by Jessica Chandra
As a float specialist, I have introduced hundreds of first time floaters to the world of Salt Water Floatation (or sensory deprivation). Often times, people want to know advice on how to have the best possible experience. Here are my top five tips.
1. You are in control of your experience
Firstly, the tank door absolutely does not lock. (I’ve been surprised by the number of times people have asked this!) It’s actually just a refrigerator magnet that easily pushes open. You do not have to close the door all the way if preferred. A lot of people choose to dim the lights and leave the door cracked. It can help orient you in the tank because you can open your eyes and know exactly where the door is. Many times people start with the door cracked and end up closing it part of the way through.
2. Experiment with different body positions
There is plenty of space in our float chamber to move your arms out to the side or overhead. Experiment with positions until your find your ‘sweet spot.’ For me, floating with my arms overhead is a blissful experience. I find it changes the weight dispersion in my head, neck and shoulders just right. If you find that one of your limbs touches a wall during your float, we advise not to push off. There is a lot of buoyancy from the salt. Don’t do anything or barely push away to avoid ping-ponging side to side. The sensation can feel fun and new, while having a familiarity and ease. Maybe that’s because when we were in our mother’s womb we moved similarly?
3. Regulate your body temperature
The temperature is set to be slightly higher than the temperature of your skin, at approximately 94.5 degrees. There are techniques to help control your body temperature. If you are on the cooler side, being still helps warm water to gather around you. If you are getting too warm, you may move your limbs to break that bubble of warm water, or sit up and open the tank door to take a few breaths. Some people find that taking a break and regulating their temperature in the shower is most effective.
4. Take breaks when needed
Breaks are encouraged during your float if you feel so inspired to do so, or just need to use the restroom. Being comfortable is the most important aspect. You’ll know what’s right for you during each float, and we encourage you to listen to the wisdom of your body.
5. Every float is different
There is no specific float experience to be had. Each float varies from person to person and day to day. My best advice would be to let go of expectations and judgements whether it is your first float or fiftieth. Not every float will provide a spiritual awakening or total out of body bliss. Sometimes there are unexpected thoughts to sit with and body aches to alleviate. Allowing the pendulum to swing in all directions will help you experience the full spectrum of floating.
Are there things you have learned from floating that you think others would benefit from? Let us know in the comments.
