Relax
your mind
while healing
your body
ABOUT US
Blissful Float Spa is a floatation centre that offers a unique therapy experience through tanks filled with Epsom Salt. This luxurious experience which feels like floating in space, has been proven to help with stress and anxieties, insomnia, headaches, depression, ADHD symptoms, PTSD, sensory overload, high blood pressure, jet lag, arthritis, osteoporosis, strains and sport injuries. Our team is dedicated to providing the best experience to our clients. Come and experience the benefits of float therapy today!
Floatation is a free floating of the body on the water surface in a specialized floating tanks filled with water and healing Epsom salt solution, providing adequate buoyancy.
The buoyancy created effectively removes the effects of gravity on the body, and brings the individual close to an experience of total weightlessness. Unless you are an astronaut, this is the only situation you will encounter where your body is free from the harmful forces of gravity. A huge amount of brain-power is used every second in order to deal with the strain that gravity places on one’s body but now floating weightlessly your body is perfectly supported by a cushion of silky liquid.
The body drifts in conditions of sensory isolation from external stimuli. Sounds, images, touch, the force of gravity disappear... Freed from all sensation of gravity, temperature, touch, sight and sound (which together account for 90% of normal neuro-muscular activity), you conserve and redirect vast amounts of natural physical and mental energy.
The ultra-deep relaxation of floating “resets” the body’s hormonal and metabolic balance, accelerating recovery from the effects of stress, illness, injury or strenuous exercise.
With no commands needing to be sent out, the logical side of the brain is rendered redundant, and its activity slows down until it synchronises with the creative side. This leaves the individual in a dreamlike state, akin to the thoughts experienced just before you go to sleep. In this state, the brain releases vast amounts of endorphins. While the state of relaxation may be deep and profound, the individual’s brain stays dreamily alert. The brain gradually shifts from its usual waking beta state to generate deep alpha, theta or even delta waves, the state-of-mind that Buddhist monks try to reach through hours of meditation and years of training.
You can achieve this in a matter of minutes just by lying back into the silky warm sea of bliss that is the floatation experience!
WHAT IS EPSOM SALT?
Don't be misled by the word 'salt': there is big difference between the salt you season your food and the Epson Salt. In fact, they're totally different mineral compounds. Epsom salt is a mineral compound of magnesium and MgSO4 sulphate.
It was first discovered in England in the 17th century during a drought. A local cowherd had stopped with his cattle on Epsom common at a pool of water that the cows were refusing to drink from. The water had mostly evaporated, leaving behind a salt that was extremely bitter in taste.
Epsom became a popular destination with visitors with a range of health conditions swigging pints of Epsomite dissolved in water.
Scientists eventually found Epsom salt to have a whole range of health benefits.
Thanks to the main ingredient, magnesium, it reduces inflammation, flashes out toxins, improves skin, reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes, improves the use of oxygen in cells, reduces the risk of vascular diseases, has a positive effect on the immune system, joint pain and muscle cramps and regulates the action of over 300 enzymes.
In turn, sulphates facilitate the cellular absorption of nutrients, stimulate the digestive functions of the pancreas, help detoxify the body and alleviate headaches and migraines.
Studies have shown that magnesium and sulphate are easily absorbed through the skin, so an Epsom salt bath is the perfect way to enrich your body with these two ingredients.
Benefits of the floatation therapy
Stress relief
The floating capsule effectively reduces stress because it cuts off all external stimuli and allows you to dissolve in a state similar to meditation. Floating on water in a floating capsule lowers blood pressure and the level of stress hormones: adrenaline and cortisol. It activates parasympathetic nervous system, which gets you out of "fight or flight" response while your breathing and heart rate slow down. It stabilizes the functioning of the endocrine system. It activates the secretion of endorphins, which puts you in a great mood and bliss. It stimulates the brain to release theta waves, characteristic of the meditation state. Theta waves also reduce stress, increase creativity, accelerate the learning process, awaken intuition and extrasensory perception, and integrate the mind and body. All this makes a floating session the best way to completely calm your mind and eliminate stress.
Sleep and insomnia
Float Therapy has been proven in several studies to both improve the quality of your sleep and reduce the time it takes to nod off, by activating a parasympathetic nervous system and reducing cortisol. A study by Fine and Borrie into effects of floatation on psychology, revealed that 65% of subjects reported improvements in sleep quality. A 1993 study by Ballard found that 4 floatation sessions provided statistically and clinically significant improvements in how quickly subjects could fall asleep. Floating activates your parasympathetic nervous system and reduces cortisol which has been shown to create a pathway for deeper, more restorative sleep.
If you are low in energy and feel as if you are not getting enough sleep, a one-hour floatation session removes the need to process external stimuli so all your bodily resources can be redirected to rest and recovery. This leaves you feeling not only calm and relaxed of mind, but rejuvenated in body. A one-hour floatation session has been said to provide the same benefits as 4 hours' sleep.
Improved sport performance
for athletes
Rest in a floating cabin is an excellent regeneration for athletes - both amateurs and professionals. Did you know that the Australian Institute of Sport included floating sessions in the Olympic preparation program in 1983? Carl Lewis, one of the most outstanding and titled track and field athletes in the world, used a session in a floating cabin while preparing for the Olympic starts. Now you can take advantage of this unique regeneration - cleanse your body and mind of tension, muscles - of lactic acid and toxins and get rid of pain.
Another considerate benefit of float therapy is increased blood flow and oxygenation , which aids the healing process after injury or exercise.
Float therapy can also improve joint mobility and flexibility through increased range of motion. The weightless experienced during floating allows athletes' joints to move freely, increasing mobility while reducing inflammation around sore joints; this means less stiffness when exercising.
Athletes can obtain a broader range of motion by lowering tension and increasing relaxation in the joints and muscles. This is exceptionally advantageous for athletes who engage in sports like football, basketball, or soccer that require a quick change of direction and where injuries such as ankle sprains are common.
Pain relief
Floating takes tension off of your bones and joints as you aren't under the effect of gravity. Muscle tension accumulated as a result of sedentary work, stress or physical exertion, melts away. The magnesium absorbed from a tonne of medical grade Epsom salts is also highly anti-inflammatory. Relaxing in a floating capsule stimulates the release of endorphins, which block pain. Floating reduces spine pain and brings relief from chronic and rheumatic pain.
Tension headaches
and Migraines
Migraines are thought to be caused by restricted blood flow due to constricted blood vessels. Floatation therapy helps with reducing vascular inflammation and also helps with dilation of the blood vessels, thereby alleviating a migraine attack or preventing one from starting.
In a study published in the journal Pain Research and Management, researches found that floatation therapy significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of migraine headaches in participants. Another study published in the journal Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, found that floatation therapy can reduce the severity and frequency of tension headaches, which can sometimes be precursor to migraines.
The benefits of floatation therapy for migraines may be due to the high concentration of magnesium in the water. Low levels of magnesium have been linked to an increased risk of migraines, and increasing magnesium intake through floatation may help to alleviate symptoms.
Autism and ADHD symptoms
These neuro conditions are intrinsically linked to external stimulation. Our lifestyles are so bombarded with sensory stimulation, and for someone with this level of sensitivity the impact can be extra overwhelming. A float pod is a haven of sensory deprivation, and the ultimate setting to tune out from external stimulations and really recharge.
Lying in a float tank for a whole hour can be challenging for someone with Autism or ADHD, so gradually increasing the time spent in the pod is a good idea.
Pregnancy
We advise that floating should be avoided in the first three months of pregnancy, based on the knowledge that the first trimester is when most miscarriages naturally occur. If a miscarriage were to coincidentally occur not long after a float session took place, it would put us at risk of accusations. We believe floating is safe for pregnancy, although we recommend that all mothers-to-be should speak with their midwife / health professional about floating prior to taking their first float session.
Floating is very popular with pregnant women, particularly those in the third trimester who find the gravity-free environment of the float tank a much needed heaven from the huge strain that the latter stages of pregnancy place on the body. Even laying on the sofa or bed can be extremely uncomfortable for pregnant women. It is perfect for biological regeneration for pregnant women. The feeling of weightlessness gives immediate pain relief because it relieves the spine. Floating reduces back and muscle pain. It gives a feeling of relief and extraordinary lightness. It reduces stress, which may affect the good course of pregnancy. It helps in the fight against insomnia, which troubles many women during pregnancy. It also reduces swelling by lowering blood pressure.
Additionally, it promotes bonding of mother and baby with 'mirror effect' as you and the baby both floating in water. Floating sessions are also recommended after the postpartum period, as they bring relief from postpartum depression.
FAQs
Is floating safe?
It's impossible to sink in our tanks, even if you tried! You don't need to be able to swim. Due to the high salt concentration in the water everyone will float, regardless of your size and weight. It is very common and completely fine to fall asleep in the float tank. The water line doesn't approach the mouth or nose and it's nearly impossible to accidently flip over. If you were to turn over, the salt would sting your eyes and wake you. You may call assistance at any time, by pressing assistance button inside the tank. The staff is always present on site to assist you.
Is float water clean?
Our float tanks are much more hygienic than a swimming pool or hot tub, and without a smell of chlorine. Between each session, the water is sanitised and filtered 4 times through 1-micron pool filter that's 100 times thinner than a human hair. It's the finest filtration system of any pod in the world. In addition, the water goes through a UV lamp filter to kill all bacteria. It is also micro-dosed with hydrogen peroxide to further sanitise the water. The water is tested regularly and changed systematically to assure the highest standards of cleanliness.
It's also worth to note that Epsom Salt has natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, and with such a high salt concentration in the water, no pathogenic microorganisms are able to exist in it.
The rooms and pods are deep cleaned everyday and also cleaned and sanitised in between each session.
Can I float if I'm claustrophobic?
It's a common worry, but the pods are much bigger than people expect - so big, in fact, that you can stretch out without touching the sides. If you do feel nervous, you can always leave the lid open, or have the inside light on for as long as you like - you're in complete control. Once inside the pod, people are usually surprised at how safe and relaxed they feel.
Do I need to prepare before the float session?
You don't need to prepare for your float. However, we recommend avoiding shaving, having heavy meal or drinking caffeine before your session.
Do I need to bring anything for the float session?
We provide everything you need to enjoy floatation experience: slippers, fluffy towels, disposable earplugs, Vaseline, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel to use in the floating room; and a bathrobe to wear if you need to quickly pop in the toilet in the middle of your floating session. In the Vanity room, you will find hairdryers, deodorants, make up remover, cotton buds and cotton pads, hair spray and hair gel. In the relaxation room, you are welcome to have one of our complimentary herbal teas and cookies. You may want to bring your own personal toiletries and hairbrush.
We recommend floating naked to be completely free of sensation - but if you prefer to wear a swimsuit or shorts, remember to bring it in a bag to put them in afterwards. We provide earplugs, Vaseline, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel to use in the floating room; and a bathrobe to wear if you need to quickly pop in the toilet in the middle of your floating session. In the Vanity room, you will find hairdryers, deodorants, make up remover, cotton buds and cotton pads, hair spray and hair gel. In the relaxation room, you are welcome to have one of our complimentary herbal teas and cookies. You may want to bring your own personal toiletries and hairbrush.
If you bring your laptop or tablet, ask the staff to put it in the locket storage, as it is not recommended to bring electrical devices into humid float room.
What can I expect from my first float session?
First you will be greeted by our team member and asked to fill out the waiver, and to take your shoes off before entering floating area. Slippers are provided. Then you will be shown around our spa: your float room, the toilet, the vanity space to use after session for drying hair and make up, and relaxation room to rest after a session. It is advisable to use the toilet before entering your float room.
Once your are in your float room, take a quick rinse in the shower. Then, dry your hands and face and fit the ear plugs (provided), fit them "well in" as your ears are just below the water line.
If you have just shaved, waxed or have any cuts or scratches, dry the skin and then apply a thin layer of Vaseline to the affected skin to prevent itchiness from the salty water (provided).
Climb into the pool and lie down gently, the buoyancy will lift your up. It is difficult to gauge how relaxed you are whilst floating - but you will notice afterwards!!! Indeed, people with sport injuries or back pain experience some discomfort in the early stages. One's brain focuses on even minor sensations due to near complete lack of "feeling" elsewhere. Bear with it - aches and pains will ebb away. Furthermore, your brain is going to take a while to settle down and you will probably have a lot of "random thoughts" coming out of nowhere at first. This may continue for some time, but don't be frustrated because your body is relaxing regardless, be patient you will eventually "drift off". Those "random thoughts" are not so random. Usually your brain sends you all the thoughts that you normally wouldn't be able to process due to constant distractions, or because you subconsciously supress them. A lot of floaters use the session for problem solving, new ideas, creativity, or to process their emotions, as the brain doesn't need to deal with gravity or sensory input, so it can use much more power to deal with your thoughts. However, if you don't want to have any thoughts, and you just want to relax, focus on your breathing (you will notice it's slower than usually~) and on your body, how your back, your legs and arms feel weightless and how the tension gets released. Focusing on your body and breathing should help you to send those random thoughts away and "drift off" to this deep state of relaxation. It usually takes a while to "drift off" on the first session, as we need to get use to the new environment, silence, experiment with different positions. However, on your following sessions it usually takes much faster to "drift off" and your relaxation state gest deeper.
Floating is recognised by the Back Pain Association as giving very effective pain relief; it takes about half an hour for muscles to relax completely. Please do not become frustrated if it takes you a while for your mind to settle down - everyone experience it. The real benefits are only noticed after the float session finishes.
Remember that you are in a private room, so you can leave the tank door open if you wish (you may feel a chill if you leave the tank open for the whole hour!), alternatively you can prop it partially open with your towel, rolled up. You might also want to leave the tank's interior light on. (switch is inside the tank to your left). If you get salt in your eyes there is a bottle of clean water hanging inside. There is second light, in the ceiling of the room and it will be dimmed automatically after you enter the pod.
In an hour you will become aware of the music again, indicating time to get out. Very occasionally people don't notice it, in which case the volume will be increased.
Once the session finishes, take a shower to wash off all the salty water, making sure you rinse your ears thoroughly, as in rare cases if allowed to crystallise on the eardrum, the salt can cause unpleasant crackling sound in your ears.
After the shower and getting dressed, you can make your way to the Vanity space where you can make your hair and make up.
In the end, you are welcome to relax with a cup of tea or water in our relaxation room.
What does floating do to the brain?
When you float, your brain produces lower wave patterns, specifically Theta waves, which are normally experienced during deep meditation or just before falling asleep. Your brain switches off 'fight or flight' mode and switches on the parasympathetic nervous system, known as 'rest and digest' mode.
During this experience, both sides of your brain begin to synchronise, a phenomenon referred to as whole brain thinking. This synchronization often leads to vivid imagery, clear and creative thoughts, sudden insights, innovative ideas, and unconventional solutions. Many also experience a profound sense of peace and joy, attributed to the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers.
Regular float sessions essentially train the ‘endorphin muscle’, rewiring the brain to secrete endorphins more frequently, causing a more consistent state of happiness and relaxation, and sustained levels of positive energy.
Due to these benefits, floating is effectively utilized in treating depression and various addictions, such as smoking and alcohol dependency. Additionally, it is employed in educational settings, including schools and universities, as a method for enhancing learning capabilities.
How often should I float?
There is no simple answer to this question. The frequency of floating really depends on your goals, your lifestyle, and your budget. Generally, you can expect to see more benefits if you float regularly.
As a starting point, we strongly recommend floating at least once a week for the first 3 / 4 sessions. As floating gives cumulative effect, this set of sessions will help you to get used to the experience and train your brain to get into the deep state of relaxation much faster and easier comparing to your initial sessions. Once you are used to it and find it easier to slip to that deep meditative state, you can adjust your frequency to your specific needs.
If you would like to see our rough guide on what frequency is recommended for each situation, visit our blog and click on the post: "How often should I float?"