Float tanks have been around since the 1950’s. They virtually disappeared in the 80’s and 90’s due to the fear and misunderstanding of the transmission of a the AIDS virus, which reached pandemic proportions and still remains an undercurrent of fear in our current society. Several decades ago, there were not the same worldwide influences of social media and the internet. Now, we are moving at lightning speed and in many different directions. Life balance is at a tipping point. 

The covid-19 pandemic has stirred up a lot of reflection and insight, but it has also brought a lot of new stress and anxiety, along with collateral damage to sleep patterns, pain syndromes and other health related issues. This is why sensory deprivation and float tanks are back in style again and needed more than ever. 

In our constantly “on” world, it’s hard to find ways and time to unplug and reset. To pause. To breathe. To let the brain shift into a state of creativity and rewiring, like the stages of restful sleep. Float therapy does not involve someone touching you or talking to you. It is just you floating effortlessly, like a cork, for an hour.  During this time, you focus on your heartbeat, your breath, your digestive noises, your thoughts, or just nothingness. Maybe you choose to turn the lights and music off and float in complete darkness. Maybe you keep your eyes open in the darkness. Maybe you leave the light on. Then you realize that your thoughts are slowing down. Your mind is shifting. You drift off into “nowhereland” for a bit. Then back to hearing your heartbeat. Then that great idea pops into your head. You smile. You fall asleep for a second.

Then the session ends and you get out of the tank refreshed, feeling noticeably different. Your muscles are mush. Your mind is quiet and clear. Your mood is light bright. You are more resilient and adaptable to your surroundings. Your reactions are tempered.  You slow down.

As the reality of the pandemic and the all the other larger than life things coming at you a mile a minute, floating makes life feel more manageable.  Which is why floating during a pandemic is crucial.