerbate the condition.

How Floatation Therapy Can Help

Floatation therapy provides a unique environment that can significantly ease chronic pain. The key benefit lies in its ability to create a state of near-zero gravity, which dramatically reduces the pressure on joints and muscles. This weightlessness offers immediate relief from the constant strain that chronic pain sufferers endure, helping to alleviate tension and reduce inflammation.

Additionally, the floatation solution, rich in magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt), enhances the therapy's effectiveness. Magnesium baths have long been renowned for their muscle-relaxing properties and their ability to reduce inflammation, adding to the restorative power that a float session offers.

Reducing Stress and Enhancing Mental Well-being

In addition to offering an environment of physical comfort, floating provides a space of mental solace as well. Chronic pain is often accompanied by high levels of stress and anxiety, which, over time, can diminish mental resolve and exacerbate the perception of pain. Floatation therapy offers an environment free from external stimuli, conducive to meditation and deep relaxation.

The state of mental rest achieved in a float tank encourages mindfulness and introspection. Individuals can focus on their breathing and sensations, fostering a heightened sense of self-awareness. This mental clarity can help pain sufferers develop better coping strategies and enhance their resilience against pain.

Furthermore, studies have shown that the sensory deprivation environment of floatation therapy helps to lower cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone. Reduced cortisol levels contribute to a decrease in overall stress and anxiety, promoting a more balanced mental state. This reduction in stress hormones, combined with the physical relief provided by floating, creates a holistic approach to managing chronic pain, addressing both its physical and psychological components.

Improving Sleep Quality

Sleep disturbances are unfortunately quite common among those with chronic pain. Restorative sleep is essential for healing and can greatly enhance the overall well-being of those suffering. When individuals experience uninterrupted, quality sleep, their bodies can undergo necessary repair processes, reduce inflammation, and bolster the immune system. Improved sleep quality also contributes to better mental health, as it helps regulate mood and cognitive functions.

The deep relaxation induced by floatation therapy has been shown to significantly improve sleep quality. By reducing stress and alleviating physical discomfort, floatation helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier for individuals to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Additionally, the regular practice of floatation therapy can help establish healthier sleep habits. Consistent float sessions can train the body and mind to relax more efficiently, making it easier to achieve restful sleep night after night. This long-term benefit is particularly valuable for those who struggle with chronic pain, as it provides a sustainable way to manage one of the most disruptive aspects of their condition.

By addressing both the physical and mental barriers to quality sleep, floatation therapy offers a comprehensive approach to improving sleep hygiene. This also underscores the importance of integrating floatation therapy into a broader pain management plan as a way of enhancing the overall quality of life for chronic pain sufferers.

Complementing Traditional Treatments

While floatation therapy offers numerous benefits on its own, it can also complement traditional pain management treatments. The calming effects of floatation can enhance the efficacy of treatments such as physical therapy and medication by creating a more receptive mental and physical state.

Medication, while essential for many chronic pain sufferers, often works best when the body is in a relaxed state, meaning that floating’s ability to lower stress levels and promote a sense of calm can enhance the body's response to pain relief medications. This synergistic effect can lead to more consistent and prolonged relief from pain.

Additionally, floatation therapy can provide an alternative or adjunctive treatment for individuals seeking to reduce their reliance on medications. By incorporating floatation into their pain management regimen, some patients may experience sufficient relief to lower their medication dosages, minimizing potential side effects and improving overall health outcomes.

For individuals undergoing physical therapy, floatation therapy can prepare the body by reducing muscle tension and joint stiffness. The weightlessness experienced during a float session can help increase range of motion and flexibility, making it easier to perform physical therapy exercises. This can lead to more effective sessions and potentially faster progress in physical rehabilitation.

Many individuals find that their pain management sessions are more productive after a float session, as they are able to engage more fully and openly in the therapeutic process. The mental clarity and reduced anxiety achieved through floatation therapy can improve focus and cooperation during treatments, allowing for a deeper connection with healthcare providers and a more personalized approach to care.

Embracing a Holistic Approach to Chronic Pain Management

As we continue to explore new and effective ways to manage chronic pain, it's essential to recognize the value of a holistic approach to care. Floatation therapy provides a unique and effective method to both manage symptoms and promote healing. Whether used as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with traditional treatments, floatation therapy offers a sanctuary of peace and relaxation that can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by chronic pain.

Integrating floatation therapy into a comprehensive pain management plan supports holistic well-being. The benefits of floating extend beyond pain relief, contributing to better sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced mental health. This multifaceted approach can lead to a more balanced and resilient state, empowering chronic pain sufferers to lead fuller, more active lives.

By complementing traditional treatments, floatation therapy offers a versatile and effective strategy for managing chronic pain. Its ability to enhance the body's natural healing processes and improve the efficacy of conventional therapies makes it a valuable addition to any pain management program. Embracing floatation therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan can provide chronic pain sufferers with the relief they need and the overall wellness they deserve.

Introduction to Vibroacoustic Therapy

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 15:54:23 GMT

Introduction to Vibroacoustic Therapy

Have you ever felt a deep sense of relaxation while being gently rocked on a train, calmed by the rhythmic clacking of the wheels? That soothing experience is akin to vibroacoustics. Vibroacoustic therapy merges the therapeutic properties of sound and vibrations to help alleviate various health conditions and induce profound relaxation. This unique therapy is gaining attention for its potential to enhance physical and mental health. In this guide, we'll explore the fundamentals of sound and vibration therapies, how they combine with vibroacoustic therapy, their benefits, and how you can easily incorporate vibroacoustics into your wellness routine.

Understanding Sound Therapy

Sound therapy utilizes audio tones and coordinated vibrations to influence health and emotional well-being positively. By leveraging various frequencies, this method triggers the body's natural healing processes. Studies have shown that specific sound frequencies can reduce stress, improve focus, and promote overall emotional balance.

Understanding Vibration Therapy

Similar to sound therapy, vibration therapy employs mechanical vibrations to improve health. These vibrations can relax muscles, enhance blood flow, and reduce symptoms of various ailments. Vibration therapy has been widely used in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings to aid recovery and improve physical performance.

The Science of Vibroacoustic Therapy

Vibroacoustic therapy combines sound and vibration to create a cohesive treatment protocol that stimulates the body's cells. This synergy enhances therapeutic effects, promoting healing and homeostasis more effectively than sound or vibration alone. Vibration therapy helps alleviate physical pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being by resonating with the body's frequencies.

Benefits of Vibroacoustic Therapy

Numerous studies indicate that vibroacoustic therapy can help with conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep disorders. This therapy offers a non-invasive way to enhance quality of life. Individuals dealing with chronic pain, high-stress levels, or seeking alternative therapies for relaxation and well-being may find vibroacoustic therapy particularly beneficial.

Implementing Vibroacoustic Therapy

At Float, we offer Vibroacoustic Therapy inside our beautiful Salt Cave, providing the perfect environment for achieving a relaxed state of mind. As a bonus, you'll also receive the restorative and detox benefits of the Salt Cave during your vibroacoustic session—a three-in-one therapy! Our facility is designed to enhance your wellness journey, making it easy to incorporate vibroacoustic therapy into your routine.

Conclusion

Vibroacoustic therapy is a powerful modality that combines sound and vibration to promote healing and relaxation. Its benefits for conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep disorders make it a valuable addition to any wellness routine. At Float, we offer Vibroacoustic Therapy inside our beautiful Salt Cave as the perfect environment to help you get into a relaxed state of mind. Bonus: you’ll also get the restorative and detox benefits of the Salt Cave during your vibroacoustic session. A three-for-one therapy!

Floating for PTSD Relief | A Path to Healing

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 15:22:34 GMT

Floating for PTSD Relief | A Path to Healing

June is PTSD Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and promoting effective treatment options for those affected. PTSD can impact anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, and its effects can be deeply challenging. This month, we’d like to share an introduction to how floatation therapy can serve as a powerful tool in managing and alleviating PTSD symptoms, providing much-needed relief and support for those on their healing journey.

Understanding PTSD

First off, while many people associate PTSD with our veteran population, or other individuals who have experienced active conflicts or war, it’s important to understand that PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing any traumatic event. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. These symptoms can be debilitating – affecting daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Traditional treatments such as psychotherapy and medication are essential, but complementary therapies like floating can also play a significant role in managing PTSD.

Reducing Hyperarousal and Anxiety

One of the core symptoms of PTSD is hyperarousal, where the individual remains in a heightened state of alertness, constantly on edge. This can lead to chronic stress and anxiety. Floatation therapy involves an environment free from external stimuli, providing a unique opportunity for deep relaxation and introspection. For individuals with PTSD, this safe, controlled environment can be incredibly soothing, offering a temporary respite from the constant agitation and vigilance that often accompany the condition.

Additionally, floating has been shown to substantially reduce the levels of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. By lowering cortisol levels, floatation therapy helps mitigate the physiological symptoms of anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation that can be profoundly healing for those with PTSD.

Enhancing Emotional Processing

Floatation therapy also provides an environment that encourages introspection and self-awareness. In the quiet solitude of the float tank, individuals can process their emotions and thoughts without the distractions and pressures of the outside world. This enhanced self-awareness can be a valuable tool for individuals with PTSD, helping them to confront and process their traumatic experiences in a safe setting. The dramatic calm achieved during floatation therapy can also facilitate a state of mindfulness, allowing individuals to practice better management of intrusive thoughts and emotional distress outside of the tank as well.

Improving Sleep Quality

Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and nightmares, are common among those with PTSD. The deep relaxation induced by floatation therapy has also been known to significantly improve sleep quality. By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, floating helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier for individuals to fall asleep and stay asleep. Restorative sleep is crucial for mental health and can greatly enhance the overall well-being of those with PTSD.

Complementing Traditional Therapies

While floatation therapy offers numerous benefits on its own, it can also complement traditional PTSD treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. The calming effects of floatation can enhance the efficacy of these treatments by creating a more receptive mental state. Many individuals find that their therapy sessions are more productive after a float session, as they are able to engage more fully and openly in the therapeutic process.

Embracing a Holistic Approach to PTSD

As we observe PTSD Awareness Month, it's essential to recognize the value of a holistic approach to PTSD care. Floatation therapy is a valuable complement to the treatments available, offering a unique and effective way to both manage symptoms and promote healing. Whether used as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with traditional treatments, floatation therapy provides a sanctuary of peace and relaxation that can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by PTSD.

To read more and watch some Float Conference videos diving into the topic more deeply, check out this complementary article: Everything we KNOW about floating and PTSD .

Why a Spa Day is the Perfect Father’s Day Gift

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 14:48:41 GMT

Why a Spa Day is the Perfect Father’s Day Gift

Father's Day is that special time of year when we celebrate the incredible men in our lives. These are the guys who work tirelessly, love unconditionally, and often put everyone else's needs before their own. This year, instead of the usual tie or gadget, why not give dad something he truly deserves—a relaxing and rejuvenating spa day? Trust us, it's the perfect gift to show him how much you appreciate all he does.

Spa treatments can play a significant role in supporting both heart health and mental health in men. Spa treatments are not just about luxury; they offer tangible health benefits. A spa day can be a rejuvenating experience, reducing stress and easing muscle tension. Treatments like massages, saunas, and float therapy provide relaxation and address specific health needs, such as improving cardiovascular function and enhancing mental well-being. For dads, who often juggle demanding jobs and family responsibilities, a spa day can be an essential retreat that promotes overall health and rejuvenation.

HEART HEALTH FOR DADS

Heart health is a critical issue for men, especially fathers. Studies have shown that men develop heart disease 10 years earlier on average than women. Fathers, in particular, often have worse cardiovascular health in older age compared to non-fathers*. This could be due to the added responsibilities and stress associated with fatherhood. Therefore, focusing on heart health is crucial for all but especially for dads.

Float therapy and sauna sessions are incredibly beneficial for men's heart health, offering a range of advantages that support cardiovascular well-being. Float therapy involves lying in a sensory deprivation tank filled with Epsom salt water, creating a zero-gravity environment that promotes deep relaxation. This therapy positively affects the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), which controls heart rate. When stressed, the heart rate increases, and heart rate variability (HRV) decreases, indicating poor heart health. Float therapy helps to alleviate stress, allowing the heart rate to slow and HRV to increase, which signifies improved heart health. Additionally, floating reduces inflammation by lowering cortisol levels. High cortisol can lead to chronic inflammation, including in the arteries, which contributes to heart disease. The Epsom salt in float tanks is rich in magnesium, an essential mineral for heart health. Magnesium aids in relaxing heart muscle fibers after each contraction, enhancing overall heart function.

Sauna sessions also provide significant cardiovascular benefits. Saunas use heat to relax and detoxify the body. One key benefit is improved exercise tolerance. The heat from saunas dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles, which enhances exercise tolerance and cardiovascular conditioning. Moreover, regular sauna use helps reduce chronic inflammation by flushing out toxins through sweat. This reduction in inflammation is crucial, as chronic inflammation is a risk factor for heart disease. Additionally, saunas improve endothelial function, which is the function of blood vessel linings. Enhanced endothelial function reduces the risk of heart disease by promoting better blood flow and reducing arterial stiffness

MENTAL HEALTH & STRESS MANAGEMENT FOR DADS

Fatherhood is no walk in the park. Balancing a demanding job with family responsibilities can take a significant toll on both physical and mental health. The constant juggling act can lead to stress, fatigue, and sometimes even burnout. Dads are superheroes, but even superheroes need a break.

Float therapy provides a unique experience where one can achieve deep relaxation. By floating in a sensory deprivation tank, men can reduce stress and improve mental health. It allows the brain to rest, reducing symptoms of ADHD, depression, OCD, anxiety, PTSD, and general stress. Regular sessions can lead to compounded benefits over time, making it a valuable addition to any mental wellness routine.

Massage therapy, an ancient practice, significantly reduces the body's stress response. It lowers cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate while increasing endorphins and blood circulation. These changes lead to better overall health, improved mood, and enhanced relaxation. Regular massages can provide ongoing relief from the chronic stress of modern life.

RESPIRATORY HEALTH & ENHANCING THE EXPERIENCE

The Salt Cave at Float offers a haven for those seeking relief from persistent allergy symptoms, especially in the challenging climate of South Texas. The unusually warm winter of 2023 led to early and prolonged plant blooms, exacerbating allergies with increased pollen and air pollutants. Our Salt Cave utilizes Halotherapy to help alleviate these symptoms effectively. This therapy, along with Vibroacoustic Therapy now offered in the Salt Cave, not only provide significant relief for allergy sufferers but also serve as an ideal precursor to a relaxing float or massage session, enhancing overall wellness and relaxation.

Floating Through Stress: A Journey to Balance

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 23:14:47 GMT

Floating Through Stress: A Journey to Balance

For many in today's fast-paced world, stress seems inescapable. From looming work deadlines to responsibilities at home to the constant pings of digital distractions, our minds are in a perpetual state of overload. This relentless stress is more than just a temporary annoyance – it's a critical health issue.

Beyond simply making us feel overwhelmed, research continues to show that stress is a key factor in a wide variety of mental and physical ailments, ranging from anxiety and depression to heart disease and immune system dysfunction. Since stress doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon, finding ways to combat and assuage the effects of stress on our lives becomes that much more necessary to finding a healthy, balanced life.

April is Stress Awareness Month , which aims to serve as a reminder to acknowledge the pervasive impacts of stress in our lives and remind us of the importance of managing stress effectively. In the quest for techniques to manage the flood of stress we encounter on a day-to-day basis, floating rises to the surface. Beyond offering a momentary respite from the pressures of the world, floating offers a scientifically backed route to profound stress relief and well-being. Let’s dive into how stress affects our lives and health, and how floatation therapy can not only put a pause on stress, but actually start to undo some of the tolls stress has taken on our bodies and minds.

The Impact of Stress on Our Lives and Health

Stress, often termed as the 'silent killer,' infiltrates nearly every aspect of our lives, affecting our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. At its core, stress is the body's response to any demand or threat, triggering the 'fight or flight' reaction that prepares the body to act. While this response can be beneficial in short bursts, the problem arises when stress becomes chronic.

Mentally, chronic stress can manifest as anxiety, depression, and irritability, affecting our ability to think clearly and make decisions. It disrupts our sleep patterns and can lead to mental fatigue. Emotionally, it diminishes our capacity to manage our feelings and interact with others effectively, often leading to strained relationships and social withdrawal.

Physically, the impact of stress is equally daunting. It can cause or exacerbate conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and immune system disorders. Chronic stress triggers continuous release of the hormone cortisol, which, over time, can lead to weight gain, memory impairment, and a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. It also heightens the risk of stroke and has even been linked to reproductive issues in both men and women.

Moreover, the constant state of alertness induced by stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, where the adrenal glands can no longer keep pace with the body's demand for cortisol, leading to burnout. This state of chronic stress and its accompanying symptoms create a vicious cycle, further entrenching the negative effects on our health and well-being.

How Floating Can Mitigate Stress

The benefits of floatation therapy are both immediate and cumulative, meaning it provides both a short-term stress release solution, and a potential path to long-term wellness.

Initially, floating serves an escape from the incessant demands of daily life, offering a sanctuary where the mind can pause and rejuvenate. By creating an environment that drastically reduces sensory input, floatation tanks facilitate a deep state of relaxation that can be nearly impossible to achieve in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The buoyancy you experience during a float reduces the gravitational force on the body, allowing muscles and joints to release long-held tension and pain. The water is maintained at skin temperature, blurring the lines between the body and the surrounding water, further enhancing the sensation of sensory release, and leading to a deep meditative state.

This environment promotes a shift from the body's sympathetic nervous system (the fight-or-flight response) which is active during stress, to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation and recovery. This results in a decrease in cortisol levels and the balancing of the body's biochemical state, which can lead to significant acute reductions in stress and anxiety.

Moreover, the benefits of floating extend beyond the immediate post-float serenity. Individuals who integrate floating into their regular wellness routine often report sustained improvements in sleep quality, a reduction in chronic pain, and an enhanced ability to navigate daily stressors with ease and grace. Floating is not only a temporary escape but can actually foster a lasting change in how we interact with and perceive our world and the stressors within it. Over time, this can lead to a significant reversal of the negative health effects of chronic stress, offering a pathway to a healthier, more balanced life.

Ultimately, while stress is an inevitable part of modern life, that doesn't mean we have to live with the adverse effects on our health and well-being. Effective stress management strategies like floatation therapy can pause and even reverse the tolls of stress, offering a valuable tool in the quest for a healthier, more balanced existence.

Stress may be a constant, but so is the relief found in a float tank. This Stress Awareness Month, uncover the science behind floatation therapy and its calming effects. Read on in our newest blog post.

Enhancing Sleep Quality with Floating

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 22:45:51 GMT

Enhancing Sleep Quality with Floating

March 10th-16th is Sleep Awareness Week, a time to highlight the importance of good sleep

health and explore ways to promote better sleep practices for a more energized and fulfilling life.

In recognition, we thought it would be an opportune moment to delve into how floatation therapy

can be one of the more serene and effective approaches to improving your sleep.

How Does Floatation Therapy Impact Sleep?

For those already familiar with floating, you know the profound relaxation that envelops you. But

the impact of floatation therapy on your sleep goes far beyond just this blissful feeling of

tranquility. Floating has the ability to positively impact several crucial elements affecting the

quality of your sleep.

The Slumber-Promoting Powers of Sensory Deprivation

At the core of the float experience is sensory deprivation - that cocooning elimination of external light, sound and tactile input. This is what allows your brain to release its grip on the outside world and turn inward, initiating processes that not only relax you in the moment but purposefully prepare your mind and body for sleep.

By reducing sensory stimulus, floating dials down your sympathetic "fight-or-flight" responses while giving your parasympathetic "rest-and-digest" functions full control. This pivotal shift naturally prompts the release of sleep-promoting neurotransmitters while stress hormones dissipate. Your sleep-wake cycles are effectively re-set, priming you for sustained, high-quality sleep.

A Sanctuary from Stress

Stress is a huge barrier to good sleep. It not only makes it difficult to fall asleep but can also affect the quality of sleep by causing frequent awakenings and lighter sleep stages. Floatation therapy offers a powerful countermeasure to stress by significantly reducing cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, and promoting a state of deep relaxation. This reduction in stress not only helps in falling asleep more easily but also contributes to a deeper, more restful sleep.

Pain Relief for Better Sleep

For individuals suffering from chronic pain, achieving a good night's sleep can seem like an insurmountable challenge. The weightlessness provided by the buoyant saltwater in float tanks can offer profound relief from physical discomfort, particularly in the back and joints. This relief is not temporary; the effects can last for days after a session, providing a window of opportunity for better quality sleep by minimizing the pain that often disrupts sleep cycles.

Mental Health and Sleep Quality

Anxiety and depression are closely linked with sleep disturbances, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break. Floatation therapy offers a unique environment that promotes mental wellness by facilitating meditation and mindfulness, helping to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression. This mental clarity and calmness can make it easier to fall asleep and maintain a healthy sleep cycle, breaking the cycle of sleep disturbances exacerbated by mental health issues.

Resetting Your Circadian Rhythms

Our sleep-wake cycles are governed by our body's internal circadian rhythms. When these get disrupted by things like jet lag, irregular schedules or exposure to blue light screens before bed it can really impact our sleep quality. Floatation therapy provides a natural way to "reset" these cycles.

The complete removal of external light and sound cues gives your body's clock a fresh slate, while the relaxation allows your circadian rhythms to resynchronize to their optimal patterns.

Many find that a float helps their sleep patterns regulate after periods of disruption, getting them back on a healthy, consistent sleep schedule.

How to Make the Most of Floating’s Sleep Health Benefits

If you’re wanting to fully unlock the sleep-promoting powers of floatation therapy, take a look at these strategies to maximize the rejuvenating benefits:

Optimizing Session Timing

The timing of your floatation therapy sessions can significantly affect their impact on your sleep. For many, floating in the evening, a few hours before bedtime, helps prepare the mind and body for sleep, creating an ideal state of relaxation that leads seamlessly into a night of deep, restorative sleep. However, the optimal timing can vary based on individual circadian rhythms and schedules. Experimenting with different times of the day may help you identify when a float benefits you the most, aligning with your natural sleep-wake cycle for the greatest improvement in sleep quality.

Combining with Sleep Hygiene Practices

To maximize the sleep-enhancing effects of floatation therapy, consider integrating it with established sleep hygiene practices. Creating a pre-sleep routine that includes limiting exposure to screens and bright lights an hour before bed can further signal to your brain that it's time to wind down. Incorporating floatation therapy into your schedule as part of a broader commitment to good sleep hygiene—such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a comfortable, conducive sleep environment—can synergize the benefits, leading to even better sleep quality.

Stick With a Routine

Like any lifestyle adjustment, consistency is key when it comes to maximizing the sleep benefits of floating. While a single float can provide great sleep that night, establishing a routine sends stronger signals to your body about adopting new, healthier sleep patterns.

Aim to book floats at the same cadence - whether weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. And try to schedule them around the same time of day each session. This allows your circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles to become accustomed to the new normal of restorative sleep prompted by floating. Over time, you're more likely to develop lasting, high-quality sleep habits.

Embrace a Natural Path to Better Sleep

Floatation therapy takes a comprehensive, drug-free approach to improving sleep quality by relieving stress, minimizing pain, promoting mental wellness, and naturally balancing hormones. This Sleep Awareness Week, we encourage you to explore how floating can transform your nights, leaving you energized and ready to embrace each new day. Invest in the luxury of deep, restorative sleep and an overall improved sense of well-being. Book your float session today and prepare to wake up to a new world of quality sleep.

Membership Benefits At Float

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 22:59:49 GMT

Membership Benefits At Float

The biggest reason we offer memberships? We just like to see your smiling faces as often as possible! Well, that, plus we’re committed to your long-term wellness, and we know how important it is to be consistent with our wellness modalities in order to achieve max results. While a one-off float or massage whenever you need it is fantastic for relaxation, de-stressing and a bit of a brain reset, there are even more benefits with each of our services from consistent usage. A Float membership not only saves you money, but it also helps keep you consistent and on track. Keep reading for more info on each of our services as well as each modality’s recommended usage schedule.

Float

The near-magical benefits of floating range from muscle recovery, heart health and decreased inflammation to meditative relaxation levels, better sleep and even increased creativity. These benefits come in no small part thanks to the magnesium (aka epsom salt) that gives the water its buoyancy. While one float session does wonders for you, repeated exposure to the magnesium compounds those benefits over time. The more consistently you float, the greater magnesium levels you are able to maintain. Plus the float environment itself is such a reset for your nervous system and helps reduce stress each and every time. These days, who doesn’t need some stress relief on an ongoing basis? One float per month is a solid place to start (though there’s no upper limit). Our memberships offer various float session lengths plus discounts for additional floats per month.

Massage

Though we often think of massage as simply a relaxing, self-care experience, there are many clinically-proven benefits to massage that go far beyond a lovely day at the spa. From athletes and fitness enthusiasts to individuals dealing with persistent injuries, sleep disturbances, headaches, discomfort, anxiety, or seeking to enhance immune function, circulation, energy levels, and mood—even those managing high blood pressure—massage therapy stands out as a premier treatment to incorporate into your wellness regimen. We offer many types of massage targeted at different aspects of wellness and recovery, and we have membership options for each massage type.

Halotherapy

Our salt cave is more than just a relaxing atmosphere; it’s an easy, quick and very effective therapy. Repeated halotherapy sessions help with pain relief, skin rejuvenation and systemic healing as well as decreased depression, stress and anxiety. Consistency is key with salt therapy, though, so be sure to give it a chance to start working its magic. Our memberships offer weekly halotherapy sessions. And, while you’re in there breathing that salty goodness, give our vibrational sound bed in the salt cave a try! It’s part massage, part meditation, all awesome relaxation.

Infrared Sauna

Repeated infrared sauna use improves exercise tolerance and cardiovascular conditioning, reduces inflammation, and improves heart disease markers like vascular endothelial function. As far as how many times per week or month is best, the science shows that there’s really no upper limit. You could go as often as once a day, though 2-4 times per week seems to be the sweet spot balancing time commitment while retaining efficacy. Float’s sauna memberships range from 8 saunas per month up to 1 per day.

Red Light Therapy

RLT’s repertoire of benefits includes smoother, healthier skin, enhanced circulation, decreased pain, and accelerated healing of muscles, injuries, and wounds. Consistency is crucial in red light therapy. Although significant changes may not be immediately noticeable after just one or two sessions, they will gradually manifest over time. Depending on your desired outcomes, you may opt to schedule red light therapy sessions on a weekly, bi-weekly, or even post-intensive workout basis. (Oh, bonus, our RLT is part of our spacious Yoga Sauna, so you can kill two birds with one stone!)

Part of a healthy lifestyle is creating consistent, sustainable habits. Our memberships are designed to help you do just that while saving money in the process. Be sure to check out floatsa.com for all the deets, all the cool membership combos and all the additional discounts that come with membership. If you love all things Float and want to take your wellness journey to the next level, head over to floatsa.com and choose the membership package that’s right for you!

Float | Red Light Therapy

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 23:07:31 GMT

Red Light Therapy

RED LIGHT THERAPY

At Float, we recognize that, no matter how much you value your wellness practice, there are still only so many hours in a day. That’s why we make it easy to combine wellness modalities by including red light therapy in our yoga sauna. While you enjoy the benefits of our spacious, 6’ sauna with its own impressive set of health benefits, the added red light therapy will simultaneously target smoother, healthier skin, improved circulation, pain reduction and faster healing of muscles, injuries and wounds. Read on to learn more about red light therapy and why you might want to consider adding it into your wellness routine.

What Is Red Light therapy?

Red light therapy, also known as RLT, is a method by which LED red light is adjusted to a low wavelength and used to target different areas of the body. Research on light therapy started over one hundred years ago, shortly after the invention of the light bulb. In 1903, Niels Ryberg Finsen was awarded the Nobel Prize for his work curing tuberculosis scars using light therapy. In the ensuing years since the invention of the lightbulb, there have been many advances in light technology which have led to ever-growing progress in light therapy as well as the discovery of a multitude of health benefits for red light therapy.

Improved Muscle Recovery Time

Whether you are an athlete or just someone trying to make the most of their workouts, faster recovery time can be a huge advantage. You don't want to miss practice or your next workout because of strained or overworked muscles. With red light therapy, inflammation, and soreness are reduced while circulation and cell production are increased. These benefits translate to a much shorter recovery time. According to the National Library of Medicine , a study of college athletes who used red light therapy after an injury were able to return to play in an average of 9.6 days instead of the projected 19.23 days; the treatment also had a 78.5% approval rating by the athletes.

Healthy Circulation is Key

If you are simply working out to stay healthy or if you’re trying to maximize your performance in competition, you want peak efficiency from your circulatory system. The more efficient your blood is flowing and providing oxygen to your body, the more stamina you will have. This, in turn, means more effective workouts. You will recover more quickly from your workout, and you will have less inflammation and joint pain afterward. That increased efficient delivery of oxygen also helps the rest of your internal organs function better, keeps your brain sharper and even gives you a healthier complexion.

Look Younger and Healthier

While the appearance of one’s skin is likely not the first thing an athlete thinks about, who doesn't want to look their best? Besides the improved circulation that helps your complexion look better and the increased cell production to help repair your skin, red light therapy also increases collagen production. When you optimize collagen production, your skin is healthier, smoother, and more resistant to the damage caused by extended sun exposure. You may see the thin lines on your face disappear after a few treatments.

It's All About Consistency and Quality

The key to red light therapy is repetition. While you won't see huge changes after one or two treatments, changes will definitely come over time. Depending on the results you want to achieve, you could schedule red light therapy weekly, bi-weekly or even after every extra hard workout. You may see red light devices on the Internet, but they don't compare to using the proven, top-of-the-line equipment featured in our yoga sauna. Stop by Float to see how convenient it is to use red light therapy plus sauna consistently to ensure maximum double-benefits.

SLAY YOUR 2024 WELLNESS GOALS WITH FLOAT

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 04:06:26 GMT

SLAY YOUR 2024 WELLNESS GOALS WITH FLOAT

To New Year’s Resolution or not to New Year’s Resolution, that is the question. While some of us love ‘em, some feel pressured to come up with something and others forego the concept altogether, we likely all have some sort of goal or benchmark we’d like to work toward, time of year not withstanding. Some of the most common resolutions this year are improved fitness – ranging from improved diet and getting regular exercise to losing weight and lowering blood pressure – and improved mental wellness – including better mental health, spending more time with loved ones, making more time for hobbies, creating a better work-life balance, regular meditation, etc.

If any of these resonate with you, whether you call them resolutions or not, you are 100% in the right place! At Float, our services are tailor-made for anyone looking to enhance mental and physical wellbeing, aka we’re your one-stop-shop for incorporating your New Year’s aspirations into actionable, sustainable habits and practices. Wait, how do floating and working out go together? Read on!

Floating for a Heathy Heart

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 22:42:00 GMT

Floating for a Heathy Heart

February is American Heart Month, where the spotlight turns to nurturing one of our body's most vital organs. For those familiar with the tranquility of floatation therapy, it's well-known as a sanctuary for the mind and body. However, its impact stretches beyond mere relaxation, touching the very core of our cardiovascular health. Let's explore the ways in which regular floating sessions can be a powerful ally for your heart.

Easing the Heart's Burden: Stress Reduction

In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, chronic stress has become a public health enemy, contributing to a plethora of cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and heart attacks. The serene embrace of the float tank is a proven antidote to the stresses of daily life. For our hearts, this reduction in stress is not just a relief, but a necessity. Chronic stress taxes the heart, elevating the risk of these common heart issues. By stepping into the float tank, we allow our bodies to shift away from stress, thereby safeguarding our hearts against these risks. During this month of heart health awareness, it’s a poignant reminder of how essential stress management is for cardiovascular well-being.

Blood Pressure Regulation: Floating Toward Equilibrium

High blood pressure is a silent threat that significantly increases the risk of heart disease. The serene environment of a floatation tank can help the body shift from its sympathetic (stress-induced) state to a parasympathetic state, which is responsible for relaxation and healing. This gentle regulation is a testament to the body's innate ability to heal and find balance, providing a non-pharmacological option to support heart health. Regular floatation therapy sessions could, therefore, play a role in maintaining optimal blood pressure levels, offering a serene route to heart health maintenance.

Improved Circulation: Nurturing Your Heart through Enhanced Flow

The benefits of floating extend to enhancing blood circulation, a key component of heart health. Good blood circulation is fundamental to cardiovascular health, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients are efficiently delivered throughout the body. The buoyancy and warmth of the saltwater in float tanks encourage the blood vessels to dilate, improving overall circulation. This enhanced blood flow can help in preventing the build-up of plaque in arteries, a major cause of heart disease.

The Heart's Rhythm and Variability

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of the variation in time between each heartbeat, considered an indicator of cardiovascular fitness and stress resilience. HRV is an important indicator of heart health, reflecting the heart's ability to adapt to stress and changes in the environment. Emerging evidence suggests that floating may positively influence HRV, signifying a more resilient and flexible cardiovascular system. By incorporating floatation therapy into our wellness routines, we can potentially foster a heart that's not only stronger but more adaptable to the challenges it faces.

Embracing Heart Health Through Floating

For those of us who have experienced the profound calmness of floating, it's clear that its benefits ripple through every aspect of our well-being, including our heart health. As American Heart Month encourages us to focus on cardiovascular care, let's recognize floatation therapy as more than just a mental escape – it's a practice with the power to enhance heart health, offering a peaceful yet potent way to support our cardiovascular system. Whether you're a regular floater or occasionally indulge, the heart health benefits of floating are compelling reasons to make it a staple in your self-care repertoire.

So this Heart Month we raise our glasses (and lower our blood pressure) to floating, where heart health meets profound relaxation.

DO’S & DON’TS OF FLOATATION THERAPY

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 05:19:40 GMT

DO’S & DON’TS OF FLOATATION THERAPY

Considering trying a float but looking for a few pointers before you slip into the salty goodness for the first time? We read your mind! If you’re new to this whole sensory deprivation thing, have we got the list for you! Here are our top do’s and don’ts for making the most of your first float experience.

The Do's of Floating in a Sensory Deprivation Tank

To ensure a safe and fulfilling float experience, it's important to follow certain guidelines. Here are the key do's of floating:

Showering before the Float

Taking a thorough shower before entering the sensory deprivation tank helps remove oils, lotions, and any external contaminants from your body. This ensures that the water in the tank remains clean and sanitary throughout your session.

Using Earplugs and a Neck Support

Not a fan of that tickly ear feeling when water gets into your ear? Wearing earplugs can prevent that and help maintain a comfortable, tickly-ear-free experience. Additionally, using a neck support or floatation pillow will keep your head a bit higher out of the water which might help you relax a bit more.

Practicing Mindfulness and Deep Breathing

Floating + meditation = the perfect combo! While inside the tank, take the opportunity to practice mindfulness and deep breathing techniques. This can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and deepen your state of relaxation. Focus on your breath and let go of any tension or thoughts that arise.

Experimenting with Different Positions

There’s no one right way to float - you do you! Feel free to explore different body positions during your float session. Some individuals find it most comfortable to float with their arms at their sides, while others prefer to place them above their heads. Find the position that allows you to fully relax and enjoy the weightless sensation.

The Don’ts of Floating in a Sensory Deprivation Tank

In order to experience an optimal float, it's important to be aware of the things you should avoid while floating. Here are the key don'ts of floating:

Shaving or Waxing Right Before the Float

If you’ve ever shaved right before you go into the ocean, you already know this one. it's best to avoid shaving or waxing immediately before your float session. Freshly shaved or waxed skin can be sensitive, and the high salt content in the tank water may cause discomfort or stinging sensations. Ideally, make sure it’s been at least 24 hours since your last shave / wax.

Consuming Caffeine or Heavy Meals

One of the main benefits of floating is a stunning level of relaxation, so coming in caffeinated or overly full isn’t ideal. To fully relax and achieve a deep meditative state, it's advisable to avoid consuming caffeine or heavy meals before floating. These can interfere with the calming effects of floating and may cause discomfort during the session. Opt for light, nourishing snacks if needed.

Wearing Contact Lenses

Getting the super salty water in your eyes during a float isn’t amazing; getting the super salty water in your eyes while wearing contracts is even less amazing. For the comfort of your eyes as well as for the safety of your contacts, it's generally recommended to remove contact lenses before entering the sensory deprivation tank.

Bringing Personal Electronics into the Tank

To fully disconnect from external stimuli, it's important to leave personal electronics outside the float tank. This includes smartphones, tablets, and any other devices that emit light or sound. This is the time for you to immerse yourself in your thoughts and to turn inward; embrace the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy uninterrupted solitude.

We hope this list of do's and don'ts has equipped you with the insights you need to step confidently into your first floatation therapy session. Remember, this therapy isn't just about floating, it's about setting yourself adrift and losing yourself to relaxation so that you emerge rejuvenated. At FLOAT, we’d love to become your haven from the hustle of the outside world. Visit FLOAT San Antonio today and gift yourself the unparalleled experience of weightless calm and mindful rejuvenation. Let the journey to inner peace commence.

Why Float as a Couple?

Sat, 20 Jan 2024 05:15:12 GMT

WHY TRY A COUPLE’S FLOAT?

Building a deep and meaningful connection with your significant other is bolstered by touchstones moments of shared tranquility and reflection. Floating therapy, an immersive sensory deprivation experience, offers couples a unique opportunity to explore and strengthen their bond in a space of undisturbed serenity. Dive into the world of floatation therapy and discover how this shared journey can be transformative for relationships, paving the way for memories, understanding, and emotional intimacy.

BUILD CONNECTION

A couples float can serve as an emotionally enriching experience. Jointly partaking in a floatation therapy session births a connection as heartfelt as that stemming from any other delightful shared activity. The bond that forms during these moments is both profound and intimate, as you bask in the shared silence and serenity.

A SHARED EXPERIENCE AND MEMORY

This experience crafts precious memories that you both cherish - a thriving relationship is always punctuated by beautiful, laughter-filled memories that you can both fondly recall. These shared experiences amplify the love between you, instilling a sense of unity and appreciation that strengthens your bond.

THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP

We’re stronger together - embark on the floating journey together, or don't embark at all? Frequently, the reassuring presence of our partner ignites the courage within us to try new things. Sometimes, this boost of confidence is all we need to finally pursue something we've always been curious about and something that promises to enrich our lives.

MEND BONDS IN SILENT SERENITY

It can be a salve for relationship troubles - as light-hearted as this may sound, it could truly work wonders for you and your partner. Unwinding together in the profound silence, effortlessly floating in the seclusion of the dark isolation pool could be a therapeutic balm for your relationship. With your muscles fully relaxed and your mind stripped of sensory distractions, negativity evaporates. This fosters a serene, peaceful environment, perfect for resolving disagreements and fostering introspection, all while enveloped in the comforting embrace of the other's presence.

In the ebb and flow of relationships, moments of shared tranquility stand as beacons of connection and understanding. Floatation therapy, beyond its sensory deprivation allure, offers couples a sanctuary to deepen their bond, crafting cherished memories and igniting renewed appreciation for one another. As you and your significant other venture into this world of silent serenity, let the waters carry away distractions and differences, revealing the raw essence of emotional intimacy that lies beneath.

UNLOCK THE POWER OF FLOAT THERAPY FOR WORKOUT RECOVERY

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 05:01:33 GMT

UNLOCK THE POWER OF FLOAT THERAPY FOR WORKOUT RECOVERY

It’s day two after leg day. The mere thought of sitting down almost brings you to tears. Discover Float’s ultimate workout recovery tool – floating is a game-changer for fitness enthusiasts. Think of floatation therapy like soaking a sore muscle, but on a whole-body scale. Floating isn't just about soothing muscles; it's a gravity-free oasis where your body and mind find complete relaxation. Experience enhanced circulation, reduced tension, and even tap into the power of deep meditation to elevate your fitness journey. Dive in with us and discover the world of recovery-related benefits at Float.

A FULL-BODY EPSOM SALT SOAK

Float therapy can be likened to the concept of soaking a sore or injured body part in Epsom salt for relief but on a full-body scale. It's particularly effective at preventing sports-related injuries caused by muscle tension and strain rather than by direct impacts. In the weightless environment of a float tank, adrenaline, cortisol, and lactate are flushed out, facilitating enhanced red blood cell production and efficient circulation. This comprehensive approach significantly reduces the risk of muscle-related injuries while easing soreness.

GRAVITY-FREE = ZERO TENSION

In the aftermath of intense workouts, muscle fatigue can pose a significant challenge. Float therapy, with its gravity-free environment, offers muscles a genuine chance to rest and rejuvenate. As blood flow surges, the spine and neck naturally elongate, while tension effortlessly dissipates. The high levels of magnesium sulfate present in float tanks work to relax sore muscles and expedite protein production, effectively priming athletes for future physical challenges.

THE POWER OF VISUALIZATION

Float therapy extends beyond physical advantages, as the profound meditative state attainable in the float tank can provide the mental foundation to elevate one's fitness journey significantly. Those who play competitive sports can tap into the power of theta and alpha brainwaves, allowing them to vividly visualize past training routines and experiences. This mental clarity and focus, fostered by float therapy, ultimately lead to enhanced in-game performance, taking their fitness journey to the next level.

Don't miss out on the incredible benefits waiting for you at Float in San Antonio. Our full-body Epsom salt soak is the ultimate workout recovery tool, offering you a unique and gravity-free oasis for complete relaxation. Experience the magic of enhanced circulation, reduced tension, and mental clarity through deep meditation. Your body and mind will thank you!

DO’S & DON’TS FOR SAUNA USE

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 05:09:26 GMT

DO’S & DON’TS FOR SAUNA USE

At Float Wellness Spa, we're dedicated to making sure your sauna experience is both enriching and secure. Our goal is to enhance your sauna experience while ensuring you stay safe by avoiding any preventable risks. Here are some essential tips for optimizing your time in the sauna along with some key safety precautions. Transform your sauna sessions into rejuvenating journeys that restore your body's internal equilibrium and overall well-being.

DO

Stay Hydrated

Just like you would hydrate on a sweltering South Texas summer day, hydration is paramount when using the sauna. Make sure to drink ample water *with electrolytes* before, during, and after your session. Proper hydration not only aids in flushing out toxins but also prevents your body from overheating.

Choose the Right Attire

Opt for comfortable attire that allows your skin to breathe. We offer two types of saunas: one with a bench for relaxation and another with a yoga mat for stretching. Whichever you choose, make comfort your priority. And remember, leave any metal jewelry behind to avoid the risk of possible burns.

Be Attuned to Your Body

Always be aware of how you're feeling while in the sauna. If you experience dizziness, an uncomfortably elevated heart rate or nausea, it's a signal to exit and cool down.

Aftercare Tips

Once your session concludes, take time to let your body adjust to room temperature. Shower with lukewarm water to cleanse your skin of any lingering toxins, and continue to hydrate by drinking plenty of water.

DON’T

Overheat

Pay attention to how you're feeling during your sauna session. If you experience blurred vision, sudden fatigue, dizziness or nausea, it's time to exit the sauna. Additionally, refrain from using the sauna if you are dehydrated or not feeling well.

Drink Alcohol

Mixing alcohol with sauna sessions is not advisable. Consuming alcohol can lead to dehydration, making your sauna experience not only less beneficial but also potentially risky.

Use Your Cell Phone During A Session

Using your cell phone in a sauna exposes it to high temperatures, which can cause the device to overheat and pose a fire risk. For your safety and the safety of others (not to mention the safety of your phone), it's best to leave your phone outside the sauna.

Use Sauna if You Have Any Physical Limitations

If you have heart conditions, are possibly pregnant or are on medication that affects your body's temperature regulation, always prioritize your well-being and seek medical advice to determine if sauna use is appropriate for you. Failure to do so can result in serious health risks.

In conclusion, taking the right precautions and being mindful of do's and don'ts can make your sauna experience at Float Wellness Spa not just enjoyable but also safe and beneficial. Hydration is key, the right attire is crucial, and being attuned to your body's signals can help you make the most of your time in the sauna. On the flip side, avoid risk factors such as overheating, consuming alcohol, using your cell phone, or entering the sauna with certain medical conditions without prior consultation. With these guidelines in mind, you're well-equipped to enjoy a rejuvenating sauna session that can positively impact both your physical and mental well-being.

Can Float Therapy Aid in Alleviating PTSD Symptoms?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 04:14:20 GMT

Can Float Therapy Aid in Alleviating PTSD Symptoms?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition characterized by anxiety and depression stemming from a traumatic event (either acute or prolonged). Though we often—and rightly—associate this condition with war veterans, any individual across any age group can develop PTSD after experiencing or witnessing traumatic occurrences such as physical or sexual assault, abuse, accidents, severe health problems, traumatic childbirth experiences, disasters, war or conflict, death of loved ones or friends, or other severe events. This condition may cause individuals to feel stressed or scared even in the absence of immediate danger. Notably, combat veterans may suffer from PTSD due to the intense and distressing experiences of war.

PTSD disrupts the body's stress response, namely how the stress hormone Cortisol is regulated. Under normal circumstances, cortisol levels rise and fall in a daily cycle—high in the morning, low at night—contributing to our circadian rhythm. However, in those with PTSD, cortisol levels may remain consistently high leading to a host of health issues such as being constantly on edge, irritability or aggressive behavior, difficulty concentrating, self-destructive behavior, weight gain, digestive problems, sleep disturbances, flashbacks, etc.

Float therapy’s claim to fame is its remarkable calming effect on the brain’s chemistry, intense relaxation at the neural level, and overall mood enhancement. If one were trying to make a pill or a therapy to treat PTSD, it would need to address each of these aspects. Float therapy intrinsically offers a holistic approach to managing the complexities of PTSD that naturally targets the most damaging characteristics of this life-altering and disruptive condition.

Research from the '90s, notably by Thomas H. Fine of the University of Toledo College of Medicine, has illuminated the benefits of float therapy specifically for PTSD treatment. Fine's studies, including one involving eight 40-minute float sessions revealed a significant reduction in cortisol levels with a 22% decrease observed in participants.

Moreover, a meta-analysis of 27 studies involving 449 participants revealed that flotation therapy effectively reduces stress as evidenced by physiological benefits like decreased cortisol and blood pressure, improvements in well-being, and enhanced performance. The findings indicate that flotation therapy may serve as a potent alternative or complement to traditional stress management techniques.

An additional study involving 50 participants with diagnosed anxiety and depression demonstrated that floatation therapy not only reduced stress, muscle tension, pain, depression and negative affects but also markedly enhanced mood. This enhancement was characterized by elevated feelings of serenity, relaxation, happiness, and general well-being.

Beyond cortisol reduction, float therapy is also associated with increased production of dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters integral to mood regulation and the sensation of pleasure and happiness. These biochemical changes further contribute to the therapeutic effects of float therapy, particularly for those with PTSD. The tranquility experienced during a float session not only lowers cortisol but also encourages the normalization of circadian rhythms, potentially alleviating some of the disruptive symptoms associated with PTSD.

Further, we see anecdotal evidence in our own clients who have freely discussed their experience with float therapy and how it has helped them manage their own PTSD symptoms. Robert Torres, a Marine veteran who served in challenging environments such as Fallujah and Marjah, found profound relief from the physical and mental scars of battle through float therapy. Six years ago, he discovered the power of the float tank— a sanctuary where the absence of gravity and external stimuli allowed him to process his thoughts in silence, leading to significant pain relief and mental clarity. This experience helped alleviate his PTSD symptoms which then enabled him to regain control of his life, ultimately inspiring him to become a skydiving instructor. Despite its clear benefits to veterans like Torres, unfortunately, float therapy remains unrecognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs for coverage.

RESEARCH STUDIES AND ARTICLES CITED:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12509067/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796691/

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08870440412331337093#.UyMssVFdXd0

https://www.expressnews.com/opinion/article/Lingle-A-military-vet-floats-toward-peace-17478527.php

7 REASONS TO GIVE THE GIFT OF RELAXATION THIS HOLIDAY

Sat, 06 Jan 2024 04:11:28 GMT

7 REASONS TO GIVE THE GIFT OF RELAXATION THIS HOLIDAY

As the holiday season unfolds, consider the unique and meaningful idea of gifting an experience of relaxation. At Float, we believe that the most memorable gifts are those that offer a respite from the hustle of daily life. Imagine the joy of providing someone with a peaceful massage, a serene float session, rejuvenating halotherapy, or an energizing sauna experience. These gifts of relaxation not only cater to a loved one's well being but also represent thoughtful alternatives to traditional material gifts. Below are seven compelling reasons why giving the gift of relaxation this holiday is not just a present, but a cherished experience.

A Personal Treat

Many people hesitate to indulge in self-care like massages or float sessions. Gifting these experiences offers a special treat they might not typically choose for themselves.

Eco-Friendly Choice

Instead of adding to material possessions, these experiences help reduce clutter and are an environmentally conscious, clutter-free gifting option.

Boosts Wellbeing

Services like floats, massages, halotherapy and sauna sessions significantly contribute to the recipient's overall health and wellbeing.

Convenience for the Giver

Choosing a gift card from Float simplifies the gifting process while still offering a personal touch.

Stress Reduction

With a high percentage of adults experiencing stress, these therapeutic services provide a much-needed respite for pretty much anyone on your list.

Extended Excitement

Gifting an experience such as a sauna session or a salt cave visit offers the recipient not only the joy of anticipation but also the delight and fulfillment experienced when they use their gift.

Emotional Impact

Experiential gifts, such as those offered by Float, create lasting memories and elicit stronger emotional responses from recipients than material items.

Remember, the best gifts are not just items but experiences that enrich lives. By choosing a Float gift card, you're not only offering a path to stress relief and wellbeing but also an environmentally friendly option that brings joy more than once. Let this holiday be the one where you gift not just something to unwrap but an experience to be cherished – a true moment of relaxation and rejuvenation at Float.

Self-Care for Mental Health

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 05:43:53 GMT

Self-Care for Mental Health

Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influencing our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Caring for your mental health is equally as important as taking care of your physical health. Good mental health helps you enjoy life, cope with stress, work productively, and maintain healthy relationships. One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve and to maintain mental health is with self-care.

Self-care practices can range from simple things like drinking plenty of water or getting enough sleep to more intentional practices like meditation, therapy, going for a walk in nature, going in for a float or getting a massage. Anything that helps you maintain your mental fitness by doing things that make you feel good, feel less stressed, feel more optimistic and generally more positive count as self-care. While there is no right or wrong form of self-care, there are a few tried-and-true methods that might be a good place to start your journey if you’re feeling burned out and looking for ways to feel better.

Building Strong Relationships

Developing strong, supportive relationships is essential for mental health. Reach out to friends, family, and coworkers to maintain connections, share experiences, and seek advice when needed. A strong support network can help you navigate life's challenges more effectively.

Practicing Mindfulness

Mindfulness involves staying present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This practice can help reduce stress and increase self-awareness, ultimately improving mental health. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help cultivate mindfulness. The Salt Lounge or one of our meditation nooks provide a perfect environment for you to sit and focus inward. You are encouraged to take time to be by yourself to be present and find peace.

Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle contributes to better mental health. Incorporate regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep into your routine to enhance mood and reduce anxiety. Consider adding in a float or massage to your self-care arsenal. Additionally, if you can, avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, tobacco, or other substances that can negatively impact mental well-being.

When to Seek Help

If you're struggling with symptoms of poor or strained mental health and they're affecting your daily life, it's important to seek professional help. Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and help you develop coping strategies to manage them effectively.

Caring for your mental health is crucial for your overall well-being. Developing healthy strategies and self-care practices as well as seeking professional help when needed can help prevent complications and enhance quality of life.

Elevating Your Aspirations with Floatation

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 20:43:52 GMT

Buoyant Benefits: Mental and Physical Recovery in Athletics

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 20:22:14 GMT

When we think of sports athletes, we often think of their success in terms of things like physical ability, performance under pressure, and in-game strategy. However, much of the brilliance and outstanding success that we see from top athletes is built on the less flashy foundation of practice, conditioning, diet, and recovery. Building on our article from last month about Dr. Matt Driller’s work around floating and sports, we’d like to take a look at some other research being done by Dr. Lydia Caldwell out of Ohio State University (now at University of North Texas) .

Float tanks have become increasingly popular in recent years, with professional athletes and weekend warriors alike using them as a tool for both mental and physical recovery. Dr. Caldwell has been working with float tanks for years now, and presented at both the 2017 and the 2021 Float Conference . She has worked with both special forces military and with top performing athletes to increase their performance, and has incorporated float tanks into her research and protocols for both.

At the 2017 Float Conference, Dr. Caldwell presented on her own introduction to float tanks and their contributions to performance through both increased recovery, decreased fatigue, and improvements to mood. At that time, she was just beginning to work with the University of Ohio, and in 2021 she returned to the conference stage to present the findings from the float tanks that they installed there.

In her first study at the University of Ohio, Dr. Caldwell brought in 14 trained individuals who had never floated before. Each person floated for a 60 minute floatation session, and they had their mood and stress hormone levels assessed before and after the session. The results were overwhelmingly positive – floatation significantly reduced levels of the stress hormones cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Participants also reported improvements in mood, including decreased tension and negative emotions.

This means that both from their own perspective, and on a base physiological level, these athletes were experiencing less stress after their float sessions. This reduction in stress was both physical and mental, and came along with a host of other side benefits and seemingly no negative effects (or contraindications).

Dr. Caldwell’s findings also highlighted the importance of acclimating to the experience, and not giving up after one session. Many participants took 10-15 minutes to truly relax and benefit from the experience, going through an initial period of discomfort and apprehension, before becoming more familiar with the float tank environment.

In her second study, Dr. Caldwell looked specifically at recovery after an intense resistance training workout. She brought in 12 experienced weightlifters to test how floating affected their ability to recover from a grueling lower body workout. This time she gave all of the participants 2 float sessions before the study, so that they were all familiar with the experience and wouldn’t experience any anxiety from going into a strange new environment.

The participants did an intensive squat session designed to induce soreness and muscle damage, and then either floated or watched calming nature videos in a recliner for 60 minutes. This program was very extensive, and they brought the athletes back into the lab to run more tests after 24 and 48 hours. They even went as far as controlling food intake prior to the study, and having each participant complete both recovery conditions.

The results were notable, and helped to define more clearly the things that floatation therapy helps out with in terms of physical strain and recovery:

The float group reported significantly less muscle soreness at 1, 24, and 48 hours after exercise compared to the control.
Floating also improved mood, fatigue, and pain sensations during the 48 hour recovery period.
However, floating did not seem to have any effect on metabolic recovery – both groups recovered blood lactate levels within the hour.
There was also no difference in muscle damage markers like creatine kinase levels or changes in muscle performance between the float and control groups.

While floating didn’t speed up actual muscle repair, it did make the participants feel subjectively better as they recovered from their strenuous workout. This is likely due to the profound relaxation and pain relief induced by the floatation experience.

As a result of these studies, Dr. Caldwell theorizes that float tanks may be best used as a chronic recovery tool throughout a training season, rather than just acutely before competitions. As with so many of these pioneering studies, more research is still needed to clarify the ideal timing and frequency of floating for exercise recovery.

Dr. Caldwell makes sure to point out that taking care of mental health is just as important as physical recovery in sports performance. If float tanks help athletes feel rejuvenated and better able to cope with their rigorous training demands, that benefit alone makes them a worthwhile recovery modality to consider.

And that goes for everyone, not just the professional athletes among us. Although performance is the goal, it’s all of the invisible work that is done on the sidelines that allows for brilliant highlight reels and competitive wins. Float tanks aren’t just a tool for physical recovery, they are a practice that allows us to maintain good moods, to cultivate a more resilient attitude, and ultimately to be more likely to achieve the goals that we’ve set for ourselves.

Rapid Recovery - Floatation Therapy for Elite Athletes

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 19:11:19 GMT

As research on floating continues to mature and push into the mainstream, it has more and more evidence to back up its benefits. Many pro athletes are regularly jumping into tanks these days, and at the 2019 Float Conference, leading sports scientist Dr. Matt Driller presented emerging research on how float tanks can aid athletic recovery and performance. The results are quite exciting.

Dr. Driller hails from New Zealand and has studied elite athlete recovery for over a decade. His homeland prides itself on punching above its weight in sports, in spite of its tiny population. With limited top talent, New Zealand obsesses over getting every possible edge when it comes to preventing injuries from overtraining.

“Recovery fundamentals like sleep, nutrition and periodization come first,” Driller explains. “But at the highest levels, those extra ‘one percenters’ can mean the difference between gold and going home empty-handed.” This led Driller to begin scientifically investigating if float tanks could provide that marginal gain which could make or break a champion.

In 2016, Driller published his first study on how floating impacts athletes. He looked at 60 members of Australia’s Olympic team (who already floated regularly before the study began).

Measuring their mood, soreness and stress markers before and after one 60-minute float, the results were striking. Significant improvements appeared across 15 out of 16 mood factors. Athletes reported feeling less worn out, less tired, more relaxed, and less tense after getting their float on. Muscle soreness also decreased substantially.

Here’s where it gets really interesting – athletes who actually fell asleep during the float saw the biggest mood enhancements. This suggests that combining floating with napping may supercharge benefits.

Despite intriguing initial findings, Driller is the first to admit this study had limitations. The sample size was small and it examined only psychological effects, not physical performance metrics. Still, it remains heavily cited in the media on floating simply because so little other research exists.

To address these gaps, Driller’s team completed a more thorough trial on 20 elite team sport athletes.

Researchers brought athletes into the lab for an intense late-night workout mimicking the strain from competition. Afterwards, athletes either did a 60-minute float or relaxed in a recliner as a control recovery. Measures of soreness, sleep quality, strength, power and speed were tracked both immediately after and the next morning.

The findings demonstrate clear physical benefits from floating in the participants. Compared to just resting, float recovery resulted in:

Higher quality sleep with less wakefulness.
Up to 24 hours less muscle soreness.
Increased pressure pain threshold the next day.
Faster sprint times 12 hours later.
More power output on vertical jumps the next morning.

As Driller summarizes, “Less pain means quicker readiness to train again. Better sleep equals better restoration. Maintaining speed and explosiveness is huge for back-to-back competitions.”

This compelling data reveals that floating may confer real performance advantages for elite athletes.

However, Driller emphasizes that research is still in its early stages. “We need more work to unpack why and how floating provides these benefits,” he says. Some questions he is exploring next include:

What happens with regular floating twice weekly over many weeks? Do effects accumulate?
How does floating right before and after competition impact performance and recovery?
Can detailed sleep studies reveal changes to sleep stages and quality?
How do effects compare to techniques like cold water immersion, compression, massage, and others?

Answers here will refine best practices on using float pods (alongside other modalities) for performance, especially in regards to recovery.

According to Driller, “It’s an exciting time to be a float researcher! Elite sports will continue pushing boundaries.” He looks forward to getting more controlled data to inform athletic and public use, rather than relying solely on studies with small sample sizes and anecdotal reports.

Curious to test out floating yourself?

“Give it a try – you might be surprised how profound silent floating can be, both mentally and physically,” Driller advises. Based on the results from these ongoing scientific explorations, float tanks may well provide that extra edge to elevate your own performance to the next level.

Understanding Float Tanks - Media vs Reality

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 19:00:44 GMT

Float Tanks in the media are most commonly shown as psychedelic-inspired journeys – a sort of modern vision quest in which the character often confronts either internal (or sometimes literal) demons. This in turn leads to a breakthrough that allows the character to grow and progress on their journey.

Although the benefits from floating are in many cases deeply profound, they also tend to emerge in more subtle ways. Float tanks aren’t one-off epiphany machines, and although visuals while floating aren’t uncommon, they’re far from the surreal DMT trips shown in television shows and movies. Floating, as a practice, has a litany of benefits, including things like reduced stress and anxiety, decreased muscle and joint pain, an improved immune system, heightened creativity, and many other benefits that we’ve written about previously – but these are developed and maintained by floating regularly.

We’re going to spend a little time wading through the (often murky) waters of how float tanks are portrayed in the limelight of popular media. We'll compare these dramatized renditions to the very real, albeit less flashy, benefits and experiences you may already know.

Float Tank in Cobra Kai

Cobra Kai – the Netflix series continuing the story of the original Karate Kid movie from the 80s – features an episode where one of the main characters, Sam, joins her friends for a trip to try out float tanks.

Sam has a realistic hallucination in which she’s shown in a mind-scape with a black background, confronted by the demands of all the people in her life. This is followed by a literal fight with her aggressive, “shadow self.” A fight which, in this case, she loses.

Side Notes:

Sam’s “hippy” friend also had a realistic vision as well, but in it she was a drop of dew… which is closer to the types of experiences people actually report from time in the tank.
Her other friend couldn’t float, because the heaters in the tank were broken – classic.

Float Tanks in Stranger Things

Stranger Things has a way of making everything look ten times more mysterious, and the humble float tank is no exception. In the series, Eleven uses a makeshift float tank to heighten her psychic abilities, diving deep into an alternate realm in her quest to confront various threats.

In most of these clips she transports to a realistic mental realm, again presented on a totally black background, with characters (or entities) she is able to observe and interact with. In the more recent seasons, she used the float tank to work through very early trauma, which allows her to regain the use of her lost psychic abilities.

—

Side Notes:

Of all of these, Stranger Things gets a break since these scenes are about Eleven’s experience floating, rather than what floating is like for a normal human being.
Their explanation of how to construct a DIY float tank is not too far off from a workable setup… although they ignore the fact that all of the heat is sucked out of the water when you add in salt – an extreme endothermic reaction that takes hours of commercial level heating to get up to temperature. Eleven would be floating in absolutely frigid water.
The floatation experience is shown in a couple ways: being totally submerged in water with a breathing apparatus, or laying face up in a pool of saturated epsom salt. These actually mirror the progression of float tanks, from being fully submerged tanks of water in 1950’s labs, to lay-down commercial units in the 1970’s.

Float Tanks in Big Bang Theory

In The Big Bang Theory , Amy and Sheldon both hop into float tanks, but they’re shown as having wildly contrasting experiences.

Amy’s float is, based on our previous examples, what you’d expect: she is conjured into a head-space where realistic versions of people in her life are all criticizing her, telling her that she’s a failure. And of course they’re shown as disembodied heads on an all black background.

Sheldon’s float is also psychedelic, with him swimming around inside of visuals of infinitely repeating fractals from Mandelbrot Sets. Although also hyperbolic for a typical float experience, this is actually much closer to common visuals that people report from time in the tank.

—

Side Notes:

Float tanks are almost never in the same room together – each one would be a completely private setup.
The description of the filtration process is shockingly accurate, other than clarifying that the water is circulated, disinfected, and filtered between every use, not dumped and fully replaced… which would be over $500 just in the cost of salt per float.

Float Tanks in Dave

Dave , the comedy series parodying the life of the real world rapper Lil’ Dicky as he was trying to make it big, also features a float tank scene at the end of the series.

Driven by almost sheer desperation, our aspiring rapper finds himself driven to a float tank to overcome writer's block. In this episode, his psychedelic float hallucinations are heightened thanks to a little "help" from actual psychedelics, so we’ll also cut Dave a little slack on its representation of the pure float experience, but the pattern is familiar.

Dave finds himself engrossed in a realistic, but surreal vision (not set on a purely black background, for once). After exploring, he eventually discovers an alternate version of himself, shaved of all hair and mostly nude, who confronts him about art and creativity.

He has a traumatic end to the float, after which he has a complete creative breakthrough and literally runs to the studio, still soaking in salt-water, to start recording music.

—

Side Notes:

The float tank is located outside, where it doesn’t appear to be connected to a power source… obviously not the ideal situation for a good float.
Floaters aren’t directly supervised during their floats, but customers are also not typically served psychedelic tea beforehand, so… yeah, the two dudes at the end were clearly being irresponsible.

Float Tanks in Reality

Television thrives on dramatization. It's the nature of the medium to amplify emotional and sensory experiences, and (ironically) sensory deprivation offers a convenient platform for this. TV shows have a bad habit of depicting characters confronting literal versions of themselves in some sort of spiritual duel, while the reality is that most floaters find that their true 'opponents' are rooted in everyday stresses, anxieties, and physical pain. However, all of this emphasis on drama obscures the more understated and consistently beneficial aspects of floating.

The benefits – such as faster injury recovery, mental clarity, and even the silencing of those pesky inner critics – unfold over consistent float sessions. And while some people do report vivid mental imagery or "hallucination-like" states, they are generally more subdued than the common narratives suggests and do not require confronting a team of internal naysayers to achieve serenity. In fact, an overwhelming majority of people find the float tank to be a freeing space, a blank canvas where the mind can relax, rather than a chamber that amplifies neuroses.

The benefits of float tanks also aren’t momentary, as shown in short-form mass media, but extend far beyond the immediate experience. Even just looking at the basics of stress and anxiety reduction, some of the most studied benefits from floatation therapy, we can see that they have a compounding positive effect on other aspects of physical and mental well-being. The benefits in the real-world are enduring and often life-enhancing (albeit less flashy) than the ephemeral, dramatized portrayals in popular media.

So next time you see a float tank on the silver screen, take it with a grain of epsom salt. Sure, it might not be the cathartic battle or trippy escapade that TV makes it out to be, but what it lacks in theatrics, it more than makes up for in genuine, lasting benefits. As can often be the case, the reality of floating is, in so many ways, better than fiction.

Breathing Deep - How floating impacts our respiration

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 21:55:40 GMT

James Nestor is an acclaimed author, journalist, and speaker who has brought a fresh perspective to our understanding of breath. He ventured into the sea of human physiology with his book 'Deep', and later explored the lost art and science of breathing in his book 'Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art'.

He is also no stranger to the Float Conference stage, having made his third appearance last year in 2022, when he talked about pooling his own work on breath with the practice of floating. The Float Conference – an annual gathering of floating enthusiasts, researchers, and floatation tank owners – has been a perfect venue for many of Nestor's unique explorations.

How to Acclimate to Heat with Sauna Time

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 04:39:40 GMT

How to Acclimate to Heat with Sauna Time

Now that the weather forecast is consistently boasting triple-digit temps, it’s time to stay inside for the South Texas reverse-hibernation season, right? Nahhhh. Don’t miss out on those outdoor bbqs, baseball games, tee times and pool parties (or sometimes you just need to survive the dash from the house to the car!). You can teach your body to acclimate to the heat! It might sound counterintuitive, but the best science-backed way to beat the heat is with…more heat. It’s true! One of the most effective ways to get your body used to the heat is with a few sauna sessions a week. Keep reading to find out how sauna time can help you acclimate to heat and how to get your sauna routine started.

Start Gradually

When you're new to using a sauna, it's essential to start slowly and to allow your body to adjust to the heat. Begin with shorter sessions of around 10-15 minutes and gradually increase the duration as your body becomes more comfortable.

Consistency Is Key

To effectively acclimate to heat, you should aim to use the sauna consistently. Ideally, you should do 2-3 sauna sessions per week. Consistent exposure to heat will help your body adapt and improve its responses to high temperatures.

Hydrate Before and After

Hydration is crucial during heat acclimation as it helps regulate your body temperature and prevent dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water before and after each sauna session. Also, be sure to get plenty of electrolytes after you sweat.

Monitor Your Body's Signals

Pay close attention to how your body reacts to the heat during sauna sessions. If you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, or excessively uncomfortable, it's essential to leave the sauna and cool down. Over time, your body will adapt, and you'll be able to tolerate higher temperatures for more extended periods.

Combine Heat Acclimation Methods

To enhance your heat acclimation, you can combine sauna use with other techniques, such as exercising in hot environments, taking hot baths, or spending time outdoors in warm weather.

Track Your Progress

Keep track of your sauna sessions including the duration and temperature; this will help you monitor your progress and determine if you need to make any adjustments to your routine or if you've successfully acclimated to the heat.

By incorporating sauna time into your routine, you can effectively train your body to handle heat better. This can lead to improvements in cardiovascular function, immune system responses, and sweat electrolyte concentrations.

If you're ready to start acclimating to heat with sauna time, consider scheduling a session in either our seated sauna or our yoga sauna; in either one, you can experience the benefits of heat acclimation and relaxation. To learn more about sauna, to book your session or to look into any of our other services at Float, visit floatsa.com. Don't wait – start your journey to better heat acclimation today!

Breathe Easy - A look at floating and blood oxygen levels

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 20:37:16 GMT

Prior to floating, she would see numerous fluctuations in her O2 levels, sometimes dropping as many as 40 times per night. Afterwards, these consistent drops in O2 saturation disappeared. She was also feeling generally better – more rested and awake – and she was able to maintain

her energy both within and across days much more easily.

When Jeanine began to see rising blood oxygen levels throughout her sleep after she began floating, she started wondering how exactly floating might be contributing to this change. She wanted to know if floating was indeed helping with her oxygen levels, and if so, how?

This is where we run into some of the limits of personal stories and individually chronicled benefits. Without a controlled study across multiple groups of many participants, it’s unfortunately difficult to determine causation or even what a normal effect size might be. The science of floatation therapy is still a budding field, and it’s unsurprising that there haven’t been any long-term studies looking specifically at blood-oxygen levels, and what it is about floating that may cause them to rise.

However, hearing from people like Jeanine and observing the benefits that they seem to get from floating is incredibly useful for inspiring future research studies. After talking to her, and looking at her O2 levels, we definitely got excited about the potential to look into this aspect of floating in a more formal way. Until then, we only have our hypotheses.

The answer, for example, might lay in the makeup of float tank water, specifically the large concentration of magnesium. Although studying the actual transdermal absorption of magnesium has proven difficult to conduct, people still often look to the high concentration of magnesium as a potential source of many of the benefits reported by regular floaters.

People have been using hot springs for centuries to heal all kinds of ailments, from colds to body pain. While natural hot springs are filled with a variety of different minerals, the high concentration of magnesium has long been thought of as an important factor lending to the healing properties of these waters.

While well known and studied for its ability to relax muscles, it's possible that absorbing extra magnesium could help support other body functions as well. Magnesium is a very important and commonly used mineral for the body, and it indirectly supports the transfer of oxygen throughout

the body by aiding in production of red blood cells. Or, if the cause of Jeanine’s rising O2 levels isn’t Magnesium, perhaps it lies in the vagus nerve

and the overall stress reduction that floating provides. When she would notice her Oxygen levels dropping, Jeanine would regularly do something to trigger her vagus nerve – humming, in her case – which would stimulate her parasympathetic nervous system, and she would watch her oxygen levels rise. This got her wondering if floating was also activating her vagus nerve, and if that activation while in the tank was possibly carrying on into the night.

Alternatively, practicing and strengthening a healthier breathing rate might be responsible for her increased Oxygen levels. During her floats, Jeanine regularly noticed a dip in her breathing rate.

For some time, the commonly thought range for healthy breathing is 12-18 breaths per minute, but that is beginning to be challenged. At the rate of 12-18 breaths per minute, many people aren’t taking full enough breaths, and are instead breathing shallowly, and therefore not getting enough oxygen in (and carbon dioxide out of) the body.

During her time in the tank, Jeanine was regularly seeing a breathing rate of around 5 or 6 breaths per minute, which may be a more ideal rate, providing deeper, fuller breaths and providing a healthy amount of oxygen. At certain, especially deep parts of the float, her breathing dropped naturally to 3 breaths a minute, but her readings still showed that she was completely oxygenated.

The effects of stress levels can have strong and broad ranging impacts, and it’s also possible that the general stress relief that floating provides could itself be responsible for being able to maintain more normal O2 levels. When a home remodel took her time and attention from floating, she was feeling the tension rise. After four weeks of not floating, she could feel the effects of a lower blood oxygen level returning. “When my oxygen is low, I can feel it…it’s like a shortness of breath or like a fuzziness in my head.”

She experiences a loss of mental clarity, and can struggle to think through things. Combined with the stress of the remodel, she reached a point where she couldn’t take it. She scheduled four floats over the next four weeks, and soon she was back to feeling clear headed and more aware again.

It’s also entirely possible that it is a combination of various factors, rather than one distinct quality of floating, that are contributing to Jeanine’s normal blood Oxygen levels. Whatever the case, she is personally thrilled to have found this form of treatment and is all smiles when she emerges from her float, “giddy” as she says. She’s not sure exactly what it is about floating that is causing her to see these changes, but we’re happy to share her story as a great example of the diverse benefits people get from their time in the float tank, and as an exciting avenue for potential future scientific exploration.

Have you ever wondered about Float Therapy but without floating?

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 19:52:09 GMT

Type II facilities are simpler, more commonplace facilities and can often be found in more remote, rural locations. They offer a simpler setup compared to Type I, but still contain all the necessary amenities such as a toilet, shower, sink, and even a bidet for added convenience.

You might have a CD or MP3 player for audio entertainment, but for Marek's studies, these are usually not permitted. Fresh fruits and food are delivered daily, and even during the deliveries the total darkness is maintained. Staying at one of these is a little bit like a space mission, but you stay right here on Earth, taking a deep, restorative plunge into your own mind.

What's Next? More Research, More Understanding

There is very little official research done into Darkness Therapy (as opposed to floatation therapy, or even chamber REST). Dr. Marek Maluš shared results from several surveys and informal studies conducted in the last decade in the Czech Republic, all of which showed great promise. Despite its intriguing premise, historical significance, and strong praise from customers, Darkness Therapy has yet to gain funding for research on the same scale that floatation therapy has (which is still on a much, much smaller scale than, for example, pharmaceutical studies).

It has yet to enter popular culture in the same way, and it's also not nearly as widely accessible as floatation therapy yet. This is in no small part due to both the complexity of setting up the right environment and the unique and long-term commitment it requires from the participants.

Floating and Darkness Therapy: Cousins in Darkness

We hope this peek into the world of darkness therapy has piqued your curiosity! While we might not have Darkness Therapy available at our center yet, we're dedicated to providing you with the best darkness you can possibly find in our very own float tanks. And let us know if you ever want to float longer than our standard sessions. Three or four hours isn’t quite the same as seven days in a chamber, but who knows? You might discover a whole new layer to your float practice. Until next time, keep floating, keep exploring, and remember – whether in the stillness of a

float tank, the quiet of a darkness chamber, or just lying in your bed at night – great things often come from taking a moment to rest, reset, and just breathe.

Floating for a Stronger Immune System

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 23:53:12 GMT

Introduction

Stress and anxiety are all too common in today's fast-paced world. As a result, we're continuously seeking ways to unwind, destress, and ultimately, support our overall well-being. Floatation therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or float therapy, has been gaining in popularity over the last decade for its unique ability to provide deep relaxation and stress relief. But did you know that floating may also have potential benefits for your immune system?

In this blog post, we’ll be revisiting a presentation by Dr. Flux from the 2021 Float Conference , which looks at the science behind floatation therapy and its connection to immune health. This builds on Flux’s presentation from the 2018 Float Conference , with some new science and food for thought.

The Future of Floatation Therapy Research

Dr. Flux, like all good scientists, ends his presentation by looking forward towards future research. The relationship between floatation therapy and immune health is still being explored. Future research aims to examine the impact of regular float sessions on immunoreactivity. As more studies are conducted, we’ll continue to increase our understanding of how floatation therapy supports immune health, particularly in individuals with anxiety or inflammatory conditions. Our Old Friends may not be replaced from the tanks, but the salty waters can help calm our immune system in this stress filled world.

Float Your Way to Better Health

Floating is a soothing experience that helps to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and (most importantly for this article) support your immune system. So why not treat yourself to a float session and experience the benefits firsthand? Not only will you be giving yourself a well-deserved break from the stressors of everyday life, but you’ll be helping your immune system stay strong and healthy.

How Floating Can Help With Arthritis

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 23:34:15 GMT

You may be surprised to learn that arthritis affects more than 60 million people yearly, making it one of the most common disabilities in the country. There are many different types of arthritis, and people are impacted in different ways by it, but two of the most common forms are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Osteoarthritis wears down the joint cartilage and can alter bone shape, while Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints.

Both of these can cause intense joint pain, body fatigue, stiffness and mobility issues, having a lasting impact on quality of life. Even the simplest of tasks can often be too difficult to perform due to pain. With Rheumatoid Arthritis in particular, since it’s an autoimmune disorder, there is evidence pointing to outside stress exacerbating the issue and causing even more pain and stiffness. While medications, exercise, and healthy eating are some of the most common

treatment routes, those who suffer from arthritis often still have difficulties with their day-to-day activities despite taking steps to alleviate them.

Another avenue of treatment people have explored is pool therapy, which offers a unique space where the buoyancy of the water can take weight off of the joints while still allowing work on a range of motion exercises with less strain. The warm water used by the pools also provides benefits, as it helps ease muscle pain while loosening the body, which has shown to be especially beneficial for those with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The idea of using warm pools for healing is not a new concept: the use of natural hot springs for body ailments has been around for thousands of years, with cultures all around the world using them to find relief.

Similarly, people have been using the float tanks for pain and stress relief since they were first developed. The anti-gravity effect of the tank lets the body loosen and relax, offering the joints and muscles an opportunity to release tension and heal. As a result, people from all walks enjoy floating to ease their aches.

Additionally, time spent in float tanks has been shown to lower blood pressure and drop cortisol levels, leaving you with a relaxed and calm state post-float. With both the increase in knowledge of pool therapy as a treatment, as well as the rise in availability and knowledge of float tanks, it was only a matter of time until people began to turn towards the tank for a possible treatment option for arthritis – and the research has been extremely promising.

Early pilot studies began popping up looking into floating for arthritis relief, all with similarly positive outcomes: nearly all those who completed these early trials saw benefits in one way or another. Participants reported being once again able to perform tasks that had become too difficult. Some saw a decrease in the need for pain medication, as well as general pain reduction.

One study showed how range of motion could be increased through floating, likely due in part to soaking in warm water, allowing the muscles and joints a chance to relax and loosen. The high concentration of the Epsom salts may also be a contributing factor, allowing for further relaxation and healing to the muscles, simulating forms of natural hot springs used in the past for body pain.

While the results of these early studies are promising, more evidence is needed before any claims can be made definitively. Despite that, testimonials from those suffering from arthritis continue to pour in, applauding the tank as a great source of healing. Many continue to find the relief that floatation tanks have to offer, and continue to spread the word of the wonders it can do.

5 Mental Health Tips from Float

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 17:11:29 GMT

5 Mental Health Tips From Float

We hear about mental health and wellness so often, it’s easy to lose sight of how important our own well being truly is. Did you know that one of the most underrated but viscous symptoms of untreated clinical depression is a major change in sleep habits? That might not sound so bad until you realize that research shows chronic lack of sleep can lead to severe anxiety, respiratory disease, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even stroke? A consistent lack of sleep or poor sleep even shortens your life expectancy. And combatting depression is just one aspect of mental health. Whether you have a mental disorder or not, it is imperative that we take the time to take care of ourselves because our mental state is what dictates the flow of our daily lives. At Float, we offer many services to help you along your journey. Until we see you next time, here are a few ideas to help you focus on your mental wellbeing:

1. Move Your Body

You knew this one was coming. We don’t have roots, we have legs! We’re designed to move. But you don’t have to spend hours in the gym slamming weights or running endlessly on the hamster wheel (aka treadmill) to achieve the mood and mental boosts that come from exercise. Take a walk or go for a hike. Take the stairs sometimes. Stand more. Park a bit farther away from the door. You’ve heard these before, but there are great reasons everyone is always talking about exercise. Moving your body changes your brain chemistry which leaves you feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious. Exercise also delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your tissues (including your brain!). This makes your body more efficient which gives you more energy.

2. Get More Zzzzz’s

This can be a tough one. But lack of proper sleep impacts every single health marker negatively. (Read that again: Every. Single. One.) Without enough sleep, your mental and emotional states decline; you will be more impatient, more prone to mood swings, more hungry the next day, more likely to get sick and more fatigued (obviously). Your blood pressure and systemic inflammation increase while your decision-making processes, your ability to handle stress, your digestion, your memory, your hormone production and your creativity drop off significantly. Short of adding more hours to the day, what are we to do? You probably know all the tips and tricks already – sleep in a cool, dark, quiet room,

Float » March, 2021

limit screen time before bed, limit caffeine later in the day, stick to a sleep and wake schedule, get regular exercise – but really, it comes down to this: make sleep a priority. Make yourself a priority.

3. Meditation

You can’t get five feet in the mental wellness space without bumping into “Meditate!” or “Relax!” Guess what? That’s because it works. Research shows again and again that habitual meditation reduces stress and anxiety, promotes emotional health, lengthens attention span, enhances self-awareness, lowers blood pressure, reduces negative emotions, helps you focus on the present and increases patience and tolerance. It gets even better. Mindfulness meditation can slow brain aging and can combat depression and anxiety every bit as well as medication. But meditation is a learned skill, it’s not just sitting there doing nothing. Need a little help getting started? Science show us that Float Therapy increases the brain’s production of theta waves – that supremely relaxed state between asleep and awake. Buddhist monks use Zen Meditation to reach this elusive state, and it takes them years of practice. Jump-start your meditation journey with a float session, and experience for yourself why meditation & relaxation techniques make an appearance on every mental wellness list.

4. Disconnect From Technology

Excessive screen time (and all the comes with it) has been concretely linked to diseases like obesity, diabetes and cancer as well as an increased risk for mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. What are you likely doing while you’re scrolling or typing? You’re sitting. You’re not interacting face-to-face with anyone. Scrolling social media, playing video games or watching T.V. in the evening supersedes your natural circadian rhythms which up-ends your daily hormonal rises and falls. You have more trouble relaxing or falling asleep because your brain couldn’t produce the melatonin that signals your body to slow down and to prepare for sleep. It’s also important to disconnect from technology during our waking hours. The technological onslaught of emails, notifications, calls, texts, beeps and buzzes constantly keeps us on alert. Our brain interprets these interruptions as low-key stressors. Why not combine a break from technology with a relaxation or meditation exercise to get the most bang for your buck? Schedule a massage or a float session, and enjoy not only their inherent relaxation benefits but also the sense of calm that comes from turning your phone off for an hour.

Float » March, 2021

5. Show Your Strength

You see vase on a table. Someone accidentally bumps into it, and it starts to fall. Do you wait until it shatters on the ground until you act, or do you try to catch it before it falls? Sure, you try to catch it. But what about our own lives? Do we recognize the areas or experiences in our lives that we might need some help to unpack, or do we wait until we’ve gone off the rails before we ask for help? Even superheroes have sidekicks. They don’t go it alone. Sometimes we all need a little help. Asking for that help is not weakness; it is strength and self-love and self-awareness. Our scars are our stories; they shape and refine us, but they don’t have to define us. You have survived 100% of your bad days. Be proud of yourself. Show how strong you are: ask for help when you need it, and give help where you can.

We are told over and over to “take care of ourselves,” but we are rarely taught how. We likely aren’t even taught why it is so vital. Some of us even feel that taking time for ourselves or talking about our mental wellness struggles is seen as a weakness or as something to be ashamed of. The reality is that we all struggle in one way or another. We all need help along our path. Embarking on the journey of becoming a better version of ourselves and of healing from past wounds is a sign of strength. It can be difficult, but it is always worth the effort. Float is committed to standing alongside you and to supporting you. From Float Therapy and massage to our salt lounge and saunas, we offer several proven treatments to help you achieve your wellness goals.

What Is Evolve? How Can It Fit Into My Wellness Routine?

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 19:50:19 GMT

What Is Evolve? How Can It Fit Into My Wellness Routine?

Biohacking is a major topic of conversation among wellness-minded and athletic cohorts, and with good reason. As a client at Float, you’re already aware how much our services leverage not only the latest science and biohacking techniques but also the best traditional, time-tested methods. It is our mission to provide you the tools to take your health and wellness into your own hands. We’re excited to announce that we’re taking this one step further.

Meet Evolve Human Optimization Labs . At Evolve, we will be offering even more state-of-the-art wellness and recovery techniques, therapies and services via a membership-based, walk-in structure. Though Evolve will use different pathways to wellness, there are several cross-over benefits of our new services at Evolve with our existing services here at Float. Take a look below at the list of goals you’re hoping to achieve and see which of Evolve’s new services might be a good fit for you!

Cardiovascular Health & Improved Circulation

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. But you probably know that because, as a Float client, you’re clearly already on your own wellness journey. If you take advantage of Float’s massage therapy, infrared sauna or red light therapy for heart health and improved circulation, you would love the Norwegian sauna, cold immersion or contrast therapy and compression therapy at Evolve.

Pain Relief

Whether you have an injury, a chronic condition or excessive muscle soreness and fatigue from workouts or training, finding effective pain relief is paramount. If you currently use a float or a massage, try Evolve’s Norwegian or infrared saunas, cold immersion or contrast therapy, red light therapy, compression therapy, cold compression, or self-care services to help you find relief.

Shortened Recovery Time, Reduced Muscle Fatigue & Increased Performance

Oh, rest days. Getting adequate recovery is arguably one of the hardest parts of a training routine, but it is vital. The sooner your muscles can recover, the sooner you can safely get back to training hard. In addition to sleep and proper nutrition, you might be aiding your recovery with floating or red light therapy. If so, Evolve’s cold immersion or contrast therapy, compression therapy, electro muscle stimulation, percussive massagers, or massage chairs will also help you recover sooner and decrease muscle fatigue faster.

Reduced Inflammation

Systemic inflammation ignites any number of fires within the body, injuring tissues, joints, blood vessels and organs. Float’s Halotherapy and red light therapy are excellent tools to combat inflammation. Evolve offers additional anti-inflammation options such as cold immersion or contrast therapy as well as compression therapy and cold compression.

Increased Immune System Function

We’ve certainly learned over the last 2 years to be more mindful of supporting our immune system. In addition to using Float’s Halotherapy or infrared sauna for an immune boost, come on over to Evolve and spend some time in our Norwegian sauna. Your immune system would also benefit from our cold immersion or contrast therapies.

Improved Mood & Increased Energy

In our modern, crazy, 24/7 world, is there really anyone who doesn’t want to boost their mood and energy levels? Whether we need a little pick-me-up or a major jolt, floating, massage and Pandora Star are great options available at Float. Similarly, Evolve offers cognitive and neurotraining, red light therapy, guided meditation, and cold immersion or contrast therapies which are also sure to improve your mood and energy levels.

Evolve Human Optimization Labs is dedicated to creating an accessible center for people to biohack wellness, recovery, and better performance into their daily lives. Evolve Human Optimization Labs is a leader in the biohacking field with an innovative approach to cost of services and accessibility. This is the first physical center for biohacking to utilize a walk-in model with many healing modalities available during each visit. For a complete list of all the services offered at Evolve, visit us at evolvehumanlabs.com .

Self-Care Is Not Selfish

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 19:46:45 GMT

Self-Care is Not Selfish

Yep, life is busy. Responsibilities are everywhere you turn. Appointments, meetings, zoom calls, functions, errands, do your workout, eat healthy (and cook that meal yourself!), drink your water, don’t be so stressed, put down that phone, get better sleep, get some sun (but not too much!), the list of things we think we need to do could literally go on and on. The pressure to check off all the items on your daily to-do list is very real. So how on earth does anyone expect you to find time to practice a little self-care? We will make time for the things we prioritize. Maybe we just need to work on believing that our own physical and mental health is worth prioritizing. Giving your all in whatever you do is laudable…to a point. But burning the candle at both ends will eventually leave you burned out and unable to handle your responsibilities well, if at all.

You’d never dream of missing your kid’s soccer game? Wonderful. Now commit to yourself at that same level. You don’t have to “earn” rest. You genuinely need to recharge and rejuvenate so that you can continue to show up for your family, for your job, for your friends. But that all begins and ends with showing up for yourself. Find an hour this week, and do something that recharges you. Just you. Here are a few ideas; see what resonates with you.

Float

If you’re looking for serious relaxation, then stop right here and go book a 60 minute float. It’s such a truly unique mental experience. And if you think you'd have trouble sitting still for 5 minutes straight, much less an entire hour, think again. That’s part of the magic of floating – it puts your brain into such a calm state that time almost becomes irrelevant. Next thing you know, the hour is somehow up, and you feel more relaxed than you thought possible (and you were still for so long!).

Massage

The O.G. of relaxation techniques, massage has been around for thousands of years for good reason. Book yourself a massage and let someone pamper you for an hour. You’ll leave feeling physically and mentally relaxed. Or, if you’re already familiar with the standard types of massage, try a version that’s new to you. Get a barefoot massage. Maybe you’re into yoga? Give Thai massage a try.

Infrared Sauna

This is a great one because it’s only 20 minutes of your day. Seriously, it’s just 20 minutes! And all you have to do is sit there and breathe. The room is dim and cozy; the music is soothing. You’re nice and warm. Boost your mood and melt away stress without any effort. Plus, it’s also fantastic for your skin, your lungs, your immune system, your sleep, and all sorts of other body systems that generally don’t get enough love.

You Decide

Self-care is a lot of things; it can be anything, really. What grounds you? What makes you feel aligned? What brings you peace? Is it a walk in nature? Is it setting boundaries? Is it something spiritual? Is it time spent nurturing your own goals and values? Whether it’s meditation or petting your dog; whether it’s a long jog or doodling on a napkin, do it. Give yourself permission to do something just because you enjoy doing it. Don’t worry if it’s outwardly productive. If it brings you joy, lean into it without judgement.

It’s worth repeating: you do not have to earn rest. You don’t have to reach the point of frazzled exhaustion before you allow yourself a bit of downtime. Taking care of yourself IS taking care of others. You taking time for yourself makes you more capable of handling all the responsibilities that life has given you. Yes, the people around you need you. Yes, you need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of everyone that is counting on you. But you also need to take care of yourself simply because you are a human being and you deserve care, compassion and rest.

Why Experiences Make the Perfect Gift

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:59:55 GMT

Why Experiences Make the Perfect Gift

Do you remember what you got for Christmas when you were 9? Probably not. But do you remember the time your parents took you on that special vacation when you were 11? Sure! While a material gift can absolutely be meaningful and memorable, the gift of an experience is viewed as an emotionally valuable and unique present, and the memories of that experience can last a lifetime. The gift of an experience can range from a cooking or painting class, a wine tasting, or a spa day to a trip, a concert or an event. This is also a great option to give to someone who’s impossible to shop for; maybe they already have two of everything, or the things they need aren’t very exciting (socks and neckties?). Try gifting them an experience this holiday season. Science has even shown that experiential gifts generally make the recipients happier than material gifts. Here are a few of our favorite reasons why the gift of an experience is a wonderful, unique and thoughtful idea.

Experiences Connect Us

We are social beings. Our shared experiences are what bond us together. Strengthen a relationship bond with a shared adventure or a relaxing day together. It’s not just about giving someone a ticket to a play; get both of you tickets to go together. You’ll make memories that will last a lifetime. Watching how much your friend or loved one enjoys the experience you’ve given them will bring you closer and will create a shared memory each of you will cherish.

The Gift Of An Experience Is Unique

No matter how grand or how small, an experience is an unexpected and unrivaled gift. They won’t get two of those! Give your loved ones something that lets them know you put a lot of thought and care into their present – you thought of something special just for them, and it will last a lifetime.

Experiences Create Lasting Memories

While material gifts are certainly appreciated and do bring us joy, they are often forgotten, lost, used up, or, frankly, the apple can lose its shine. The memories created together at a pottery class or a ropes course will last forever. The recipient will not only have fun memories to look back on, but they will also always remember how special your gift made them feel.

Experiences Focus On What Matters Most

You want your gifts to your friends and family to be thoughtful and to make them feel loved and appreciated. The time we have with the ones we love matters more than any of our material possessions. Give them the most precious thing any of us can receive: time together.

A lunch date or pedicures together. A pottery class. A couple’s massage. A family bowling outing or a trip to Disney. The type of experience you choose to give is completely up to you. An experiential gift may take a bit more thought and creativity on your part, but rest assured that no matter what you choose, your loved ones will feel valued and special. And that, after all, is what gift giving is all about.

Float Therapy & Your Mental Wellness

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:57:26 GMT

Float Therapy & Your Mental Wellness

The past year has amplified how much mental health plays a role in our everyday lives. While one in four American adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder, many people are experiencing stress levels that are at an all-time high. At FLOAT, we are committed to offering solutions that contribute to your overall mental wellness. Throughout 2021 we will be offering information you can use to help you prioritize your mental health.

Any one of us is susceptible to bouts of depression or anxiety, and pretty much all of us are under stress. At FLOAT, we take mental health very seriously, and we have hand-picked services that are proven to contribute to your overall mental wellness. Our services include floatation therapy, massage, saunas, a (gorgeous!) salt lounge, and light therapy to help you achieve optimum wellness. The star of our show is floatation therapy. We all sense the influence water has on our mental wellbeing. Think about being near water. You feel a bit more relaxed just from the thought of it. The tension in your shoulders slacks, your breath slows slightly, your thoughts calm. The mental benefits of even just a single hour of floatation therapy are profound.There are literally dozens of benefits to floating; here are just a few highlights regarding its effects on mental wellbeing:

1. Reduces Depression

While the causes of depression can be somewhat murky and treatments even

more so, there is another option to add to your arsenal of

self-care: floatation therapy. One study showed that after float sessions, patients

saw a marked decrease in depression and an increase in optimism. The best

part? In some cases these changes lasted for months. Floatation therapy naturally increases your dopamine and endorphin levels, both of which are vital to combatting

depression.

2. Reduces Anxiety And Stress

More than 40 million adults in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders.

Our lives are inherently stressful; we internalize that stress and simply soldier on

because we have jobs and families. How do we de-stress while maintaining our

livelihoods and relationships? Research has shown that Floatation Therapy tamps

down anxiety in the brain in a way that rivals some prescription drugs. Basically,

after a float, the part of your brain that is responsible for the fight-or-flight

response to threats (either real or perceived) – the amygdala – shuts off. Floating,

in a way, turns off stress and anxiety.

3. Relaxation Levels You’ve Likely Never Experienced

Why is it so hard to truly relax? Our brains are exceptional, and they handle the

daily onslaught of input from the world around us with seeming ease. The down

side of that, however, is that no matter how hard you try to relax, your brain is

still constantly receiving and processing data. During a float, your are

weightless, you are in complete darkness (if you choose), you hear almost

nothing, you are not focused on taste or smell or touch. The lack of external

stimuli allows your blood pressure and heart rate to slow and allows your stress

hormone production to drop dramatically. In addition, since your brain isn’t

receiving external stimuli to the degree that it’s use to, you are able to reach a

deeply relaxing and meditative state that is very likely the most relaxed physical

and mental state you’ve ever experienced.

The inevitable stress of life can often leave us feeling overwhelmed. We are so busy

being responsible and productive that we lose sight of our own wellness. But you can’t

pour from an empty vessel. We must find ways to make ourselves a priority so that

we can save space to care for others. If you are looking for ways to combat depression,

stress, or anxiety, floatation therapy can have a huge positive impact on your mental

wellbeing. Whether you’d like to try float session alone or to combine floating with any

of our other relaxation and wellness services, at FLOAT, we are committed to partnering

with you to help you achieve sustainable and life-long mental wellness.

Mental & Physical Benefits Of Regular Infrared Sauna Use

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:40:23 GMT

Mental & Physical Benefits Of Regular Infrared Sauna Use

You hear the word “sauna” and probably get Scandy vibes – hot, steamy rooms with wooden benches and water being poured over rocks. While an infrared sauna is similar in its concept as well as in the health benefits it provides, there are some differences. But why are saunas so popular to begin with? What exactly are the benefits? Let’s explore that.

While modern infrared saunas are obviously only possible thanks to electricity, the concept has been around for hundreds of years. In addition to the more widely know Nordic saunas or steam rooms, the Native Americans used sweat lodges for cleansing and ceremonial purposes; Central and South American cultures have used temazcals - stone structures with heated rocks placed in the center - to cleanse the body and to recover from extreme physical exertions. As with so many things, our ancestors were onto something. They realized the cleansing and restorative properties of warming the body while at rest. Here are some specifics relating to the differences in the types of saunas as well as the health benefits related to consistent infrared sauna use.

Infrared Sauna vs. Standard / Steam Sauna

Yes, they both warm your body, but they do it in completely different ways. While standard saunas use steam to heat up not only your body but also the air around you, infrared saunas emit infrared light which warms your body directly without warming the air and without the high humidity inherent in steam saunas. Standard saunas typically reach an average temperature of about 185°F whereas an infrared sauna typically stays around 120°F. Because of the lower ambient temperature, infrared saunas can be easier to handle, especially for those with heat sensitivities. You can also safely stay in a bit longer, thereby extending the benefits.

Physical Benefits

The main physical benefits from an infrared sauna come from the extreme sweating that is induced - this brings the blood closer to the surface of the skin which improves circulation and muscle function, reduces pain and aids in muscle recovery post-work or after an injury or surgery; this also stimulates the immune system as well as releases endorphins (one of the “feel good” hormones). The benefits of infrared sauna don’t stop there. Studies have shown that regular infrared sauna sessions can help improve cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid diseases, and chronic fatigue and pain syndromes. Infrared saunas have also been shown to improve exercise performance, skin moisture barrier properties, quality of deep sleep, reduce blood pressure, lessen joint pain, boost overall brain function (by increasing BDNF), assist in heavy metal detox, support thyroid function, reduce migraine and tension headaches and even aid in weight loss.

Mental Benefits

As the body heats up, endorphins are released en masse . These endorphins interact with opiate receptors in your brain and cause not only a reduced perception of pain but also an increased feeling of pleasure and well-being. Increased endorphin levels have been shown time and time again to reduce symptoms of depression, to reduce stress and anxiety and to even boost self-esteem. Not only do endorphins pack a powerful punch on their own, but increased endorphin activity spikes dopamine (another “feel good” hormone), which, in turn, boosts your mood even further. Endorphins also allow the brain to optimize both production of and reception of serotonin (associated with increased feelings of wellness) and norepinephrine (related to alertness and energy).

As our ancestors knew, saunas are a powerfully effective way to boost both physical and mental well-being. Sessions are typically about 40 minutes long, so they’re quite easy to work into even the busiest schedule. Give our infrared saunas a try, and see for yourself why this age-old tradition is still going strong.

Common Misconceptions About Floating

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:20:33 GMT

Common Misconceptions About Floating

Floating is an amazing experience, both physically and mentally. But what if you’re a little nervous about it? That’s perfectly understandable! We want you to be as informed and as comfortable as possible for your first float. You can always ask us anything before your float, but here are a few of the most common questions we get from folks considering giving floating a try.

Will I Drown If I Fall Asleep?

Nope! There are hundreds of pounds of epsom salt in the tank water which literally changes the composition of the water – you simply cannot sink. In fact, the weightlessness and calm atmosphere in the tank are very likely to lull you into a perfectly safe sleep. We even offer a pillow for additional head and neck support!

Are Float Tanks Clean?

Very! All guests are required to shower before entering the tank. The high salinity of the solution makes it highly inhospitable to bacteria, microbes and other pathogens. Most importantly the solution goes through a 3 stage filtration process (four times!) between sessions which includes UV light filtration that will kill any bacteria or viruses. (we could post a link to the youtube video where we show the filter? )

What If I’m Claustrophobic?

Most people who initially think they’ll have a problem with claustrophobia in the tanks report having no issues. Just remember: you’re in control of the environment – you can leave the hatch door open, you can leave the lights on and you can get out at any time. We even have a cabin style tank that’s larger and doesn’t close down over you like our pod tanks. (maybe link the video that shows the difference between the pod and cabin?)

What If I Get Bored?

OK, so the first few minutes of your first float might be a little…disjointed. You might bounce back and forth between the edges of the tank. You might try to sink yourself and be amazed that you really can’t. You might spend an inordinate amount of time thinking how soft the epsom salt makes your skin and how much you feel like a silky smooth dolphin. But once you settle in, the float just takes over. Your brain begins producing theta waves, and you relax. Before you know it, the hour is somehow already up! Either way, it's important that you stay in for the full hour to give the tank a chance to work its magic. Most first timers really feel the change toward the end of their first float. The beauty is that each time you float you get relaxed quicker and deeeeeper.

Can I Float While Pregnant?

Absolutely (after your first trimester)! The weightless environment of a float tank is fantastic at reducing the stress and strain on the body during pregnancy. Floating while pregnant doesn’t give any special benefits than it wouldn’t give at any other time, per se, but the benefits are so much more impactful and sought after during pregnancy – namely, muscle relaxation, pain relief, hormone regulation, improved sleep and reduced swelling at joints and ankles.

Do I Have To Float Naked?

No, but we do recommend it. Floating is all about relaxation and entering a meditative, theta state. Because of the reduced sensory environment of floating, if the tie strap of your swimsuit or the fabric of your swim trunks is bunching and dragging against your skin, you’re going to find yourself especially distracted by that touch. To minimize distraction, we find floating naked to be the most beneficial.

The benefits of adding floating to your self-care routine are scientifically proven. If you’re looking to achieve any of the mental and physical benefits of float but are apprehensive about the float experience, we hope this helps set your mind at ease. Again, you’re welcome to ask us any questions or concerns you might have. You can even tour our private float rooms and see the pods or cabins for yourself. We hope to see you soon for your first float!

How a Float Session can Help Your Fiesta Hangover

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:16:43 GMT

How a Float Session can Help Your Fiesta Hangover

It’s Fiesta time! Whether you took in the Battle of Flowers Parade, NIOSA, Oyster Bake or any of the myriad other Fiesta events, they all likely had one thing in common: margaritas. And beer. And more margaritas. And possibly more beer. If you woke up the morning after a Fiesta event to find that you’d perhaps overdone it a bit on the celebratory adult beverages, no judgement - and we can help! Here’s what happens to your body when you’re hungover, and here’s how a float can help.

Toxins

To our bodies, alcohol is a toxin. As such, after a heavy night of drinking, it can take up to 48 hours for your body to completely process out all the alcohol. The high magnesium level of epsom salts make floating a great detox and a great help to your hard-working liver.

Headaches

The ultra calming, totally quiet and dark atmosphere of a float tank is widely know to relieve headaches - even migraines. If you have a lingering hangover headache (or other aches and pains), a float is an excellent way to send it packing.

Inflammation

Drinking puffs you up at the cellular level. Floating decreases inflammation at the cellular level. See where we’re going, here? If your muscles and joints are inflamed for any reason (drinking or otherwise), floating can definitely help.

Dehydration

While floating doesn’t hydrate you on the inside, it helps your skin plump back up and feel softer and smoother after the float. Then, once you’re done floating, be sure to go drink some water. ;)

Trouble Sleeping

Floating is a superstar when it comes to improving sleep quality. If a night (ok, a weekend?) of drinking has tanked your sleep, come in for a float to get your zzzz’s sorted out and back on track.

Fiesta is such a unique part of San Antonio’s cultural heritage, and we certainly hope you enjoyed it – we hope you took in all the sights, sounds and tastes. If you overdid it a smidge on the tastes in delicious liquid form, no worries! Just come see us, and we’ll get you back to feeling great in no time.

Reducing The Effects Of Stress With A Massage Routine

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:13:11 GMT

Reducing The Effects Of Stress With A Massage Routine

What exactly is going on inside our bodies when we’re stressed? Any amount of stress kicks our sympathetic nervous system into gear and initiates our fight or flight response. The body is flooded with cortisol (the literal stress hormone) and adrenaline; your heart rate increases, your breathing quickens, your blood pressure rises, your muscles tighten. This hard-wired and ancient survival response has saved our species from extinction through the millennia. While, in the past, our sympathetic nervous system responded to actual physical danger and enabled us to fight for or run for our lives, that the same system responds in the exact same way to perceived stress – running late, bickering kids, unhappy bosses, deadlines, finances, loss, anger, depression, anxiety, major life changes, you name it. None of these things will actually kill us, but our bodies don’t know that. To our brains, stress is stress, be it actual danger or perceived danger.

The main difference now vs. eons ago is that today’s stressors don’t stop “chasing” us like predators did long ago. You can’t outrun modern society and all the responsibilities that come with it. Short of renouncing the world and entering a Tibetan monastery, how can we effectively manage our current stressors and mitigate their toxic effects on our bodies? One way to handle our ancient survival response is to look to another ancient practice: massage.

Massage therapy is older than our recorded history, and, until the pharmaceutical revolution of the 1940s, was the main form of human medicine for thousands of years. Only now do we understand a bit more about why massage has stood the test of time and about what it does to our body’s internal chemistry.

Being stressed out for 20 minutes is not a big deal; being stressed out for 20 years puts a tremendous strain on your body. Chronic stress overworks the organs responsible for producing the chemicals that make up the sympathetic nervous system’s stress response. The effects of these chemicals produce downstream damage to other organs (high blood pressure alone negatively affects not only the heart muscle and the arteries but also your kidneys, your eyes and even your brain).

Thankfully, modern science has shown time and time again that massage therapy does indeed help reduce not just the feeling of stress but the actual stress chemicals and subsequent reactions in our bodies. Studies have measured the effects on the body pre- and post-massage and found that after a massage, cortisol levels are significantly lower, blood pressure is lower, heart rate is lower, catecholamines (adrenaline, norepinephrine, etc.) are lower. But the measurable effects don’t stop there. Endorphins are higher (these neurotransmitters allow us to feel fewer negative side effects of stress so that the fight or flight response is not triggered as readily), blood circulation is increased, and any swelling is reduced.

The benefits of massage therapy go beyond what can be specifically quantified. Decades of studies have shown massage to improve relaxation, anxiety, depression, general health, immune function, vitality, sleep, focus, mood, pain reduction, alertness, overall energy, flexibility and more. Basically, our ancestors were onto something. Massage therapy works.

You’ll likely feel noticeably more relaxed after a massage, sometimes for days after, but eventually your boss calls. You pick the kids up and they’re whining. Traffic is terrible. You didn’t close that big deal you’ve been working on. You’re looking for the 487th way to cook the same boring chicken. You feel the stress creeping back in; day-to-day life invades your peace and raises your cortisol. How do you continue to tamp down the sympathetic response (responsible for, essentially, mild panic) in favor the the parasympathetic response (responsible for calmness)? You guessed it. Get another massage.

Massages are your on-demand stress relief solution. Whether you choose to go weekly, monthly or simple as needed, there’s no wrong time to get a massage. No matter what aspects of life are causing you stress, you are just an hour-long massage away from feeling more calm, from being more relaxed and from giving your body a respite from all those overworked stress hormones. Get in the habit of regular massages, and you’ll be well on your way to a more peaceful life (even if you can’t find another way to cook that chicken).

Tips for Unplugging

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:10:18 GMT

Tips for Unplugging

Do you cringe when your weekly screen time report notification pops up on your phone? Worried you’re consuming too much technology? Wondering if you are in control of your relationship with your tech? Honestly, most of us are likely overly reliant on our phones, aren’t we? But we can’t really avoid technology in this modern age. So how do we find a balance between productive and necessary tech usage and consuming valuable content while still making time for in-person relationships and for recharging ourselves? We know there is life outside of our screens; how do we get back to that a bit more? Here are a few thoughts on why we should consider unplugging (either a little or a lot) as well as some strategies and ideas on how to go about it.

Why Unplug?

Find more time in your day and increase productivity – less time scrolling leaves more time for doing! Reduce the distractions and the low-key, semi-constant stress that comes from notification bings, beeps and buzzes. The constant dopamine hits we get from checking our phones will backfire on us; we often end up addicted to those little hits yet simultaneously exhausted by them. Also, not hunching over your phone or sitting slouched in front of your computer is so much better for your posture, your eyes and your brain. In addition, digesting social media inevitably leads to varying degrees of dissatisfaction, loneliness and even depression; disconnecting from other people’s posed, perfected, insta-worthy snapshots allows you to be more present in your own life, to reconnect with yourself and to stop the comparison cycle. And less evening screen time leads to more sleep and deeper sleep.

Morning Habits

A highly effective strategy is to have an hour of no-go phone time in the mornings. Don’t touch it – don’t scroll, don’t check emails, don’t text or make calls. Some people are even resorting to using an actual alarm clock instead of their phones so they’re not tempted to sneak a peek or to just send this one quick…nope. No. Go. This sets your day in motion in a more organic way and allows you to be intentional about the tone and direction of your thoughts as you begin each day. Take control of your day rather than being tossed around on the random waves of the internet’s latest and greatest.

Do Not Disturb

Turn on your phone’s do not disturb mode – definitely have this set during the night, but you might also try using it during the day as needed. You could also turn off social media notifications. Additionally, consider moving your social media apps (or whatever apps distract you) to the last page of your home screen so those little notification badges are less attention-grabbing. Some people find that deleting social media apps on the weekends works well for them; others log out of social media apps on their computers to avoid the temptation to “just check insta for a few minutes” during their work hours. Another strategy is to more closely curate the content you consume. That sleeping cat video was so so cute, but was it worth the 45 seconds of your life that you’ll never get back? Make sure the stories and feeds you do look at are important to you and are worth the investment you’re making by watching them.

Schedule It

There’s nothing inherently wrong with binging some Netflix, falling down the TikTok rabbit hole for a while, gaming or TV watching. These can be great ways to unwind. It’s when we get sucked into these types of things too often or when we do them instead of being productive and handling our responsibilities that we run into problems. Some people have great success with scheduling their “tech hour” (or however long you’re comfortable with). Put it on your calendar. It’s easier to deny yourself a quick TikTok scroll now – you know how easily that leads to oops, there went 45 minutes – when you can just tell yourself, no, I won’t do that now because I can do that during my scheduled tech hour or after work or after I finish this project. Whatever works for you.

Bedtime…For Your Tech

Another strategy is to create a bedtime for your phone / iPad / TV / etc. After, say, 9:30pm, you plug it in, you make sure your do not disturb is on, and you leave it until morning (after your no-go hour, of course). This gives your mind time to unwind and to get in touch with your natural circadian rhythm. No screen time a bit before bed also allows your body to produce melatonin so that you can get to sleep; the blue light from our phones (even in night mode) delays or even halts melatonin production.

For most of us, technology has become a habit. Yes, we need our calendars and reminders and phone calls and emails and DMs. But do we truly need to be that accessible every minute of every day? Most of us don’t. We can all benefit from a bit of peace and quiet. Perhaps we don’t even realize our increasing dependence on technology and the dopamine hits we get from checking our phones so frequently. The good news is that we can make unplugging a habit just as much as we have made being plugged in a habit. Do it just a little with an extra hour of DND or a phone bedtime, or go all-in with a full tech sabbatical. Do what feels right for you, but you’ll be glad you did.

Mental & Physical Benefits Of Salt Therapy

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:05:58 GMT

Mental & Physical Benefits Of Salt Therapy

Though the healing properties of salt have been touted for millennia, modern-day salt therapy originated in Poland in the mid 1800’s when a physician began to notice that his patients who worked in salt mines had no lung problems or respiratory conditions. Fast-forward almost 200 years, and today’s salt lounges use aerosolized micro-particles of salt to simulate the microclimate of salt mines. At its core, salt therapy – or halotherapy – is a mechanism for purifying and healing the body. But how does it work? And for what aspects of health and wellness is it beneficial? Here’s a brief overview of this simple yet effective therapy experience.

How Does It Work?

Salt, an electrolyte, serves to balance fluids in our blood and maintain healthy blood pressure, and it is also essential for nerve and muscle function. It is also very anti-inflammatory. Thus, any type of salt therapy will offer healing benefits. Salt lounges, specifically, grind salt into microscopic particles and release them into the air of the room. Once inhaled, these salt particles are thought to absorb irritants, including allergens and toxins, from the respiratory system. It is also thought that the salt particles kill off microorganisms in the lungs and that the salt reduces pulmonary inflammation. The salt particles are said to have a similar effect on your skin by absorbing bacteria and other impurities responsible for many skin conditions.

Physical Benefits

Once absorbed into the body and the skin, the microscopic salt particles provide literally dozens of benefits. The main benefits include:

Pain relief — helps reduce muscle soreness (yes, even DOMS or delayed onset muscle soreness), reduces joint pain, arthritis pain, overall aches and pains and even headaches.
Skin rejuvenation — triggers skin microcirculation and cellular membrane activity, anti-aging effects via cell healing (promotes nuclei growth and repair), purifies pores, smooths wrinkles, elevates healing for many types of skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, itchiness, redness and infections causing rashes or irritation.
Systemic healing — boosts immune function, improves muscle relaxation, circulation, neural response, helps detox the respiratory system by attracting and removing pollutants and allergens, reduces inflammation, helps alleviate asthma symptoms (specifically via anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic mechanisms), increases ability to achieve deeper sleep and opens detox pathways.

Mental Benefits

While the main benefits of salt therapy often revolve around the amazing respiratory and skin benefits, halotherapy is also known to help with symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety. One study showed that 14 weeks of salt therapy improved tryptophan and serotonin metabolism, leading to an antidepressant effect – these two chemicals help to regulate our mood. After a salt therapy session, patients have reported improved mood, mental performance, better sleep, and less stress. Plus, our salt lounge is like your own personal oasis. You will leave feeling invigorated and refreshed.

What Is A Salt Lounge Experience Like?

You sit in a comfy chair in a beautiful, cozy, dim room and breathe deeply. That’s it! It’s a very relaxing and soothing experience. There is no therapist or technician involved – it’s just you and your thoughts. And a whole lot of salt in the air. Breathing the salty air is not difficult; you’ll likely barely be able to tell there’s anything different about the air in a salt lounge. (South Texans are much more likely to notice the extremely low level of humidity in the room rather than the salt in the air!) The salt will not burn your eyes or irritate your skin. It’s basically just a relaxing hour in a spa with a little bit of salt and a host of amazing benefits.

Whether you’re looking for help with a respiratory or skin condition or you’re looking to add a tool to your arsenal for dealing with depression or anxiety, salt therapy is definitely worth a try. Our modern world relies so heavily on pharmacological interventions. It’s a breath of fresh (salty!) air to find an easy and effective treatment that comes directly from mother nature. Give salt therapy a try, and let it work its magic.

Managing Mental Health With a Float Routine

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:02:32 GMT

Managing Mental Health With a Float Routine

Managing Mental Health with a Float Routine

Tens of millions of Americans suffer from mental disorders each year. These can vary from seasonal to chronic, from mild to debilitating. Whether you have ADHD, depression, OCD, anxiety, PTSD or stress, floatation therapy is shown to help give your brain a reprieve. If you’ve tried a float session before, you know what a unique experience it is; if you haven’t tried it yet but are curious, float therapy can play an extensive role in achieving and maintaining your mental wellness. Here are a few ways that can help you make floating a part of your routine.

Get In The Habit Of Self-Care

Schedule it. You’re more likely to take time for your own self-care if you plan for it. We all know we need to make time for ourselves, but, if we leave that to the end of the day, there often just aren’t enough hours left over. Don’t leave it up to your mood and don’t wait for that “extra time” you can’t ever seem to find. Plan ahead, and you’ll be more likely to fit in a few moments to manage your own needs. Floatation therapy is an excellent candidate to add to your self-care arsenal because you can schedule it, it only takes an hour and you’re all but guaranteed to come away feeling refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.

Manage The Inevitable Stress Of Life

Why are we designed to feel stress in the first place? Survival. If our ancestors were being chased by a sabertooth tiger, our bodies needed to be able to respond to that stress in order to save our lives. Unfortunately, our bodies don’t differentiate between raging bears or angry bosses; chemically speaking, stress is stress. Therefore, emotional stress is every bit as taxing on our bodies as is physical danger. One of the most effective ways to reduce stress is with a regular float session. Floating changes your brain chemistry and allows truly unparalleled relaxation - both physical and mental.

Give It Time

As we all know, change doesn’t happen overnight. Usain Bolt, four-time Olympian and world record holder, famously said: “I trained 4 years to run 9 seconds. Some people don’t see results in 2 months and give up.” Such a powerful reminder to be patient with ourselves. If you trust the process and are consistent, you will start to see results. Don’t give up on yourself. If you choose floatation therapy as part of your mental wellness journey, you will likely feel better after just one float. However, many clients find that they are not able to completely relax during their first float. While it is our goal to reduce stimulus, the first experience can be a lot to take in, and it is normal to have some anxiety. This can get in the way of reaching peak relaxation. Studies have shown that the second, and especially third float have a much greater impact on serenity and the brain. The benefits of floating are compounded, session after session. Make float therapy a part of your wellness routine, and you will see the difference over time.

Whether you’re looking to de-stress or to manage a mental disorder, floating can be a profound mental wellness experience. Creating a routine of self-care is vital in our busy lives, and scheduling an hour-long float session every few weeks can become an integral and powerful part of your wellness journey.

The Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy for Heart Health

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:59:23 GMT

The Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy for Heart Health

You've probably heard about the benefits of infrared saunas for detoxification and weight loss, but what about the effect on your cardiovascular system?

Infrared saunas offer a range of cardiovascular benefits and can positively impact your heart health by reducing your risk of heart disease and improving your circulation.

Improves Exercise Tolerance and Cardiovascular Conditioning

The heat from an infrared sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow. This increased blood flow helps deliver oxygen to muscles and other tissues while they work out or exercise, which means you can perform better at higher levels.

The increased oxygen delivery also helps burn more fat during workouts because it allows your body to use fat as an energy source instead of storing it as body fat. This means that even when you're not exercising or working out, there is still some benefit from sitting in an infrared sauna daily!

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is the body's natural response to infection or injury and can be caused by many things, including stress and environmental toxins.

Infrared saunas help reduce inflammation in your body by helping you sweat out toxins that have been stored in your muscles and glands. When these toxins are released through sweating, they are flushed out of your system as sweat.

Improves Heart Disease Markers

The health of your cardiovascular system depends on several factors: how well your blood vessels function, whether those vessels are constricted or dilated (widened), how well you regulate pressure within those vessels, and whether inflammation occurs in them (the latter two are factors involved in atherosclerosis). Infrared sauna use has been shown to help improve all these measures associated with cardiovascular health!

Improves Vascular Endothelial Function

Endothelial dysfunction is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It refers to the inability of your blood vessels to contract properly, which causes them to become weaker and less elastic. Regular use of an infrared sauna can improve endothelial function by increasing nitric oxide production at all levels.

If you are looking for a natural way to improve your heart health, consider adding regular infrared sauna therapy to your wellness routine. Not only is it relaxing and enjoyable, but it may also help keep your heart healthy and functioning well.

Massage Services at Float

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:50:13 GMT

Massage Services at Float

MASSAGE SERVICES AT FLOAT

At Float Wellness Spa, we strive to provide exceptional service to our loyal customers. In the past, it was brought to our attention that it was difficult to book massage appointments because spots were limited. Well, you spoke, and we listened! We're excited to announce that our massage facilities are expanding to a fourth massage room, so that we can accommodate your spa needs. It gets better - our deepest tissue massage, the Ashiatsu massage, is now available in all our rooms, and we've also carved out more slots for spa day appointments.

We want our customers to feel like they're in good hands (literally!), so we hire the best in the business. Our massage therapists have an average of 5 to 7 years of experience and we put the effort into creating a personalized experience for you. You deserve the best, and Float Wellness Spa has been named the best San Antonio Spa by TripAdvisor and San Antonio Current over the years, so you know you’re in the very best care while you’re here.

Massage Therapy Services

Rejuvenate your body and soul with one, two, or maybe even all of our massage services. We offer a variety of massages to adequately cover the needs of each one of our customers. Take a peek at our comprehensive list of massages:

Swedish Massage

This is the most common type of massage, often called a "classical massage" around the world. This is a light to moderate pressure massage perfect for relaxation, de-stressing, and relieving muscle tension. Who should get a Swedish massage? If you're new to getting massages or if you just need a good, general relaxation session, this is a great place to start and will leave you feeling relaxed but energized.

Deep Tissue Massage

This is similar to a Swedish massage, but with deeper pressure and usually a specific target area in mind. If you have a musculoskeletal injury, some scar tissue, or pain in a certain spot, this is the massage for you. Slow, sustained, deep pressure is applied to, say, your lower back to help relieve back pain by realigning the sub-layer of muscle, fascia, and tendons. Deep tissue massage can be intense, but it isn't generally painful (you may be sore afterward – but it's that good kind of sore). Also, a deep tissue massage shouldn't be painful; if the pressure is too much, be sure to tell your massage therapist right away! They're happy to tailor the pressure to suit your comfort level.

Sport Massage

A sport massage is a bit of a hybrid between a Swedish and deep tissue massage, and, as the name suggests, is geared toward athletes or those who exercise. As with deep tissue, a sport massage can focus on specific areas of pain, tightness, sore muscles, or injury using some deep tissue techniques, but it also incorporates lighter pressure techniques combined with stretching, joint mobility, and faster-paced pressure. A sport massage is wonderful for athletes or exercisers looking for both muscle recovery and pain relief, as well as relaxation.

Assisted Stretching

This type of massage is a part general massage and part physical therapy. Ideal for adults, children, the elderly, or those with disabilities, assisted stretching is a gentle technique that works to increase muscle flexibility and mobility. With the assistance of your massage therapist, you move your muscles into a lengthened position or in specific movement patterns and through various ranges of motion.

Ashiatsu Massage

This is the deepest of the deep tissue massages. Ashiatsu massage, or barefoot massage, allows up to 3 times deeper pressure as your massage therapist stands over you and uses their feet and the gentle force of gravity to apply sustained pressure. As the foot is broader than the hand, and as the therapist works with, instead of against, gravity, this is the ideal massage form to reach the deepest levels of the fascia and underlying musculature with the least amount of discomfort. The Ashiatsu massage is now offered in each of our four massage rooms.

Health Benefits of Massages

Aside from the fact that massages make you feel great, and reduce your stress levels, modern science has also proven that massage therapy helps to reduce the actual stress chemicals and subsequent reactions in our bodies. Massages literally take your stress away! Studies have measured the effects on the body pre- and post- massage and found that:

Cortisol levels significantly drop
Blood pressure is lower
Heart rate decreases
Catecholamines (adrenaline, norepinephrine, etc.) decrease
Endorphins (one of the chemicals in your body that makes you happier) increases
Blood circulation increases
Any swelling reduces

Life can be exhausting, and sometimes we don't know when to take a break, but it's in the rest that we cultivate the energy to shine again. So, what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a transformative massage, an entire spa day, or give the gift of relaxation to a loved one. Book your appointment at Float Wellness Spa today!

What to Expect: Tips for Your First Float

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:27:04 GMT

What to Expect: Tips for Your First Float

So this floating thing sounds intriguing. You think you’re going to try it out. Great! Hmmm, what do you need to know before your first float? We’re glad you asked! Here are a few of our recommendations. These are not hard and fast rules, but these guidelines will help you have an enjoyable and relaxing first float.

Don’t Shave…Anything.

Just like how you don’t shave your legs right before you go to the beach, don’t shave before your first float. The epsom salt might sting a bit and distract you from your relaxing float experience. So, before you float, don’t shave your face / legs / head / whatever it is that you choose to shave.

Nix The Caffeine

If you have a morning float, skip that morning coffee just for the day of your first float. You want to be able to fully vibe in the tank, and caffeine will amp you up rather than help you chill out. So save that cuppa for afterward or for the next day. If you have an afternoon or evening float, try to cut the caffeine about 4-6 hours beforehand.

No Pre-Float Burritos

Before you float, try to have a light meal rather than something heavy. Your mileage may vary as far as what a “light” meal consists of for you, but just try to stick to something easy on your body and something that won’t make you feel stuffed. But do make sure you eat a little something; turns out, a growling stomach is quite loud and very distracting in a float tank.

Yep – You Float Naked

Part of the awesomeness of floating is that you start to lose the sensation of where your body stops and where the water begins. Anything that brings awareness or distraction to a certain area will disrupt that flow (think swim suit strap or waistband). So for the most bang for your buck, float au naturel.

Consider a Pre-Float Service

If you’re fighting traffic or rushing from work to make your float appointment, you might like a bit of a cooldown period before your float, schedule permitting. A massage before your float is an excellent option as it relaxes your body and gives you some time to decompress.

Rapid-Fire FAQs

Can you float if you have dyed hair? Once the water runs clear when you wash it, yes. Can you float while wearing your contacts? Yes, but if you do get water in your eyes it might be more difficult to deal with if your contacts are still in; this one’s up to you. Do you need to bring anything? Nope! Do you have to stay in the tank the whole time? Nope! Will you drown if you fall asleep? Nope! Is there a float weight limit? Nope!

While there are no right and wrong ways to float, these guidelines will help you get the most out of your first float session. If you have any additional questions, be sure to check out our website or, better yet, just ask us when you come in. We’re always happy to answer any questions – we love talking about floating! :)

50 Years of Commercial Floating

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 21:55:19 GMT

In 1954, a young medical doctor and neuroscientist, John C. Lilly, donned a breathing mask and took the first descending steps into a large, fresh-water tank designed to cut out as much light, noise, and general sensation as possible. From that first iteration, it would be 19 years before floatation therapy was offered generally to the public, thanks to the work of Dr. Lilly, along with Glenn and Lee Perry.

Glenn Perry, an engineer by trade, had his first float in 1972 at a workshop hosted by Lilly. An ordinarily extremely shy Glenn emerged from the tank in a new state of consciousness, one that “broke him from a spell,” allowing him to speak freely in front of a

group of strangers (which would have terrified him under normal circumstances). After the week-long workshop, Glenn knew that he needed to have his own personal tank, so he set out to craft one. Along the way, he decided to pursue designing floatation tanks for others as well, thinking that if his own time floating could be so beneficial to him, that surely it would be useful for others as well.

Glenn immediately began designing new prototypes, xperimenting with construction materials from plywood to fiberglass to cardboard. It was in one of these early tanks that Lee had her first float, as part of an isolation tank research project. After meeting and falling in love, the two set out to bring floating to as many people as possible. They began the Samadhi Tank Co., a name given to them by John Lilly. By 1973, all the basic features of current float tanks were in place: a shallow, temperature controlled pool of water, saturated with magnesium sulfate, that you would lay down in.

50 years ago, Glenn and Lee began hosting the first commercial float sessions out of their house, trying to get the word of floating out to anyone who would listen. Glenn worked on tank design while Lee worked with the floaters, learning how to introduce them to floating, how to prepare them for the float without any “pre-programming,” and how to welcome them back to the physical world after their session. With each floater, they expanded their knowledge and introduced more and more people to the buoyant practice. This was the beginning of the commercial float world.

1979 saw the first large scale commercial float center, a five tank center in Beverly Hills run by the Perrys. Their new space, and practice, was a hit, and floating began to captivate the citizens and celebrities of LA. All the while, more and more tanks were being sold and shipped across the globe and within a couple years, half a dozen more commercial float centers had opened up. Samadhi Tank Co. even started an ambitious 20 tank center in San Francisco that doubled as a sales floor for their manufacturing.

By the mid 80’s more and more people were reaching out to Glenn and Lee, curious about opening their own float centers. The Perrys began to share the knowledge that they learned from their own experiences, generously assisting and welcoming newcomers into the burgeoning industry. The Float Tank Association (FTA), a nonprofit dedicated to serving the float world, began in 1983 with Glenn and Lee Perry, as well as John Lilly, serving on the board.

The FTA began to hold conferences and events centered around floatation, which included both the commercial industry, as well as the latest research being conducted. The FTA, along with its sister organization, the International R.E.S.T. Investigators’ Society (IRIS), nurtured the float industry and helped it to break even further into the mainstream. Celebrities like Susan Sarandon, Robin Williams, and Michael Crichton were using the tanks and talking about them publicly. Sadly, with the general public not fully understanding the transmission of AIDS, float centers all over took a gigantic hit when the AIDS epidemic and media frenzy took hold. By the early 90s, most float centers around the United States had shut their doors, citing poor income and attendance due to HIV/AIDS as the primary reason.

Thankfully, this wasn’t the final chapter for commercial floating. Internationally, floating rebounded more quickly than it did in the US, and new float centers and tank manufacturers popped up in Italy, the UK, Sweden, and Germany. Still, through the 1990s and most of the early

2000s, the float industry remained incredibly small, with relatively little development or mass awareness.

It wasn’t until around 2009 that the industry began to pick up again. Media attention picked up, and Joe Rogan especially was very vocal about floating and its benefits on his popular podcast. Between 2010 and 2016, hundreds of new float centers had opened up in the United States

alone, with Canada and Australia following similar trends. New floatation specific research labs were constructed, and an annual float conference started up with hundreds of attendees from around the globe.

Today, there is at least one float center in essentially every major city in an English speaking country. You can also find float centers in most countries throughout Europe, as well as various other hot spots across the globe. Top sports stars – like Steph Curry and Tom Brady – give high praise to the tank, encouraging other athletes of all levels to give it a try. References in popular culture have ranged from The Simpsons, to Big Bang Theory, to Stranger Things, to Cobra Kai, and beyond. Floating now has greater awareness and availability than has ever existed in its past.

Since those early days of being fully submerged in laboratory water tanks, and going on private retreats with John Lilly, the world of floating has gone through its trials and tribulations. Through it all, however, the industry has retained its core value: sharing floating with as many people as

possible in the hope of changing the world, as Dr. Lilly put it.

70 Years of Floating

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 21:27:12 GMT

70 Years of Floating

This year marks 70 years since the world's first float tank was invented in 1954. What began as fringe experiments and personal exploration has transformed into a mainstream wellness activity embraced around the globe.

As we reflect on the decades past, we wanted to share how far floating has come as both an industry and as a recognized tool for bolstering wellness and performance. As you can imagine, there’s a lot of history worth delving into (far more than we can cover in this short blog post), but we’ll be covering the high level eras and milestones over 7 decades of float tanks.

The Early Years - 1950s to 1960s

The story of floating begins in 1954 when American neuroscientist and medical doctor John C. Lilly constructed the first isolation tank at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). At the time, the scientific world was fascinated by the mysteries of consciousness and perception. Many theories circulated about what would happen if you deprived the brain of external stimuli. Would it lead to sensory trauma? Psychosis or hallucinations?

Curious, and looking to investigate these theories more closely, Lilly modified a large, abandoned water tank at NIMH to house his first experiments. He constructed custom breathing masks to put minimal pressure on the skin, and maintained neutral sound and temperature by fully submerging the participant in skin temperature water. Conventional wisdom said that these conditions were very likely to be distressing. However, Lilly's experiences as his own first subject in the tank quickly disproved those notions.

Rather than any kind of trauma, he reported feeling a profound serenity and physical relaxation. The lack of distraction didn't derange his mind – it unlocked access to higher states of awareness unlike anything he'd known. His first prolonged floats suggested sensory isolation didn't inherently deprive the brain at all. In fact, it seemed like it might have the potential to make us more conscious, rather than less.

Buoyed by these revelations, Lilly continued improving the tank design over the 1950s and 60s. He focused on optimizing comfort, safety, and the body's floating experience. At NIMH, his colleague Dr. Jay Shurley also extensively studied himself and others in the tanks. Their work firmly established flotation's merits within the scientific community. Beyond those directly involved in the research, however, few were aware of these strange "sensory deprivation" devices.

Over the coming years this would change dramatically as word spread both about Dr. Lilly’s research and the remarkable states it could produce. In the late 60s, Lilly published Programming and Metaprogramming in the Human Biocomputer, which would become a cult-classic highlighting his early floatation experiments. He also started teaching workshops on floatation in California, and the stage was being set for an era where tanks would make the leap

Tanks Go Commercial - 1970s

By the 1970s, floating was still by no means mainstream, but it was starting to garner attention from certain circles and individuals. In 1972 Lilly met Glenn Perry, a talented engineer, at one of his floating workshops. Together, they worked to modify the basic design, developing an early version of the style that we still use in our center today (in which you lie on your back in a saturated epsom salt solution, rather than being fully submerged in a freshwater tank).

In 1973, along with Glenn’s wife Lee, they formed the first commercial float tank manufacturing company, Samadhi Tank Co. , which is still producing tanks 50 years later. For the first time, regular folks could easily purchase and install these exotic devices in their homes.

Then, in 1979, Samadhi opened up the first commercial float center, which was located in Beverly Hills with 5 float tanks that customers could book time in. The business proved to be an immediate success, and between this and Samadhi’s manufacturing arm, the float industry had officially begun.

Rapid Growth - 1980s

In 1980, the movie Altered States was released, an underground classic which depicted actor William Hurt's character using a float tank for psychedelic experiments. That same year, the second float center opened in Hollywood, using the name Altered States and further drawing public awareness and curiosity.

Articles in major outlets like Rolling Stone explored this strange new practice. Within another year, another 5 centers had opened their doors, and that was just the beginning as more and more centers continued popping up in cities across North America to meet the growing demand.

The field also began attracting serious scientific interest. Researchers such as Tom Fine and Dr. John Turner studied floating's effects on everything from high blood pressure to athletic performance. Major universities were supplying their labs with dedicated float tanks for experiments, and for the first time rigorous evidence was collected on the many benefits of floating.

Conferences like those hosted by the Float Tank Association (FTA) and the International REST Investigators Society (IRIS) provided a hub to share ideas and new research. The evidence was clear – floating had significant impacts on both mind and body.

By the mid-1980s, there were commercial float centers worldwide. What had seemed like a fringe practice was transitioning into a legitimate health and wellness industry with proven benefits.

The Sudden Fall of Floating - Late 80s and 90s

Then the AIDS epidemic hit, and the rapid growth of floating came to an abrupt halt. The emerging AIDS crisis fueled public fears around use of communal water, even though floating itself was low risk.

Misinformation and panic surrounding AIDS caused the Western market for floating to collapse practically overnight. In just a few years, the vast majority of North American and European centers had shuttered.

For a practice that had been gaining so much momentum, it was a devastating setback that would require two decades to fully recover from. Even as the industry shrank in the West, though, pockets of passionate floaters kept the practice alive in other parts of the world.

In the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Nordic countries, strong floating communities persisted through the decline. Centers in these regions maintained their client bases and even saw some measured growth despite the crisis.

Research also quietly continued, in both the United States and abroad in countries like Sweden. As Western funding dried up through the 90s, it was these international labs that would end up laying the scientific groundwork for the future resurgence of floating.

Persistence and Growth - 2000s

The new millennium arrived, and floating in the Western world was limited to a small number of devotees keeping the practice alive, along with the very few commercial centers that were still active.

However, that was soon to change as new research continued to come out abroad and a very popular and very vocal Joe Rogan began regular endorsement of float tanks. In the late 2000s, for the first time in a long while, new commercial centers were beginning to open up, and new manufacturers were beginning to produce float tanks.

Resurgence - 2010s

Throughout the 2010s, the number of float tank centers in the United States grew from a couple dozen to hundreds. At the same time, technological improvements enhanced the experience with advanced filtration systems and more refined tank designs and, as floating went mass market, even more manufacturers entered the industry.

Float research (much of which we’ve covered in previous blog posts) began to receive funding and attention again, and some of the most advanced floatation therapy labs were constructed, such as the Float Lab at the Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR). With more funding and participants than ever before, the research during these recent years has demonstrated the benefits of floating, both mental and physical, time and time again.

What Does The Future Hold?

It's incredible to reflect on how far floating has come since those earliest days at NIMH. One thing is certain – the future still holds boundless potential. As more and more people discover floating for themselves, there are surely innovations, applications, and discoveries that will continue to be uncovered.

Just as we celebrate all of those that came before us in helping to build this salty industry, we also look ahead to the future with great anticipation.

The Benefits of Doing Nothing

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 21:34:23 GMT

The concept of taking time away from obligations to relax and recoup is so foreign in our society that the idea is often met with confused looks; people live in a constant state of motion, often bouncing from task to task with no time to stop, breathe, and enjoy the moment. In society’s

eyes, relaxing and doing nothing means wasting time… and wasting time means losing out on both money and opportunities.

The guilt that many of us feel for not being productive at all times is something we’re taught when we’re young, whether intentionally or not, and it gets carried with us as we age. This can lead to a cycle where we feel that we need to be going at all times, even when our mental and physical capacities are out of gas. We dig ourselves deeper and deeper into exhaustion trying to make the best use of our productivity each day, inevitably leading to symptoms of burnout, which are often ignored for as long as possible.

Learning to take a step back and let your mind and body recover is a valuable skill that can keep yourself afloat while battling the regular stresses of life. Taking time out to rest offers a whole slew of benefits: a boost in energy, increased creativity, time to process the new things you’ve learned, and much more. The problem, though, is that despite how simple resting is, not

everyone actually knows how to do it properly.

Sitting down to scroll social media with TV on in the background might feel like we’re resting, but in actuality our brains are still fully engaged trying to concentrate and process all of the information we’re being confronted with. Our bodies can be relaxed, yet our minds stay on. Instead of staying active by scrolling and channel-hopping during the majority of our downtime, making time to consciously do as little as possible is surprisingly effective – by taking the time to slow your day down, you can let your brain get a reset, which in turn has been shown to reduce stress, boost creativity, and (almost counterintuitively) increase your overall productivity.

Many of these ideas and ideals are embraced by the slow living movement, and incorporating them into your own life can actually be accomplished quite easily. This includes things as simple as waking up a few minutes earlier so that you have time to sit and enjoy your tea or coffee, or

taking a little extra time in the shower to enjoy the feeling of the water warming your body, rather than setting an alarm that gives you as little time as possible before you rush out the door. Likewise, going for an afternoon walk to get some fresh air, instead of relentlessly pushing through your to-do list, can refresh your entire system, leaving you rejuvenated when you return to work.

Being more mindful and taking longer to do tasks like this allow the mind a chance to wander and daydream. This wandering mind provides a break from the flow of the day, allowing a focus on bodily maintenance, as well as time working through ideas and problems without distractions. Letting the mind wander can help increase bodily-awareness, possibly helping us notice when we need breaks sooner as we are more in touch with our body's stress signals. These moments of idle wandering can even be the spark for a Eureka-level thought, as the brain is relaxed and can come up with unique ideas or solutions to problems without being stressed and forced to do so.

Finding the time to rest can be more difficult than it should be, particularly when it comes to escaping the grasp of technology and industry. The mental tether that attaches us to our phones is strong; all types of notifications could go off at any moment, taking us away from any chance

of rest. Many of us live on-call (whether it be for work, family, or both) and it becomes increasingly difficult for us to be on silent mode. Those who live in cities or near industrial facilities hardly ever catch a break from the noise that seems to constantly hum from the surroundings. Freeways, railroads, and airports keep an ever flowing level of noise coming in at all times of day. This causes a deep level of stress as we can never fully relax, there is always

something (sometimes subconsciously) bringing us back to the outside world. Since so many people become used to never having the chance to rest, they go about their day never looking to make time for it, and they suffer the consequences. Resting won’t happen unless you make room for it, and starting by carving out even 30 minutes a day to rest can begin to do wonders for your stress levels and mental health (which is not to say that longer isn’t even better).

Tuning Into Your Inner Perception with Floating

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 20:02:44 GMT

Touch, sight, smell, hearing, and taste are what most people immediately think of when asked about the human senses. While these five major senses get the most attention, there are numerous, often-overlooked senses of the body that can add a great depth of information about what is going on inside of us: for example thermoception (sense of temperature), nociception (sense of pain), and equilibrioception (sense of balance). One of these lesser known senses is interoception, or the sense of the sensations inside your own body, like your heartbeat and your breathing. “It’s like an inner selfie,” Dr. Sahib Khalsa, floatation researcher, says in his 2016 Float Conference talk.

Interoception can be compared to other forms of bodily sensations such as exteroception, which deals with sensations outside the body through stimulation of the five major senses, and proprioception,which deals with your spatial awareness. Together, these senses work to help

the brain determine the answer to “how do you feel?” Through knowing where you are spatially, what is in your immediate environment, as well as what is going on in your body, you can identify how you feel, and what you need to do to correct anything that feels off. When one of

these pathways for sensing our inner and outer worlds isn’t functioning properly, it can become challenging to articulate our feelings and emotions.

Research has shown a link between how we regulate our emotions and our level of interoceptive awareness; a lower ability to recognize what is going on inside our bodies leads to a more difficult time working out our emotions, which in turn can make us more anxious.

Interoception has been shown to be a basis for our emotional regulation - if you know what is going on inside, you’ll likely be more in tune with your emotional states.

There is an evolutionary explanation for this, the more connected our ancestors were to their bodies, the more quickly they could act to solve a problem. Were they hungry and needed food? Or cold and needed shelter? Being able to decipher these messages sent to the brain in a fast

and efficient way allowed ancient humans a better chance at survival.

The disconnect between what the body is feeling and what the brain is perceiving can slow us down, causing us to have trouble acting on our internal feelings, often bringing out feelings of distress and anxiety. Not knowing how to describe what you’re feeling leads to confusion as we

are lost in describing what we feel. Previous research has shown that floating can increase the awareness of inner bodily sensations, especially when in the tank, when a beating heart suddenly becomes more prominent in the otherwise empty environment. That feeling of body-connectivity can carry on outside of the tank as well. This has led to current research looking at how floating can be used to help people with anxiety who struggle to connect their inner sensations to the proper emotions.

Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) is described as the fear that one will experience anxiety symptoms and sensations, specifically ones arising from inside the body, and is an underlying contributor to many forms of chronic anxiety. AS can be a large factor in anxiety levels for someone in their day-to-day life, and can have a variety of effects ranging from impacting how their immune system is functioning to being a cause of random panic attacks. Is it possible that getting people with high AS and low interoception into a float tank could help them get more in tune with their bodies through the reduction of all the outside stimulation? Dr. Justin Feinstein and Dr. Sahib Khalsa set out to answer that in a 2017 study.

The study took individuals with high AS and other forms of anxiety and looked at how floating might be beneficial for interoception compared to another relaxing treatment (watching a nature documentary). After floating (compared to the documentary) participants reported lower states

of anxiety, while also having reduced blood pressure and muscle tension. Participants who floated also had an increase of sensations from the cardiorespiratory system – their breath and heartbeat became easy to focus on with all other stimulation swept away. Interestingly, participants found it easier to detect their heartbeat all throughout their body, including areas on the face, head, and on the back. The ability to regulate their focus on internal bodily sensations was also increased. The findings indicated that floating helped these participants see a reduction of general anxiety as well as increased interoception, specifically through the heartbeat and the breath.

Many anxiety disorders stem from a disconnect between the mind and body, lowering levels of interoception. This disconnect can cause other forms of anxiety, as emotions can feel out of sync, leading to internal confusion. Having a higher interception allows for someone to be more

attentive to their emotions, as they can process internal stimulation quicker and more accurately gauge how they are feeling. While more work needs to be done, the results are promising, and early studies show that floating could be beneficial to increasing interoception, specifically within

highly anxious individuals. There appears to be a strong connection between floating and heightened recognition of the heartbeat and breathing, making you more in tune with your body, and fostering a better understanding of the connection between your physical and mental states.

Floating and Yoga_ An Enlightening Combination

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 22:45:17 GMT

The idea of yoga in the west often begins and ends with pictures of various movements you do in a crammed studio surrounded by other sweaty people. In reality, this is but one sliver of what yoga truly is. Rather than a physical workout that you do, yoga is more of a way of life that you pursue. Is it an internal practice involving the mind and body, working towards alignment.

“The Yoga Sutras Of Patanjali”, one of the foundational texts of classical yoga written roughly 2000 years ago, describes eight limbs of yoga, each leading you on the path to enlightenment. The eight limbs are:

1. Yama – attitude towards the environment

2. Niyama – attitude towards oneself

3. Asana – practice of body movements

4. Pranayama – practice of breathing exercises

5. Pratyahara – restraining of the senses

6. Dharana – concentration on a single point

7. Dhyana – being fully engaged and concentrated in the meditation practice

8. Samadhi – enlightenment

It can be seen that the physical movements often associated with yoga (asanas) are just a small part of a larger practice: one that includes breathwork, mental concentration, looking inward, evaluating morals, and even practicing self-love. Depending on your school of thought, the limbs are either completed in order, or worked on simultaneously. Many in the west find their introduction to yoga through asana practice in a studio and then they might begin exploring the rest of their practice from there, if ever.

Looking at the eight limbs, it’s easy to see how many of them can be adapted for practice in the float tank, a seemingly perfect environment to engage with the yogic exercises. Having a place where you are left with nothing but your own mind and body creates a wonderful space to work on yourself. “Yoga is about stilling the fluctuations of our consciousness and finding the union of the body, mind, breath and the spirit in the present moment,” says yoga teacher, and floater, Martina Phillips. For her, floating is about “the feeling of non-existence and effortlessness.” She says the two practices can work together, and that with a correct practice, that same effortlessness she feels from floating can be felt from yoga.

Niyama, pranayama, and pratyahara stand out as particularly easy practices to work on while floating: looking inwards at yourself, breathing exercises, and resisting the senses. Looking inward and breathing exercises are simple forms of meditation, both of which people often already naturally do while floating.

And as far as resisting the senses goes, the tank is almost a cheat-code: there is simply nothing to resist. Once acclimated to the salty solution, your body soon begins to feel like a puddle, becoming one with the water. There are no sounds or lights to distract you, and before you know it all sensation has been reduced. Taking a deeper look, it becomes clear how all of the 8 limbs can be worked into the practice of floating.

Starting with simple mediations can lead easily into the practices of dharana and dhyana (concentration on a single point and being fully engaged and concentrated in the meditation practice). Floating is often described as “meditation with training wheels,” and we hear many people talk about how they start floats with meditation or breathwork. Whether these people know it or not, they are using the tank to practice yoga.

And as for Yama, or attitude towards your environment? With the increased boost of dopamine that can accompany a float, a happier outlook on the world can be easier to cultivate, giving a way to practice yamas after a float, looking at the world with more peaceful eyes.

Working asanas into floating may seem a bit more challenging; how can you do yoga poses in the tank? The answer is to adapt the poses in a way that can work with the buoyant saltwater. This means specifically focusing on poses that can easily be done in the supine position.

DISCLAIMER: We are not medical professionals, nor yoga teachers. All information regarding asanas/stretching in the tank has been gathered through conversations with yoga teachers. You should always listen to how your body feels when stretching, and consult with a doctor or physical therapist with any concerns before trying yoga in the float tank.

While floating in water may seem like it would hinder the asana practice, the buoyancy the tank provides can actually be used as a tool. All of the yoga teachers we spoke with mentioned the benefits of an asana practice in the tank: being suspended in water lets the spine stretch and the back muscles relax. This loosening of the body can help make poses feel easier to get into, allowing for deeper stretches than are typically possible out of the tank.

There is also the added freedom of movement without the pull of gravity, allowing the body to move and stretch in different ways. Another benefit of asana in the tank, as Kim Hannan, float center owner and yoga teacher points out, is how personal the practice in the tank becomes – there is no one else around you to compare your practice to. Alone in the darkness, she finds she can “feel a greater connection to the sensations in the body.” By having this greater connection, the need for a mirror in a yoga studio is lost, she can sink into poses by “not just wondering if my alignment ‘looks right’ - but does it ‘feel right’?”

For poses in the tank, most of the teachers mentioned “wiggling around” in the tank at the start of the float to loosen the body, then stretching out in every direction before falling still. Supine twists, like with hands above the head and moving hands and feet in the same direction, and creating a banana with your body (as Martina described), were common tank-poses that the yoga teachers mentioned.

It is worth noting that every float practice is unique, and that there are no “right” ways to float – on its own, it is a wonderful experience with many benefits. For some, the tank can be an extension of their yoga practice, and for others it is a space to simply de-stress and relax. Regardless, the important thing for any floating practice is to engage in self-care and actually book yourself in for a session.

Renaissance of Float Research

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 22:39:22 GMT

Similar to many float enthusiasts, if you ask us what floating is good for, our first answer is often, “What is it not good for?” Having witnessed floating help so many people, it’s easy to think of it as a panacea for all sorts of ailments and afflictions. However, despite decades of published research, some of those in the medical field still look at floating with a side-eye, skeptical of the claims made by floaters.

From curing insomnia to heightening your athletic abilities, there are personal stories from all over the globe of the benefits of floating. Unfortunately, large scale clinical trials are very expensive and time consuming, and most of these claims either receive funding for small scale studies, or aren’t able to be pursued at all with any kind of rigor.

As floating grows in prominence and popularity, the demand for this research has been getting stronger and stronger, and there are many researchers both in the US and internationally who are studying the effects of floatation therapy. The Float Lab at the Laureate Institute of Brain Research (LIBR) is one of the best funded float labs in the world, and over the last decade it has been working to produce large, well-funded studies on floating as a treatment for a range of conditions.

These studies and their effect sizes are wonderful to see, but there is still a lot to be done with float research. Building a database of clinical studies to begin exploring these and other general claims for floating are the big next steps. At that point, the studies can begin getting more into the specifics of how and why floating is helping people. If general anxiety can be reduced from floating, does that mean that anxiety that arises from other specific conditions also be treated through floating?

Hard scientific findings are needed to further open the door for floatation treatments becoming mainstream, and the work of Dr. Feinstein and Dr. Khalsa, along with many other float researchers, is important for starting to illuminate the benefits. Further studies can now be done to delve deeper into the results, and to help establish floatation therapy as a viable, all-natural medical treatment. As more work stems from these studies, we look forward to floating being even more validated in the medical community, and to it becoming a more widely recognized and recommended treatment for a variety of afflictions.

Floating and Concussions.

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 18:59:20 GMT

Floating and Concussions....

Floating and Concussions

Concussions are an unfortunately common form of Traumatic Brain Injury, especially among athletes. They can come with some serious long-term cognitive effects, including brain fog, forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, sensitivity to stimulation, and more.

Could floating help? There haven’t been any peer-reviewed studies done quite yet, but preliminary findings are promising! Check out our latest article for some more insight into how floatation therapy might help with alleviating the cognitive issues in those who’ve suffered concussions, including results from a couple of smaller studies and a first person account from the article’s author: Floating and Concussions .

Some Things Never Change

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:33:30 GMT

Some Things Never Change

Although the environment for floating is carefully constructed and controlled, it doesn’t stop every float being its own unique experience. This is true, not only from person to person, but also from float to float. The float tank is a neutral environment, but every individual brings in their own unique state of mind and body. It’s one of the reasons we always recommend playing around with different times of day (and days of the week) when you’re starting to float, so that you can find what you enjoy most consistently for your own practice.

What you’ve been thinking about, how much you’ve exercised recently, how sleepy you are, and even how long it’s been since your last visit can all impact the nature of your experience. With that said, there are a few surprising things that have way LESS impact on your float experience than you might think. These include the temperature and weather outside, the style of tank that you use, and even what your intentions and expectations are going into your session.

Temperature and Weather

Intentions and Expectations

You Deserve Rest Without the Stress

Mon, 09 May 2022 14:10:11 GMT

Have No Guilt in Doing Nothing

Have you ever been trying to enjoy some free time, and then some part of your mind ruins it by realizing that you could be getting work done instead? After all, you have that whole to-do list… and you’ve been meaning to start that project… and there are all of those work tasks which still need to be dealt with…

Suddenly you’re feeling guilty for not spending your time more effectively, and your thoughts turn towards whether you “should” be doing something more productive. With your mind nagging you, it ends up being nearly impossible to enjoy or appreciate your downtime.

These days there’s seemingly always some sort of work that needs to get done, whether it comes in the form of job related obligations or our personal responsibilities. With only a limited amount of hours in the day, most of us are no strangers to the struggle to fit everything in.

It can be unfortunately tempting to scrape together moments of productivity from wherever we can find them, and during our leisure time in particular, it’s easy to think that we’re wasting precious hours that could instead be spent getting things done.

Our free time shouldn’t be confused with our availability – it should be seen as its own special type of self-care. Unless we have firm boundaries in place to ensure we make time for this self-care, our free time is often first on the chopping block when we’re looking to fit more work in.

The reality is that there’s always something to do, and there will always be something to do. The human condition isn’t one where you achieve all your goals and then stop having any more, but instead is an ever-unfurling list of possible things that we feel we should do with our time.

There’s no magical moment when we’re finally “done,” there’s just the moments of respite where we grant ourselves permission to stop thinking about the things we need to do, and to instead decompress.

If you’re having trouble stepping away from it all, that’s normal. We’ve all been somewhat brainwashed to think that if we’re not busy, we’re wasting time. So, just in case you haven’t been told in a while, we want to be perfectly clear about something: You deserve rest. Unwinding is not slacking off. You’re not here just to get work done your whole life.

Come and enjoy some true free time in your favorite float tank , and remember how great it can be to do guiltless, glorious Nothing for a while. body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Improve Thyself: Betterment by Buoyancy

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:29:03 GMT

Improve Thyself: Betterment by Buoyancy

Imagine yourself - who are you and where are you REALLY going?

What do you truly know about yourself?

You've found your parking spot, stop to take a few conscious breaths after turning off your car, and step out. You take the short walk to our float center, and as you open the door you're greeted by our welcoming staff and feel instantly relaxed and at home. You sit down in a comfortable chair, wait for your room to be ready, and ponder on how floating has helped you connect with yourself.

As you reflect on the familiar sensation of letting go into your private sea, the question naturally arises: what else can floating help with?

Many people float to find their baseline - whether that be for general relaxation, "me" time (away from kids, partners, work, friends and family), basic physical recovery, or even just paying off some sleep debt. For others, though, floating as a practice has more of a pointed goal to it – something specific that you’re looking to achieve, whether it be physical, emotional, intellectual, or spiritual. Since one of the most fascinating things about floating is how versatile it can be, and how it appeals to people in so many different walks of life, we wanted to run through some different ways floating is used for self-improvement.

Physical

In the physical realm, goals could be performance oriented: improving running times, training for an event or marathon, or improving precision skills required for something like disc golf. Several NFL, NBA, and MLB teams use floating as part of an action/recovery plan, along with other organizations such as the Australian Institute of Sport and the UFC Performance Institute Shanghai.

There have been a host of studies on the effectiveness of floating for this kind of training, from tennis players pushing past skill plateaus, to improved marksmanship in archery and rifle shooting, to shortened recovery times and less muscle soreness for heavy physical training. Incorporating floating into your training routine can help with injury prevention both before and during an event, and has even been shown to speed up reaction time.

Improving as an athlete, or in your physical performance, is only one of many acute goals that regular floaters come in for. Other areas for development in conjunction with floating include:

Spinal decompression
Relief from arthritis and fibromyalgia
Stretching (something called "Floga")
Swifter recovery from surgery/injuries
Aiding in body work and physical therapy
Reducing high blood pressure
Improving quality of sleep

Emotional

Another interesting way that people use floating for self-improvement is related to emotions, and emotional regulation. Many people find the solitude of the float tank provides a perfect space for emotional healing, as it can help turn off the ordinary chatter and running narratives that our mind is always creating.

Deep relaxation in the float tank has a way of lending perspective on ourselves, or a particular relationship, as we are able to fully immerse and reflect. Whether it’s examining habits in your life that you want to adjust, or processing interactions with others that you wish were different, having a perfectly comfortable environment with no distractions is a tremendous tool.

Floaters have even referred to their time in a float tank as a salty therapy session, without the therapist. Here are just a few examples of emotional work that people do while floating:

Working through past issues and traumas
Coming to terms with a breakup or divorce
Finding balance and insight with work relationships
Floating before or after intentional communication with a significant other
Floating while pregnant to connect with the baby

Intellectual

Some people use floating to help learn new skills or solve difficult problems. Used before studying, floating can calm your nerves and help you to stay focused and attentive to the subject at hand. Used after you’ve absorbed a lot of information (like when you’re cramming for finals) is the perfect way to cement and internalize everything you just took in.

In addition to pure knowledge absorption, floating has also been shown to produce more subjective creativity in tasks as disparate as problem solving, writing, and jazz improvisation. Other mental goals that people float for include:

Breaking through writer’s block
Michael Chrichton reportedly floated for precisely this purpose.
Learning languages
Apparently US Navy SEAL team 6 has used floating to reduce language acquisition time dramatically, although they haven’t released their studies to the public
Solving challenging problems
From architects to programmers to artists to mathematicians – people have found the float tank to be the perfect place for examining complicated challenges
Memorization and Recall
Without constant distraction and disruption, our ability to review and recall new information increases, as does long term retention of that information.

Spiritual

There are many who are attracted to floating as a method for enhancing their spiritual practices. This obviously means different things to different people, and the strategies involved are just as diverse. Most commonly, these will take the form of:

Meditation
Goals here can range in scope from practicing mindfulness, to achieving a pleasurable physical state, to separation from the mind/body, all the way to full samadhi and even out-of-body experiences.
Breath-work
Some people find breath-work in the tank to be a very immersive and beneficial experience. This can range from simple awareness of the breath as a point of concentration to a variety of more advanced breathing techniques.
Self-Hypnosis
Floating naturally puts you into a hypnogogic state, and learning to manipulate that for hypnosis is a popular strategy for self-exploration and development. Self-suggestion can be powerful, especially when deep in the theta state.
Dreamwork/Lucid Dreaming
With the dreamy, half-awake/half-asleep state that most floaters are familiar with, it’s easy to see how the tank could be used to encourage lucid dreaming, and work on better dream recall in general. Many people will use a "float journal" (in addition to a dream journal) as a further aid in the process.
Self-reflection
This comes very naturally in the float tank anyway, and is perhaps the most informal item on this list. Nonetheless, there is a lot to be gained from the simple act of reflecting on your life and goals – noticing areas that may be able to use improvement and acknowledging the progress that you’ve already made.

Next time you schedule a float, try spending a little time beforehand pondering if there’s anything specific you might want to work on during your session. You can always ask your friendly float attendant for more ideas, and for help creating a personal plan if you’re interested in exploring the benefits of floating for a set purpose.

Stay inspired out there, and see you in the shop soon!

For Better Time Together, Spend Time Apart

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 17:02:35 GMT

For Better Time Together, Spend Time Apart.

“What? Sorry, can you say that again – I was distracted.”

This is a phrase that’s all-too-commonly uttered these days. However, it seems apparent that it’s less a sign of personal failure and more an indication that the technological world we’re surrounded by is, indeed, incredibly distracting. Some of this is accidental, but much of it is purposefully designed by businesses, government, and individuals to grab our attention and keep it for as long as possible.

Unfortunately, this sensory assault takes its toll on us human beings, and being distracted is a symptom of the much larger problems of endemic stress and anxiety that plague so much of the population. It’s no surprise that this environment has led to an increase in popularity for meditation, mindfulness, and activities like floating. Floating lets us escape all of these distractions for a time, to give your body and mind time to rest, process, and heal.

When you come out of a float tank, the world often seems more vibrant. Colors appear brighter, the air after a fresh rain smells nicer, and good food tastes even more delicious. This heightened awareness isn’t just limited to your normal senses – many floaters report feeling more connection and empathy with the people around them. Often this is directed towards close friends or loved ones, but we’ve heard plenty of stories about small acts of kindness towards even total strangers post-float.

There is a common saying, phrased in many different ways through the years, that taking care of yourself and loving yourself are necessary preconditions for taking care of, and loving, others. Like an emotional version of the oxygen masks that drop down in a plane during an emergency: you make sure that you’re taken care of before taking care of those around you. Floating is a great example, and as any experienced floater will tell you, many of the most significant benefits of floating extend past your time spent in the tank, and beyond just making you feel better.

As a result, although it’s a practice that’s essentially about being completely alone, floating can actually be a wonderful experience for bonding and deepening connections with others. It’s very common for friends to come in together so that they can relax and hang out afterwards. Many couples also find that floating is a wonderful way to start off a romantic weekend together, or even just a casual date night. Taking time to process the thoughts that are always whirling through your head, and to let go of the stress from your regular obligations, is a perfect way to free up more space in your awareness and attention for those things (and people) that are right in front of you.

There is an openness and joy that comes along with being both relaxed and present. Some people might refer to it as being in a kind of flow state, where conversations and interactions just seem to click into place. This is a state where if something goes wrong, it’s laughed away rather than dwelled upon, and where normal distractions breeze by completely unnoticed and unheeded. Plus, if you’re grabbing lunch or dinner afterwards, food really does taste amazing (which certainly doesn’t hurt that magical feeling you have post-float).

All of these effects are more than just collected anecdotes – research on floatation consistently shows reduced stress and anxiety, along with increased feelings of serenity and well-being. Several studies have also shown that creativity increases post-float, which could certainly be a part of why spending time with others right after a float can be so enjoyable. Feelings of being more present and aware are also consistently reported by float participants, and there are even some pilot studies showing improvement in attention and quality of life for those diagnosed with ADHD.

The unfortunate fact is that our brains are hardwired to be on alert for threats in our environment, and the modern world that surrounds us – with its loud noises, flashing lights, ever-present screens, and bustling crowds – keeps us pretty much constantly on edge. Being so mentally preoccupied all the time, it’s no wonder that it’s often hard to even focus on the person right across the table from you, and what they’re saying.

Whatever way you accomplish it, it’s important to cultivate the ability to tune out the ever-present distractions that bombard us (both those from the real world, and the ones that come from your own mental chatter). We, of course, recommend floating as the ideal tool, and whether you come in alone, with friends, or with your romantic partner, we’re sure that you’ll find the distractions melt away as your attention resurfaces.

Floating: The Ultimate Wingman for New Year’s Resolutions

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 16:20:47 GMT

Floating: The Ultimate Wingman for New Year’s Resolutions

As you consider what changes you want to make in your life for the new year, it’s worth also spending some time thinking about how you are going to make sure that you actually follow through with them. There are people who joke that their main New Year’s resolution is to not break their New Year’s resolutions – and there is actually a good amount of wisdom in that quip. Especially for those of us who don’t have the best track record of following through with our well-intentioned goals, it’s important to engage in activities and behaviors that can help us on our journey.

There are many tools and tricks out there to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions, from goal journals, to accountability apps, to prescribed morning routines. These are all designed to help you overcome one of the frustrating realities of being human: we are creatures of habit. For the most part, this is a good thing – we have countless routines that allow us to live our lives and get through our days consistently and safely. There are also, of course, those adopted habits that we’d like to change, or eliminate altogether.

One of the practices that is especially useful in breaking bad habits and fostering new behaviors is floatation therapy. In fact, Dr. John Lilly, the inventor of the float tanks (and who would have been 107 this month) wrote several books about using the float tanks to take control of your habits, or as he would say, “to reprogram yourself.” Floating facilitates self-reflection & visualization, it’s incredibly effective at reducing stress & anxiety, and it provides you with all-important alone time.

Consistent reflection on your goals has been shown, time and again, to predict your ultimate success in achieving them. Reflecting, not just on the changes that you want to make in your life but the reasons you want to make those changes, is incredibly helpful in making them a reality. In the same vein, taking the time to visualize going through the steps to fulfill your resolutions better prepares you for accomplishing them in the real world when the time comes.

The float tank is an ideal place for both self-reflection and visualization, and those are actually two of the reasons that regular floaters commonly cite for coming in. Without any outside distractions, and perfectly comfortable physically, your mind can direct its attention wherever you’d like – for instance, on your New Year’s promises to yourself. Without starting to form these strong associations with your goals, it’s all too easy for your old habits to slip into their familiar places, like an old man slipping back into his favorite chair.

As numerous studies have shown, floating is also an incredible tool for relieving anxiety, as well as depression – which can both be huge obstacles in the way of us achieving our goals. With so many things in the modern world demanding our time and attention it’s not surprising that nearly everyone is operating at levels of heightened stress, hampering our efforts towards making real change.

Taking purposeful time out of the demands of everyday life, even for something as simple as 15 minutes of silent breathing, has been shown to help us manage our stress better. This in turn leads to improved focus, more self control, lower blood pressure, and a range of other benefits. Research continues to show us how important it is to disconnect, and floating is the perfect way to do that.

It’s tempting to think that we will, by simply declaring our resolutions, be able to effortlessly follow through with them – however, adopting new habits (and eliminating old ones) is most often a more challenging task than that. It’s important to use all the tools at your disposal to help you out, rather than just choosing one (or, as is often the case, none). Try journaling, experiment with goal tracking apps, try starting your day off with some new activities, and, of course, we recommend scheduling regular time to float.

Making the Most of the Holidays

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 19:34:51 GMT

It's the holiday season. You've booked your time off from work, planned where you're going (or who's coming to you) and you’re excited to finally reconnect with loved ones after an unusually busy year. Holidays are meant to be a break from the craziness – they give us a chance to enjoy special moments and make memories with the people we love.

Sadly, actually fulfilling that yearning for a few nights where “all is calm and all is bright” can be quite stressful. Misbehaving children, older relatives that need extra care, bickering couples, organizing transport and accommodation, spending time to find the right gifts, catering for dietary requirements – with multiple distractions, time can easily feel like it's running away. This was supposed to be a holiday right?

Modern lifestyles are making us stressed, especially in the winter holiday seasons when advertising is at its peak. With so much of our lives being spent in front of screens and digital devices, the exposure to messaging from other people and companies is more extreme than it’s ever been. Somehow, although the internet and social media are amazing at connecting us to others it becomes easy to forget about ourselves.

These days, the relationship with self seems to be one of the hardest to maintain, and it is perhaps because of this that self-care has been taking more of the limelight in recent years. Looking after ourselves is worth the attention. It helps us in our relationships with others, allowing us to be more happy and present, as opposed to giving in to distraction and feelings of being overwhelmed. Despite the many obligations that come along with them, holidays (and their deviation from normal life) provide a perfect chance to work on some healthy habits and activities – and not just for yourself.

Although for many, gift giving has become more of a burden than a joy during the holiday season, it’s important to remember the beauty and power of thoughtful presents. A gift can express how well you know somebody, and that you care about them. When you get it right, it can make a positive impact, not just on your relationship, but in that person’s life as a whole. Gifts are a perfect opportunity to encourage your loved ones to take a break, and to treat themselves to some (very likely much needed, and much neglected) self-care.

This doesn’t need to be extravagant: even setting aside time for a hike or a picnic with someone is likely to be much appreciated. A nice meal, movie tickets, a massage, and pre-paying babysitters or house cleaners are all presents that encourage someone to take some time to themselves. Of course, a gift card for a float fits the bill perfectly – solitude in quiet darkness, with nothing but the peacefulness of a calm imagination, is the ultimate break from responsibility.

Letting go into the warm buoyancy of a float tank, the mind is able to slow down. Breathing deepens, muscles relax, and brainwaves shift down to a less frantic pace (known as entering the theta state). The gift of peaceful sanctuary from daily stresses and social obligations is not only a wonderful present in itself, it’s also likely to make the time that person spends with others more memorable, connected, and joyful.

Floating can be a great primer for a relaxed day out sightseeing or before going to an event. It’s also a wonderful group activity in itself, and taking your family in to float pretty much ensures that whatever you do for the rest of the day is going to be that much more peaceful and pleasant. The nice part about this is it's unlikely people will turn down a float. If they've never tried it it's intriguing, if they’ve floated before - well, you can probably tell by the smile on their face after mentioning the idea.

At the end of it all, floating is about connection - something so many of us are missing. There is the immediate connection with yourself during the float session, but there is also a lasting tranquility and openness that lets us connect that much better with the people around us. Floating has a unique effect of inspiring openness and ease, even in the most Scroogey individuals.

This holiday season, remember to take care of yourself and to encourage others in your life to do the same. That is a real gift, and although floating is only one of many ways to accomplish this, it’s also one of the best.

The Sense Behind Depriving the Senses: Why You Need To Try Floating Now

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 19:36:31 GMT

It happens to almost all of us whether we are stay-at-home parents, college students, or executives. What are we talking about? The answer is simple - stress! We want to relax and get some much needed rejuvenation. But, it just doesn’t seem to happen no matter how hard we try.

For most people, getting to a point of deep relaxation is difficult. While wellness activities like yoga and meditation can be instrumental in the quest for balance and rejuvenation, they come with certain limits that make it challenging to get outside of ourselves. For people wanting to go deeper, sensory deprivation using a float tank in a secure, monitored environment is the game-changer. Recent studies on the physical, mental, emotional and cognitive benefits of floating are proving that this experience has the power to help people generate lasting changes in the mind and body that lead to whole body rejuvenation. Here’s more about the deprivation tank benefits.

How Floating Can Be Therapeutic for Anyone

Using a float tank is as close as most people will ever get to experience what it's like to drift like celestial bodies in space. The experience of entering a great nothing while in a sensory deprivation tank allows people to truly empty their minds.

What Are Deprivation Tank Benefits?

Here are just a few of the deprivation tank benefits:

Reducing muscle tension. Want to soothe sore muscles? Float therapy is a great way to do just that. The practice is frequently used by professional athletes like Tom Brady to help relieve muscle tension.

Reducing pain - Floating has been found to be extremely beneficial for people with pain issues.

Decreasing anxiety and depression - One 2018 study found that spending just one hour in a sensory deprivation floatation tank helped reduce anxiety significantly. Participants reported a significant increase in happiness and relaxation.

Decreasing stress - People report that nothing else works as well as floating in reducing stress, not massages, meditation or other activities. Floating helps you to achieve a whole new level of relaxation. That is because it helps clear your mind of those thoughts that worry you.

Aiding with better sleep - Better sleep is just one more benefit of floatation therapy. Studies have found that it helps improve sleep quality for people who have insomnia.

A study published in 2014 on the beneficial effects of treatment with sensory isolation via flotation tank found that participants saw significant decreases in pain, stress, depression and anxiety. Participants also experienced increased optimism and sleep quality. People aren't just utilizing float tanks to support physical and mental health. Floating can also boost creativity and performance! According to a 2014 study , floating enhances intuition, creativity, originality and imagination. Additionally, research released in 2018 demonstrates that the cognitive benefits of floating help people to improve learning and performance with help from clearer, more precise post-float thinking.

Bringing the Joy of the Floating to Your Life

The good news is that sensory deprivation can be beneficial for anyone who experiences daily stress, which would be all of us! People are healing their bodies, opening their minds and going to places of awareness that simply can't be reached on "dry land" using flat tanks! The antidepressant effect of sensory isolation is helping many people to have beautiful breakthroughs through an experience that allows them to travel beyond the boundaries of what they already know. Floating is something that all seekers wanting to go deeper into the mind-body connection must try!

Floating Up from the Depths

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:40:37 GMT

As a vehicle for both relaxation and recovery, float tanks are fairly unparalleled. There are lots of studies and anecdotes about the benefits that even a single hour float can offer. The most profound (and often inspiring) results, however, actually come from floating more regularly.

We hear this everyday in our conversations with our members and regulars, and so for this month’s blog, we wanted to highlight some of the personal stories from long term floaters that have been shared publicly. While these are just a small sample of the incredible stories we’ve heard, they help to illustrate the wide variety of benefits floatation has to offer. Stories like these are why we opened our center, and why we’re so proud of the work that we do.

Emily Noren, as a young teenager, developed anorexia and bulimia. Maintaining her weight occupied much of her thoughts and actions for the next decade and a half of her life, and the treatments and medications she tried never provided long-term solutions. All too often, eating disorders like this are more than just unhealthy – they can be tragically fatal. Floating, which started off as an uncomfortable and slightly unsettling experience, became the catalyst for change in Emily’s life. She credits floating with, not only helping her have a healthier and happier life, but also with her full recovery from anorexia and bulimia: an achievement that some experts in eating disorders have questioned is even possible.

Here is a link to Emily Noren’s book, “ Unsinkable , ” in case you want to read more about her story.

An Australian soldier, Michael Harding was deployed to Afghanistan as an infantry machine gunner. He faced hostile contact, experienced the deaths of those around him, and was returned home experiencing severe symptoms of PTSD, including full body muscle spasms. He and his partner Bek tell the story of his trauma, his struggles and substance abuse upon returning, and his path towards recovery through a regimen of alternative treatments: including support groups, medical cannabis, yoga, and floating.

Read more about Michael’s story in this article by Time magazine .

Murphy Monroe tells his story of nearly debilitating verbal and physical tics. He spent most of his life, from childhood on, working to overcome these through disciplined habits, such as clenching his whole body and running through mental distractions like adding large numbers in his head. He tells this story after his first year of floating, which completely reframed his control, and his views, of his previously uncontrollable habits:

Conclusions

In our own center, we have countless customers with stories like these. People who are struggling - with physical injuries, chronic stress, sleep disorders, and more - who find relief in floating as part of their ongoing efforts to better themselves. There is more and more evidence coming out showing how our long-term health and happiness depends on these habits of self-care.

Whether it’s a practice of stillness (like floating and meditation), or something more active (like yoga, bicycling, and running), routines that involve giving your mind a break from constant input are crucial. A single, novel experience can definitely be beneficial to people on many different levels, but there’s no doubt that for floating, as with so many things in life, the benefits become stronger as you integrate the experiences into your everyday life over time.

We want to leave you with Melissa Martinez, who floats every week – not to overcome an acute disability or trauma, but instead to simply have time set aside for herself, and no one else. Time free from the demands of the world and the people around her. Time to think, to recover, and to relax. She talks about how the practice of floating regularly has impacted her joy and her stress levels, and why she believes that she will continue to float for the rest of her life.

Theta State_ How the Brain Signals Relaxation

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:08:53 GMT

What’s happening to your brain when you float? How do you go from being awake, conscious, and stressed to relaxed and dreamy? While we still have a lot to discover when it comes to different states of consciousness, one key element is the “Theta State,” when our brain waves operate at a certain frequency most often linked to the moments between sleep and wakefulness. To really understand what the Theta State is and how it benefits us, we have to first explore a little bit about brain waves more broadly.

In 1924, German psychoanalyst Hans Berger recorded an electronic signal coming from the brain for the first time. The signal was chaotic, intermittent, and didn’t exactly fit with the contemporary understanding of how brains functioned. It took him five years to figure out what his findings meant before he could publish any meaningful results, and it took over a decade for the international scientific community to accept them as legitimate (some readers may notice that there are parallels to be drawn here with how float tank research has been received by academia).

Theta brain waves are a lower frequency band, which means they’re typically more active when you’re less active. This type of brain activity is much more common in children and becomes less frequent as we get older. Theta State is also often associated with some really great benefits: increased creativity, stress reduction, restfulness, and contentment. These benefits extend beyond the moments when your mind is in Theta State and regular practice can prolong these benefits, leading to greater health outcomes.

Since they were first discovered, Theta waves have been seen as a key to understanding the subconscious mind. Research has shown that theta waves are running the show when we’re in the moments between sleep and wakefulness, where consciousness is malleable and intuition is higher.

From the 1950s through the 1970s, neuroscientists were eagerly examining the brainwaves of all sorts of people performing a variety of different activities (not the easiest thing to do, given that early EEG technology loo ked a lot like this ). One thing researchers discovered was that Buddhist monks were slipping deeply into Theta State when meditating , demonstrating a clear physiological effect from this (at the time) poorly understood religious practice ( research has since shown that experienced meditators can also slip into Gamma State, as well ).

This caused a flood of excitement and curiosity. What else could cause our minds to flip into this mental recharge state? When researchers began studying sensory reduced environments, it wasn’t long until they started looking to see what impacts it was having on the brain. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they found that there was a massive increase in theta waves in subjects . One of the problems was that, given the limitations of technology, they couldn’t monitor brain waves until after people got out of a float tank, leading to gaps in understanding about what was happening during the floats themselves.

Given all this, it’s not exactly surprising that floating has been shown to significantly reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve sleep – these benefits are all closely related to Theta brain activity. Also notable is that as people float more often, it gets easier to enter Theta State inside and outside of the tank. Interestingly, the scientific discovery of what happens to our minds during floating is actually more exciting now than when it was first discovered.

We now know that floating is great for general mental health improvements and in patients with stress or anxiety disorders, it can have even more profound effects. Low theta wave activity is associated with several mood disorders including PTSD and Depression. The increased activity in Theta may even contribute to why floating has such a remarkable ability to alter the brain activity of people with anxiety conditions to bring them back to baseline stress levels like those found in healthy brains .

While there’s been a long history of almost mythological deference to the Theta State in the alternative wellness community throughout the years, the science has never been more clear: the Theta State exists, is beneficial, and can be reached through floating.

So what are you waiting for? Go float yourself.

Learning From Your Less Prominent Senses

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 19:04:22 GMT

We all know the classic five senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch… but just like how we have far more body parts than just the head, shoulders, knees and toes from the song of the same name, we actually have many more senses than just these five.

These more prominent senses often take center stage as we’re out in the world. We evolved as externally focused creatures, and these main sensory systems have done us well over the years as our ancestors used them to avoid predators and find food. And with television, smartphones, and advertisements aplenty, the modern world definitely keeps these senses satiated as well.

So much so, in fact, that it’s easy to overlook the many other senses that contribute to our experience of the world. Some senses you use every day without acknowledging them at all, like your sense of balance, or your sense of where in space your arms and legs are around you. Other senses have been renamed to such common things that we may forget that they are senses at all – like your perception of thirst or hunger.

Interoception can be quite subtle, and because of this, it can easily get drowned out and passed over as we’re out and about in the world. But it begs the question... what messages are getting lost, and could we benefit from listening to them instead?

Paying attention to our bodies can offer a window into ourselves that we might otherwise miss. Being in tune with your body can help bring less conscious thoughts to the surface before they start to manifest in other, less desirable, ways.

When we’re more in tune with our hunger and energy levels, we are less likely to over or under eat. When we’re more connected with our breathing rate and blood pressure, we can start to notice our emotions getting carried away during important conversations.

We can practice listening to these other sensory systems, and improve our ability to notice more subtle changes in their messages.

Float tanks are a perfect place for strengthening the connection to your many other senses. The reduced stimulation of the float environment offers you an opportunity to lower the brain processing power normally spent on sensory input from the external world and instead redirect that attention inward.

Give your other senses a chance to be heard – you might be surprised at how much they have to tell you.

Floaty News & Updates

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 15:50:22 GMT

Another (hopefully better) year has begun, and alongside the changing of the calendars comes a motivation to make change in our own lives. But how can we help make sure that we actually reach our goals as opposed to setting ourselves up for something unattainable?

Think up a goal that you have. Anything you have a desire for or want to make happen over the coming months.

Now imagine that goal as a place. How far away are you?

If it’s a simpler goal, you might imagine that you could see it at the end of the road. A longer term goal may feel like your destination is a month long journey through a wintery mountain pass.

And some goals won’t have any clear paths towards them – in fact you may just feel that they’re somewhere over the horizon, and you’re unsure if it’s even possible to get there.

To have a chance at actually reaching any of them, you need to set your course forward. Some journeys will be longer, and some will be more difficult, but the first step on any of them is to survey the landscape, and figure out what path to take.

Don’t just drift forward aimlessly into the new year – spend some time charting your course and you’ll be much more likely to reach your destination.

Float Fact: Happy Birthday Dr. Lilly!

He used the tanks in a wide variety of his experiments, and they played a large role in his philosophical writings over the years. Since his early experiments in the 1950s-70s, the float tank has been brought out of the laboratory and inspired a global movement towards embracing the world within. Happy Birthday Dr. Lilly – and tanks for all the floats.

Floating Your Way to a Better You

Sat, 16 Jan 2021 03:37:34 GMT

Floating Your Way to a Better Yo u

Schedule a regular massage, Reap these benefits

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 17:44:25 GMT

Benefits of Massage

Our lives are hectic. Work, family, and other obligations get in the way of proper self-care, including a much-deserved massage. Yes, the simple act of having your soft tissues kneaded and rubbed-down can do wonders for your health, mental fitness, and wellbeing.

"I've been trying to get my boyfriend/girlfriend to give me one." Sound familiar. Today, shove aside all excuses. You can easily schedule a visit to FLOAT for the best massage therapy in San Antonio.

Sign up for a weekly or bi-weekly session and enjoy these gains:

1. Lowered stress levels

We live in one of the most stressful decades. The stressors are many! The vicious cycle of news, uncertainties about the future, or individual daily struggles.

When your body soaks up all the negativity, it becomes a tense and toxic place. It's estimated that 90% of all diseases are brought on by stress.

The caring, safe, and healing touch of a skilful therapist can wipe away your built-up tension. At FLOAT, you can always look forward to a session after a stressful week. So, if you need the best massage therapy in San Antonio, your search ends here.

2. Reduced anxiety

Anxiety can be traced to the incessant voice in our heads. It's always making disparaging remarks, like still doubting your career choice.

Right now, the voice may be discouraging you from the idea of getting a massage. Well, science has proved that massage therapy can relieve anxiety and depression.

3. You will sleep better.

Are you barely getting enough sleep? Has it gotten so bad that you've convinced yourself that you're one of those people who only need a few hours every night?

An estimated one-third of the adult population in the US is dealing with a sleep-related disorder. So, before considering sleeping pills, try a regularly scheduled massage. You will thank us.

4. You become more alert.

Becoming more alert is heaven-sent. You can be more productive and focused. Suddenly, all your pending tasks, difficult tests, or projects at work/school become easier to see through.

5. It feels good

During a massage, “feel-good” endorphins are released into your body. Some people may experience a runner’s high afterward. The short-lasting euphoric state makes someone feel happy, high-spirited, and pain-free.

6. Your immune system is strengthened.

Your immune system stands to benefit from massage therapy. Studies have tied this to the reduction in the concentration of cortisol.

Cortisol is a well-known hormone that suppresses your immune system by hindering the activity of natural killer (NK) cells. Your NK cells destroy infected cells and fight off cancer.

Are you ready to broaden your self-care horizons?

Come in today for a 30-60-minute or 90-minute rewarding session. You deserve it!

We offer:

Swedish
Deep Tissue
Sports Massage
Active Stretching
Ashiatsu
Thai
Fijian
Ashi Thai

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Float Tank Myths Busted

Float Tank Myths Busted: Separating Science from Saltwater Folklore

Myth #1

Myth #2

Myth #3

Myth #4

Myth #5

Myth #6

Myth #7

Final Thoughts

Float First, Then Decide

Float First, Then Decide

Turning a Float Session into a Mini Self-Retreat

Turning a Float Session into a Mini Self-Retreat

Preparation ﻿

Your Float Session

Post-Float

Floating as a Path to Greater Self-Confidence

Floating as a Path to Greater Self-Confidence

What’s Getting in the Way of Your Confidence?

How Floating Boosts Self-Esteem

A Confidence Challenge for February

Starting the Year with Stillness

Starting the Year with Stillness

Why Stillness Matters in the New Year

Floating as a Cornerstone Habit

The Role of Discipline in Building Habits

Building Balance and Resilience

Beating the Seasonal Blues_ Using Floating to Help Manage SAD

Beating the Seasonal Blues_ Using Floating to Help Manage SAD

Boosting Athletic Performance and Recovery with Floating

Boosting Athletic Performance and Recovery with Floating

Physical Benefits of Floating for Athletes

Mental Recovery and Performance Enhancement

Enhancing Sleep and Overall Recovery

Complementing Traditional Recovery Methods

High-Stress Lifestyle? How Float Therapy Can Help

High-Stress Lifestyle? How Float Therapy Can Help

Factors Contributing to a High-Stress Lifestyle

The Physical and Psychological Effects of Stress

Physical Symptoms of Stress

Psychological Symptoms of Stress

Understanding Float Therapy

What is Float Therapy?

What Happens in a Float Tank?

How Float Therapy Helps Relieve Stress

Benefits of Regular Float Therapy

How Floating Helps With Digital Overload

What to Expect During Your First Float

Combining Float Therapy With Other Stress Relief Methods

Why Float Therapy is Ideal for a High-Stress Lifestyle

Sauna 101: Your Guide to Infrared Sauna Wellness

Sauna 101: Your Guide to Infrared Sauna Wellness

Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas

How Infrared Saunas Work

Physical Benefits of Infrared Sauna Use

• Improved Circulation

• Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

Mental Benefits of Infrared Sauna Use

• Stress Reduction

• Enhanced Mood

Preparing for Your First Sauna Session

• What to Wear

• Hydration Tips

What to Expect During Your Session

• Setting the Temperature and Duration

• The Float Sauna Experience

Sauna Options at Float

• Netflix and Roast Sauna

• Yoga Sauna with Red Light Therapy

Tips for a Great Sauna Experience

• Listening to Your Body

• Hydration and Aftercare

• Avoiding Overheating

FAQs

Floating and the Hidden Productivity of Laziness

Floating and the Hidden Productivity of Laziness

The Value of Laziness and Boredom

The Hidden Productivity of Being Lazy

Float Tank Myths Busted: Separating Science from Saltwater Folklore

Myth #1

Myth #2

Myth #3

Myth #4

Myth #5

Myth #6

Myth #7

Preparation