The purpose of this first article is to give you more information on a relatively unknown method of relaxation and pain relief: float therapy. Although it is not new (it actually dates back to the 70’s), it has seen its popularity explode since the beginning of the last decade thanks, among other things, to numerous scientific studies with positive conclusions and many testimonies from sports personalities (Stephen Curry, Carl Lewis, Wayne Rooney), movie stars (Jeff Bridges, Kristen Wiig), models (Elle Macpherson), etc.
I will spare you the history of float therapy and go straight to the heart of the matter: What is float therapy? How does it work?
Float therapy consists of lying down in a pod or a pool of water so salty that it is impossible not to float. As soon as you lie down on the surface of the water, your body no longer feels the effects of gravity; you are basically weightless. Since your muscles and joints no longer need to support you, you immediately feel relieved.
Moreover, float therapy is a sensory deprivation experience. The ideal session is one in which you close all the lights in the pod and the room, put earplugs and turn off the music.
Without light, sound, smell, taste, nor touch, the brain allows itself to go quickly into rest, relaxation, meditation and healing mode. This is the beauty of float therapy: you disconnect from the outside world and enter your personal bubble…
Three fundamental principles of floating
•Anti-gravity: 30 cm of water and 500 kg of salt, you’ll float!
It lowers the demand on the muscles and joints.
• Physical relaxation: complete loosening of the muscles!
Epsom salt is a muscular relaxant.
•Mental relaxation: total sensory deprivation!
No external stimuli to solicit the brain.
Some benefits of float therapy
· Reduction of stress and insomnia
· Recuperation after a physical effort
· Alleviation of muscular and joint pains
· Increase of focus and concentration
· Deeper relaxation
· Helps treat depression, post-traumatic stress and burnout
A float session lasts 60, 90 or 120 minutes. The minimum of 60 minutes allows the floater to become familiar with the environment and take the time to let go. Ideally, we recommend floating as often as possible to maintain the effects of floating from one session to the next. Do not expect to cure a problem that has been developing for years in a single session…
Float therapy should be considered part of our wellness routine; just like exercise, good eating habits, etc. It is now more important than ever to take care of your body and mind, and float therapy is a natural way to treat and prevent certain physical and mental problems. From the athlete who needs to visualize a routine or treat his injuries to the homemaker wanting to catch up on sleep, float therapy has something for everyone.
If you have any question, do not hesitate to ask me. You can also visit our FAQ section.
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