New to Floating
Floatation is a tool with a wide array of benefits. Here at Float Valley we create a specialized environment that is difficult to find anywhere else. Click on a float intention below to learn more about how floating can assist you!
Float Intentions
Floating is primarily a tool to help facilitate mental stillness which is an integral part of meditation. While floating most people feel like they are truly in the moment. In this state, they are awake but extremely relaxed. This is also known as the theta brainwave state or flow. Meditation has been proven to help with many things some of which include: anxiety, depression, substance abuse, memory, creativity, blood pressure, etc.
While floating the body automatically suppresses our flight or fight response and activates the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsive for relaxation and healing. Some of the physical effects noted during and after floating are increased endorphins, lower blood pressure, decreased stress hormones, muscular tension and anxiety.
Floating research has shown that users produce much higher levels of endorphins after experiencing profound relaxation. After an hour in a sensory deprived environment many people experience much lower amounts of pain and many are able to stop using their painkillers altogether.
Floating can provide overdue rest for those who find it tough to sleep or experience insomnia. The regenerative properties of floating for 60 minutes are equivalent to 4-6 hours of sleep. Floating helps eliminate chronic fatigue and is also very useful tool to recover from jetlag.
There have been many experiments that show the linkage between floating and creativity. The relaxing effects from floating help your brain generate creative new ideas, imagery, and solutions for your work. People using the tank have reported an increase in free imagery and remote associations.
Each float tank contains approximately 800-1000lbs of epsom salts which is also known as magnesium sulfate. During your session the magnesium is absorbed by the skin and into the muscles. This provides a range of benefits which include reduced: muscular tension, anxiety, toxins, pain and inflammation. It has been shown that magnesium is absorbed at a higher rate through the skin than when taken orally. In addition, magnesium is the second most deficient mineral in the average diet.
In our fast paced lives our system doesn’t really have time to take a break. The sensory deprived environment removes all stimuli to create a space that is rejuvenating and healing without the constant buzz of everyday life. Humans are well adapted for acute stress but we are not suited for chronic stressors such as pollution, fear, crime, business, social and family pressures. Floating gives us an opportunity to reset ourselves by getting away from it all.
While floating many people report that they are intensely awake but extremely relaxed at the same time. This state is very useful for those that want to hone their skills through visualization techniques. Whether they are athletes preparing for competition or speakers rehearsing for a presentation the floatation environment is what they need to perform at their best. Also, it has been shown that mental rehearsal is just as powerful as physical rehearsal.
While floating in a sensory reduced environment the mind can become hyper-suggestible. With zero distractions the mind is able to make far greater use of its resources. This allows it to absorb new material much more deeply and at a greater rate with improved performance in memory and recall activities. Great for exam preparation and improving work performance.
Without any outward distractions your attention automatically is redirected inward during your float session. Habitual thought-pattern recognition and analysis can be clearly discovered, monitored, and addressed . Various forms of mental programming/reprogramming become very powerful tools to reevaluate and change your thoughts with clarity and repetition.
Floating induces a state similar to that of a zero gravity environment. This helps decrease muscular tension and creates a better awareness of muscular imbalances.
Our brains waves can be measured like electrical signals in levels or frequencies. Theta brainwaves occur during the early stages of sleep and in deep relaxation. Scientists have found that this state offers many mind/body benefits and that floating is an easy, enjoyable way to get there. Zen meditation masters strive to achieve the theta state after years of practice. Current research shows that people who float can achieve this state much more quickly and effortlessly.
Floating is primarily a tool to help facilitate mental stillness which is an integral part of meditation. While floating most people feel like they are truly in the moment. In this state, they are awake but extremely relaxed. This is also known as the theta brainwave state or flow. Meditation has been proven to help with many things some of which include: anxiety, depression, substance abuse, memory, creativity, blood pressure, etc.
While floating the body automatically suppresses our flight or fight response and activates the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsive for relaxation and healing. Some of the physical effects noted during and after floating are increased endorphins, lower blood pressure, decreased stress hormones, muscular tension and anxiety.
Floating research has shown that users produce much higher levels of endorphins after experiencing profound relaxation. After an hour in a sensory deprived environment many people experience much lower amounts of pain and many are able to stop using their painkillers altogether.
Floating can provide overdue rest for those who find it tough to sleep or experience insomnia. The regenerative properties of floating for 60 minutes are equivalent to 4-6 hours of sleep. Floating helps eliminate chronic fatigue and is also very useful tool to recover from jetlag.
There have been many experiments that show the linkage between floating and creativity. The relaxing effects from floating help your brain generate creative new ideas, imagery, and solutions for your work. People using the tank have reported an increase in free imagery and remote associations.
Each float tank contains approximately 800-1000lbs of epsom salts which is also known as magnesium sulfate. During your session the magnesium is absorbed by the skin and into the muscles. This provides a range of benefits which include reduced: muscular tension, anxiety, toxins, pain and inflammation. It has been shown that magnesium is absorbed at a higher rate through the skin than when taken orally. In addition, magnesium is the second most deficient mineral in the average diet.
In our fast paced lives our system doesn’t really have time to take a break. The sensory deprived environment removes all stimuli to create a space that is rejuvenating and healing without the constant buzz of everyday life. Humans are well adapted for acute stress but we are not suited for chronic stressors such as pollution, fear, crime, business, social and family pressures. Floating gives us an opportunity to reset ourselves by getting away from it all.
While floating many people report that they are intensely awake but extremely relaxed at the same time. This state is very useful for those that want to hone their skills through visualization techniques. Whether they are athletes preparing for competition or speakers rehearsing for a presentation the floatation environment is what they need to perform at their best. Also, it has been shown that mental rehearsal is just as powerful as physical rehearsal.
While floating in a sensory reduced environment the mind can become hyper-suggestible. With zero distractions the mind is able to make far greater use of its resources. This allows it to absorb new material much more deeply and at a greater rate with improved performance in memory and recall activities. Great for exam preparation and improving work performance.
Without any outward distractions your attention automatically is redirected inward during your float session. Habitual thought-pattern recognition and analysis can be clearly discovered, monitored, and addressed . Various forms of mental programming/reprogramming become very powerful tools to reevaluate and change your thoughts with clarity and repetition.
Floating induces a state similar to that of a zero gravity environment. This helps decrease muscular tension and creates a better awareness of muscular imbalances.
Our brains waves can be measured like electrical signals in levels or frequencies. Theta brainwaves occur during the early stages of sleep and in deep relaxation. Scientists have found that this state offers many mind/body benefits and that floating is an easy, enjoyable way to get there. Zen meditation masters strive to achieve the theta state after years of practice. Current research shows that people who float can achieve this state much more quickly and effortlessly.
Best Practices
Pre-float
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your session. This allows for enough time for check-in and room preparation so that you can start your session on time.
For women, avoid shaving your body at least 12 hours before your float. For men, avoid shaving your face at least 6 hours before your float. Any cuts or openings can be distracting due to the epsom salt stinging.
You don’t want to be super full or empty. Having a light, easily digestible meal 1.5 to 2 hours pre-float is probably ideal.
Drink a bit of water before your float to avoid dehydration but don’t overdo it otherwise you’ll have to go to the washroom mid float.
Be sure to use the washrooms provided before entering your session. It can be very distracting and annoying during the float.
Smoking prior to your session may be too stimulating. However, you’ll need to figure out what the best formula is for you and your biochemistry.
Definitely avoid caffeine before floating. The stimulation is the exact opposite of what you want to feel during your session.
We have found that performing physical activity before your float can greatly enhance the experience. Relaxation of the muscles, increased blood flow and a clear and calm mind are fantastic, post-workout.
If you have recently colored hair or highlights we recommend not floating for roughly a week or more after treatment. Sometimes the dyes can bleed out or be affected by the epsom salt.
Please wait 4 weeks minimum after getting a tattoo before floating. If it is a larger piece then we advise 6-8 weeks in order to protect your art.
In the tank
Your breath is an incredible tool for calming the mind and relaxing your body. Try to breathe primarily from your nose. At first, you can consciously take deep breaths, but once you settle into your experience try less to manipulate the breath and more just observing the breath. Your body will always remember to breath, there is no need to control your breath.
There are two positions that you can adopt while in the tank - arms at your sides, palms down or arms overhead with palms up. Play around and choose which is the most comfortable.
Don’t try to do anything in the tank or expect something to happen as this may cause your mind to become to active. Rather, just be present and focus on your breathing or repeating a focus word such as “peace”, “relax” or “let go”.
Once you find a position that is comfortable for you try your best to stay physically still. This will help the body to relax and can generate the perception of timelessness.
As the water is heavily saturated with salt you want to try your best to avoid getting any water in your eyes or mouth as it can be uncomfortable. We provide a pump water bottle to spray your face in case this happens.
Perks of Becoming a Member
You can purchase floats individually or in packs at an affordable rate but you get the best value by becoming a member of Float Valley. With this membership you will have the option to choose between 1, 2 and 4 floats a month. You’ll also receive many perks like:
Discounted extra floats
10-15% discount on retail items
Discounted/Free Ocean Cabin access
Unrestricted access to our meditation room
Shareable (bring anyone to float with you for only $60)
...and MUCH MORE!
Signup for your membership today by visiting our online store or calling us! Learn more about our membership packages.
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