Float Finder

At MindSpa, Rozelle uses the tank as a complement to a comprehensive ‘neuro-fitness’ program. Many of his patients suffer from chronic arthritic pain, rare nervous system disorders, and insomnia, while others are generally healthy individuals who are looking to optimize athletic or creative performance or to sink deeply into the more subtle layers of consciousness. Several of Walton’s clients are artists and creative types who utilize the tank to break through mental blocks and stimulate creative thought. Her business partner, Filomena Serpa floats twice a week to manage frequent migraines. Others have seen great success in relieving the discomforts of pregnancy, working through emotional stress, and even managing (or in some cases, preventing) the ‘attacks’ associated with multiple sclerosis.

So what makes floating such a powerfully healing experience? Hutchison, who logged countless hours in the tank while researching and writing his book, contends one of the most obvious explanations is the increase in full body circulation and oxygen delivery to all the cells in the body. “Floating promotes vasodilation, facilitating blood flow to all the parts and systems of the body, including the brain. It creates a whole body healing effect.” The almost zero gravity environment and the high Epsom salt content play a vital role in the relaxing and pain relieving qualities of floating, while the drastic reduction in sensory stimulation may account for the anxiety-relieving, nervous system-calming benefits. It is often said that an hour in the tank is like several hours of good sleep, but what about REST’s effect on the mind?

Since most of us operate almost entirely in our verbal/analytical left brain, the more subtle, visual, intuitive strengths of our right brain literally get drowned out. By helping balance the two hemispheres, floating enhances our ability to learn, assimilate, and come up with spontaneous solutions. Rozelle also suggests that “There is a noticeable increase in alpha activity [found during relaxation] and a greater likelihood of the more meditative theta [an even slower wave associated with insights and intuition].” Ludlam notes that he came to floating by way of meditation study and estimates that “about 50 percent of my clients are students of meditation or yoga. They recognize that the tank is an ideal environment for meditation.”