What is a sensory deprivation tank?
It is a private space where you can experience freedom from your senses. It is a light proof enclosure filled with 10 inches of water and 1000 lbs of dissolved Epsom salt. This solution is heated to skin temperature allowing you to feel weightless and free from your senses. We also offer the option to hook up your preferred audio device.
What can I expect on my first float?
Physically floating in the solution is like floating on a cloud or in a light jello. You may initially drift around until you have found a position that feels right. Your body will be half submerged and float effortlessly on the surface. The experience will vary from person to person depending on how the time in the tank is used. Consider reading: The Book of Floating: Exploring the Private Sea by Michael Hutchison for more insight as to what to expect.
Try to take notice of the effects shortly after you leave the chamber. Most people will find a nice boost of energy, enhanced awareness, and even deeper capacity to relax.
How many tanks do you have? Can I float with a friend? How do I schedule two appointments at the same time?
We currently have one tank. We are looking to expand in 2014 to offer a second location with more tanks. In the meantime you would need to schedule back to back floats if you intent to float with someone.
Can I float with a friend?
Not at the same time, you would need to book back to back appointments. Keep in mind there is 15 minute break added after each float for filtering.
How do I schedule two appointments at the same time?
As we only have one tank, you are not currently able to schedule two appointments at the same time.
Do you have memberships or discounts for frequent floaters?
We will be offering membership packages at discounted rates very soon! Check out our blog or our Facebook page for our latest updates.
What if I'm claustrophobic or have a fear of dark/isolation?
It depends a lot on the degree of phobia. In the tank there is total darkness and no feeling of being “closed in” since the tank is relatively large.
You could choose to float a little first with the lights on or the door open in order to build your confidence in the space. You may come to our location to look at the tank first, do some research , and ask questions. If you still feel that you have a phobia and would still like to have the experience consider checking consulting with a professional that can help you overcome those fears and cap it off with a nice relaxing float.
I can't swim and just don't float on water?
Swimming ability is not required to float. Because of the salts dissolved in the water your body will float naturally and effortlessly.
Will my gift certificates expire?
No the gift certificates will not expire, please reach out at info@floatscience.com if you have any questions.
Can I drown?
Because there is only 10 inches of water you can sit up at any time. If you are worried about falling asleep and rolling over, don't worry, it is almost impossible to involuntarily roll over due to the salt concentration and if you manage to the solution would wake you up.
What position should I lay in?
Find something comfortable for you, it will vary from person to person. Some popular positions include arms behind your head or arms at your sides.
Is the water Clean?
Yes. We regularly maintain our water with strict adherence to FTA regulations and personally test our tanks weekly to ensure that the experience is a pleasant one. Between every float the water is filtered over a minimum of 3 times going through our filtration system and a UV filter. Additionally the hypersalinity makes the environment unfit for pathogenic organisms.
Does the water have chlorine?
No we use natural enzymes and do not treat the water with chlorine.
How early should I arrive?
We strongly recommend that fist time floaters arrive 30 minutes early so that we can help address any questions you may have and that you have ample time to shower and change so that you could make the most of your float. If you have floated before and are familiar, we recommend coming at least 15 minutes early to get settled in before your float.
What if I get nauseous?
There are rare cases of guests reporting nausea, possibly from the initial wave movements in the water. If you are feeling nauseous please exit until your nausea subsides.
Is it anything like I saw in The Simpsons episode?
There are cases of reported visual and auditory hallucinations within the chamber, though this is rare. This occurs because you are awake and the areas of the brain that deal with interpreting sensations of light and hearing are being activated. The hallucinations may appear as spots of light, sounds, or even dream-like states. Very few people, however, experience this phenomenon.
What is provided?
We will provide you with some footwear, towels, robes, a private locker to store your stuff, and earplugs.
What should I bring?
Please bring a bathing suit to float in and a swimming cap if you like. If you are concerned that the salt may cause discoloration, don't take your favorite one. If you have a preferred brand of earplugs you may bring those as well, we use Mack's silicone earplugs. Please be sure to wash anything you choose to bring when you shower.
How will I know when its time to exit?
We will turn the light on 5 minutes before to let you know, or if you use the audio option you may also set an alarm on your device.
What if I need to use the bathroom?
You should exit and use the bathroom. Try to only eat a light meal beforehand and use the facilities before you enter. Avoid drinking too many liquids and be sure to avoid caffeine/other stimulants to get the most from your experience and keep your stomach from gurgling.
Can I float naked?
We currently do not allow our guests to float naked.
Can I get locked in?
No, there is no locking mechanism on the door and it opens easily. Just feel for the handle from the inside and push.
What can I bring in the tank?
Nothing but your swim cap, earplugs, and swimwear. Please do not bring any other external items into the float tank and be sure to remove all jewelry.
What about my cosmetics?
All cosmetics and chemicals should be removed prior to entering the chamber. All guests are required to shower beforehand at our facilities and rinse their swimwear as well. This keeps any potential allergens or irritants out of the tank.
What temperature is the water?
We keep it at about 93.5 degrees, the temperature of your skin.
What is the depth of the water?
It is about 10 inches deep.
Do I lay, or sit?
You are able to sit up in the water but should be laying for your experience.
Should I bring Slippers/Towels?
If you have a favorite set you are welcome bring them, but we will provide slippers and towels you may use.
Can I go in after drinking or taking medication?
Sorry, we only allow sober guests to use the tank and we reserve the right to deny service if we have reason to believe a user might be intoxicated. Please check with your doctor to ensure that your medication will not cause any problems.
What if I'm injured before my float?
It depends upon the nature of the injury. If it is a joint or a muscle pain check with your doctor first, but the float tank could even help speed up your recovery. In the case of an open wound, you will need to reschedule. Don't forget to note the appointment you are looking to reschedule and your desired time. Kindly let us know as soon as possible.
What if I'm pregnant?
If you are pregnant you should get clearance from your doctor first and take extra caution around the tank.
What if I am menstruating?
If you are menstruating please use our contact form to reschedule your appointment to another time. Kindly let us know as soon as possible.
Can two people float at once?
No the tank is designed to allow for one person to float at a time.
How will I breathe?
There are air vents on the back of the tank. It can feel humid inside the tank, but most people don't find it uncomfortable.
Is the tank light proof?
Yes, just remember to turn the lights off before entering.
Is the tank sound proof?
The tank does a good job at keeping sound out, but we strongly suggest using earplugs (will be provided or you may bring your own). The earplugs will help keep sound out as well as keep the solution out of your ears.
Will it help with my pain?
Many users experience a release of endorphin and decrease in pain. The magnesium in the salts helps tremendously with soreness and muscle pain, also the floating naturally relieves pressure from joints and the spine.
What if I fall asleep?
That does happen with some people from time to time. It has been demonstrated that an hour in the float tank, awake or not, equates to 2 - 6 hours of sleep depending on the brain's level of activity. Rest assured that we will get you when your time is up.
What is the effect of the salt?
Epsom salts have a number of benefits. Your body absorbs magnesium which is one of the most common mineral deficiencies. The USDA notes that over 40% of Americans are deficient of magnesium. Additionally the magnesium acts to open up pores, exfoliate the skin, and help with muscle soreness.
Will the salt stay on my skin?
After the float you will find that the salt will be on your skin like a white powder. It washes off easily in the shower and your skin will feel great after.
What if I have a cut?
If it is an open wound you will need to reschedule your float. For small cuts it will sting because of the salt, but they may be covered with petroleum jelly. For this reason we don't recommend shaving right before the float.
Can I get the water into my mouth?
You may get the water in your mouth and it will taste bitter and unpleasant. There are no negative effects from getting the water in your mouth, but you should try to avoid it.
Can I get the water it into my eyes?
Ouch, that will sting, but won't cause any damage to your eyes.
Should I remove my contacts?
Yes please remove your contacts before entering.
Can I float with the light on?
Yes it is one way to get acquainted with the space if you are feeling a bit anxious about your float. Ultimately we strongly recommend floating with the lights off.
What are the benefits of floating?
There are many benefits to floating. To name a few, it helps with: normalizing sleeping patterns, maintaining blood pressure, relaxation, lowering stress and stress related hormones, enhancing focus and awareness, improves creativity, strengthens the immune system, helps with pain relief, recovery from injuries, performance in sports, alleviates depression and anxiety, lowers inflammation in joints, reduces addictive tendencies, assists with recovery from jet lag, and more. Consider reading: The Book of Floating: Exploring the Private Sea by Michael Hutchison for some more insights to the benefits and history on float tanks.
What are the tank's dimensions?
The tank measures 99" long, 56" wide and 45" high on the outside and 90" by 48" by 41" on the inside.
Does it play Audio/Video?
There is no video option, however we have an audio option! The audio is often used for for binaural beats, instructional audio, learning foreign languages, listening to lectures or books, and you have yet to hear your favorite album if you have not tried listening to it in a sensory deprivation tank!
Consider what you want to gain from your experience and if you want to play some audio, pick something that compliments your goals. For first time users it might be a good idea to put on something comforting for the first 20 minutes while you get accustomed to the space, and then soak in the experience.
How do I hook up my audio device?
In the locker there is a headphone jack. Simply plug it in, set the volume and you're good to go.
But how will I hear anything with the earplugs?
Your ears will be submerged underwater and the solution will allow you to hear the audio even with the earplugs on. It is a unique and immersive way to experience the audio.
Can I bring my kids and is it safe for them?
It is safe for kids, but anyone under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a guardian at all times.
Is there anything I should do to prepare before floating?
Don't drink coffee for several hours beforehand, as it will make you jittery and make it difficult for your mind to relax. Also, don't shave or wax prior to your float, as the salt water can irritate your skin. Eat a light meal about an hour to 90 minutes before will keep your stomach from gurgling while you float. Use the facilities and shower beforehand and that's about it.
Do I have to stay in the whole time?
No you should stay however long you feel comfortable and you are not obligated to stay the whole time if you don't wish to. You are able to exit the chamber anytime you'd like.
Is there anyone who should avoid floating?
You should not float if you have any infectious skin disorders, respiratory conditions, incontinence, serious mental conditions, epilepsy, open wounds, have colored/permed your hair within the week, are menstruating, or are under the influence of drugs/alcohol.
How come when I float I don't get wrinkly?
Wrinkles occur when water removes salt from your skin. Due to the high salt concentration in the solution the salt will not be depleted from your skin and your skin will feel smooth and soft after.
How can I cancel my membership?
here is no minimum subscription term and you may cancel your membership at any time by going to our cancellation page http://floatscience.com/subscriptions/cancel and submitting your user info, or by emailing us at info@floatscience.com. Please note that membership cancellations need to occur before 12 AM EST on the day before you are billed otherwise you will be billed for the following month.
If you cancel, you may use your current code until the end of the subscription term and your subscription will not renew once the term expires. You are not and will not be eligible for a prorated refund of any portion of the subscription fee paid for the then-current subscription period. You can re-subscribe at any time following your cancellation.
What is your refund policy?
All sales are final and we will be unable to credit back your payment once it has been processed. We are able to reschedule your appointment depending on the circumstances. Please provide 48 hour notice and immediately notify us if you will need to reschedule your float. Reschedule requests within 48 hours of the appointment will be subject to a $15 processing fee. In the case that you are unable to attend your float we are able to provide you with a credit on our site which may be transferred to another party.
If you have any other questions feel free to ask. We hope that you enjoy your float.
