Do you remember the government-sponsored experiments that Millie Bobby Brown’s character in Stranger Things went through? You’ve probably heard of float tanks or sensory deprivation chambers. These tanks are enclosed pods that are dark and soundproof where people can spend hours floating in warm water. The same mechanism that allows you to float in the Dead Sea results from the high salt content of the water making the water denser, which creates the buoyancy needed to stay afloat. Float therapy entails floating in lukewarm water combined with magnesium sulphate to match your body temperature.
Novak Djokovic, the world’s number two tennis player, uses floatation therapy to stay on top of his game.
BACK IN THE WOMB
Karishma Kapoor, founder of ALL.KA.MI and breathwork therapist, consciousness guide, and embodiment coach, says flotation therapy can result in intense feelings of relaxation for both mind and body, allowing people to feel calmer and sleep better. When Karishma used flotation therapy for the first time four years ago, she could see the appeal of it. She reflected on how amazing it was to float and how wonderful it was to be cut off from the outside world. That night, she experienced the “most rejuvenating, deepest sleep.”
Finding a sensory deprivation tank is simple because there are float centres and spas all over the world that offer float therapy.
"The idea behind float therapy is to transport you back into the womb so that you can heal from birth trauma as well. I believe they were very beneficial to me, I did this about four years ago, when I was just starting my full-fledged healing journey. Before I quit my job and followed my soul’s calling. Even now, I mean, the water element is what we can truly use to heal. Because water can be programmed. And we’re made up of 75 to 80% water.” — Karishma Kapoor, founder, ALL.KA.MI and breathwork therapist, consciousness guide, and embodiment coach
Karishma, who has had 11 float therapy treatments as well as the Hypnagogue Light Treatment, which aims to decalcify the pineal gland by emitting this very strong high vibration, high pulsating white light while wearing headphones.
“The goal is essentially to shift your brainwave activity into deep theta, delta, and even gamma states. The rewiring of irregularities in thought processes, the negativity that has arisen in the system as a result of trauma-based responses, all of this can be relived,” says Karishma adding, “The idea behind float therapy is to transport you back into the womb so that you can heal from birth trauma as well. I believe they were very beneficial to me, I did this about four years ago, when I was just starting my full-fledged healing journey. Before I quit my job and followed my soul’s calling. Even now, I mean, the water element is what we can truly use to heal.”
Because water can be programmed. And we’re made up of 75 to 80% water.”
SOOTHE THE SOUL
Although floating has long been popular in the wellness community, it has recently gained popularity and scientists’ attention as a potential treatment for conditions such as PTSD. It promotes deep relaxation and allows your brain to rest and regenerate. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with joint repair and post-workout pain. According to Ohio State University, “Floating is our best, most holistic recovery device for student-athletes who want to improve their performance while reducing their risk of injury.”
“It allows your mind and body to relax in a zero-gravity environment,” says Deepthi Babu, founder and director, Salt World adding, “Our pool contains 800 kgs of Epsom salt and filtered water, which creates buoyancy and allows you to float effortlessly. The temperature of the saline solution is matched to your skin temperature, so after a while you will feel absolutely weightless. When you start floating weightless, your brain goes into a deep level of relaxation, and your body recovers faster from injuries, pains, and stress.”
"The float therapy room, which contains a sensory deprivation tank, has been soundproofed using layering and packing. Minimal (or no) light has been provided to bring the mind and body into a state of silence. In an ideal state, the brain produces theta waves, which are required for complete relaxation, body healing and repair, improved concentration, and creativity,” adds Deepthi.
A JOURNEY INTO THE ZONE OF NOTHINGNESS
According to Deepthi, the benefits of floating sessions vary depending on one’s personal experience. “While many people use it as a form of physical therapy, athletes find it to be rejuvenating and relaxing for their tired muscles. In addition to these benefits, some people report improved spiritual health, which helps them overcome their fears. Floating in a tank eliminates the gravity on the body allowing muscles and joints to release tension and heal more rapidly. People suffering from musculoskeletal and rheumatic conditions greatly benefit from sensory deprivation tank therapy,” says Deepthi.
The float therapy room, which includes a sensory deprivation tank, has been soundproofed by layering and packing. Minimal (or no) light has been provided to bring the mind and body to a state of stillness. In the ideal state, the brain produces theta waves, which are required for complete relaxation, body healing and repair, improved concentration, and creativity.” — Deepthi Babu, founder and director, Salt World
It has numerous physical and mental benefits due to its increased level of relaxation. “The central nervous system’s workload is reduced by up to 90% when external stimuli are removed,” says Deepthi.
Joe Rogan, an American comedian, podcaster, and colour commentator for UFC, supported therapy in his podcast. “One of the main reasons I use it is that my recovery is much quicker. It significantly aids in my muscles’ recovery from the strain of jiu-jitsu,” he claims.
A MUST HAVE FOR RECOVERY!
Zac Efron, Joe Rogan, and Novak Djokovic are all well-known users of flotation therapy. Joe Rogan, an American comedian, podcaster, and colour commentator for UFC, supported therapy in his podcast. “One of the main reasons I use it is that my recovery is much quicker. It significantly aids in my muscles’ recovery from the strain of jiu-jitsu,” he claims. The ‘X’ factor offered by floating can help one achieve the highest level of excellence by improving recovery, performance, and mental clarity.
For Stronger bone health:
“For bone health, most people concentrate on calcium and vitamin D. However, the role of magnesium (found in Epsom salts) is largely overlooked. Many health professionals advise athletes to take magnesium supplements to help reduce muscle cramps and speed up the recovery process. Soaking in pools or tubs filled with Epsom salts is the best way to absorb magnesium into the body rather than oral supplementation,” says Deepthi.
Muscle conditioning:
Another aspect of vigorous sports is the accumulation of lactic acid, which causes muscle soreness and joint pain. “Floatation therapy aids in the gradual release of lactic acid, the reduction of muscle soreness, and the alleviation of fatigue,” explains Deepthi.
