Not all floats are awesome. Especially if you are new to floating, there are sometimes unrealistic expectations, such as thinking every float will enable an out of body experience, or that you’ll have some life changing realization while in the tank. While it is true that it is uncommon to have a bad float and that you generally feel perceptibly uplifted in both body and mind, poor preparation can lead to excess mind chatter, inability to get comfortable or taking longer to get into that sought after theta brainwave state. It sounds funny to say that floating, even though you are doing nothing, takes practice. Developing a few simple habits can ensure better quality, more predictable floats.

BE ON TIME

Probably the most important thing is to show up early for your float. People wonder why it took them 30 minutes to settle down after getting in the tank, when they raced in traffic, only to arrive at the time they were supposed to already be in the tank. If you are walking in the door at the time of your float, you are already late. Your heart and respiration rates will be elevated and you will likely be aware of the “thump thump” and the sound of your inhales and exhales. When this happens, seasoned floaters will consciously control their breathing, slowing it down while breathing deeply.

AVOID STIMULANTS

One thing to remember as you are headed for your float is that you are about to do nothing for an hour, seeking a quiet and meditative state. A surefire way to disrupt the ability to settle down is to have caffeine, energy drinks or anything that may stimulate your nervous system, including vitamins, inhalers, smoking or vaping. Recreational drugs like marajuana can also backfire on a relaxing float if you puff or ingest that sativa strain rather than the more sedating indica.

HAVE A LIGHT SNACK

Prior to getting in the float tank, have a light snack such as a power bar or a piece of fruit. Floating on an empty stomach is also ok, but the opposite is not. Having a large meal before (or not having eaten for many hours prior), can lead to an abundance of stomach and digestive noises that can be heard while under water, which is distracting. If you choose not to eat beforehand, carry a snack with you for afterwards, as it is common to emerge hungry, due to the deep relaxation that stimulates your digestion.

HYDRATE AFTERWARDS

Hydration is key to a healthy lifestyle, but not just before floating. If you pound that 24 ounce water bottle just before your float, your bladder will likely be talking to you half way through your float, which often prevents the mind from sinking deeper. This also means that seasoned floaters know to use the washroom before hopping into the tank. Even if you don’t feel the urge, it’s good to try. Save the hydration for afterwards.

FLOAT WITH INTENTION

Set an intention for your float. Is it about anxiety, pain or sleep? Have you had a particularly stressful week? Just back from travel? Using float therapy in tandem with other health care modalities is also a great way to leverage positive effects. Some float before or after counseling. Some float just before a massage, acupuncture or physical therapy session. Sometimes, there’s no intention, other than finding peace, solitude and a sense of unplugging. Having a reason to float is not necessary, but can be valuable.

PLAN FOR POST FLOAT

Planning the rest of your day after your float can enhance and maximize the effects. The hours ( and days) after floating are some of the most inspiring, creative and pain free moments. This is a great time to do creative thinking or writing. For some with pain, this is a great time to engage in exercise, as floating enables movements and activity that may have been problematic. Mostly, the hours after a float are best when just taking it easy letting the effects of the float sink in and take effect. A crazy post float schedule may not be the best choice.

FLOAT REGULARLY

Lastly, float regularly. A float here and there is always nice, but when you integrate floating into your wellness lifestyle, you see everything improve. The effects of floating are cumulative. Floating frequently, even for short bursts of time, can be very helpful and therapeutic for both the mind and body. Incorporating monthly floats are what seems to be most common and realistic, based on modern day schedules and lifestyles. Floating more than monthly is optimal for managing both physical and mental health conditions.

No matter who, what, when, why or how, there is no right or wrong with float therapy. It is just that if you follow these highly effective floating habits, the chances of you perceiving more benefit and enjoyment are greatly increased.

Author Dr. David Berv can be reached at david@myfloatzone.com