Float Tanks and Meditation: Does It Help?

Sensory deprivation therapy is growing in popularity to help find a meditative state – do float tanks and meditation work?

Float tanks, also known as sensory deprivation tanks, are unique tool designed to facilitate deep relaxation and introspection. These tanks are filled with a solution of water and Epsom salt, creating a buoyant environment that allows individuals to float effortlessly on the surface.

This floating experience, combined with the tank’s soundproof and lightproof design, minimizes external sensory input, enabling the mind to focus inward and enter a meditative state.

The concept of float tanks was first introduced in the mid-20th century by neuroscientist John C. Lilly. Lilly was interested in studying the effects of sensory deprivation on the human mind and consciousness.

His pioneering work laid the foundation for the development of modern float tanks and their use in various fields, including stress reduction, mental health, and athletic recovery.

On the other hand, meditation is an ancient practice that has been used for thousands of years to promote relaxation, focus, and self-awareness.

It involves focusing the mind, often on a specific object, thought, or activity, to train attention and awareness, and achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm and stable state. Combining the use of float tanks with meditation can enhance the benefits of both, leading to deeper relaxation, improved focus, and greater self-understanding.

The Science Behind Float Tanks

The science behind float tanks is rooted in the concept of sensory deprivation. These tanks, also known as isolation tanks or sensory deprivation tanks, are designed to reduce or eliminate sensory input, creating a unique environment that allows the brain to relax and focus inward.

The fundamental principle of a float tank is buoyancy. The tank is filled with a solution of water and Epsom salt, typically at a ratio of about 1,000 pounds of salt to 200 gallons of water. This high salt concentration makes the water incredibly buoyant, allowing individuals to float effortlessly on the surface, regardless of their body type or weight.

The water and air inside the tank are maintained at skin temperature, around 34.1 degrees Celsius (93.2 degrees Fahrenheit).

This temperature is crucial because it minimizes the sensation of the water on the skin, blurring the boundary between the body and the water. The result is a feeling of weightlessness as if you’re floating in mid-air.

The tank is also soundproof and pitch black, eliminating auditory and visual stimuli. This lack of external sensory input allows the brain to shift its focus inward, leading to heightened self-awareness and introspection.

This state of sensory deprivation can stimulate the brain’s theta waves, which are associated with deep relaxation, creativity, and REM sleep.

The impact of float tanks on the brain is significant. Studies have shown that floating can reduce stress hormones, improve mood, and enhance mental clarity.

According to a study published in PLoS One, floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) can have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.

The science of float tanks revolves around creating an environment that allows the brain to enter a state of deep relaxation and introspection, offering potential benefits for mental and physical health.

Benefits of Using Float Tanks for Meditation

Using float tanks for meditation can offer numerous benefits. The unique environment of a float tank can enhance the meditation experience, leading to a range of physical and mental health benefits.

Using float tanks for meditation can lead to significant benefits, enhancing both physical and mental well-being.
Whether you’re seeking stress relief, improved focus, better athletic performance, or enhanced sleep quality, float tanks can be a powerful tool in achieving these goals.

How to Use a Float Tank for Meditation

Preparing for the float tank experience is essential. Before your session, try to avoid caffeine and other stimulants that might interfere with relaxation.

Maybe eat a light meal before your session to avoid feeling hungry or overly full.

Once inside the float tank, find a comfortable position and allow your body to relax into the water, the venue will normally guide you around the particular float tank that they use.

You can start your meditation practice by focusing on your breath, noticing the rise and fall of your chest or the sensation of air entering and leaving your nostrils.

There are various techniques for meditating in a float tank. You could practice mindfulness meditation, where you focus on your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment.

Alternatively, you could try a body scan meditation, where you focus on different parts of your body, noticing any sensations or tension.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to meditate in a float tank. The most important thing is to find a method that works for you and helps you achieve a state of deep relaxation and inner peace.

My Personal Experience of Float Tanks and Meditation

My first experience was at Floatworks London. It felt like I was floating in space, completely free of distractions.

Each session can be a little pricy, I paid £55 (about USD68), but you can buy multiple sessions at a discount.

I went with a friend who has mild claustrophobia, and though she was nervous at first, she said that she quickly became relaxed during the season.

For me the experience was interesting, I practiced a mindful breathing meditation and it was as if only my breathing existed. I could hear my breathing in my ears. There was a little music at the beginning and end of the session which I thought was a nice touch.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

When it comes to float tanks, there are several common concerns and misconceptions. Here, we address some of the most frequently raised issues:

Is it safe to use float tanks?

Yes, float tanks are generally safe for most people. The high salt content of the water makes it almost impossible to sink, and the tanks are designed to be easy to enter and exit.

However, individuals with certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension or epilepsy, should consult their doctor before using a float tank. Pregnant women can also use float tanks, but it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider first.

Can you drown in a float tank?

The risk of drowning in a float tank is extremely low. The water in a float tank is only about a foot deep, and the high concentration of Epsom salt makes it very buoyant.

This means that even if you were to fall asleep (which many people do), you would continue to float. However, it’s important to avoid turning over in the tank, as the saltwater can be harmful if it gets into your eyes or mouth.

Dealing with claustrophobia in float tanks

Some people worry about feeling claustrophobic in a float tank, but many float centers offer tanks of different sizes, including rooms that you can stand up in.

Additionally, you’re always in control of your environment—you can choose to leave the tank door open or use a light if you prefer. Some people find that once they’re settled in the tank and start to relax, any initial feelings of claustrophobia quickly fade away.

Hygiene concerns

Float tanks are typically very clean. The high salt content of the water makes it inhospitable to bacteria, and most float centers also use UV light or hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the water between uses. Additionally, users are usually required to shower before entering the tank to keep the water as clean as possible.

The Future of Float Tanks and Meditation

The future of float tanks and meditation is bright and full of potential. As we continue to understand the profound effects of sensory deprivation on the human mind, we can expect to see float tanks becoming an increasingly popular tool for meditation and overall wellness.

Current trends in float tank design are focusing on enhancing the user experience. Companies are innovating with larger tanks to accommodate different body types and comfort levels.

Integrated sound systems are being developed to offer users the option of guided meditations or soothing music during their float. Customizable lighting options are also being explored, allowing users to create a personalized ambiance within the tank.

In terms of usage, we’re seeing a growing interest in float tanks from a diverse range of sectors. Athletes are using them for recovery, creatives for sparking inspiration, and many individuals are turning to them for stress relief and personal development.

Looking ahead, we might see more scientific research validating the benefits of float tanks, leading to wider acceptance and usage. With the potential integration of virtual reality technology, the float tank experience could be further enhanced, offering users a truly immersive meditation experience.

The possibilities are vast and exciting, making the future of float tanks and meditation a fascinating space to watch.

The Takeaway

Float tanks and meditation offer a unique combination of benefits, including stress relief, improved focus, enhanced athletic performance, and better sleep quality. While there are some concerns and misconceptions, the overall safety and benefits of float tanks are well-documented. 

As we look to the future, the potential for float tanks and meditation is vast, with ongoing advancements and research making this powerful tool more accessible to all.