Relax! Floating is a pretty easy thing to do!
Can anyone use a float tank?
Absolutely! With very few exceptions, everyone can use our float tanks. However, we do limit the term everyone...to humans.
Also, you have to be over 18 (no minors) to float...sorry about that!
Is anyone NOT supposed to use a flotation tank?
We don't recommend tank use for:
People under the influence of drugs or alcohol
People whose epilepsy is not under medical control
People with infectious diseases - including the common cold or flu
People with open skin wounds, abrasions or fresh tattoos/piercings
Do you have parking?
Yes indeed we do! We have three parking spots right outside our entrance for convenient access. Our entrance is actually on McLeod Street, so you just turn off Bank Street and you'll see our parking lot right there.
Do I need to prepare myself for floating in a sensory deprivation tank?
Nothing special has to be done before you float but here are a few tips to make your float session more fulfilling and enjoyable:
Remove your contact lenses - salt and contacts don’t mix!
Avoid shaving/waxing prior to a float - the skin may become sensitive and the Epsom salts can sting a little
Avoid caffeine prior to a float - the caffeine may interfere with you ability to relax
Eating a light meal 1-2 hours before floating is recommended - so that you're not distracted by your stomach throughout the session
Use the washroom prior to a float - toilets are conveniently located so that you're not distracted while floating
Can pregnant women use a float tank?
Yes absolutely, your baby is floating why shouldn’t you? That said, we would suggest that women wait until mid to late in the second trimester before checking in with us because those in their first trimester sometimes experience a feeling of nausea while floating. We also suggest that you inform your physician or midwife and get their opinion prior to using the floatation tank but many pregnant women have reported that floating is fantastic while pregnant. As the body gets heavier, floating is a great relief from the pressure of gravity on the back and legs.
Can I do anything prior to floating to get the most out of the experience?
Yes, as a matter if fact you can. Most people find that if they are physically active prior to the float session they get a great experience. Floating also helps the muscles recover faster, so your getting benefits on top of benefits! So go ahead and pump that iron before coming in to see us, or if pumping iron isn’t your thing why not walk down to the store for your float.
What’s the difference between the rooms? Why are all the rooms named differently?
There really is no difference between the rooms…other than the names. When we set up the on-line portal we simply decided to name the rooms after trees that grow in the Ottawa region.
Do you wear anything in the tank?
It is entirely up to you and whatever makes you comfortable is fine. Your room is a private room with its own shower and locked door. If you are comfortable by going alfresco, then by all means. If you would rather wear a bathing suit then feel free to do so. Remember, however, that any clothing may be a distraction in the tank.
I'm really tall, will I fit in the tank?
The interior of the pods measures 7.5 feet in length and 4.5 feet in width. So unless you're taller than 7.5 feet, you will fit! We've had a number of surprisingly tall individuals to float at our spa and nobody has had any issues with the pod being too small.
Can I use the tank if I'm menstruating?
Yes, just do what you would do if you were swimming.
Can you wear a bathing cap?
Sure why not. Just keep in mind that if it is too tight or pulls on the hair it may take away from the pleasure of your float.
What effect does salt water have on my skin and hair?
All good actually! The Epsom salts have been used shown to help exfoliate skin and make it smoother and help make hair stronger and fuller.
Do people sleep in the tank? Is it safe to sleep in the tank?
Yes some people do report falling asleep, however, they may actually just be in a very deep theta state. Remember, 1 hour in the floatation tank can be like 4 hours of sleep because of that wonderful theta state. But for those that actually do fall asleep, it is near impossible to roll over due to the density of the salt water and if for some reason you did manage to roll over the sting of the salt in the eyes, nose and mouth would most likely wake you up.
How do you clean the pods?
We use the i-sopod tanks that are industry leading tanks and are kept clean with using 3 separate processes:
The tanks are filtered 4 times between each float - passing through a 1 micron filter and a UV filter to ensure the water is clean every time
The high salt content - the 35% concentration of Epsom salts in the water creates an environment completely hostile to pathogenic microorganisms
Chemical disinfection - we regularly use chlorine to shock the water to ensure that no microorganisms can survive
Also, the pods are filtered continuously throughout the day while not in use to ensure a clean and bacteria free float every time.
What are Epsom salts and do they have any benefits?
Epsom salts (also called magnesium sulphate) are named for a saline spring at Epsom in Surrey, England. It is not the same kind of salt as you would put on your fries - but a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulphate.
Studies have shown that magnesium and sulphate can both be absorbed through the skin, making Epsom salt baths an easy and ideal way to enjoy the amazing health benefits. Magnesium may play a number of roles in the body including regulating the activity of over 325 enzymes, reducing inflammation, helping muscle and nerve function and helping to prevent artery hardening. Sulfates help improve the absorption of nutrients, flush toxins and help ease migraine headaches. Wow what a team! Now we’ve put them together for you in a cool space and in an awesome tank!
Will I get cold?
No, the water in the tanks is heated to skin temperature at all times so the water is not too hot and not too cold. It’s just right.
Will my skin wrinkle? Will it hurt my skin ?
No, the Epsom salts are good for your skin and it will feel smooth and silky even after your shower. You won’t even prune - another amazing effect of the Epsom salts. However, if you have minor cuts or abrasions on the skin it may sting a little.
What if I'm claustrophobic?
We understand that some people are claustrophobic and are anxious about being confined in an enclosed space. For those that are anxious about this, we always recommend that they keep the float tank door open or to keep the light on in the tank (at least until they get comfortable with the environment). We try and let our clients know that they are in full control of their experience and can get in and out of the tank whenever they want. The floatation tanks are large and roomy and we've found that many people with claustrophobia are still able to lie back and relax.