Float Therapy, also known as Flotation Therapy, Sensory Deprivation or Restricted Stimulation Therapy (R.E.S.T.) is an extremely relaxing treatment where the body floats in a float tank filled with a solution of medical grade Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) and water. Since the depth of the water is only 11″ deep and contains around 1,000 pounds of salt the body becomes extremely buoyant causing effortless floating. This seemingly weightless type of environment removes the effects of gravity on bones, joints and muscles creating a soothing and deeply relaxing environment while magnesium in the salts assist with pain relief and encourages restful sleep.
The temperature of the water and lack of sound and light can create an absence of sensation that is conducive to deep relaxation and meditation. Floating is great for relieving the effects of stress, pain, injury and strenuous exercise, and it is also a great tool for enhancing clarity of thought.
In today’s fast-paced environment it is quickly becoming a favorite choice to escape a busy mind and achieve mental calmness. Studies are currently being conducted at the Laureate Institute for Brain Research, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, that show floating is beneficial to mental health and can be successful in helping with PTSD, addiction, social anxiety and similar disorders.
While floating is relatively new for many, it’s origins actually reach back into the 1950s. Today there are many different terms of reference such as float tank, float pool, float pod, flotation, float therapy or sensory deprivation and these are all used to describe the same amazing service! As it grows in popularity and becomes known as a treatment with great benefits, research will continue to bring us more information on the benefits of floating.
We were the first to bring this service to Johnson City in 2021, and are happy to offer the only open flotation pool in Northeast Tennessee and the surrounding region. With no lids or doors to enclose the pool there is a sense of space but still the comfort of feeling enveloped in warmth. Open pools are optimal for those with claustrophobia or many who don’t feel comfortable in enclosed areas.
Our pool was manufactured by a UK based company that has fabricated float cabins and pools, with state-of-the-art filtration and disinfection, since 1999, and is the same brand LIBR uses for flotation research studies. This technology utilizes filtration, UV, Hydrogen Peroxide and Ozone. In unison with the high salt content that inhibits most bacteria growth, you can be assured the water quality is outstanding.
During the water cleansing process the float pool goes through a filtration and disinfectant cycle for 20 minutes between each client as the air in the room is also vented and refreshed.
Having a staff member who has obtained CPO certification through the NSPF, the most widely accepted training program for pool and spa education and water safety, rounds out the protocol we utilize to keep or pool water at the highest quality.
See our Float FAQ section below to discover more about floating and learn what to expect during your first session.
We supply Robes, slippers, towels, bath products, Earplugs and provide a Ready Room with hairdryer and makeup vanity. You don’t need a swimsuit! You are in a private suite with shower, so just bring yourself, hygiene products or cosmetics and a brush or comb. Please do not bring outside shower products.
Eat a small meal or snack about thirty minutes before your session. Minimize caffeine intake a few hours beforehand and visit the restroom before taking a shower. Taking a trip down the hall for bathroom visits, in the middle of a float, is chilly! It is best not to shave the day of to avoid any salt irritation on freshly shaven skin. Petroleum jelly is provided to put on small wounds or sensitive areas to provide a barrier against the salt.
Yes! The high salt content is similar to that of the Dead Sea making it difficult for bacteria to grow. Our system also uses filtration, Hydrogen Peroxide and UV for disinfection. The water is put through a 20-minute cleansing cycle between each client insuring optimal water quality.
The buoyancy of the pool makes it extremely hard to roll over if you fall asleep. If you did happen to manage it, the salt water in your eyes would wake you immediately. This is not a worry so lay back and relax!
Yes. Just be sure to wear appropriate sanitary products such as a tampon or menstrual cup as you would when in a swimming pool. If you are having a heavy cycle and could possibly have external leakage, please do not float.
Yes. The salt can sometimes cause stinging if you have any contusions or have recently shaved. Occasionally females may be more sensitive in the vaginal area if there is dryness or during hormonal fluctuations. The petroleum jelly we supply can be used as a barrier to help this.
You may float with colored hair or a spray tan as long as the water is clear when it’s rinsed. With bright or dark colors you should wait at least 2 weeks and for tanning at least 1 week. We trust you will help us monitor this because the dye can stain our float pool. It’s best to avoid this at all costs because the client is responsible for the cost of restoring the pool, which could exceed $1000.
Fresh Tattoos should be completely healed before floating. While petroleum jelly can cover small areas, it is not recommended in order to err on the side of caution. Salt is not your friend in this situation!
No, quite the opposite. You will actually notice softer skin and hair after your float.
We do offer tandem floats which can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. However, since sensory deprivation is the key to getting into the mind space the brings the best results, we recommend you try a single float. Realize if you decide to bring a friend that you may not be getting the depth of experience that can be achieved solo.
Please keep in mind that we offer this service due to customer interest. Our float suite, ready room and shower were constructed for single floaters, so the space is cozy, but can still be utilized by two.
You will find your own private shower in our float suite to shower and wash your hair before and after the float. Beekman 1802 luxury shampoo, conditioner and body wash are supplied and are low-suds formulas. Therefore, personal bath products are not permitted. Ear plugs and Makeup remover wipes are provided, as well as petroleum jelly that can be put on any small wounds or sensitive areas to keep the salt out.
Yes. We recommend you use earplugs as they will keep the salt out of your ears. The concentration of salt is much higher than the ocean and could cause crunchy salt crystals in your ears. This is not detrimental to your health but certainly annoying! If you do not wear earplugs it is recommended you thoroughly flush out your ears after the float.
When you enter the float pool you will see a red button that is there in case of emergency and a white button that turns off the lights inside the pool. Overhead lights are motion activated and will turn off automatically.
It is recommended to float in total darkness to achieve the full experience of sensory deprivation but you can always leave the light on if preferred.
Once you are seated just lay back and relax! Some choose to use the blue halo headrest for neck support but it is not required. There is a spray bottle of water and a wash cloth provided to flush your eyes in case of a salt water splash.
When your float has ended music will fade in, the pool lights will flash and a chime will sound that signifies it is time to use the safety grab bar and exit the pool. Another chime will follow and then the pool will start the filtration cycle.
After you have showered you can put on your robe and slippers and head to the Ready Room where you will be able to dress comfortably. We also offer a hair dryer and mirrored vanity area. When you are ready just head to the front where we can chat about your first float experience!
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