Floating FAQ

Call or Text 207.669.2059 to schedule

What is floating?

Floating is a great method for stress relief and relaxation. Our float tank has 8-10″ of water saturated with about 1,100 pounds of pharmaceutical grade Epsom salt which creates extremely buoyant water for you to float in, much like the Dead Sea! The water is then heated to match the exterior temperature of your skin 93.5 F. Once you’re settled, it is difficult to distinguish what parts of your body are in contact with the water and which aren’t, this fools the brain into a “zero gravity” sensation. Since your senses are void from input, the tank is sometimes also called a sensory deprivation tank.

What does the tank look like, what if I get claustrophobic?

Our float tank is recessed behind false wall with only it’s access door visible. Once you open the door it exposes the interior of the tank which is quite spacious, approximately 4 wide, 8.5 feet long and 7 feet tall! You are in complete control of your float which means you can open the door and go in/out as you’d like, or toggle the music/lights on and off. You can even float with the door open if you prefer. Since there is an absence of space, time and sensation it is difficult to feel claustrophobic within the tank.

How often should I float?

While you can float every day without harm, we find that the relaxing effects of a one-hour float typically last beyond that day. For best results, we recommend regular sessions; once a month, every two weeks or even weekly!

I’m a bigger guy / gal, can I still float in your tanks?

Unless you’re over 7 feet tall or over 500 pounds, you’re good to go.

How long do people usually stay in the tank?

We offer time slots for 60 or 90 minutes. We recommend first time floaters get comfortable with a 60 minute session to get started. As you become more experienced and aware of the positive effects, you may find you’d prefer 90 minutes.

What will it be like for me?

We don’t know what it will be like for you since it is such an individual experience. Most customers report having profound peace and relaxation, deep concentration and/or creativity. We try and avoid saying too much before people use the tank, so that they aren’t influenced by what someone else says. Not only will it be different for you than it is for anyone else, it may even be different each time.

Will I be able to resume my daily activities when I get out?

Yes. And it may be good to arrange your time so you don’t have to rush. Many people enjoy savoring the peace and quiet before jumping back into their daily life.

Is there a cumulative effect of using the tank on a regular basis?

Yes. There seems to be a cumulative effect with consistent use of the tank. This is not documented by research, it is the tank users who know it is true. Relaxation is a learned art that needs practice.

Do you wear anything in the tank?

Since it is a private experience in a secure room, most people don’t wear any clothing. Anything you wear will press against your body, and has the potential to become a distraction. Think of it as similar to getting into your bathtub.

What do I need to do to prepare for this experience?

Most importantly…relax. The tank will help but if you arrive relaxed, the experience tends to be more beneficial for you. There are a few additional things to consider:

Try not to shave right before arriving. It isn’t the end of the world if you do…but salt water on freshly shaven legs isn’t the most pleasant thing on Earth.
Remove your contacts prior to floating (bring a container to store them in).
If you have caffeine before you float, it may interfere with your ability to relax.

Would I drown in the flotation tank if I fell asleep?

It is not possible to drown in the tank. The water is only 8-10″ deep and has an extremely high density of salt. This water is buoyant and will support you regardless of your size or weight. If you were to somehow roll over in the tank, the salt in the water would sting your eyes and wake you. Since you are floating naturally, you do not need to know how to swim. Additionally, it’s not dangerous to fall asleep in the tank. We actually encourage it! One hour of sleep in the tank is roughly equivalent to 4 hours of regular sleep.

What happens if I get salt water in my eyes?

It’s going to sting! But don’t worry, we provide a towel inside the tank to blot any salt water off, or a spray bottle of water outside the tank to mist the salt off your face.

Can two people float in one tank?

No. Flotation therapy is a solitary act and you would not want another person in your tank. The space is great for one but too small for two. If your partner/friend wants to tag along they might try booking a sauna or massage while you float!

Are there situations in which I will not be permitted to use the flotation tank?

We will not allow you to float if you have any of the following conditions:

Infectious skin or respiratory disorders
Open wounds
Loss of Bladder control
Epilepsy or serious mental conditions
A high-risk pregnancy
Have colored or permed your hair within 10 days
Under the influence of any drug or alcohol
Currently menstruating
Under 18 without parental presence

We expect you to inform us of any conditions for your own safety and the safety of other floaters! We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone at any time.

How are the tanks kept clean and disinfected?

There is about 1,100 pounds of medical grade Epsom salt dissolved in our tank. The solution is so high in saline that no living microorganism can survive in the water. After each session, the entire volume of the solution is pumped out and filtered through a three-part filtration and sterilization system utilizing Ultra Violet light and H2O2. UV is the safest most effective system available. It maintains the water’s soft, clean and crystal-clear appearance. In addition, all clients are required to shower prior to entering the tank.

Will my skin get pruney?

No. The high Epsom salt content of the water means that the water will not draw the salt from your skin and cause wrinkles like a long bath does. Epsom salt has been used for centuries as a medicinal treatment for various skin conditions. It is non-toxic and is not harmful if swallowed (although it does not taste good!). Epsom salt is actually quite nourishing for the skin, which may feel silky smooth after your float session. We even give an exfoliating glove to use during your first shower in order to open your pores for better salt absorption.

I’m pregnant. Can floating harm my baby?

Definitely not. In fact, pregnant women can often get more relief from the float tank than others. Just lying on a bed can be extremely uncomfortable for a woman in the later stages of pregnancy due to the massive strain placed on the body. The float tank is a wonderful haven for pregnant women. We do, however, recommend that pregnant women avoid floating during the first trimester. If you have any concerns about the effects of floating on your pregnancy, we ask you to consult and get permission from your physician before you float.