Floaty Thoughts
Our bodies are like a machine. The fuel we put in it, our daily maintenance, and how we utilize our body are all factors that can affect our quality of life and longevity. The problem is, in our western society, we are constantly on the go and often don’t give ourselves the much needed time to recalibrate and recharge. There doesn’t seem like there is enough time in the day to get everything done. Instead, we are constantly plugged in to the matrix of media, focusing on outside factors rather than listening to our bodies. That is where we introduce this wonderful remedy called float therapy.
What is Float Therapy?
Invented in the 1950s, float therapy has been around for over half a century. However, it wasn’t until recently that it caught the attention of high-profile athletes, Silicon Valley execs, physical therapists, and neuroscientists. It’s a unique experience that allows you to totally “unplug” for an hour, allowing your mind and body to recover from the daily stresses of life.
How Does Float Therapy Work?
Floating places a person into a distraction-free zone. Devoid of light and sound there is 1,000 lbs. of Epsom Salt mixed with water, which makes the solution very buoyant. The tank itself can be of different shapes and sizes but the theme is to create an experience as if you are floating in zero-gravity like in outer space. All sensory input is removed, allowing your body to focus its resources on promoting healing and recovery.
What Are the Benefits of Float Therapy?
The primary benefits of float therapy are reducing inflammation in your muscles and joints and freeing your mind of distractions. As you float, the salt also acts as a detox for your cells with its magnesium base. In addition to releasing body tension and soreness, your brain also gets the opportunity to slow down into what’s known as the Theta State.
Our brains spend most of the day in the Alpha and Beta states. When we sleep we go into REM, we enter the Delta state. In between the highest and lowest frequency states is where we reach Theta – think meditation. Floating gives us an extended period of time in the Theta state. Science backs this as a place of healing, rest, and rejuvenation. Many awesome things can happen when you are in Theta State!
Floating can reduce the production of stress hormones (cortisol) and lower blood pressure. You remain very relaxed and all of the stress we have built up begins to melt away.
Float therapy has a place for just about anyone, whether it’s relieving tension in your muscles, recovering from exercise and injury, or meditation. Floating provides the opportunity to continue performing at optimal level. If we do not take a proactive approach to our well-being, then the machine (our body) will not function at its best. Floating allows you to open up pathways you may have never explored and will give you that little bit extra to take on whatever life throws your way.
-Zane