Do You Wear a Swimsuit in a Float Tank?

Flotation therapy – also called “sensory deprivation therapy” – is all the rage these days. There’s no shortage of celebrities, influencers, and other individuals raving about it.

This type of practice does wonders in combating the stress associated with today’s rapid-paced lifestyle and modern society’s never-ending problems. Even for just a short time, it allows you to disconnect yourself from the real world, experience profound relaxation unlike any other, and heal yourself both physically and mentally. Plus, it only takes one to two hours (or even less) to complete and won’t even burn a hole in your wallet.

After convincing yourself that you want to push through with float therapy, you may be wondering about the specifics – such as what you’ll wear inside the isolation tank. Do you wear a swimsuit or something else? Don’t worry, we’re here to answer your most burning question – and more.

Should You Wear a Swimsuit During Flotation Therapy?

You can wear a swimsuit or a bathing suit during your float, but it isn’t necessary. In fact, we recommend not wearing anything at all. This is because the less sensation you have against your skin, the better. Wearing something that presses against your body, for example, can be distracting, which goes against the very principles of sensory deprivation. As a result, it’ll be much harder for you to achieve your desired effect of deep relaxation.

But still, your comfort is of utmost importance. If you feel iffy at the thought of going completely nude, it may be hard for you to relax during the session since your feelings of self-consciousness may be too strong. In this case, it’s better to wear something instead (such as a bathing suit). Just make sure that it facilitates movement, isn’t too tight-fitting, and doesn’t cover too much of your skin. (Remember, the less sensation, the better.)

Either way, rest assured that you’ll be given complete privacy during the session. The private room will also have its own shower and a locked door. If you want, you can visit the restroom before your scheduled appointment. This can make it easier for you to gauge your comfort level and decide whether or not you prefer to wear something during the float.

Related article: Floatation Therapy Prices in Miami: All You Need To Know

What Should You Bring to Your Floatation Session?

Now that the clothing is covered, you may be thinking about the other things that you should bring to your session.

First, know that you’ll have to take a shower before and after getting in the sensory deprivation tank. However, beauty spas typically provide you with soap, shampoo, towels, and bathrobes, although you may want to bring your own toiletries if you have special needs or preferences. After the shower, there’s a lounge where you can dry your hair (hairdryer and other essentials are usually provided) and prepare yourself. If you plan to go somewhere afterward, bring the makeup and products you need to get ready.

If you wear contacts, we recommend wearing glasses or bringing your contact case. It’s not a good idea to wear contacts during the float. If saltwater accidentally gets into your eyes, you’ll have a harder time rinsing the water out with contact lenses on.

Related article: Floatation Therapy in Miami: Here’s What to Expect

How Do You Prepare for Your Float Session?

Have you already booked your very first float appointment, and are you worried about not being well-prepared? Well, you’ll be glad to know that floating in float tanks isn’t a demanding procedure. It doesn’t really require a lot of preparation, but there are still a few things you could do to ensure a seamless, highly satisfying float experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Avoid stimulants a few hours before your float session. Caffeine and other stimulants can make you feel too jittery, interfering with your relaxation response.
• Have a light snack beforehand. One floating session usually lasts anywhere between 60 and 90 minutes, although it can be shorter or longer depending on your needs and preferences. In any case, you may want to eat around an hour before your session to avoid getting hungry. Not only will it wreck your sense of calm, but the sound of a grumbling stomach can also be extremely loud and disruptive inside the float pod.
• Don’t shave on the same day as your float. The float tank is filled with an Epsom salt solution, which can cause an itchy, distracting sensation.
• Consider getting a massage beforehand. Aside from relieving body aches and muscle tension, a massage session can also put you in the right mood and mental state for flotation.

After your time in the sensory deprivation tank, there are a few things you can do to elevate your feelings of relaxation and calm. For example, you can follow up your float with a sweat session at an infrared sauna room. Besides being relaxing, it also offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits.

Related article: All You Need to Know About Infrared Saunas

Be Prepared For Your First Sensory Deprivation Session 

Floating in sensory deprivation tanks is a deeply relaxing and highly personalized experience. It’s all about what makes you feel most at ease – and that varies immensely from person to person.

With that said, if something makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to speak up. Maybe you’d rather wear a swimsuit instead of floating without any clothing on. Or, maybe you’re claustrophobic and you’d prefer to keep the isolation tank door open or to have a bit of illumination inside the tank. Again, your comfort is the most important thing. If you’re stressing out even on the tiniest details, it’ll be difficult for you to achieve that coveted ultra-relaxing float experience.

Here at Solea Medical Spa & Beauty Lounge, we’re committed to giving you the best sensory deprivation experience possible. This way, you can maximize the wonderful benefits of floating and obtain that much-deserved respite from today’s busy, fast-paced world. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book your first appointment