A flotation tank is designed to give your body some of the best rest it has ever had. It is also extremely beneficial for all areas of the body, both physically and mentally. You may not have heard of a flotation tank before, but read on to find out more about its numerous benefits.
What is a Flotation Tank?
Floating in a flotation tank is a way of achieving deep rest. Essentially, you spend an hour or so lying quietly in the dark, suspended in a warm solution of Epsom salt, about ten inches deep and so dense that you float effortlessly. Some operators play gentle music into the tank to help you relax. Flotation tanks are also known as isolation tanks, salt water spas, sensory deprivation tanks, and REST chambers.
Flotation REST, also known as floating, was developed in America. REST stands for Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy/Technique. You float in a ten inch deep solution of salt water in a specially designed tank, which resembles a large, enclosed bathtub. The tank is usually made from fibreglass and it is built so that all outside distractions such as sight, sound, tactile sensations, and gravity are eliminated. The water is warmed to 35.5 degrees centigrade.
The Benefits of a Flotation Tank
There are several benefits to using a flotation tank. These include:
- lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol
- dissolving lactic acid
- mineralising the body
- releasing endorphins, the body’s feel good chemicals
- improved sleep
- improved mental concentration
- relief from anxiety and stress
- increased energy levels
- better interpersonal relationships
- a greater ability to work
- improved ability to cope with pain
The Epsom salts used in the flotation tank have been linked to easing arthritis and improving the condition of the skin, as well as detoxifying the system. Blood pressure and heart rate are measurably reduced, as are stress related chemicals in the body. Flotation tanks are also helpful in pregnancy, accelerated learning, increasing creativity, circulation, and energy levels. The flotation tank creates harmony and homeostasis in the body, a balance between the left and right brain, a balance in the body’s skeletal and muscular systems, and a balance between mind, body, and spirit.
One hour of floating has the restorative effects of four hours of sleep.
What Else Should I Know About Floating?
You will feel blissfully comfortable and deeply relaxed while floating. There is no feeling of being confined in a tight space. The lights and door are controlled by you, so even if you are claustrophobic, you can choose to float with the lights on and door open. You are in total control. Floating does not require any swimming skills, as you actually float like a cork, no matter what size or shape you are. Your time in the flotation tank is completely private. Your skin will not wrinkle due to the high salt content in the water (wrinkling is actually caused by water robbing the salt from your skin). In fact, you will have soft and silky skin. Water hygiene does need to be maintained so a limited amount of swimming pool chemicals are added to the water to ensure that it is totally clean, and the water is filtered thoroughly between every float session. The water is also tested regularly.
Originally published on Dec 21, 2008
