Float Therapy for Relaxation?

Okay, this mode of self-care may be a little off the beaten path of traditional, but if you like water, it might be worth a try.

What is it?

Float therapy is immersing yourself in an enclosed tank that holds about ten inches of water and around 850 lbs. of dissolved Epsom Salts. The tank is sound-proof and pitch dark to provide an environment that is free of sensory distractions. The water is maintained at body temperature for the duration of your 90-minute session.

The goal?

To achieve profound relaxation. The abundance of Epsom salts creates a state of extreme positive buoyancy which relieves any forces of gravity on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Since all external stimulation is eliminated, your mind and body can fully relax.

Some of the beneficial claims include an increase in dopamine and endorphins which boost mood; improved ability to enter the theta state of meditation; healing associated with the profound state of relaxation and zero gravity effect. Some websites on floating state a 90-minute session is equal to four hours of solid sleep. 

Worried you may fall asleep and drown? The buoyancy effect keeps you afloat. Think you'll wrinkle up like a prune? The magnesium in the Epsom salts prevents that. Worried about the quality/cleanliness of the water? Most Float Centres report stringent water sterilization with a minimum of four cycles through UV filters and bromine. Claustrophobic? You can get out any time you want.

If you want to float your cares and worries away, this may be something to try. Float centres have been in existence for over 50 years, with new centres cropping up everywhere. As the motto for Float Calm (www.floatcalm.com) in Winnipeg suggests - disconnect to reconnect.

My personal opinion? It was lovely - but than again, I take to water like a fish. Can't speak to an improvement in meditation which might just require additional visits. I can say that I am certain I did catch a few z's, and emerged feeling refreshed and ever so calm.