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7 Major Benefits of Floating

by | Sep 4, 2018 | Energy/Fatigue, Mental Wellbeing

Float Private Sea Mornington

7 Major Benefits of Floating

Why Is Floating Gaining Popularity?

Floating has been around for decades, but recently, it’s getting more attention for its powerful health benefits. More people are discovering how it can reduce stress, improve sleep, and even relieve chronic pain.

Origins of Floating

The idea of floating in saltwater for therapeutic benefits isn’t new. It has been used for years, but over the past five years, it has made a strong comeback.

Back in the 1950s, neuroscientist John C. Lilly studied the effects of sensory deprivation on anxiety, addiction, and stress. Seeing impressive results, he developed a commercial float tank that made floating accessible to more people.

Floating became popular in the 1960s, but concerns over water cleanliness slowed its growth in the 1970s. Despite this, researchers continued studying its effects. Today, float centers are everywhere, including my favorite one—The Private Sea in Mornington.

So, why should you try floating? Here are seven major health benefits that might convince you.

1. Floating Lowers Stress

One of the biggest reasons people float is stress relief. Floating helps in two ways:

  • The magnesium in the water lowers stress hormones like cortisol
  • Sensory deprivation gives your mind a break, reducing tension

In a study, participants who floated eight times over two weeks saw a 21.6% decrease in cortisol levels. They also handled stress better without the usual spikes in cortisol.

The best part? That deep relaxation doesn’t disappear once you leave the tank—it lingers, helping you stay calm in daily life.

2. Floating Increases Magnesium Levels

Magnesium is essential for over 235 bodily functions, yet many people are deficient. A lack of magnesium can lead to:

  • Muscle cramps and fatigue
  • Poor sleep and anxiety
  • Joint pain and headaches

Floating replenishes magnesium levels by soaking your skin in Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate). Just one float session can provide enough magnesium to support your body for days.

3. Floating Reduces Anxiety and Depression

Chronic stress triggers high cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Floating helps by:

  • Reducing cortisol production, helping you feel calmer
  • Improving sleep, which directly impacts mental health
  • Promoting relaxation, so you feel lighter and more positive

In one study, people who floated 12 times reported less stress, pain, and anxiety. They also noticed improved sleep and a more optimistic outlook, with results lasting up to four months.

4. Floating Relieves Physical Pain and Inflammation

If you struggle with chronic pain, floating might be the relief you need. It helps by:

  • Increasing circulation, which reduces muscle tension
  • Promoting oxygen flow, which speeds up healing
  • Relieving joint pain, even for conditions like fibromyalgia

Floating has been shown to reduce pain, stress, and muscle tension, helping people move more freely with less discomfort.

5. Floating Improves Sleep Quality

Struggling with insomnia? Floating can help reset your sleep cycle.

  • Magnesium relaxes muscles, preparing your body for deep sleep
  • One hour in a float tank is equivalent to four hours of deep rest
  • Even after just one float, people report feeling more refreshed

Better sleep leads to better energy, focus, and mood—all essential for a healthy lifestyle.

6. Floating Enhances Creativity

Artists, writers, and musicians use floating to boost creativity. A study found that floating improves technical skills and enhances problem-solving abilities.

When your brain enters a deep relaxation state, creative ideas flow more easily, making floating a great tool for anyone looking to unlock their full potential.

7. Floating Deepens Meditation

Many people struggle with meditation because of distractions. Floating makes it easier by:

  • Eliminating external noise
  • Helping you stay fully present
  • Allowing your mind to enter a theta state—the deepest level of relaxation

This deep mental clarity can last for days or even weeks, helping you stay focused and mindful in everyday life.

What to Expect on Your First Float

Float tanks are spacious, measuring around 2.5 meters long and 1.2 meters tall, so you can sit up inside. The water, heated to 35°C, is infused with 350kg of Epsom salts, making you effortlessly float.

Before or after your session, you can also enjoy an infrared sauna for an even deeper relaxation experience.

Each person’s float experience is unique—some feel meditative, others creative, and many report feeling refreshed and optimistic for days afterward.

Final Thoughts

Floating is an amazing experience that can help you feel relaxed, balanced, and pain-free. It’s now my go-to gift for loved ones near The Private Sea in Mornington.

You can also read about Sensory Overload I hope this gave you insights and you can share us your experience!

CLICK HERE to book a session with me so I can help you feel relaxed, and pain-free!

References

[1] https://www.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/j…
[2] http://floatinglotus.com/wp-content/uploads/…
[3] http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2006-07100-002
[4] http://floatinglotus.com/wp-content/uploads/…