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Who Shouldn't Float?

We are such huge proponents of floating that sometimes it's easy to think EVERYONE should float, and although that would be a great world to live in, the reality is, sometimes due to lifestyle choices, or medical ailments some people may not enjoy the experience to it’s fullest, and sometimes should use caution and/or ask their medical professional if floating is safe for them. This post isn’t meant to scare you away from floating, for the vast majority of people floating is a very safe, relaxing and serenity promoting experience, unfortunately, there aren’t many things in this world that are good for literally everyone.

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We aim to know as much about our floaters as we do our float tanks. If you have questions or topics you would like us to research please reach out and spark that conversation. HUGE DISCLAIMER, we are not doctors, we are not in a position to diagnosis or provide advice about your medical concerns. The information collected here is based on reports from float centres across the globe, but not from medical professionals. When in doubt please ask your medical professional if floating could have any harmful effects to your medication or conditions.

 

Please take all of this information with a grain of salt and do your own research. Above all, always remember to #PracticeSafeSalt.

When someone has an issue with floating the triggering factor is often the high density of Epsom salts, which are not actually salt, but Magnesium Sulphate (MgS04). Float tanks contain 800 – 1000 pounds of Epsom salt! There are many resources that promote the health, beauty, and cleaning properties of Epsom salt, but that’s not what this post is about. For now, just know that there is a crap ton of it in every float tank.

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There are studies that show the body’s ability to absorb magnesium through the skin, which suggests floating might be an excellent method of replenishing this essential nutrient, but the science isn't strong enough to confidently make that claim. There are a lot of bullshit claims about toxins and detoxing, and we want to steer clear of making such claims. 

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We've complied a list from questions we've received, stories we've heard, and ailments we've researched. This is intended to be a living document, but not an exhaustive list. If you have a question that isn't addressed here reach out and we'll look into it. 

  • How are tanks kept clean?
    Between each float the water is passed 6 times through the filtration system which includes a 1 micron filter, UV light, and Hydrogen Peroxide is added to boost the disinfecting power of the UV light. See this journal entry for a more thorough examination of tank cleanliness.
  • How long is a float session?
    oGoFloat offers up to 90 minute sessions for you to relax harder. Calming music will gently bring you out of your experience and let you know when time is up. You are always in control of your float and you can call it early if you'd like. Extended floats can be arranged. See this journal entry to dive deeper into why we chose a 90 minute default time.
  • Do I wear a bathing suit?
    No you float in the buff.
  • What forms of payment do you accept?
    Cash, Debit, Etransfer, Visa, Mastercard, PayPal.
  • I'm claustrophobic! I could never get in there!
    Most people have no problem once they see the tank and actualize the experience. There is far more room to move around and be free in a float tank than in a vehicle, so if you are able to be in a vehicle we have faith in your ability to manage a float tank. You are welcome to leave the door open and the lights on. You are always in control of your experience. It's bigger on the inside! See more on this topic here.
  • What if I fall asleep?
    Some people fall asleep in the tank, some do not. Gentle music will wake you up and signal the end of your float. Even the heaviest sleepers, while wearing ear plugs will awaken.
  • Can I float if I'm pregnant?
    Yes! Floating decreases swelling and relieves pressure from your joints which is very welcomed by growing bodies. In the tank there are no sounds other than your heart beat, and possibly a second heart beat! If you have any specific concerns you should consult your physician prior to floating. See more information on this topic here.
  • Can I float if I'm menstruating?
    Yes, just use the same precautions you would in a pool (tampon or cup). See the journal entry titled Float Like A Girl for more information on this topic.
  • Is there anyone who shouldn't float?
    We have a page dedicated to addressing as many possible float contradictions and common inquiries possible. Read it here. TLDR: Do not float if you have an infectious disease, open skin wounds or incontinence issues. If you have a fresh tattoo it's recommended to wait up to 6 weeks. Do not float with fresh hair dye - your hair must be able to pass a white towel test. If you are epileptic, diabetic, have kidney disease, chronic heart disease, or have a condition which may be adversely affected by cutaneous absorption of magnesium seek the opinion of your physician.
  • Can't I just put Epsom Salt in my bathtub?
    Epsom baths at home are wonderful, but entirely different than a float tank. For one, it’s a lot more Epsom salt. There’s almost 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt in a float tank. You probably can’t fully stretch out your body in a bathtub, and it’s not continuously heated to maintain temperature, lightproof or soundproof. This is not your average tub.
  • Do I get pruned skin after being in there that long?
    No, not at all. The high density of Epsom Salts prevents your skin from pruning and feels amazing for your skin.
  • Can I drown?
    Extremely unlikely. You float on the surface with your face out of the water. If you fell asleep and managed to turn over onto your belly the salt solution would sting yours eyes immediately waking you.
  • Do I need to bring anything with me?
    Not much. Bring a water bottle for post float hydration. If you wear contact lenses bring a case & solution, or wear glasses. Soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels & ear plugs are provided. Basic beauty supplies such as Q-tips, comb & blow dryer are available. Feel free to bring any specialty products you wish to use post float.
  • Can children float?
    Each float centre will have their own rules and regulations, but yes children can float, with parental consent. Children as young as 6 have floated with excellent results!
  • Can I listen to music?
    Yes! .... and no. We use music to signal the end of your float so there needs to be a period of silence so we can tell you when your float is over. Upon request, we can play music for the first 15-30 minutes and then it fades into silence. The goal of the float tank is to reduce your sensory input - trust us when we tell you silence is the sweetest sound.
  • Is Float Therapy covered under extended medical plans?
    Not yet. There are some who receive substantial medical benefit from floating, and with the help of their M.D., have been able to receive coverage from their benefits company. This is on a case by case basis. If you are seeking float therapy for a medical need, with low feasibility, you may qualify for coverage from the Neurological Wellness Association.
  • Floating is rad! I want to buy a tank, can you help me?
    Yes absolutely! We would love to help you build your salty dreams. We learned so much building oGoFloat we now offer consulting services to individuals and businesses looking to get into #SaltLife. Reach out let us know how we can help you!
  • How are tanks kept clean?
    Between each float the water is passed 6 times through the filtration system which includes a 1 micron filter, UV light, and Hydrogen Peroxide is added to boost the disinfecting power of the UV light. See this journal entry for a more thorough examination of tank cleanliness.
  • How long is a float session?
    oGoFloat offers up to 90 minute sessions for you to relax harder. Calming music will gently bring you out of your experience and let you know when time is up. You are always in control of your float and you can call it early if you'd like. Extended floats can be arranged. See this journal entry to dive deeper into why we chose a 90 minute default time.
  • Do I wear a bathing suit?
    No you float in the buff.
  • What forms of payment do you accept?
    Cash, Debit, Etransfer, Visa, Mastercard, PayPal.
  • I'm claustrophobic! I could never get in there!
    Most people have no problem once they see the tank and actualize the experience. There is far more room to move around and be free in a float tank than in a vehicle, so if you are able to be in a vehicle we have faith in your ability to manage a float tank. You are welcome to leave the door open and the lights on. You are always in control of your experience. It's bigger on the inside! See more on this topic here.
  • What if I fall asleep?
    Some people fall asleep in the tank, some do not. Gentle music will wake you up and signal the end of your float. Even the heaviest sleepers, while wearing ear plugs will awaken.
  • Can I float if I'm pregnant?
    Yes! Floating decreases swelling and relieves pressure from your joints which is very welcomed by growing bodies. In the tank there are no sounds other than your heart beat, and possibly a second heart beat! If you have any specific concerns you should consult your physician prior to floating. See more information on this topic here.
  • Can I float if I'm menstruating?
    Yes, just use the same precautions you would in a pool (tampon or cup). See the journal entry titled Float Like A Girl for more information on this topic.
  • Is there anyone who shouldn't float?
    We have a page dedicated to addressing as many possible float contradictions and common inquiries possible. Read it here. TLDR: Do not float if you have an infectious disease, open skin wounds or incontinence issues. If you have a fresh tattoo it's recommended to wait up to 6 weeks. Do not float with fresh hair dye - your hair must be able to pass a white towel test. If you are epileptic, diabetic, have kidney disease, chronic heart disease, or have a condition which may be adversely affected by cutaneous absorption of magnesium seek the opinion of your physician.
  • Can't I just put Epsom Salt in my bathtub?
    Epsom baths at home are wonderful, but entirely different than a float tank. For one, it’s a lot more Epsom salt. There’s almost 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt in a float tank. You probably can’t fully stretch out your body in a bathtub, and it’s not continuously heated to maintain temperature, lightproof or soundproof. This is not your average tub.
  • Do I get pruned skin after being in there that long?
    No, not at all. The high density of Epsom Salts prevents your skin from pruning and feels amazing for your skin.
  • Can I drown?
    Extremely unlikely. You float on the surface with your face out of the water. If you fell asleep and managed to turn over onto your belly the salt solution would sting yours eyes immediately waking you.
  • Do I need to bring anything with me?
    Not much. Bring a water bottle for post float hydration. If you wear contact lenses bring a case & solution, or wear glasses. Soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels & ear plugs are provided. Basic beauty supplies such as Q-tips, comb & blow dryer are available. Feel free to bring any specialty products you wish to use post float.
  • Can children float?
    Each float centre will have their own rules and regulations, but yes children can float, with parental consent. Children as young as 6 have floated with excellent results!
  • Can I listen to music?
    Yes! .... and no. We use music to signal the end of your float so there needs to be a period of silence so we can tell you when your float is over. Upon request, we can play music for the first 15-30 minutes and then it fades into silence. The goal of the float tank is to reduce your sensory input - trust us when we tell you silence is the sweetest sound.
  • Is Float Therapy covered under extended medical plans?
    Not yet. There are some who receive substantial medical benefit from floating, and with the help of their M.D., have been able to receive coverage from their benefits company. This is on a case by case basis. If you are seeking float therapy for a medical need, with low feasibility, you may qualify for coverage from the Neurological Wellness Association.
  • Floating is rad! I want to buy a tank, can you help me?
    Yes absolutely! We would love to help you build your salty dreams. We learned so much building oGoFloat we now offer consulting services to individuals and businesses looking to get into #SaltLife. Reach out let us know how we can help you!

Please reach out to us if you have concerns that are not addressed here. There are so many possible ailments that people could have, and this is not an exhaustive list. We will do everything we can to research and provide you with the most up to date information possible. This post is intended to be an evolving list; we want to keep it as current as possible.

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We want to reiterate that for most people, floating is an incredibly safe, lovely experience that promotes positive fuzzy feelings of serenity. 

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