Float Therapy
About Float Therapy
Float therapy is a session in which you lie on your back in a shallow pool or enclosed tank of water so rich in dissolved Epsom salt, or magnesium sulphate, that you float without any effort, while light and sound are kept to a minimum. Researchers call it flotation REST, short for reduced environmental stimulation therapy. The water and air are warmed to around skin temperature, about 35°C, so the sense of where your body ends and the water begins softens, and many people describe a feeling of weightlessness. The approach grew out of sensory isolation research in the 1950s and has since become a popular wellness treatment around the world. Floating suits anyone wanting deep rest, a break from screens and noise or a quiet space to unwind. In small controlled studies, a single float reduced anxiety and muscle tension and briefly lowered blood pressure in people with anxiety, and a trial of repeated sessions found floating safe and well tolerated. Larger studies are still needed, and floating is not a cure for any condition. Sessions usually last around 60 minutes, there is no downtime, and you stay in control throughout, free to switch on a light, open the door or step out whenever you wish.
On the day, and after
During the treatment
A standard float lasts about 60 minutes, with extra time before and after for showering. Staff will show you the room and explain how the lights, door, call button and fresh water spray work.
You shower thoroughly to remove oils and products, put in ear plugs if you wish, then step into the pool or tank. The water is shallow but so salty that you float straight away. Lie back slowly, keeping salt water out of your eyes, and let your head rest in the water. A float pillow is often available if your neck feels tense. Some centres play soft music for the first few minutes, then the light and sound fade. You can keep the light on or the door open if you prefer. The first few minutes are often spent settling and finding a comfortable position for your arms. Many people then drift into a deeply relaxed, dreamy state. Gentle music or a light signals the end of the session.
How it feels
Most people find floating a unique and very peaceful experience. The dense salt water holds you up completely, so there is no effort involved in staying afloat. Because the water and air are close to skin temperature, many people lose track of where their body ends, and the stillness and darkness can make the mind feel quiet.
The first few minutes may feel unfamiliar. It is normal to feel restless, to fidget or to notice your heartbeat and breathing more clearly. Your neck may take a little while to relax; resting your arms above your head or using a float pillow can help. Many people then drift into a calm, dreamy state, and some fall asleep. Occasionally people notice unusual sensations such as floating or detachment, which are usually described as pleasant. Salt water in the eyes stings, so keep your hands dry and use the fresh water spray if needed. If you feel uneasy, simply switch on the light or open the door.
Results and maintenance
The calm feeling after a float usually lasts several hours, and many people find their first float different from later ones. Settling in can take practice, so it is worth trying a few sessions before deciding whether floating suits you.
Some people float weekly during stressful times, while others enjoy a monthly session as part of their wellbeing routine. Research has used both single sessions and weekly courses, and there is no fixed rule, so choose a rhythm that feels right. To make the most of your floats:
- Arrive unhurried and keep the hour afterwards calm.
- Try different lighting and music options until you find what helps you relax.
- Use a float pillow if your neck feels tense.
- Bring the same slow breathing you use in the tank into everyday moments.
Keep notes on how you feel after each float to spot what works for you.
Before and after your appointment
Before your appointment
Avoid shaving or waxing on the day of your float, as salt water stings freshly treated skin. Check for small cuts or scratches; many centres offer petroleum jelly to cover minor nicks, but anything larger or open means rebooking. Skip caffeine for a few hours beforehand if it makes you restless, and eat a light snack about an hour before so hunger does not distract you.
Do not drink alcohol or take recreational drugs before floating, and tell the centre about any sedating medication. Remove contact lenses and jewellery. Most people float without clothing in a private room, but swimwear is fine if you prefer. Bring a hairbrush and moisturiser; the centre usually supplies towels, ear plugs and shampoo. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or feel anxious about enclosed spaces, mention it when booking. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete a health form, hear the safety briefing and use the bathroom.
Aftercare
Stand up slowly and step out carefully, as surfaces can be slippery and you may feel relaxed or a little light headed. Shower well to wash the salt from your skin and hair. Use the shampoo provided, and rinse your ears with fresh water or ear drops if the centre offers them, as dried salt can feel uncomfortable.
Moisturise afterwards, as salt water can leave skin feeling dry. Many centres have a relaxation lounge where you can sit with a drink of water or herbal tea before heading back out. Try to keep the next hour calm: a slow walk or quiet time helps you enjoy the relaxed feeling. If you are driving, take a few minutes to feel fully alert first. Some people notice mild itching or a dry mouth after floating, both of which usually ease with a shower and a drink. If a rash or irritation appears, or your ears stay uncomfortable, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
There is no downtime after float therapy. You can return to your day straight after showering, although many people prefer to keep the rest of the day calm.
It is common to feel relaxed, light or a little dreamy for an hour or two. Take a few minutes in the lounge and make sure you feel fully alert before driving. Some people sleep especially well that night. Salt water can leave skin and hair feeling dry, so moisturise and condition as needed. Mild itching or a dry mouth are the most commonly reported side effects and usually settle quickly with a shower and a drink of water. A little salt left in the ears can cause discomfort, which usually eases after rinsing with fresh water. If your ears feel blocked or sore for more than a day or two, or if any skin irritation persists, check with a pharmacist or doctor before floating again.
Safety and medical considerations
Safety essentials
Float therapy is generally low risk. Health guidance from Western Australia describes drowning as extremely unlikely, as the dense salt water keeps you afloat even if you fall asleep. Good centres still take safety seriously. Float facilities are usually covered by public pool and spa hygiene rules rather than a specific licence, and these rules vary between countries, states and local councils.
A well run centre asks about your health before your first float, gives a clear safety briefing and makes sure you can open the door or lid from inside and reach a call button and light. Everyone must shower before entering. The water is filtered between every session, often several times, and disinfected with ultraviolet light plus bromine or chlorine, with surfaces cleaned regularly. Staff test water quality, refuse entry to anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and keep an eye on timings. Rooms should be warm, clean and private, with non slip flooring, fresh towels and fresh water on hand for rinsing eyes.
Medical considerations
Floating suits most healthy adults, but public health guidance advises some people to avoid it or check with a doctor first.
- Not usually advised: epilepsy, kidney disease, low blood pressure, open wounds or skin ulcers, and any contagious illness. Wait 14 days after a stomach bug or diarrhoea.
- Check with your doctor first: heart conditions, asthma, severe eczema or psoriasis, psychosis, or sensitivity to magnesium, sulphates, bromine or chlorine.
- Pregnancy: speak to your midwife or doctor before booking.
- Claustrophobia: choose an open float pool, or keep the door open and light on.
- Medication: sedating medicines can raise the risk of drowsiness, so tell the centre and ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Under 16s: many centres do not allow young people to float.
Floating should complement, not replace, medical or mental health care.
Patch testing
A patch test is not usually needed for float therapy. The water contains Epsom salt, which is magnesium sulphate, along with a disinfectant such as bromine or chlorine, and most people float without any skin reaction.
That said, the salt can sting broken or freshly shaved skin, and some people with sensitive skin notice itching or dryness afterwards. If you have reacted to Epsom salt baths, bromine or chlorine before, or if you live with severe eczema, psoriasis or another skin condition, check with your doctor or dermatologist before booking. Ask the centre which disinfection system they use, as this varies. Covering small nicks with petroleum jelly, showering well before and after, and moisturising afterwards help keep skin comfortable. If you notice redness, swelling or a rash after floating, rinse thoroughly with fresh water and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor before you float again.
Knowing a good practitioner
Green flags
A well run float centre makes your first session feel easy. Look for:
- A friendly health check and clear safety briefing for first timers.
- Easy to use controls for light, sound and calling staff.
- Clear explanation of how the water is filtered and disinfected between sessions.
- Spotless private rooms with non slip floors, fresh towels and showers.
- Ear plugs, petroleum jelly, a float pillow and fresh water spray provided.
- Options for nervous floaters, such as open pools or keeping the light on.
- A calm lounge to rest in afterwards.
- Honest information about what floating can and cannot do.
Staff should be happy to answer questions and never rush you in or out of your session.
Red flags
A float centre should feel calm, clean and safe. Take care if you notice:
- No health questions or safety briefing before your first float.
- A tank or pod that cannot be opened easily from inside.
- No call button, light switch or way to contact staff.
- Cloudy water, a strong chemical smell or visible dirt.
- No requirement to shower before entering.
- Staff allowing people to float after drinking alcohol.
- Slippery floors with no mats or grab rails.
- Claims that floating cures illness, removes toxins or replaces medication.
You can end your float at any time. Raise concerns with the centre manager, and if hygiene seems poor, contact your local environmental health or public health service.
Questions to ask
These questions will help you feel prepared for your first float.
- Do you have an open float pool, or only enclosed pods?
- Can I keep the light on or the door open during my float?
- How is the water filtered and disinfected between sessions?
- What do you provide, and what should I bring?
- Is floating suitable with my health condition, medication or pregnancy?
- How long is the session, and how much time is there to shower afterwards?
- What happens if I want to get out early?
Frequently asked questions
Can you drown in a float tank?
Drowning in a float tank is extremely unlikely, according to public health guidance, because the water is so dense with salt that you float even if you fall asleep. The water is also shallow. To stay safe, never float after alcohol, drugs or sedating medication, and follow the centre's safety briefing.
What do you wear in a float tank?
Most people float without clothing, as the room is private and swimwear can press on the skin and distract you as you relax. Wearing swimwear is completely fine if you prefer. Remove jewellery and contact lenses, and use the ear plugs provided to keep salt water out of your ears.
Is float therapy good for anxiety?
Small studies are encouraging. In one trial, a single float reduced anxiety and muscle tension more than a comparison activity in people with anxiety disorders, and another found repeated floats safe and well tolerated. Larger studies are still needed, so think of floating as a supportive relaxation tool alongside care from your doctor, not a replacement for it.
How long is a float session?
Most float sessions last about 60 minutes, with extra time before and after for showering and settling. Some centres offer shorter introductory floats or longer sessions of 90 minutes. If you are new to floating, an hour gives you time to settle in and relax without feeling it is too long.
Can I float if I am claustrophobic?
Many people with claustrophobia float happily. Choose a centre with an open float pool or a roomy cabin rather than a small pod, and keep the light on or the door slightly open. You are always in control and can get out whenever you wish. Tell staff when booking so they can help you feel at ease.
Can you float when pregnant?
Many people enjoy floating during pregnancy because the water takes the weight off the body, but check with your midwife or doctor first, as public health guidance advises. Tell the centre you are pregnant when booking, take extra care getting in and out, and stop if you feel too warm, unwell or uncomfortable.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Speak to a qualified practitioner, and to your GP if you have a medical condition, before booking.