Floating FAQ
What is Floating?
Floating is a unique experience in a specialized Float Pod filled with a 900 pounds of Epsom salt and 150 gallons of water. The buoyancy created by the salt content allows the body to float weightlessly on top of the water.
Can anyone Float?
The short answer is yes with a few restrictions.
Floating is beneficial for anyone who is able to enter and exit the tank on their own, including pregnant women. However, we highly recommend those suffering from any medical conditions consult their physician prior to floating.
- There are a few restrictions to know before you book your appointment:
If your hair has recently been colored and is still coming out when shampooing (color running out), you cannot float. This will stain then ruin the tank and the filter system, in turn costing YOU thousands to replace! A swimming cap or other hair covering is not sufficient. We kindly require that you postpone the visit.
Also ladies, if you are menstrating, you will need to wait to float until your cycle is finished. This is just another step to keep the tank and sanitary and operational
Why Do People Enjoy Floating?
This is our favorite question. When you’re floating in water with 900 lbs of salt, it’s one of the closest things you will ever experience to being weightless. And, when you’re weightless, joints and muscles cease to be stressed. And that water is the same temperature as your skin, so that means that the water becomes undetectable to touch. You are floating without any effort whatsoever. You can’t feel the water. We kind of think that’s what flying in your dreams feels like.
What Should I wear To Float?
Nothing! Well…we prefer that you would wear something to our spa, and upon leaving, in fact, it’s kind of mandatory…;)…but your actual float will be without clothes. Your floating experience will be in a private room, in your own float pod, so that you can totally rest your body and your mind without the worry of being disturbed.
Clothing of any kind can introduce irritants and allergens into the pod, as well as lower the salt content. You would be amazed at how much salt is retained in your bathing suit when you exit the the float pod. We want everyone’s float to be a perfect experience, so no clothes please!
What Is Epsom Salt?
Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, is a chemical compound containing magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. Combined with water, it raises the water’s specific gravity, resulting in a dense solution in which a body can float effortlessly. Epsom salt has been proven to be highly absorbable by the skin resulting in countless benefits to the body including detoxification, strengthening of the immune system, heightened endorphin release, and relief from physical, mental, and emotional stress and fatigue.
How Do I Prepare Myself For A Float Session?
We recommend that you not be too hungry before you float; a light snack about an hour prior to your float should tide you over. Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided immediately prior to a session in order to maximize relaxation. We also recommend not shaving or waxing prior to floating. Note: Entering the float pod with a sunburn will also be uncomfortable.
Your room comes complete with a private shower. A gentle exfoliation removes excess body oils and allows for maximum absorption of the healing epsom salts. You'll need to rinse off before AND after your session. This will keep hair and body products from diluting the pod for your float and to remove the salt build up after your float on your skin and hair.
Is Floating Safe For Pregnant Women?
Yes! Floating is ideal for pregnant women as it alleviates pressure on the skeletal system and joints, and assists in relieving muscle tension. We do recommend that pregnant women consult their physician prior to floating, especially during the first trimester.
Is The Water Sanitary?
Yes! Salt is a natural anti-microbial and antiseptic, especially at the high concentration present in the floatation pods. The water in our pods is completely filtered through our high-tech filtration system and we have the added benefits of UV light and ozone purification which sanitizes the water between each float and all through the night.
What If I Am Claustrophobic?
Our float pods are spacious (8.5 ft long and 5.5 ft wide), allowing one to put their arms over their head, out to the sides, and sit up in the pod if necessary. Although many choose to float in complete darkness, inside lighting is available and the door to the float pod can be opened at any time. You are always in complete control of your environment.
HALOTHERAPY FAQ
How does it work?
Most people are familiar with 'wet' salt therapy, Whether you have gargled with salt water, put salt in a bath, had a saline solution treatment or used a Nettie pot, wet salt has its benefits; but dry salt is different and the drier the salt the better. At ...salt... we use what is called a Halogenerator in each of our salt rooms.
Halogenerators heat the salt prior to dispersing it into the rooms. Heat ensures that all moisture is evaporated so when it is inhaled, the salt particles can do their best job. The particles penetrate deep into the lungs, bronchi, bronchioles and alveoli, which breaks down the toxins and clears the respiratory system. While inside the salt room, the salt particles that are not inhaled fall onto the skin, which is greatly beneficial for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and acne.
What does it treat?
Halotherapy is beneficial for: ACNE, ALLERGIES, ANXIETY, ASTHMA, BRONCHITIS, CHRONIC ENT, COLD/FLU, COPD, CYSTIC FIBROSIS, DEPRESSION, DERMATITIS, EAR INFECTIONS, ECZEMA, EMPHYSEMA, FATIGUE, HAY FEVER, INFLUENZA, INSOMNIA, MIGRAINES, OSTEOPOROSIS, PNEUMONIA, PSORIASIS, RHINITIS, ROSACEA, SINUS INFECTIONS, SINUSITIS, SMOKER'S COUGH, SNORING, STRESS/FATIGUE, WHEEZING, ETC.
Who benefits?
Halotherapy is beneficial to adults and children. Most clients who use halotherapy on a regular basis feel relief from an array of respiratory and skin conditions. However, one does not need to have a specific condition to use halotherapy, it's beneficial to your general overall wellbeing. It is an excellent way to cleanse and detox the lungs as well as rejuvenate the whole body with increased lung capacity and oxygen intake.
How do I know if Halotherapy is right for me?
Salt therapy has many benefits for maintaining wellness. Salt therapy relieves symptoms of many conditions and works in conjunction with your medication and treatment plan. In addition, even if you aren’t suffering from any specific conditions, our salt rooms provide a comfortable, quiet, serene space for relaxation and escape from everyday life. It can also help strengthen the immune system, help you recover faster from jet lag, work-outs and stress, slow down the signs of aging and help improve sleep patterns.
Is Halotherapy safe for children?
Yes, it is safe for children. In fact, children often respond to treatment faster then adults.
When should Halotherapy be avoided? Are there contraindications?
Halotherapy is a safe and effective wellness practice for preventive and restorative health care, but it is NOT a medical treatment. It is a 100% drug-free, non-invasive, comfortable treatment.
Halotherapy is NOT recommended for people with severe chronic respiratory issues, open wounds and sores, contagious diseases, fever, cancer, severe hypertension, mental disorders, and active tuberculosis. Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before using halotherapy. Anyone with health concerns need to speak to their healthcare professional before participating in halotherapy.
Halotherapy should not be undertaken if you are currently experiencing any of the following: ACTIVE TUBERCULOSIS, ACUTE STAGE OF RESPIRATORY DISEASES, BLEEDING, CARDIAC INSUFFICIENCY, CONTAGIOUS CONDITIONS. COPD IN 3RD STAGE, CURRENT SMOKER, FEVER, INTERNAL DISEASES IN ACUTE STAGE, INTOXICATION, REQUIRES OXYGEN, SEVERE KIDNEY DISEASE, SEVERE/UNSTABLE HEART DISORDER, SPITTING OF BLOOD AND/OR UNCONTROLLED HYPERTENSION.
How many sessions do I need?
The amount of sessions needed varies depending on each individual client and the reason for their visit. Treatment sessions based on an individual's condition and symptoms can vary, since like many wellness and health regimens, individuals respond differently. Many individuals will notice a positive effect in just one session, however, a series of sessions is recommended for optimal results.
Some people go two to three times a week for a three to four-week ritual during allergy and cold seasons, some people go twice a week for six to eight weeks for more chronic conditions. Those who go for general wellness, stress relief, and relaxation simply go as often as they like.
Dry Salt Therapy Treatment Protocols
Although the FDA has yet to establish official protocols for dry salt therapy in the United States, some European countries have incorporated the following duration of treatment:
• Asthma (mild): 12-14 days • Asthma (severe): 18-21 days • Acute bronchitis: 12-14 days
• Recurrent bronchitis: 12-14 days • Chronic obstructive bronchitis: 18-21 days
• Pneumonia after acute stage: 12-14 days • Cystic fibrosis: 20-25 days • Chronic sinusitis: 14-18 days
• Acute sinusitis: 3-5 days • Hay fever: 12-14 days
PLEASE NOTE: For best results, during a course of therapy, chronic sufferers should try to complete sessions as consecutively as possible - daily is best, but at least 3 times a week are usually needed for challenging cases.
Are there any side effects?
Not usually. You may feel a slight tickle in your throat during the sessions as well as coughing. This is just the process of the salt breaking down the mucus and ridding the body of it.
Do I need to stop taking my medications?
No, please continue your medications as needed and as directed by your doctor. You may see less need for them; but always speak to your doctor before changing any of your medical routines. Since salt therapy is all-natural, it does not have any interactive effects with medications. Often, individuals who undergo salt therapy will find that they are less dependent on certain medication and their symptoms are less severe.
What about the concern that salt is bad for you?
Consuming too much salt is linked to high blood pressure. With salt therapy, you are inhaling a dry salt aerosol, which only enters your respiratory system, not your digestive tract. The salt particles are so fine that even if you were to eat that amount, it would not pose a risk to your health.
Is there any risk of catching germs or an infection?
Salt is an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, which naturally absorbs moisture & bacteria. Our salt room walls and floors are covered with salt which creates an almost sterile environment. In addition, our ventilation system works throughout the entire session filtering used air out and fresh air in.
What kind of salt is used?
We use 100% Himalayan Salt on our walls and floors and
100% Pharmaceutical Grade Salt (sodium chloride) in our Halogenerators.
What is the difference between salt therapy and sea air?
Salt is an anti-inflammatory, meaning it absorbs moisture. Sea air is not as potent because it is already moist, which takes away its strong ability to heal. When you breathe in dry salt aerosol in our treatment rooms, the particles line your airways and draw out the fluid from the inflamed airway. This fluid, now mixed with the salt goes to work on cleaning the walls of the airways. One session in a salt room is equivalent to five (5) days at sea/beach.
What will my experience be like?
When you arrive, you will be directed to fill out our client intake form (you can print one on this site for faster check in). Clients MUST remove shoes and bring clean socks to change into when entering the salt room. Once in the salt room, clients sit, relax and breathe.
It is advisable to remove jewelry, glasses and other metal items since salt can be corrosive to metal.
What happens during a session?
Halotherapy sessions are 40 minutes long. Our salt rooms are very tranquil and relaxing. You are welcome to sleep, read or just relax and unwind; be advised the lights are dim for relaxation purposes. You may feel a slight tickle in your throat, eyes & nose as it clears mucus. You may also get a slight taste of salt on your lips.
Am I alone in the Salt Room?
There will be other customers in the rooms. In our general rooms there will be anywhere from 1-4 people in each session.
What should I wear to a halotherapy session?
Something comfortable is recommended. The salt will not harm your clothes in any way. If you are visiting for a skin condition, wear something that exposes more of the targeted area.
Infrared Sauna FAQ
Will I be losing water weight?
Yes, which will be regained upon rehydration. But the calories burned are real. As you relax in the gentle heat of our saunas, your body is actually hard at work pumping blood (increased heart rate), increasing circulation and producing sweat to cool you down. This results in a caloric burn!
How often should I come in?
Based on your individual health and wellness goals, we recommend at least 2-3 times a week. For even better results, 4-5 times a week is recommended. We suggest you try the sauna immediately following your workout/fitness program to see the best weight loss results.
Is it true I am still burning calories up to an hour after my session?
Yes. By increasing your heart rate and core body temperature by 3 degrees in your session, it could take up to an hour to return to normal. We encourage you to stay active before or after your session if you want to maximize the calorie burn.
Why should I sweat?
Sweating is a great way to help realize your personal fitness, wellness and beauty goals. By increasing circulation, your body benefits from a number of positive effects, such as glowing skin, pain relief, weight loss, stress relief, increased athletic performance, improved immune function, injury recovery and more.
How is this different from a traditional sauna or a steam sauna?
While traditional dry saunas and steam saunas are excellent for your health, they are uncomfortable. Infrared heats your body from the inside out, allowing you to sweat more comfortably, and therefore longer, resulting in a more productive sweat.
Is there anyone who should not sauna?
Pregnant women are advised not to use the sauna (excessive body temperatures have a potential for causing fetal damage during early days of pregnancy), those with pacemakers and, although rare, those who have an inability to sweat.
How will I feel during and after my sauna session?
Infrared saunas heat you very gently and slowly, making it a very peaceful experience for most people. You may find that you do not sweat for the first 10-15 minutes, or not very much at all your first time. With increased usage you will likely notice an increased ability to sweat more productively. You may notice glowing skin, diminished wrinkles, muscle and injury relief as well as a sense of relaxation.
May I bring a friend?
Yes! Saunas are traditionally a social activity and we encourage sharing!
Do you provide towels and water?
Yes, we provide towels. We have enhanced water available for purchase as well as
a water dispenser should you wish to fill your own water bottle.
What do I wear?
We recommend wearing a towel (provided) or any loose fitting, comfortable clothing. You may sweat during and well after your session, so avoid tight, hard to get on clothing.
How old do you have to be?
You must be at least 18 years old. If you are 12-18 yrs old, you may do a session accompanied with a parent or guardian.
How are the saunas cleaned?
We take cleanliness very seriously and ensure that each suite is fully cleaned in between sessions with non-toxic cleaning supplies. Additionally, infrared heat kills 99% of bacteria, creating an inherently sterile environment.
General
Are walk-ins welcome?
At this time we cannot accommodate walk-ins.
If you want to guarantee your session time, appointments are necessary to secure your spot.
Do you provide child care?
No. We cannot provide childcare or babysitting services! If you cannot arrange for that prior to your appointment, we ask you please reschedule (keep in mind our minimum 24hr reschedule/cancellation policy too). We are not responsible for anyone that is not directly receiving a service and will not allow additional persons (no matter the age) in the service room or left in the lounge.
Do you have lockers?
Yes, we have complimentary lockers for anything you choose not to take into your private sauna or float room. For Halotherapy clients, all belongings besides reading material MUST go in a locker or be left in your car. They are not allowed inside the salt rooms.
Where do I park?
There is an abundance of FREE parking spaces in front of the spa at the Gateway Shopping Center.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash and all major credit cards. We do not accept checks.
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments for the float tank, salt room or infrared sauna can be made here on our website, or you may call the spa directly to book and confirm. ALL massage, facial and Reiki appointments must be made by calling the spa. This will ensure you are getting the most up to date availability to serve you best!
What if I arrive late? Is there a charge if I miss my appointment all together?
Late arrivals - If you arrive late for any service, only the remainder of your time will be offered, and will not spill over into the next appointment time. Halotherapy clients arriving late will not be admitted into sessions already taking place. If we have an empty room, only then can we accommodate you for the remaining time ONLY of your schedule appointment.We will do our best to accommodate you but we cannot guaranty a session for any late arrivals.
If you do not show up to your appointment, you forfeit your appointment time and you will be charged the full cost of the service. Payment must be received before another appointment for you will be secured for you.
Any cancellation OR rescheduled appointment made less than 24 hours are subject to a 50% charge of that service booked.