The idea of floating as a form of therapy developed from American physician and psychoanalyst John C. Lilly’s research into sensory deprivation in the mid-1950s.

Flotation therapy involves floating in a specially designed enclosed bath of tepid water into which massive amounts of Epsom salts have been dissolved. As well as having therapeutic effects, the Epsom salts boost buoyancy and simultaneously sterilise the water.

Because it is based on the principle of sensory deprivation, the flotation tank is completely dark inside and you will be provided with earplugs to block out any noise. Some tanks are fitted with speakers and often some soothing music will be played for the first five minutes of your session to help you relax. The music may come on again five minutes before the end of your session to signal that your time is up. Each session lasts about 60 minutes. However, you can float for longer if you wish.

What are the benefits of flotation therapy?

The effects of floating are referred to as Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy, or REST.
The main benefit of flotation therapy is relaxation. In the early 1980s, the St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton, Wisconsin in the United States undertook a year-long statistical analysis into the effects of flotation tanks in the treatment of a wide variety of health afflictions, including anxiety, cardiovascular ailments, migraine and hypertension.

The results showed an average improvement rate of 70 to 85%. Impressed with the results, hospital administrators hired two full-time stress management specialists to facilitate a regular programme of use for the tanks.
One reason why floating feels so good is that it is believed to trigger the brain to release endorphins, the neurochemicals responsible for pain relief and feelings of euphoria. In addition to being a great way to unwind, flotation therapy benefits the body and mind. A few of the health benefits associated with it include:

• Lowered blood pressure
• Improved circulation
• Reduced stress, anxiety, fear and depression
• Relief from asthma, arthritis, chronic fatigue, jet lag, PMT and headaches
• Enhanced creativity, learning and problem solving abilities
• Increased mental clarity and alertness.

Floating also brings freedom from the effects of gravity, contributing to pain relief in the bones, muscles and joints.

Is it suitable for everyone?

Anyone susceptible to claustrophobia will feel highly uncomfortable in a flotation tank. It also is important to note that the water’s high salt content can cause eyes to sting and burn if rubbed while in the tank.

Choosing a facility

It is always wise to bear in mind that many complementary therapies in Ireland are not State regulated. For this reason, choosing an appropriate facility for the optimum float experience calls for a bit of scrutiny and discernment.
Most flotation tanks are just one of a range of therapies offered within a healing centre. Try to visit the healing centre for an initial look at the tank. It should be in its own separate room to allow for privacy while getting in and out of the tank.

Extraneous noise will distract from the sensory deprivation experience, so the room should first and foremost be quiet. It should also be clean, comfortably warm and have a shower facility for rinsing off the salty water after the float. Staff should be friendly and able to address any questions or concerns