FLOATLIFE
FAQs
What is a floatation tank, and how does it work?
A floatation tank, also known as an isolation tank or sensory deprivation tank, is a lightproof, soundproof and typically small enclosure filled with a buoyant solution, composed of water and Epsom salt. The high salt concentration allows individuals to effortlessly float on the surface.
The primary purpose of a flotation tank is to create an environment that minimizes external sensory input, providing a weightless and serene space for relaxation, meditation, and self-reflection. Users commonly enter the tank in a state of undress after showering, initiating a session that typically lasts around 60 minutes. The experience is designed to promote physical and mental relaxation, reduce stress, and facilitate a unique form of sensory exploration.
What are the benefits of floatation therapy?
- Stress Reduction: The sensory-deprived environment in the floatation tank can help promote relaxation and reduce stress by minimizing external stimuli and encouraging a meditative state.
- Pain Management: Floating in the buoyant saltwater may alleviate muscular tension and joint pain. It is often used as a complementary therapy for conditions like chronic pain, arthritis, and muscle soreness.
- Improved Sleep: Regular floatation sessions have been reported to enhance sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing factors contributing to insomnia or sleep disturbances.
- Mental Clarity and Focus: Many users report improved mental clarity, focus, and creativity following floatation sessions. The sensory deprivation experience may help declutter the mind and enhance cognitive function.
- Mood Enhancement: Floatation therapy has been linked to positive effects on mood and emotional well-being, potentially assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress-related disorders.
- Enhanced Meditation and Mindfulness: The isolation tank provides an ideal environment for meditation and mindfulness practices, allowing individuals to achieve deeper states of concentration and self-awareness.
- Muscle Recovery: Athletes may use floatation therapy to accelerate muscle recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and enhance overall athletic performance.
- Reduced Blood Pressure: Some studies suggest that floatation therapy may lead to temporary reductions in blood pressure, contributing to cardiovascular health.
- Increased Magnesium Absorption: Epsom salt, commonly used in floatation tanks, contains magnesium. The skin absorbs magnesium during the float, potentially contributing to increased magnesium levels in the body, which may have various health benefits.
It’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before starting floatation therapy, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. While many people find floatation therapy beneficial, individual responses vary.
Do I need to bring anything for my floatation session?
We provide everything you need, including One towel, re usable earplugs, Vaseline and shower amenities. You may want to bring a spare towel for your hair and a hair brush to use after your session.
How long is a typical floatation session?
A typical floatation session commonly lasts around 60 minutes. However, regular floaters may want to tailor their sessions, so please speak to a member of staff about your requirements. The 60-minute duration is often considered a standard session, allowing sufficient time for users to experience the relaxation, sensory deprivation, and potential therapeutic benefits associated with floatation therapy.
What should I wear during my float?
We recommend floating naked! This will enhance your sensory experience by eliminating the sensation of swim wear touching your skin. If you would prefer to wear swimming attire then that’s no problem, you will still get all the benefits. Each pod room is private with it’s own shower to ensure complete privacy during your time at Float life.
Is there an age restriction for using the floatation tanks?
Yes. Here at Float life we welcome age 16 and above only. This is due to strict health and safety regulations.
Is there any real science to floating therapy?
Floatation therapy has been around since the 1950s and there have been many scientific studies on floating and it’s benefits.
Some proven impacts include: better sleep, lowered blood pressure & cortisol levels, reduced stress, reduced pain, antidepressant effects, increased relaxation, reduced tension, improved muscle range and athletic performance, increased cognitive and creativity function.
Is floatation therapy suitable for individuals with medical conditions?
While floatation therapy is generally considered safe for many people, certain health conditions and ailments may have contraindications and make them not suitable for floatation therapy.
These include:
- Epilepsy or seizure conditions
- Low blood pressure
- Psychosis
- Kidney or liver disease/conditions
- Gastrointestinal upset or Diarrhoea
- Open wounds or infections
- Contagious diseases
- Severe skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema (when flared up)
- High-risk pregnancies
- Allergy or sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide or Magnesium/Epsom salt.
Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific health concerns or conditions before attempting floatation therapy. The floatation centre staff should also be informed about any existing health issues to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Is floatation therapy safe?
Floatation therapy is generally considered safe for most people. However, it’s essential to follow proper guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific health concerns.
How often should I schedule floatation sessions for optimal benefits?
The frequency of sessions varies for each individual. Some people benefit from weekly sessions, while others find monthly sessions sufficient.
It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the ideal frequency varies from person to person. Experiment with different schedules, pay attention to how your body and mind respond, and make adjustments based on your individual needs and goals.
How is the water in the floatation tank kept clean?
The water in our pods is cleaned using a UV (ultraviolet) sanitiser within the control box and can destroy up to 99.9% of microorganisms as the solution passes through. The pods also run an automatic cleaning cycle in between each session dosing the tank with hydrogen peroxide.
We also wipe down and clean our pods after each client following stringent hygiene measures to ensure a clean and safe environment.
What is the cancellation policy for floatation sessions?
Our cancellation policy allows you to cancel and rebook up to 24hrs prior to the start of your float session. Any cancellations or reschedules requested after 24hrs will be lost.
The staff member on the day will try to accommodate extenuating circumstances where possible, this remains at the staff’s discretion.
E-Gift vouchers are non refundable.
What if I fall asleep during my float session?
Falling asleep during a floatation therapy session is common and safe. The buoyancy of the saltwater ensures you stay afloat, and many people find it enhances relaxation. We play gentle music for the last 5 minutes of your session to help you wake up, but most people naturally awaken on their own.
Can I float while I'm pregnant?
Absolutely! Floating while pregnant is generally considered safe for many women, and some may find it beneficial for relieving the physical and mental stress associated with pregnancy. The buoyancy of the water can help relieve additional strain placed on the back and hips. It also:
- Increases mother and baby bonding
- Can have a Mirror effect (feels like you are also in the womb)
- Reduce swelling
- Aid with sleep
- Lower blood pressure
However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before engaging in any new wellness practice during pregnancy. We don’t advise floating after 37 weeks.
Is there a Height and weight limit for using the floatation tanks?
Yes, unfortunately we can only accommodate max height of 6 ft 4″ in our pods.
Weight – Floatation tanks use a buoyant solution, composed of water and Epsom salt, to create an environment where individuals can effortlessly float. This buoyancy supports people of different weights and body types, providing a sense of weightlessness.
If you are concerned about weight restrictions or have specific questions related to your weight and the floatation tank, it’s recommended to contact the float center directly. They can provide information about their specific tank’s weight capacity and address any individual concerns you may have.
Are floatation tanks suitable for claustrophobic individuals?
Yes! Our tanks are designed to provide an individualised experience and you can choose to float with the lid fully open, partially open or closed. It’s important to do what makes you comfortable in order to optimise your floating experience. If you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss them.
Can I float if I have cuts or grazes?
Floating with cuts may not be advisable, as the high salt concentration in the floatation tank water, typically composed of Epsom salt, may cause discomfort or irritation to open wounds. The saltwater can sting and may potentially lead to infection.
It’s generally recommended to wait until cuts, wounds, or skin abrasions have fully healed before engaging in floatation therapy. This ensures a more comfortable and safe experience.
Small cuts and grazes however can be protected with a layer of Vaseline to prevent the above happening provided by Float life.
We advise you don’t shave 24hrs prior to a session.
Can I float if I can't swim?
Yes, you can float in a floatation tank even if you can’t swim. The buoyant effect of the saltwater solution inside the tank makes it virtually impossible to sink, allowing individuals to effortlessly float on the surface.
The water in a floatation tank is typically only about 10 inches deep, and the high salt concentration makes it extremely buoyant, creating a weightless and supportive environment. Floatation therapy is designed to be accessible to individuals, regardless of their swimming abilities.
Can I float if I'm menstruating?
Absolutely! It’s recommended to shower before your session and use a fresh tampon or menstrual cup. Basically, just follow what you would do when you go swimming.
We also recommend putting Vaseline on the tampon string to avoid wicking. Vaseline is provided by Floatlife.
Can I float with a friend or partner?
You can but you will be in separate rooms in separate tanks to get the whole sensory deprivation experience. Only one person per pod is permitted.
Can I float if I have recently dyed my hair?
No, we ask that you you wait until 14 days post hair colour before floating.
If you have dyed your hair red or black we ask that the colour has set and is no longer bleeding and runs clear in the shower before using the flotation tank to avoid potential staining of the water.
I'm wearing fake tan. Can I still float?
If you are wearing instant tan and it has not been washed off, then you cannot enter the float pods. If you have used gradual self-tan or have had a spray tan you must have showered and wait 72hrs before floating.
I've got a new tattoo. Can I still float?
It’s recommended that you avoid floating until your tattoo is fully healed.
Will the salt dry out or damage my hair?
As long as you wash and condition your hair after each float, the magnesium in the Epsom salt can improve the condition of your hair and scalp, and not damage it.
I have salt in my ears after my float. How can I prevent that?
If your wear your ear plugs as advised this should not happen but if it does wash out your ears well in the shower after your float and if there is still a creaky, salty sound in your ears, then mix a bit of distilled white vinegar + water (1:1 ratio) and put a few drops in your ear – it will do wonders to dissolve the salt.
Ready to Make a Change?
Explore the advantages of immersing yourself in a floatation tank experience. Delve into the myriad benefits that await within the serene confines of a floatation tank, where buoyancy and sensory deprivation converge to create a unique and rejuvenating atmosphere.