This might be useful information for both experienced floaters and those who are looking to jump into their first float session. I’ve been floating for 8 years and I’m still learning new approaches and taking in all of the experiences that our guests share with us.

Personally, I fall into the category of someone that struggles to ‘shut their mind off,” despite my experience in the tank.  

First, realize that your mind will not shut off. Our thoughts are as involuntary as our heartbeat and our breathing. Your mind CAN GO QUIET, but it certainly won’t do so when you’re telling it to be quiet. It’s like a three year old sometimes - Why? Why? Why? So, to help yourself get into the zone, try this before your next float….

Step 1: Do something active.

If you are generally sedentary (not on a regular training regimen), then go for a 15 minute walk before your next float. If you are active, try a run, yoga session, or tough resistance training session. It’s all relative - what we’re trying to do here is get out some of that nervous energy.

Step 2: Surrender.

Let go of the idea of relaxing, or meditating, or seeking that quiet space. If you’re in the tank, you’re already there. For the first 15 minutes or so of your float, FOCUS ON YOUR BREATHING. Big, deep breaths in. Long controlled exhale. Pause. Repeat.

Step 3: Be mindful.

If the breath work doesn’t quite get you there, consider active or passive floating.

“My mind is racing. I can’t relax.” GOOD! Run with it! Pick a pleasant thought and follow it. Or pick a problem and follow it. Both can have results that you probably wouldn’t have come to outside of the tank.

The opposite would be passive floating. Watch your thoughts float by you, like they’re on a river. Wave at them. Enjoy them. But embrace the fact that they are temporary. Popping up like a firefly on a summer night, and going dark just as quickly.

I hope this was helpful, and potentially gave you a new perspective on floatation therapy!