What is floating?
Floating is an experience where you enter into a float tank (also called a sensory deprivation tank, or isolation tank), which is a well-engineered tub filled with 10 inches of water and 800-1000 pounds of Epsom salts.
The tank is insulated to reduce light and sound, while simultaneously keeping the water heated to your skin temperature. When the water settles, you remain relaxed and still, allowing your body to float effortlessly while reducing stress and tension.
How do you keep the tanks clean?
Our pods use a special combination of Micron Filtration, Ultra Violet Rays and Ozone Generators to keep the water crystal clear and safe enough to drink (minus the salt). Our powerful filtration system runs 8 complete cycles inbetween each float. Also, the high concentration of Epsom Salt makes it extremely sanitary and almost impossible for microorganisms to live.
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What do I need to bring?
-Aside from an open mind, not much. We will provide towels, water and tea (with a refreshment bar), shampoo&conditioner and everything else you will need for your experience. If you would like, you can bring any post float items such as deodorant, hairbrush etc.. You will have a private room that locks from the inside to keep your belongings secure.
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What should I wear?
- We recommend floating in the nude. If you are uncomfortable, you are welcome to bring a swimsuit. However, most people find it distracting from the experience.
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Can I fall asleep?
- Yes! It is not uncommon and some people actually prefer to sleep during their float. The water is extremely buoyant so you stay afloat. If you tend to shift positions in your sleep, the worst that can happen is salt water in your eyes. We will provide a wash cloth and freshwater spray bottle to get the sting out if that happens.
How many sessions does it take to feel the benefits?
- You will feel the benefits after just one float. However, the more you do it, the better it gets. The effects of floating can even last up to 3 weeks after your float!
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What should I do to prepare?
- Check out our pre-float checklist. There are a few things to keep in mind- Don’t shave or wax the day before or the day of your float as the salt can irritate your skin. Avoid caffeine for a few hours before you float to allow maximum relaxation. Try to eat a light meal an hour- an hour and a half before your float to avoid hunger grumbles. We will provide refreshments and snacks for you after your float.
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Can I float if I’m menstruating?
- We ask that you reschedule if you are menstruating the day of your float. Thank you.
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Can I float if I have special needs or have a friend/relative with special needs?
Absolutely! Floating can benefit everyone. Our spa is 100% ADA built to fit the needs of most people. If you or your friend/relative requires extra help, we ask that we bring someone to assist you with your experience. Staff and owners of Floatation Station cannot help individuals into or out of the float tanks. Please keep in mind that everyone floats at their own risk.
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Can children float?
-Yes! Floating has shown to benefit children as much as adults. If you would like your child to float, give us a call to go over requirements. A guardian must be present in the building for anyone under 14, and a parent or guardian must sign the waiver form for anyone under 18.
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Can two people float at the same time?
Our pods are built for one person. Floating is a very personal experience and can get distracting if there are multiple people in the same tank. We do encourage coming with a significant other or bringing a friend to share the amazing experience! Ask us about our packages.
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Do I need to stay in the whole time?
- No! You control the entire experience and may get out at anytime, yet we suggest you attempt to stay in to achieve the full effect of the experience.
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Can I Float If I’m pregnant?
- Yes! Floating can be a magical experience for both mom and baby. Mom gets to rest in an environment similar to baby, and relieve some of the pressure of pregnancy. If you are at high risk or have concerns, contact your physician before floating.
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Can I eat before I float?
- Yes, however, we suggest only a light meal so the sound of digestion is not distracting. Also avoid caffeine as it may interfere with your ability to relax.
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Will I get pruney?
- No! Although there is still debate among scientists on why humans get wrinkly, it has been found that in a high salt environment, the water leaves your skin smooth and silky.
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What If I can’t swim?
- No worries, there is only 10” of water in the float tank and the high concentration of Epsom salt allows everyone to float effortlessly.
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What is Epsom salt?
- Epsom Salt is not actually salt. It is a mineral compound of Magnesium and Sulfate. Magnesium in the body helps regulate activity of numerous enzymes helping muscle and nerve function, while reducing inflammation and preventing arteries from hardening. The sulfate flushes toxins and aids in absorption of nutrients.
What can I expect?
- Floating is often referred to as the art of doing nothing. Although some may find it hard to “turn off their mind”, you will feel the weight come off your body and your mind slip into relaxation. After your float, you may feel happy and energized or calm and relaxed.
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If I have to cancel, what type of notice is needed?
- If you have to cancel, we require a 48-hour notice before your appointment to avoid being charged. If you are floating with a large group, we will need a credit card number to hold those appointments, and you will be charged 50% if you do not let us know about any cancellations at least 48 hours in advance. If you have further questions about this policy, please give us a call.
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PRE-FLOAT CHECKLIST: What to know before you float!
What to bring:
-Aside from an open mind, not much. We will provide towels, water and tea, shampoo&conditioner and everything else you will need for your experience. If you would like, you can bring any post float items such as deodorant, hairbrush etc. You will have a private room that locks from the inside to keep your belongings secure.
Before your float:
Skip shaving – The Epsom salt in our pods can cause a distracting sensation on freshly shaven skin. It’s best if you skip shaving the day of your float but if necessary, we recommend that both women and men shave a minimum of 2-3 hours before your float.
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No tattoos or freshly dyed hair in the pods please - Anyone with a tattoo less than 6 weeks old should not float! Anyone with freshly dyed hair less than two weeks old should reschedule for a later date.
Postpone the caffeine – Caffeine stimulates your body, and specifically your heart. To get the most out of your float, save the coffee for after your float so your body is able to slow down, detox and completely relax.
If you can, avoid smoking – Like coffee, cigarettes are stimulating and can disrupt the tranquility of your float. Try to avoid smoking right before your float.
Eat lightly – A heavy meal can leave you feeling full, and your body using energy for digestion. We recommend you try to eat a light balanced meal 90 minutes before your float so you don’t feel too hungry, but avoid heavy foods so your body is able to relax.
Restroom – Prior to entering the float pod, you will want to use one so that you don’t have to disturb your relaxation experience.
Shower time – When you are ready to begin your float, make sure you shower to remove oils or make up from your body. We ask that you do not use the conditioner until your post float shower. We will provide shampoo, body wash and conditioner.
Say what? – There will be earplugs provided to keep the salt out of your ears during your float if you choose to use them. We suggest putting in the ear plugs before your shower, as they will stay in better.
All clean – After you shower, be sure to thoroughly dry your head so that you are not tempted to wipe your face once you are in the pod. The salt water will sting if it gets in your eyes. There will be a fresh water spray bottle and wash rag provided to clean salt away from your face in the pod.
During your Float:
Dive in! – The pod is equipped with lights inside that you may turn off and on as you see fit. We suggest closing the lid and turning off the light once you are in the pod for the full relaxation experience. However, there is no wrong way to use the pod as long as you are comfortable. You may leave the door open and the light on if desired.
Floatation Begins– Once in the pod, lay back and you will notice you begin to float effortlessly. Find a comfortable position that’s right for you. Music will play for the first ten minutes of your float to help you achieve a more relaxed state.
What you might feel– To relax the mind and body, think of things that make you happy or focus on your heartbeat and breathing. Trust the water will hold you and allow your body to relax fully. Once relaxed you may loose sensation of gravity and feeling of weight on your body. Many experience a feeling of tumbling free in space. Remember everyones experience is unique.
The end is near– When your float is almost over, music will once again begin to softly play. Take a moment to gather your thoughts before stepping out to shower.
After your float:
While in the post-float shower, you may hear the pod pumps coming on to filter the water. At this time feel free to use conditioner or whatever shower products you see fit.
After your shower, please join us in our pre/post-float relaxation area for some tea and to share some thoughts on your floating experience