10 things you might not know about floating

10 things you might not know about float therapy

We’ve put together some interesting facts about float therapy that you might not have realised. At the PAUSE recovery studio, you can float on your own or with someone you know.

1. Floating is sensory deprivation

You might also know floating as ‘sensory deprivation’ – it’s about excluding external sensations such as sound, light and the feeling of gravity. Years of research have shown that sensory deprivation, or floating, has a wide range of benefits, both physical and mental.

2. The ultimate relaxation

When you float, it feels like you’re weightless. This helps to relax your brain and body. From a physical perspective, floating can help you get rid of muscle tension, reduce muscle pain, soreness and inflammation.

3. Block out all external stimuli.

Floating can help you achieve a sense of calm. If you’re struggling with anxiety or depression, floating could be a great way to help you. Research shows that when your body is isolated from the outside world and not disturbed by all kinds of sensory input, you are better able to get in touch with your own thoughts and calm down.

4. You don’t have to go it alone

You can float with a friend, your partner or even a colleague. You can also try a couple float in a float cabin if you’d like.

5. Magnesium for the body

The Epsom salt in the water makes you float and feel weightless. Epsom salt is made up of magnesium and sulphate. The magnesium is absorbed through the skin, which helps to prevent stress and the release of excess adrenaline in the body. If you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, Epsom salt can help release the adrenaline in your body.

6. Floating naked

When you float, you’re in your own private float room, and most people float without clothes. You can wear a swimsuit if you want, but it’s not really necessary. It gives you a better sense of freedom when there’s nothing tight or clinging to your skin.

7. You’ll be in good hands.

Your first float can be a bit overwhelming, so you’ll have the support you need every step of the way. When you come through our door, you’ll get a warm welcome and some helpful advice. If you need a hand, just give us a shout via the intercom in the tanks. From what we’ve seen, once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to try floating again.

8. It’s tough to put into words

Describing floating to others can be tricky, and sometimes it’s best to just keep the experience to yourself. At PAUSE recovery studio in Aarhus, Denmark, you don’t have to give a report or minutes after your float. If you need to chat, we’re here for you. If you’d rather just sit and relax, we’ll leave you to it. It can be tricky to describe the effects of floating in words. As long as you can feel that it has a positive effect on you, that’s what matters. A float is a great way to relax and unwind the whole body.

9. Theta Waves

Some people also say that floating is similar to being in a dream state. During a float, you’re often on the border between reality and a dream state. It’s in this state that the brain can actually activate theta waves, which then help the body to heal itself. The theta waves are formed deep in the brain and are linked to unconscious processes related to emotions and dreams. Both getting close to unconscious memories during deep meditation and getting close to repressed emotions in therapy increases theta activity.

10. It trains your body to relax.

If you have sleep problems, floating can help you sleep better because it puts your body into a relaxed state and gives a feeling of weightlessness.