I recently experienced my first float. What is a float exactly? They are sensory deprivation tanks and they do just that, remove as much sensory input as possible.

I went in with almost no expectations, well a small part of me wanted to believe it would be like this book I once read where these tanks were utilized by a group as a think tank-I secretly wanted to come out of this a genius. I know, a lofty expectation right?

Benefits

There are several benefits to utilizing these tanks, de-stressing is one that stays at the top of the list. They provide a calming, relaxing environment devoid of any interruption, sense of time and depending on the person sense of self. Magnesium intake is another great benefit as our bodies absorb magnesium through the skin and these tanks are filled with upwards of a thousand pounds of epson salts. Here you can find a thorough write up of all the benefits at Very Well Health.

Getting Ready

Since this was my first experience I wanted to give you an idea of what you can expect. Source on high has 2 separate rooms each complete with a shower and all necessities provided. Being it was my first time I opted for complete silence and darkness in order to get the full effect of sensory deprivation however you have options.

• Time- most places offer a 60 or 90 minute. You want to also account for your prep time before and after your float.
• Shower-you are required to shower both before and after your float session.
• Lights-I had the option to leave the main room light on or off, the tank itself has an interior light that you can opt on or off along with several color options if thats your thing.
• Music- there is the option to plug in your phone and play music.

What Happened

This is purely my experience alone, you will have to go in order to see what your’s will be. Going in without expectations allowed this experience to just unfold and be what it was going to be. Once I got in and closed the lid I settled in, got relaxed and the first thing I noticed was how light and supported I felt. It was how I imagine lying in a cloud would feel, you sink down a bit as the cloud hugs and supports you. The salt water had the most magical feel against my skin. It had a thickness or consistency to it that I can’t even begin to explain. This must be how it would feel to be in space.

When I felt I couldn’t stay still any longer, rather than giving in to my anxiety, I let my hands float out and found the side of the tank and slowly pushed off and began to sway between the sides of the tank. The viscosity of the water felt amazing and almost effervescent against my skin. As I swayed I was able to maintain a meditative state. Being a busy body I do better with movement in order to clear my mind. All in all this was an amazing experience and the rest of the my day was euphoric. I would recommend sensory deprivation to anyone and I will personally being doing it again!