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The Benefits of Float Therapy: Unlocking Relaxation and Recovery

  • Writer: Rebecca Nolan Harris
    Rebecca Nolan Harris
  • Apr 9
  • 3 min read

The Benefits of Float Therapy: Unlocking Relaxation and Recovery

Float therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy), is an evidence-based wellness practice that immerses the body in a warm, magnesium-rich solution, eliminating external stimuli to promote deep relaxation and healing. Depending on the session length, float therapy offers varying levels of physical, mental, and neurological benefits. Let’s explore the advantages of 30-minute, 60-minute, and 90-minute float sessions and the science behind this transformative experience.


Woman in bikini in a sensory-deprivation float tank. Red and purple backlit.
Experience the joy of nothingness.

30-Minute Float: A Gentle Introduction to Floating

For those new to float therapy, a 30-minute session is an excellent way to experience the basics of sensory deprivation without committing to a longer float. Key benefits include:

  • Stress Reduction: Even a short float significantly reduces cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, helping to induce a state of calm.

  • Mild Muscle Relaxation: The warm water, rich in Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), helps to ease minor muscle tension and joint stiffness.

  • Enhanced Mental Clarity: A brief break from external distractions allows the brain to shift into a meditative state, improving focus and mental clarity.


60-Minute Float: Deepening Muscle Relaxation and Recovery

A 60-minute float is the standard session length and offers enhanced benefits beyond a brief experience. This duration allows the body to fully adapt to the weightless, anti-gravity environment, leading to:

  • Profound Muscle Relaxation: Magnesium is essential for muscle function and recovery. Absorbing it through the skin helps relieve cramps, stiffness, and inflammation.

  • Accelerated Physical Recovery: Athletes and individuals with chronic pain benefit from reduced lactic acid buildup and improved circulation, aiding in post-workout recovery.

  • Improved Sleep Quality: Floating has been shown to regulate cortisol levels and encourage deep relaxation, making it an effective remedy for insomnia and sleep disturbances.


90-Minute Float: Enhancing Neural Relaxation and Cognitive Benefits

For those seeking the deepest relaxation and cognitive reset, a 90-minute float maximizes the neurological benefits of sensory deprivation. Extended floating leads to:

  • Heightened Neural Recovery: Studies show that float therapy increases theta brainwave activity, which is associated with deep meditation, creativity, and enhanced problem-solving.

  • Decreased Anxiety and Depression: Floating promotes endorphin release and lowers stress-related neurotransmitters, offering significant mental health benefits.

  • Expanded Mindfulness and Meditation: With prolonged sensory reduction, the brain enters a deeply restful state similar to advanced meditation, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance.


The Science Behind Float Therapy

Several physiological mechanisms make float therapy a powerful tool for wellness:

  • Magnesium Absorption: The Epsom salt solution delivers magnesium transdermally, aiding in muscle relaxation, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being.

  • Anti-Gravity Effects: By eliminating the pressure of gravity, floating reduces spinal compression, relieves joint pain, and enhances circulation.

  • Sensory Deprivation and Brain Health: The absence of external stimuli allows the brain to enter a deeply restorative state, reducing overstimulation and promoting mental clarity.


Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Float Experience

Whether you’re looking for a quick stress-relief session, deep muscle relaxation, or a full neural reset, float therapy offers a customizable wellness experience.

  • First-timers may start with a 30-minute float to ease into the experience.

  • Athletes and those with muscle tension benefit most from a 60-minute session.

  • Individuals seeking profound mental relaxation should consider a 90-minute float.


Floating isn’t just relaxation—it’s a scientifically backed method for improving physical recovery, reducing stress, and enhancing mental clarity. Book a session and experience the benefits for yourself!


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