A look at sensory deprivation tanks

A couple of weeks ago I treated myself to some floatation tank therapy. I love it. I find the experience relaxing and it was some well-needed me-time that made my weekend just that much better. Along with the obvious self-care that sensory deprivation brings, this therapy can hold many other benefits. 

So what is a Sensory Deprivation Tank?

The tank is a closing pod, filled with water, heated to body temperature and highly concentrated with Epsom Salts. There is no light and there is no sound, blocking out a large amount of sensory stimulation. 

Epson Salts aren’t just used for buoyancy, Ancient wisdom tells us that Epsom salts are an effective cure-all with benefits including stress relief along with easing aches and pains. 

Much like in the Dead Sea, the magnesium and sulphate-rich Epsom salt raises the density and buoyancy of the water, increasing the specific gravity for the solution to around 1.27. So, for around an hour (more if you like), you float.

What happens in there?

You naturally fall into a full relaxing, meditative state. There are a wide range of experiences reported including a heightened sense of reflection, a release of tension and a feeling that you leave your body entirely. Your experience, however, will differ from anyone else’s. 

What are the benefits?

I have been surprised at the sheer amount of benefits I’ve found researching this therapy. And there has been a lot more physical effects than I had expected. 

• Stimulates the release of endorphins
• Creates calm and relaxation
• Alleviates mental and physical stress
• Improves sleep and insomnia
• Enhances mental clarity and deepens your mental state
• Helps with anxiety, depression, and motivation
• Helps with phobias and addiction
• Helps with PTSD symptoms
• Decreases the perception of pain
• Relieves bones, joints, muscles
• Relieves arthritis, migraines, and rheumatism
• Relieves fibromyalgia
• Helps with pregnancy pain
• Increases blood circulation and lowers blood pressure
• Improves immunity
• Resets the body’s chemical & metabolic balance
• Speeds up the healing process and recovery

…and much much more!

How often can you float?

While it’s perfectly safe to float every day, the effects of each session last beyond a day or two. If this is something you try and love, it is recommended that 2 – 3 sessions a week is often the most effective. If you are like me, you can just go for a relaxing float whenever you feel like some down-time. 

What if I don’t like enclosed spaces?

These tanks are definitely enclosed so claustrophobia can be a huge barrier for some people wanting to try flotation tanks. But, using this therapy can be a really successful way of overcoming these fears. The knowledge that the pods do not lock, are completely safe and the lid lifts with the slightest prod con be enough comfort for some but anyone suffering from debilitating fear should consult a health professional before proceeding.