Frequently Asked Questions
If you haven't floated before, you've probably got a bunch of questions about the whole thing, and perhaps some concerns. This is very common and totally understandable. Here are answers to some frequent queries.
So what is floatation?
It’s pretty simple really. You float in warm water saturated with Epsom salts, with the distractions of sound and light minimised. Your body floats like a cork, a bit like in the Dead Sea. You are so buoyant that you can totally relax all your muscles, and let go of tensions. You float naturally and effortlessly, and the support of the water makes you feel weightless. All the work that the mind and body usually have to do just to resist gravity becomes unnecessary, and you are able to let go and relax into a blissful state. Find out more here.
Will I feel claustrophobic?
Lots of people express this concern before they first float, but end up feeling safe and comfortable. You are in full control of your environment when you float. You are free to get in and out whenever you wish. Some people prefer to keep the door open and the light on, which is fine. Others prefer to minimise distractions. There is no right way of doing it. Floating in silent darkness gives the sense of being suspended in limitless space. Our advice would be to give it a try – we think you will be very pleasantly surprised. In fact, you probably won’t want to get out at the end!
Follow this link for more about fears of claustrophobia.
I can't swim - what if I sink?
No need to worry. It is physically impossible to sink in the float environment. The density of the human body is about the same as water. The Epsom salt solution is 30% more dense than water – that’s even more dense than the Dead Sea. This means that you will float effortlessly on the surface of the solution, buoyed naturally by the difference in density. The water is only 10 inches deep, and you will float like a cork with your face above the water.
Follow this link for more about why you don’t need to be able to swim.
How do you make sure it's clean?
The float environment is considerably more hygienic than a swimming pool. You shower before and after the float. The water is circulated through a very fine filter several times between each use. In addition, the water is treated between each use by a combination of high intensity ultra-violet light and a measured quantity of safe odourless disinfectant. The water is tested regularly, so you can rest assured that we uphold the highest standards of cleanliness.
Follow this link for more about how we keep the water clean.
Can I fall asleep during a float?
The experience of floating is so relaxing that it’s not unusual to fall asleep, and that’s fine. The gentle support of the water is more comfortable than any bed. If you do drift off, you probably needed it, and the weightlessness of one float can leave you as refreshed as a full night’s sleep in bed. It’s perfectly safe, and the water is so buoyant that it is very difficult to turn over. If you did manage to roll over, the worst that could happen is waking up to a bit of salt in the eyes.
Follow this link for more about falling asleep while floating.
What do I wear while I'm floating?
We recommend that you float naked, but of course it’s up to you. You are in your own private room, with a shower and a lock on the door. Pretty much everyone floats naked, and finds it more comfortable that way. The sensation of fabric against your skin can be distracting during your float, and being naked means you can feel truly free. Would you wear a swimming costume in the bath?
Is it private?
Floating is a very private experience. You float in your own fully private room, with your own private shower for your exclusive use, and a lock on the door. This is a place you can truly rest, and a time which is yours alone.
Follow this link for more about privacy and floatation.
Can I bring a friend?
Please do! Each float environment is designed for just one person to float in at a time. But we will have two when we first open, so two simultaneous sessions will be possible. It can be a lot of fun to float at the same time as a friend or partner. Just book two concurrent sessions via our online booking system. That way you will each emerge from your private rooms at the same time, and can share the blissful post-float glow together.
Can I float if I am menstruating?
Yes, if you use a tampon or menstrual cup to control your menstruation, as you would in a swimming pool.
Can I float during pregnancy?
Floating can give profound relief from the physical strains of pregnancy. The uniform and gentle support of the water offer a comfort which cannot be found elsewhere. If you are finding lying in bed uncomfortable, the feeling of weightlessness that floating offers will be a revelation. Floating offers a real rest for you and your baby. You may be interested in this first-hand report.
Can I float if I just dyed my hair?
Floating with dyed hair is okay, but not straight after dying it! Please make sure that the water running through your hair when you shower at home is fully clear. Sometimes this can take a few washes. If there is any colour coming out, please leave it another wash or two before floating.
Do I have to stay in the whole time?
You are in full control of the float environment. You can get out any time, and back in again if you like, as many times as you like during your session. You are in your own private room. Most people find that time flies when they are floating.
Will my skin go all pruney and wrinkly?
No, your skin will feel great after your float. The water is so saturated with Epsom salt that the osmosis which can cause skin to ‘prune’ in the bath does not occur. Epsom salt is Magnesium Sulphate, and is very different to the Sodium Chloride in sea water. The Magnesium in Epsom salt has a number of beneficial effects.
Who shouldn't float?
Those with open wounds, sores, or rashes. Those with contagious diseases. Those with incontinence. Those with an uncontrolled seizure disorder. Those who are a risk to themselves or others due to the influence of any drug including alcohol. Those who do not respect the staff, facilities and fellow floaters at Float in the Forest.
This sounds amazing! When do you open?
Right now we’re working hard on getting the perfect location. We are talking with a number of potential venues. We want to be able to host your float as soon as we can. Please sign up to our mailing list at the bottom of this page to make sure you are the first to hear about our opening, and for the chance to get your first float for free!
