Floatation? Do you mean floating on the water? Well, I mean floating in a pod which looks like an egg-shaped sensory isolation tank. This concept was created by neurophysicist Dr John C Lilly 60 year ago when he was doing research on brain waves and altered states of consciousness. Today, floatation becomes popular in many countries with an increasing number of float clubs/centres being set up. Having read about floatation online, we decided to go for our first floatation experience in Palm Ave Float Club.
Palm Ave Float Club is located at the 5th level. The moment the lift door opened, a bright, cool and cosy space appeared in front of us. You can hear some soothing spa music which makes the atmosphere very relaxing.
For your info, we made the appointment one day before. As this is our first time, the staff gave us a short introductory session on how to do the first floatation. Basically, below are steps you should follow:
Floatation Experience
Each room only allows one person to enter. The room is designed to remove all unnecessary distractions to the largest extent. The float tank looks like a large, enclosed bathtub. Because of the super-saturated Epsom salt solution which is about 25cm deep, people can just easily float on the water like in the Dead Sea.
Putting on the earplug, I dipped myself into the futuristic-like pod. In the first 10 minutes, you can hear some music playing to soothe down the nerves. Afterwards, I gradually felt more relaxed and weightless as my body began to feel free from gravity and tension. It was just like floating in space or the dead sea. I felt comfortable without the distraction of lights and noises and I can hardly tell I am actually floating on water!
To achieve the best result, it is recommended to switch off all the lights (including both the inner pod light and the room light). There is a towel on the side in case any water spill over your face. It can be a bit painful when the salt water accidentally comes into the eyes. You can either wear swimming suit or go nude in the pod although the latter is highly recommended to get fully distraction-free.
With the same music played again (5 minutes before end), my session was quickly ended without my conciseness. My body was full of the salt solution of course. Then, I took a hot bath before heading out of the room to the lounge.
We spent some time resting on the sofa and drinking tea. Facing the windows, you can enjoy some beautiful scenery on the outside as well. I felt real good and energized after the float!
Benefits of Floating
In our fast-paced world filled with constant noise and ceaseless activity, finding moments of tranquility has become a luxury. Amidst this chaos, an age-old practice has emerged as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation: floating. While it might sound like something out of a science fiction novel, floating, also known as sensory deprivation therapy or isolation tank therapy, is gaining popularity for its numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Let’s dive into the serene world of floating and explore the remarkable advantages it offers.
Deep Relaxation and Stress Relief
Imagine yourself weightless, suspended in a solution of Epsom salt-infused water within a sensory deprivation tank. The buoyancy of the water effortlessly supports your body, relieving pressure from your joints and muscles. This environment, free from external stimuli, allows your body to enter a state of deep relaxation. The absence of sensory input prompts a relaxation response, leading to reduced levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Regular floating sessions have been linked to lowered anxiety, improved sleep quality, and an overall enhanced sense of well-being.
Mental Clarity and Creativity
Floating offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the constant stream of information and sensory input bombarding our minds daily. This break from external distractions allows the brain to enter a meditative state, fostering mental clarity and heightened creativity. As your mind drifts in the tranquil environment of the tank, you’re free to explore your thoughts and ideas without interruption, leading to enhanced problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking.
Pain Management and Muscle Recovery
The buoyancy of the Epsom salt solution used in floating tanks provides a weightless experience that alleviates the strain on muscles and joints. This makes floating an effective tool for pain management and muscle recovery. Athletes and individuals with chronic pain conditions have reported significant relief after floating sessions. The magnesium in Epsom salts also aids in reducing inflammation, helping to ease sore muscles and promote healing.
Enhanced Mind-Body Connection
Floating isn’t just about disconnecting from the external world; it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with your inner self. The sensory deprivation tank creates an environment where you can focus inward, heightening your mind-body connection. This self-awareness can lead to a better understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, ultimately promoting a greater sense of mindfulness and self-compassion.
Improved Sleep Patterns
In a world where sleep disorders are becoming increasingly common, finding effective strategies for improving sleep quality is essential. Floating has shown promise in this area, as the relaxation induced during a session can carry over into more restful sleep. The reduction in stress and anxiety, coupled with the physical relaxation, can help regulate sleep patterns and promote a deeper, more rejuvenating sleep.
Stress Reduction and Anxiety Management
The weightlessness experienced during floating isn’t just physical; it extends to your mental and emotional state. The sensory-deprived environment allows your brain to enter a state of deep relaxation, which in turn helps to reduce stress and anxiety. This can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety disorders or high levels of chronic stress.
Heightened Self-Awareness and Meditation
Floating and meditation share many similarities, as both practices encourage a focused and introspective mindset. The sensory deprivation tank provides an ideal setting for meditation, enabling you to achieve a deeper state of mindfulness and self-awareness. As you float in the silence, disconnected from the external world, you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and sensations in a profoundly introspective way.
Getting to Palm Ave Float Club
Address: 66 Kampong Bugis, #05-01 Singapore 338987
Website: http://palmavefloatclub.com
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