There’s nothing more relaxing than floating. Whether you’re in your pool, at the beach, or in a lake, floating is peaceful. Did you know that floating is becoming a popular health and wellness trend? This is called floating sensory deprivation.

You’re put in a room and are submerged in salt water. The room is dark and everything is silent. This wellness trend sounds simple, but it’s an experience like no other.

Floating sensory deprivation boasts many benefits. Floating sensory deprivation is a healing experience for your body and can even reduce stress.

Continue reading to learn more about floating sensory deprivation.

History of Floating Sensory Deprivation

John C Lilly installed the first floating sensory deprivation tank in 1954. Lilly is a scientist who dabbled in hallucinogens. His goal was to heal mental ailments. He had the idea of healing through alleviating your senses.

He started experimenting while he was in the float tank, taking LSD and ketamine while floating.

His hypotheses proved successful, even without the presence of hallucinogens. Not only that, but modern researchers were able to improve Lilly’s idea and expand on it.

Modern Sensory Deprivation Floating

If you’re interested in sensory deprivation floating, you start by entering the float tank.

Some places may offer a float cabin and even a float pod. The goal is to reduce external stimuli and give your body a non-concrete surface to rest, i.e. saltwater.

The average tank holds ten inches of water with 1,000 pounds worth of Epsom salt. Saltwater is denser than freshwater, helping you float instead of sink.

Another major factor of water is the temperature. The water temperature is equivalent to the skin surface. This helps deprive the sense of touch.

Your hearing is also limited because the tank is soundproof and the room is completely dark. Your physical and mental being will relax because you’re not consumed by stimuli.

Who Should Float?

Every floatation center has specific requirements, especially if you have specific medical conditions. Ask your doctor if you have asthma, a heart condition, low blood pressure, a disability, or allergies to bromine, salt, and/or magnesium.

The only clients not allowed to float are those with schizophrenia and epilepsy.

Most places also restrict age. If you’re under the age of 16, it’s best to ask the floating center or have approval from a parent or guardian.

Many floating centers allow pregnant women to float and many encourage it. But always talk to your doctor and the floating center about this.

The Benefits of Floating

Floating offers many physical and mental benefits. But everyone will experience floating differently. Here are a few ways you can benefit from floating:

  • Meditation
  • Stress elimination
  • Relaxation

You can learn more about these benefits.

Float Away Your Troubles!

If you’re looking for a way to relieve stress while also helping your body, try floating sensory deprivation. You will feel recharged and relaxed after your floating session!

Continue reading our blog for more health advice.