A new trend is taking over healthcare. Where, rather than working out or changing the way one eats, they float. Alone in a tank full of water and salt, in order to earn the body some much needed medical and relaxation benefits. With about 11 inches of water and hundreds of pounds of salt, patients of all sizes and ages are floating their way to better health. But what is this newfound trend and what can it do for the body?

It’s a practice known as sensory deprivation or flotation tanks. A process that allows the body to “lay” weightlessly and remove weight or other stressors. With such a high salt content, there is virtually no effort to float. (It fact, it’s actually harder to not float.) But still offers up multiple perks, such as muscles that can completely relax, and the elimination of outside stressors, including noise or bright lights.

How it Works

Users climb in a tank full of saturated water with approximately 850 pounds of Epsom salt (depending on the size of the tank). It’s a concentration that’s so high, it can hold even the most muscular of athletes upright. (Larger people actually float better due to higher fat rates, while those who are muscular will more easily.) But without the need to swim or float on one’s back, as with traditional floating methods.

Ear plugs are given, lights turned down, and the water is kept at body temperature. This creates a goal wherein the floater does not even feel the water that’s holding them upright – a complete sensory deprivation chamber. One is also given the option of going completely without clothes, or wearing what helps them feel most comfortable.

But best of all, it works. And it doesn’t require the need for medicines or other invasive procedures. Patients just relax their way to feeling better. With the factor of sensory deprivation, the body is designed to drift into an even deeper state of rest, allowing the patient to sleep deeply or simply rest the mind. (Because the water is so salty, it’s virtually impossible to roll or even sit upright, even in shallow water. Making the tanks safe for sleeping.)

The History of Medical Floating

This practice has been around since the mid 1950s, but became more popular in the 70s. Now, however, more and more are seeing the value in natural cures. While it’s also becoming more readily available, with locations opening up across the country.

Prices vary with each facility, though many have packages – discount fees for multiple visits, or even percentages off for referring other guests.

There are varied amounts of times one can float for. Though it’s recommended to float around 90 minutes per session, in order to get the highest amount of relief and treatment.

What Can it Treat?

Floating can be used to combat any number of issues or stressors. It’s most recommended for:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Migraines
• Chronic pains
• Fibromyalgia
• Mental disorders
• Muscle pinches and aches
• Joint aches
• Back or bone misalignment

Not only is this done through eliminating gravity on the muscles, floating allows the brain to essentially “reset” itself. Providing an increase in positive theta brain waves, while reducing negative activity – combined, they help create a happier brain from two sides of the spectrum.

Additional benefits come from the Epsom itself, by increasing the body’s magnesium and sulfate counts, regulating electrolytes, and creating a more efficient circulation system.

If you think you could benefit from floating, talk to your medical professional or contact a local sensory deprivation business for insider information on how they can help you and your specific bodily needs.