Join us for World Float Day on January 6th, 2024
You’re invited to celebrate the scientific discoveries of John C. Lilly and join us for World Float Day.
World Float Day is in honor of John C. Lilly (January 6, 1915 – September 30, 2001), the inventor of floatation therapy.
The History of Flotation Tanks
Lilly developed the first flotation tank in 1954 while working at the National Institute of Mental Health, right here in Bethesda, Maryland, to study the impact of a sensory-free environment on the mind.
The first flotation tank was referred to as an isolation tank, as it was dark, warm, and quiet.
He, too, dissolved enough salt inside the water for the body to float effortlessly inside.
This is what flotation tanks look like now!
Now, instead of the term “sensory deprivation,” the floating industry and scientific researchers are leaning more toward calling it “Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy” (R.E.S.T.).
The Benefits of Floating
Today, flotation therapy is used for a wide range of mental and physical benefits that we imagine John C. Lilly would be very proud of.
Imagine laying back, and feeling embraced by the warm saltwater for 60-90 minutes. The saltwater is warmed to the temperature of your skin, and the salts create a unique zero-gravity environment, so you can relax every single muscle in your body.
Benefits of Floating include:
relieving pain from sore muscles and joints
promoting creativity, focus, and accuracy
alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, burnout, overstimulation, and mental fatigue
intense relaxation and stress relief
balance the left and right sides of the brain
improved quality of sleep
The Benefits of the Epsom Salts
Since the first tank was developed in 1954, many studies have been released explaining the benefits of floating in Epsom salt.
Our flotation tanks hold 1,000 pounds of absorbed Epsom salt inside the tank’s water solution. This creates a buoyancy that causes anyone’s body to float without effort on their back, with their face above water in a natural, relaxed position.
Epsom salt is also known as Magnesium sulfate and is about 10% Magnesium.
Magnesium is a mineral essential for healthy bones, muscles, nerves, and blood sugar levels.
It works to calm the nervous system, and the skin absorbs Magnesium while you float.
After floating, you’ll notice that your skin feels soft and hydrated, and your hair is cleaner and shinier than ever. This is because Epsom salts have natural anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and exfoliating properties.
Where to Experience the Benefits of Floating
Visit the World Float Day website to find a flotation center near you!
Hope Floats is located in Bethesda, Maryland, just outside of Washington D.C.
We have four flotation tanks in separate, private rooms equipped with a shower, towels, robes, toiletries, and everything you’ll need for a relaxing, rejuvenating experience.
We also have two infrared saunas, a cold plunge, and a team of amazing massage and fascial stretch professionals, eager to welcome you to our oasis for holistic healing.