Float FAQ

Come dream with us...

How long does it take?
A first float session usually lasts sixty minutes. Longer sessions are popular with regular floaters.

Can floating really improve my life?
It's been said that if someone could capture the effects of floating in a pill, it would quickly outsell Valium, Prozac and Viagra put together. There is a growing movement towards natural solutions to the problems of daily life, solutions with no unwanted side-effects. The benefits of floating are natural, long-term and cumulative. Every time you float, you reinforce the health benefits of the Relaxation Response. In the tank, your body "learns" what true relaxation feels like, which is a skill it will never "forget".

What is REST sleep?
Restricted Environmental Stimuli Therapy

What do I do while I'm floating?
You don't have to "do" anything. Floatation is usually a passive experience. Within ten to twenty minutes you are on the edge of sleep, in a dreamy but conscious state where time doesn't seem to exist. Most people just lay back and enjoy it.
However, if you want, you can actively "direct" the experience. You can use the tranquility to focus on creative solutions to aspects of your everyday life, mentally prepare for an important meeting or exam, or pray, meditate, do breathing exercises. You can even take this one step further, by running audio- or video-based training programs in the tank. Suitable subjects include visualization or meditation exercises ... academic or technical information ... motivational programs ranging from weight-reduction through to executive decision-making skills ... and - in particular - sports training programs. Next weekend, you could be teeing-off the best game of your life.

Do I need to prepare myself for floating?
If you have caffeine (sodas, coffee, tea, chocolate) before you float, it may interfere with your ability to relax. Please, no alcohol use before floating.

Should I eat before I go into the tank?
You can eat. If you eat a very heavy meal you may spend a lot of time listening to your digestive juices. And, on the other hand, if you get very hungry you may spend a lot of time listening to your digestive juices. Moderation works.

Is anyone not supposed to use the tank?
We don't recommend tank use for epileptics whose epilepsy is not under medical control; for people under the influence of alcohol, those with infectious diseases, or those with suicidal tendencies.

Can pregnant women use the tank?
Yes. We suggest that pregnant women inform their physicians or midwives and get their opinion prior to using the tank. The reports received from pregnant women have been enthusiastic. As their bodies get heavier, floating is a great relief from the pull of gravity. Floating has given many women a welcome rest.

Do children use the tank? What is their response?
Yes, we know that children use the tank and we don't know much about their responses. A 7 1/2 year old came to a public center with his mother. He listened to the orientation she was receiving. When he heard about the fears, he said he was very afraid of the dark. Later, when he used the tank, he was asked about the fear of the dark. He said that was a different dark. Night time dark was scary and full of dragons, and the tank dark was friendly and nice.

Do people sleep in the tank?
Yes, some people fall asleep in the tank, and some people use the tank for sleeping.

Is there a right way to do it?
Float with your weight evenly distributed, laying on your back.

What if I'm claustrophobic?
People who say that they are afraid to use the tank because they are claustrophobic probably assume that they will be confined to an enclosed space. However, you can use the tank with the door open if you wish. You are in control of the situation and can get in and out when ever you want. You should use it in the way it's comfortable for you. The tank is such an excellent place to go through claustrophobia that if you want to get rid of yours, it is probably the best place to do it.

Is there enough air in the tank?
Yes. The tank is designed not to be airtight, so there is a plentiful air supply.

Can two people float in the tank at the same time?
We don't recommend it. Floating in the tank is intended to be a private, individual experience. However, the tank is spacious enough to accommodate two floaters, each with their head at a different end.

How long do people usually stay in the tank?
We usually schedule an hour for first time floaters. Some people find 2 or 3 hour sessions very valuable. Of course the "perfect" way is to stay in until you want to get out. You may arrange that upon request. Experiment with your own time in the tank to discover what is best for you.

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. The most common reports are profound peace and relaxation, deep concentration and creativity. We like to 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 will be different with each float.

Do I need to float more than once?
Yes, if you want to make use of the potential. Most people, but not all, get a sense of what floating will be like after they float 3 to 5 times. Those who see the potential the first time want to return again and again.

Is there a best time to use the tank?
No. This is a matter of individual preference. Some people prefer morning, some prefer night. The best way to find out is to experiment by using the tank at different times of the day.

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 into something hectic.

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 themselves who know it is true. Relaxation is a learned art that needs practice.

Is this sensory deprivation?
The term "sensory deprivation" describes areas of scientific research that consider the effects of reduced environmental stimulation. Stimulus reduction is an accurate description of the tank environment.