Read our Latest Trend Report: Recovery, Biohacking & Longevity in Spa Design

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Read our Latest Trend Report: Recovery, Biohacking & Longevity in Spa Design 〰️

Introduction to Sensory Deprivation

What is a sensory deprivation tank or flotation tank?

A sensory deprivation tank, also known as a float tank, float pod, isolation tank, or sensory attenuation tank, is a lightless, soundless tank filled with highly concentrated Epsom salt water heated to skin temperature.

The float tank is designed to reduce thermal sensations, tactile sensations, and auditory sensations, creating a state of deep relaxation.

We recently published a report here on this biohacking and recovery trend.

How isolation tanks work: The effects on the brain and body

The sensory deprivation float tank is filled with 10 inches (25 cm) of water containing Epsom salt to create a specific gravity of approximately 1.25–1.26, enabling a person to float freely and experience the benefits of float therapy. The water is maintained at skin temperature, around 35°C, to reduce thermal sensations. One typically floats without clothing to minimize tactile sensations and earplugs are worn to minimize auditory sensations.

Anxiety treatment and pain reduction through sensory deprivation

Sensory deprivation tank therapy and float tanks may support relaxation, improve sleep, and decrease stress, anxiety, and pain. Flotation-REST has been found to be effective in reducing anxiety and improving mood in individuals with stress- and anxiety-related disorders.

Cardiovascular health and athletic performance: The impact of flotation therapy

Sensory deprivation tank therapy has been found effective in speeding up recovery after strenuous physical training and improving psychological recovery following intense training and competition. Flotation-REST therapy may improve cardiovascular health by inducing deep relaxation that reduces stress levels and improves sleep.

Pain Management

Flotation tanks have been found to have various health benefits, they alleviate various types of chronic pain, including conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and arthritis.

Reduction in Musculoskeletal Pain: The buoyancy of the water, enhanced by the high concentration of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate), relieves pressure on joints and muscles, leading to significant pain reduction .
Endorphin Release: The deep relaxation experienced during floatation can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which help reduce the perception of pain .

Improved Sleep Quality

Individuals struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders may benefit from floatation therapy.

Enhanced Sleep: Floatation has been shown to improve the quality and duration of sleep. The relaxation effects extend beyond the session, leading to better sleep patterns and reduced sleep disturbances .
Normalization of Circadian Rhythms: Regular sessions in floatation tanks may help regulate circadian rhythms, thus promoting a more natural sleep-wake cycle .

Anxiety and Depression Relief

Floatation therapy is increasingly recognized as a complementary approach for managing anxiety and depression.

Reduced Anxiety: Multiple studies have reported significant reductions in anxiety levels after floatation sessions. The therapy creates a serene environment that helps mitigate symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety-related conditions .
Mood Improvement: The calming effects and the quiet environment contribute to a sense of well-being and mood enhancement, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with depression .

Enhanced Cognitive Performance

Floatation tanks can have positive effects on mental clarity and cognitive function.

Improved Focus and Concentration: The absence of sensory input allows the mind to rest, leading to heightened focus and improved concentration post-session .
Creative Thinking: Research suggests that floatation may stimulate creativity by allowing the brain to access deeper thought processes and reducing mental distractions .

Physical Recovery and Athletic Performance

Athletes and physically active individuals may find float tanks beneficial for recovery and performance enhancement.

Accelerated Muscle Recovery: The Epsom salts in the floatation tank provide magnesium, which is absorbed through the skin and aids in muscle recovery and relaxation .
Injury Rehabilitation: The reduced gravity environment of the tank helps in the recovery from injuries by decreasing inflammation and supporting the healing process .

Enhanced Mindfulness and Self-Awareness

Float tanks promote a heightened sense of mindfulness and self-awareness, akin to meditative practices.

Mindfulness and Presence: The sensory isolation fosters a deep meditative state, enhancing mindfulness and the ability to stay present .
Introspection and Self-Discovery: Many users report a deeper connection to their inner thoughts and emotions, leading to greater self-awareness and personal insight .

The Experience of Floating

What to expect: A guide to floating in a sensory deprivation tank

The float tank is soundproof and dark, encouraging a quiet, meditative state while floating. The high salt concentration allows you to float on your back with the back of your head partially underwater, providing a sensory deprivation experience.

Hallucinations: Separating fact from fiction about sensory deprivation experiences

Many people have reported having hallucinations in a sensory deprivation tank. A 2015 study found that sensory deprivation induced similar experiences in both high- and low-prone groups, and increased the frequency of hallucinations in those in the high-prone group.

Dreampod Vmax stealth version (black) flotation pod

How is a float tank operated in a commercial spa context?

Operating sensory deprivation tanks in a commercial spa versus a home setting involves significant differences in terms of equipment, maintenance, user experience, and regulatory considerations. Here’s an in-depth look at how floatation tanks are managed in a commercial spa context and the key distinctions from home-use tanks:

Equipment and Facility Requirements

Size and Capacity:
- Commercial Tanks: Typically larger, designed to accommodate a wide range of body sizes and ensure comfort for prolonged sessions. They often include features to enhance the user experience, such as advanced sound systems, customizable lighting, and temperature controls.
- Home Tanks: Generally smaller and more compact to fit into residential spaces. They may have fewer custom features due to space and budget constraints.
Advanced Features:
- Commercial Tanks: May include sophisticated filtration systems that provide automatic water quality management, UV sanitation, and rapid heating systems to maintain consistent temperature and hygiene.
- Home Tanks: Feature simpler filtration and heating systems that require more manual intervention and are typically designed for lower usage frequency.

Maintenance and Hygiene

Water Quality and Filtration:
- Commercial Tanks: High-end filtration systems that are capable of processing large volumes of water quickly, often using UV light, ozone, or advanced chemical treatments to ensure water purity between users.
- Home Tanks: Smaller, simpler filtration systems that may require more frequent manual cleaning and chemical balancing to maintain water quality.
Sanitation Protocols:
- Commercial Tanks: Strict sanitation protocols are in place, including regular disinfection of surfaces and water testing. Many commercial tanks are designed for easy cleaning and rapid draining and refilling.
- Home Tanks: Typically rely on the owner to perform regular cleaning and maintenance. The protocols are less stringent, reflecting the lower frequency and diversity of use.
Water Replacement:
- Commercial Tanks: Water is replaced periodically based on usage, with some systems allowing for partial water replacement to maintain high hygiene standards.
- Home Tanks: Water is replaced less frequently, often based on a set schedule or when deemed necessary by the user.

User Experience and Accessibility with a flotation tank

Customer Service:
- Commercial Spas: Offer comprehensive customer service, including guided introductions to floatation therapy, preparation and post-float care advice, and assistance during the session. Staff are trained to handle customer queries and manage the spa environment.
- Home Use: Self-service experience with users responsible for their own preparation, operation, and post-session care.
Customization and Comfort:
- Commercial Tanks: Provide a high level of customization with options for ambient music, aromatherapy, and personalized session settings. The environment is designed to be welcoming and relaxing, often including amenities like changing rooms and showers.
- Home Tanks: Limited customization options due to simpler controls and equipment. The overall environment is more modest, focused on personal convenience.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

Health and Safety Regulations:
- Commercial Spas: Must comply with stringent health and safety regulations, including regular health inspections and adherence to industry standards for sanitation and user safety.
- Home Use: Users are responsible for maintaining their own safety and hygiene practices, with fewer formal regulations to follow.
Accessibility and Legal Requirements:
- Commercial Spas: Facilities are designed to be accessible to people with varying levels of mobility and include safety features such as emergency buttons and staff support.
- Home Tanks: Accessibility features are tailored to the specific needs of the owner and may not include the same level of safety equipment found in commercial settings.

Differences Between Commercial Floatation Tanks and a Home-Use Isolation Tank

Size and Capacity

Commercial: Larger, designed for diverse body types and longer sessions
Home: Smaller, compact, suitable for residential spaces

Features

Commercial: Advanced, including sound systems, lighting, and temp control
Home: Basic, focused on core functionality

Filtration and Water Quality

Commercial: High-end, automated systems for frequent use and quick turnover
Home: Simpler, manual or semi-automatic systems for personal use

Maintenance

Commercial: Professional staff handle rigorous cleaning and water management
Home: Owner-managed, less frequent and intensive maintenance

User Experience

Commercial: Comprehensive service, including guidance and amenities
Home: Self-service, personal setup and comfort

Customization

Commercial: High level of customization, tailored settings for each user
Home: Limited options, more standardized experience

Health and Safety

Commercial: Subject to strict regulations, frequent inspections
Home: User-responsible, minimal formal oversight

Accessibility

Commercial: Designed for public access, including mobility support
Home: Customized to owner’s needs, less focus on broad accessibility

Cost

Commercial: Higher due to advanced features and maintenance requirements
Home: Lower, reflecting simpler systems and personal use

Contact us for advice on how to integrate one of these devices into your dream home gym or hotel spa concept.

Boosting Longevity with Biohacking: floatation tanks in gym & spa 'recovery rooms'