Introduction
What is Floatation Therapy?
Everything you need to know about sensory deprivation tanks, how they work, and what to expect.
Floatation therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique), involves floating effortlessly in a specially designed tank or pod filled with water saturated with Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate).
The water is heated to skin temperature (around 35.5°C), and the high concentration of salt — typically around 500kg in just 25cm of water — creates a buoyancy that allows you to float on the surface without any effort.
How Does It Work?
When you step into a float tank, you enter an environment designed to minimise all external sensory input:
Sound
The tank is soundproofed, reducing external noise to near-silence.
Light
The interior is completely dark, though most tanks have an interior light you can control.
Touch
The water matches your skin temperature, so the boundary between body and water dissolves.
Gravity
The dense salt solution supports your body completely, eliminating pressure on joints and muscles.
A Brief History
Floatation therapy was developed in the 1950s by neuroscientist John C. Lilly at the National Institute of Mental Health in the USA. Originally designed to study the effects of sensory deprivation on the brain, early experiments used full submersion with breathing apparatus.
By the 1970s, the concept had evolved into the more comfortable horizontal float tanks we know today. The therapy gained popularity during the 1980s before experiencing a major revival in the 2010s, with modern float centres opening across the UK and worldwide.
What Does a Float Session Look Like?
A typical float session lasts 60 to 90 minutes and follows this general flow:
Arrive
Check in at the centre, usually 10–15 minutes before your session
Shower
Rinse off before entering the tank
Enter the tank
Step in, close the door or lid, and lie back
Settle in
It may take 10–15 minutes for your mind and body to fully relax
Float
Enjoy the deep relaxation. Many people enter a meditative state
Session ends
Music or light gently signals the end of your session
Shower again
Rinse off the salt water
Relax
Many centres offer a post-float area with tea and quiet space
Types of Float Tanks
Pods
Egg-shaped capsules with a hinged lid. Compact but spacious inside.
Cabins
Walk-in rooms with a full-height ceiling. Great for those who prefer more space.
Open Pools
Larger float pools without an enclosure. Ideal for beginners.
Is It Safe?
Floatation therapy is considered extremely safe for most people. The water is shallow, and the high salt concentration makes it impossible to sink. The water is thoroughly filtered and sterilised between each session using UV light, hydrogen peroxide, and filtration systems.
Who Is It For?
Floating is suitable for almost everyone — from stressed professionals and athletes seeking recovery, to people managing chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia. Some find profound relaxation on their first float, while others need two or three sessions to fully let go.
Ready to try it?
Find a centre near you