What are Float Tanks?

Do you remember that Simpsons episode where Lisa and Homer tried out a sensory deprivation tank? In the scene, the two experienced a rollercoaster-ride experience full of bizarre imagery after lying down in metal caskets half-filled with water. And while it did looked like a silly figment of imagination made for cartoons, these secluded tanks are actually real!

Sensory deprivation tanks have recently risen in popularity through the years thanks to social media. The unique presentation and renewed attention to health and wellness had paved the way for float spas to pop up as an eye-catching sensation. However, not everyone is quite familiar with how it came to be. Here is how these tanks came to be the newest trend.

Humble Beginnings

The sensory deprivation tank was invented in 1954 by Dr. John C. Lilly, an American neuropsychiatrist who was experimenting with sensory deprivation. The invention was also a product of Dr. Lilly’s experiments on sensory deprivation. He developed the chamber as a lightless and soundproof tank that is filled with salt water at room temperature, making it possible for the body to float.

Back in the early 80s, islation tanks boomed because of the movie Altered States. The infamous sci-fi horror flick was based on a novel that was also greatly inspired by Lilly’s work. Incidentally, the rise of certain diseases (wrongly) spread fear in shared water which reduced the demand for float centres.

Present Time

Fast forward to today, isolation tanks have greatly improved from Lilly’s original design. Sleek and new designs have been introduced; Dr. Lilly also discovered that epsom salt worked best for the treatment.

Over time, various companies from social media sites began covering about the famed product, highlighting its therapeutic benefits. Recent studies have found that floatation therapy has been proven to alleviate stress and stabilize moods all while lowering blood pressure and increase dopamine level.  It didn’t take long for these water-filled pods to grow back to popularity.

The cause for better mental health also pushed inventions like these to thrive, as floating tanks were intended to heal those with anxiety or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Mental health-related movements pushed for methods that promoted a healthy mind.

Want to try out the relaxing benefits of floating therapy? Try Urban Float Ringwood. We offer the best experience for sensory deprivation. Our premier class floatation centres offer discounts for first time floaters. For more inquiries, call us today!