What links Bono and Susan Sarandon? Floatation tanks. Sylvia Thompson tries one out.
What is it?
Floatation is a therapy in which you float in a tank of body-temperature salt water. It was developed in the 1950s by John C. Lilly, a US doctor and researcher, to explore the effects of sensory deprivation. Nowadays, "floaters" can choose to have accompanying music, relaxation or motivational videos, dimmed lights or complete darkness while in the tank.
What does it treat?
Floating promotes physical and mental relaxation. It is believed to relieve rheumatoid arthritis, digestive-tract conditions, insomnia and some forms of depression. A one-hour session is said to be equivalent to six hours' deep sleep.
Are there any contraindications?
Sufferers of epilepsy, schizophrenia or acute skin disorders are not advised to use floatation tanks. It is important to apply petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to any cuts or scratches before entering the tank. Earplugs are also essential, to prevent earache.
A first-timer's experience
My first thought was that I would find the experience claustrophobic. Also, as I undressed, I briefly wondered how clean everything was. But the Epsom-salt solution creates a sterile environment. I showered, stepped into the tank and closed the door. Then I lay on my back in 10 inches of salty water, looking up into the tank's aqua-blue arched roof. First mistake. I forgot to put in my earplugs. Out I got, to put them in. Then some water splashed in my eyes, stinging them badly. Out I got again, to dab them with fresh water and a towel.
Back in the tank, I had a passing sensation of lying in my own coffin. Then, for quite some time, I lay still, thoughts coming in and out of my mind. I turned off the light briefly but didn't feel that comfortable in total darkness. So I settled back down, floating a little towards the sides and the ends of the tank. It felt quite relaxing and I had no concept of time passing. Then there was a knock on the door, to alert me to the end of the session. I got out, had a shower and went home. As the day progressed, I felt calm but more tired than usual.
An advocate's view
Moira O'Dwyer, housing welfare officer and staff counsellor with Limerick City Council, says: "I first heard about the value of floatation for injury and easing sore joints in rugby players and jockeys. Then I decided to try it for stress relief. I went for three sessions at first. Now I go about once every six weeks. It's a great de-stressor - and a form of healthy selfishness. I also have recommended floatation as a therapy for clients suffering from stress, and the feedback has been very positive. There you are, shut off in a safe, comfortable environment, floating. I generally choose music and total darkness. It's great to have permission to relax for an hour, totally uninterrupted."
Where can I have a treatment?
A session generally lasts an hour, plus 10 minutes or so to shower before and after floating. In Dublin, try the Harvest Moon Centre (01-6627556, €45) and Iveagh Fitness Club (01-4546555, €38). Elsewhere, try Inches Complementary Clinic, in Limerick (061-325053, €38), Kachina, in Castlebar, Co Mayo (094-27110, €42) and Mount Juliet Conrad Hotel, in Thomastown, Co Kilkenny (056-73000, €70).