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Float Academy

Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring?

We provide everything you require for your float, including towels, soaps, shampoo, conditioner and earplugs. Each float room is private, including the shower. We provide a vanity with different hair and beauty products and blow dryer for after the float. You should bring your own brush, contacts case and makeup if required.

You float NAKED please do not bring a swim suit as the pool chemicals and laundry soaps will foam up and alter the salt water chemistry.

How long is a float session?

There are two options 60 minutes for adults and 30 minute youth floats.  However, you will require a few extra minutes to sign the waiver, complete the orientation, use the bathroom and shower before and after your float.  It is typical to set aside 90 minutes per session, arriving 5 minutes early. We also have a post float zen lounge, feel free to add to our float journal, meditate or get creative after your float.

How should I prepare for my float?
  • Avoid caffeine for 2-3 hours before your float.
  • Avoid shaving or waxing for at least 8 hours before floating.
  • Try to eat a light meal 60-90 minutes before your float.
  • Make sure to use the washroom before your session.
  • If you wear contacts, bring a case, or take them out before you come.
  • Switch your phone on silent mode.
Are there times when I shouldn't float?

We always defer to medical professionals and we will ask for a list of your medications on our waiver. You will not be allowed to float without medical clearance if the following conditions apply to you.

  • Allergy to magnesium Sulphate
  • Epilepsy or uncontrolled seizures
  • Uncontrolled Kidney function
  • Uncontrolled Low blood Pressure
  • Recent Chemotherapy treatment (4-6weeks)
  • History Heart attack or stroke
  • Schizophrenia or history of psychotic episodes

You will not be able to float if

  • You do NOT have full control of your bowels (contamination fee)
  • You have any communicable disease or have had fever/diarrhea in the past two weeks
  • If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • If you have open skin wounds.
  • If any hair colour/dye is bleeding out when hair is washed. You can not float if using semi-permanent dye, recent henna dye, stain or colouring that actively washes out.
  • One week after use of tanner/bronzer
  • NOTE: There is a $250 cleaning fee if the tank is stained and a $2000 cleaning fee if you contaminate the water require a drain & refill.
Can I float if I am menstruating?

Yes. Just follow the same protocol you would for a swimming pool. We do offer single use vaseline packets, as some women find it helpful in sensitive areas based on things like Ph levels and hormones in the body, recent activity and cycle.

Can I float if I am pregnant?

Yes. Floating can relieve a lot of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy. It is also common to hear your child’s heartbeat while in the tank. If you are in your first trimester you will not be allowed to float, although it is completely safe we find this to be a delicate time. In the third trimester you will be able to hear babies heartbeat and will find floating will take pressure off the body. If you have any concerns or have a high risk pregnancy, consult with your physician for approval before flaoting.

How old do you have to be to float?

There is no age restriction. In fact, children have found relief from anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism and other similar conditions while floating according to some research. If the child is under the legal age of 18, a parent signature will be required. If under the age of 16, a parent is required to accompany the child during the float session.

What if I fall asleep? Will I drown?

No. It is very common for people to fall asleep during their float session, the buoyancy of the water will keep you afloat. The 1100 lbs Epsom salt makes it virtually impossible to sink in the 10 inches of water however the salt content creates a silky solution so please be mindful when stepping in/out of the tank. Make sure to hold the grab bars, getting your footing under you securely.

What is it like in the tank?
  • If you shut the door(oasis tank) or turn off the tank light (open tank only), you float in total darkness – there is no difference between keeping your eyes open or closed.
  • You float effortlessly in the salt-water solution. The water is kept at 34.1ºC, the same temperature as your skin, ideally you lose track of where the air ends and the water begins.
  • Your ears (with earplugs) stay just below the waterline, and the tanks and rooms are insulated against sound, leaving you in peaceful silence.
  • As you float, your body will absorb magnesium through your skin. From pain relief to supporting heart health, this has many benefits.
How do you clean the water?

The water is filtered 3 times between each float. We use UV filter and Hydrogen Peroxide combination to monitor and maintain safe water levels daily. Float rooms include a private shower, with single-use earplugs, soaps and towels. We go above and beyond to ensure all health department requirements and floaters’ expectations are exceeded and test the float solution daily with monthly third party lab testing.

How long have float tanks been around?

Float tanks were first used by John C. Lilly in 1954 to test the effects of sensory deprivation. Since then, there has been significant research which demonstrates the positive effects floating has on physical, mental and emotional health. Recently, floating has been adopted by professionals around the world for its performance enhancing benefits as well as increased cognitive function.

Locally, the Chatham Cultural Centre had a float pool in the 1970’s.