Everything You Wanted To Know About Floating*

(*but were afraid to ask)

What is floating?

Floating is a method of attaining the deepest relaxation that humankind has ever experienced. Essentially‚ it´s spending an hour lying in the dark‚ suspended in a warm solution (93.5 degrees‚ skin temperature) of water and Epsom salt‚ about 10 inches deep‚ and so dense that you float effortlessly. In short‚ floating is complete mental and physical relaxation.

What effects does floating have on the body?

In a gravity free environment the body balances and heals internally as all the senses are rested. Research shows that floating measurably reduces blood pressure and heart rate whilst lowering the levels of stress related chemicals in the body. Old injuries‚ and aches‚ (especially backaches) experience relief as floating helps blood circulation.

Floating is widely used in the treatment of stress‚ anxiety‚ and to improve concentration and creativity. Sports performance is also enhanced during floating allowing for quicker muscle recovery and is used by many professional athletes to enhance visualization practices.

Also‚ one hour of floating has the restorative effects of four hours of sleep.

What effects does floating have on the mind?

During a float‚ you produce slower brain-wave patterns‚ known as theta waves. Normally these are experienced only during deep meditation or in those moments just before you fall asleep. This is usually accompanied by vivid imagery‚ very clear creative thoughts‚ sudden insights and inspirations or feelings of profound peace and joy‚ induced by the release of endorphins‚ the body´s natural opiates.

Is floating successful for everyone?

Floating does not suit everybody. It needs willingness on your part to let go and see what happens‚ and you may need to float a few times before you are able to relax completely‚ both physically and mentally. Depending on your own journey through life‚ a float might provide an hour of total physical relaxation or a profound healing experience‚ emotionally and spiritually transforming. Floating can be a wonderful aid to opening doors into your inner world‚ gradually allowing access to those deeper levels at which real changes take place.

How sterile is the Floatroom?

Floatroom water is 99% sterile due to the extremely high concentration of salt. Sterile conditions of 100% are achieved with a tiny amount of pool bromine (just 2 parts per million). This sterile condition is maintained automatically and solution is completely filtered 2 to 3 times between each session.

Is it private?

Yes‚ you float within your own individual Float Suite‚ which has it´s own shower and is for your exclusive use for the duration of your session.

What if I am claustrophobic?

This is not a float tank‚ rather it is a Floatroom. You can stand up in it.

The Floatroom is approximately 8 feet long‚ 4 1/2 feet wide and is 7 feet high‚ about the size of a standard sauna. There is an upright door for easy access and internal grab handle for safety and support. You can leave the door open if you prefer. You are in total control over the environment.

What if I cannot float?

It is impossible not to float. 800 pounds of salt dissolved in the water creates ultra buoyancy. You float like a cork‚ your face is out of the solution‚ and your ears are underwater. Earplugs available free for floaters. An inflatable headrest is available free of charge if you wish to keep your ears above water.

Is there anything I need to do before floating?

Yes‚ due to the high concentration of Epsom salt in the water it is recommended that you remove contact lenses and jewelry.

Also try to postpone shaving until after the float session; salt water will sting a little for a few moments if you have shaved within a few hours of a float session. Any small cuts can be sealed with a little Vaseline available free at the center. Also‚ avoiding caffeine prior to floating seems to enhance the experience of ultimate relaxation.

Should I eat before floating?

It is recommended not to starve yourself or gorge yourself before floating. It is your stomach that you will have to listen to.

Is anyone not supposed to use the tank?

We do not recommend Floatroom use for an epileptic whose epilepsy is not under medical control; for people under the influence of alcohol‚ drugs‚ those with infectious diseases or open skin wounds.

Is it okay to float if you are pregnant or menstruating?

We suggest that you inform your doctor or midwife before floating. Responses from mother-to-be floaters are very positive as it gives great relief from the pull of gravity. It is best that you do not float while menstruating or when your period is expected.

What do I wear in the Floatroom?

We suggest just a smile. Floatroom is completely private and secure and clothing would just be a distraction. Of course you can wear a swimsuit if you prefer.

What position do I float in?

Whatever is most comfortable for you is correct. Some people float with their arms to the side‚ some with arms behind their head and you also can cross your arms over your abdomen. Zenwest suggests the arms to the side method to allow all muscles to completely relax‚ but the choice is completely up to individual preference.

We do not recommend floating face down.

Can I drown in the Floatroom?

Again‚ we do not recommend floating face down.

Is there air in the Floatroom?

Yes‚ we provide air at no cost.

Floatroom has a fully ventilated condensation-drip free interior.

What if I fall asleep in the Floatroom?

Some people do fall asleep while floating. You will still reap the rewards of the experience. An hour in the Floatroom will give the equivalent of 4 hours of sleep‚ whether you sleep during the session or simply find your Zen.

Do I need a bathing cap‚ towel or anything?

Bathing cap is not recommended‚ as it would have to be extremely tight to not allow water to get in. Towels are provided as well as a private shower in your room for use before and after session. Body wash and shampoo are also provided free of charge.

What effect will salt water have on my skin?

The Epsom salt solution is beneficial to the skin. Because the water contains such high salt levels it does not rob your skin of salt‚ (which is what causes wrinkling). Rather it leaves your skin soft and silky

Can two people float at the same time?

We don't recommend it. Floating in the tank is intended to be a private‚ individual experience. Zenwest has two Floatation Room Suites so you can bring a friend and schedule simultaneous sessions so you can share your experiences.

When is the best time to float?

There is no best time of day to float; it is totally a personal preference.

You may want to give yourself a little time after the float to enjoy the peace before you resume daily activities in the real world. Allow yourself to walk in the park or stroll through an art gallery to maximize the beauty of ultimate relaxation.

How long are the Floatroom sessions?

Regular sessions are 1 one hour in length You will be given 20 minutes on top of that hour to shower before and after your float. Zenwest recommends allowing at least 15 minutes after you float to let your body and mind absorb their newfound state of relaxation. Arrangements can be made to extend float sessions by 30 or 60 minutes. Pricing may vary due to scheduling; standard overtime rates are $20 per extra 30 minutes and $35 for extra 60 minutes.

How much does it cost?

A single session is $45. It is important to have a least 3 float sessions to feel the full benefits of floating‚ and we do offer an introductory package of 3 sessions for $100. This trial package is only available on your first visit. If you wish to try a single session because you are unsure if you will like the experience and afterwards you decide you would like the introductory package‚ Zenwest will be happy to upgrade you at that time and you can simply pay the difference.

Do I need to float more than once?

Frequent floaters have learned that practice in the art of relaxation leads to deeper levels of peace and easily see the potential of ongoing sessions.

You will have to see for yourself what a wonderful revitalizing experience the Floatroom can be and decide how often you wish to float.

Please learn about becoming a Zen Friend‚ where you can save money with a plan to float either once‚ twice‚ or four times a month.

Can I give a float session as a gift?

Yes‚ gift vouchers can be arranged over the phone or during your visit.

Do I need to make an appointment?

Sometimes you can get a same-day float‚ but usually you will need to book a time in advance. You can call Zenwest Thursday through Tuesday, 10am to 8pm.