Will an Isolation Tank Calm Your Mind or Just Stress You Out?

As alternative wellness practices become more mainstream, isolation tanks are receiving quite a bit of attention. Whether you suffer from chronic headaches, or are searching for a way to relieve anxiety without the use of drugs, spending time in an isolation tank may prove beneficial.

Are You Concerned that an Isolation Tank Experience May Not Be For You?

Many people do worry though that the tank may make them feel even more anxious rather than relieving their symptoms. If this is a concern of yours, consider these facts before deciding that some time in isolation is not for you:

• There are tanks that do not have covers, and other options where the cover can be left completely open or ajar.

• You can alter the lighting to be as bright or as dark as you like, and choose the colors as well. We find that the cool blue lights enhance our relaxation experience.

• Sensory deprivation does not have to be complete. You can choose the level of deprivation and ease into deeper levels as your comfort level grows. Your technician can discuss your concerns with you and help you find a method of practice that works well for your needs.

What Is an Isolation Tank Experience Like?

As mentioned above, there is room for customization of your experience, but in this section, we will discuss the typical experience of someone embarking on a floatation experience. In general, you will be in the dark in an isolation tank that is filled with room temperature, salty water. Appointments can last an hour or 90 minutes depending on your preference. The practice is recommended for many reasons, from sports injury recovery to patients who suffer from anxiety, as it is known to help quiet the mind and allow the participant to refocus their thoughts.

Tips for a Relaxing Iso Tank Experience

Whether you are nervous or not, these tips can help you to really enjoy your flotation experience. If you are anything like us, you may find yourself booking regular flotation sessions at least once a month!

• Discuss your concerns with the staff at your time of booking. This will give you plenty of time to digest the information that they share with you. During this conversation, be sure to bring up specific fears that you have, such as discomfort in confined spaces, in the dark, or spending time alone. If you are not a great swimmer and that is a concern, ask about that too! The tanks are not deep and you will always be able to stand up, but many people do have a fear of the water.

• Arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to get comfortable, but not too early that you sit and worry and become anxious! We recommend between 15 and 20 minutes which will provide plenty of time to complete the necessary paperwork and get changed. Spend the extra few minutes breathing deeply and focusing on the desired outcome of the experience.

• Take your time getting into the tank. After you have instructed the technician to perform any individualized modifications for you, begin to enter the tank. There is no right or wrong way to do this, so take as much time as you need. Because of the saltwater, you will float easily, and can just relax and concentrate on your breathing. If you begin to feel overly anxious at any time, return your focus to your breath and concentrate on the sound of your beating heart. It is okay to decide that flotation is not for you.