There's a point in a float where you stop noticing the water, the room and even the weight of your own body.
You simply lie back and let yourself be still.
At Wellness & Recovery Haus in Kiama, Magnesium Float Therapy takes place in a private suite filled with warm, body-temperature water and Epsom salt. The high salt concentration allows you to float effortlessly, creating a quiet space to rest, reset and step away from everyday noise.
If you've never floated before, here's what to expect.
Your first visit is simple. There's no special technique to learn and no expectation to "do" anything.
The first 10 to 15 minutes can feel like an adjustment as your body gets used to the stillness. For many guests, the latter part of the session is when things begin to feel noticeably quieter.
If it's your first time, 30 minutes is a good place to start.
It gives you enough time to experience the pod without committing to a longer session. Once you know how your body responds, you may prefer 60 minutes, particularly if you enjoy having more time to settle into the experience.
Many guests find it takes two or three 60-minute floats before settling into the experience feels more natural.
A gentle introduction for first-timers or anyone who is unsure what to expect.
For experienced floaters who want more uninterrupted time to settle, switch off and rest.
Before your first visit, you'll complete a short online waiver. It helps make sure you're suitable to float, protects the pod and covers the studio's booking terms.
You'll be asked about things such as existing health conditions, recent surgery, open sores or communicable skin conditions. You'll also need to be able to enter and exit the pod without assistance.
There are a few things that can affect the water and pod too. Fake tan, tinted moisturiser and temporary hair colour, including henna and vivid colours, aren't suitable. If you have temporary colour in your hair, the studio recommends washing it at least 48 hours beforehand and checking that it no longer transfers onto a white towel.
If you have a health condition or are unsure whether floating is suitable for you, speak with your GP before booking.
A 24-hour cancellation policy also applies.
Not much is required.
A few simple things can make your experience more comfortable:
The main thing to bring is a little time.
The research around floating is promising, but still developing.
A 2018 study published in PLOS ONE followed 50 people who reported high levels of anxiety and stress. Participants reported lower anxiety and improved mood following a single flotation session. However, the study did not include a control group, so the findings need to be interpreted with some caution.
And while Epsom salt is central to the float experience, claims about absorbing meaningful amounts of magnesium through the skin aren't well established. A 2017 review published in Nutrients found the evidence for transdermal magnesium absorption to be limited.
For this reason, Wellness & Recovery Haus approaches floating as an experience for rest and relaxation, rather than a way of delivering magnesium to the body.
The experience doesn't have to end the moment you leave the pod.
After your session, you can shower and take a little time in the refresh space, with hair dryers, Australian-made skincare and complimentary hot tea available.
If you can, leave a little breathing room for the rest of your day. You may appreciate not having to rush straight back into the noise.
It can feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you're not used to enclosed spaces. The pod door is never locked, and you can leave it open or stop your session at any time. The team will also talk you through the experience before you begin.
No. The high concentration of Epsom salt keeps you at the surface without effort. You do need to be able to enter and exit the pod without assistance.
Permanent colour is generally fine. Temporary colours, including henna and vivid tones, aren't suitable. Wash your hair at least 48 hours before your appointment and check that no colour transfers onto a white towel.
30 minutes for beginners and 60 minutes for experienced floaters.
Float therapy is offered as a pregnancy service. Check with your midwife or GP before booking, particularly during the first trimester.
There's no set number. Many guests notice a sense of relaxation after their first session, while it can take two or three 60-minute sessions to become familiar with the experience.
Speak with your GP before booking. Your waiver will also outline circumstances where medical clearance may be required.
Book your first float at Wellness & Recovery Haus, Shop 8/65 Manning St, Kiama NSW 2533.
