Your Questions Answered…
Is a flow practice right for me?
1) A 125kg maximum weight limit applies to all Flow Retreat equipment .. including the Sensory Recliners, float tanks, sauna and ice bath. Scales are available on site but it’s best to check that you don’t exceed this threshold before booking. The weight limit is enforced for your safety and that of staff and equipment.
2) You cannot participate in Float Therapy, or Contrast Therapy (Sauna / Ice Bath) if you have infectious skin or respiratory disorders, open wounds, bandages/bandaids, incontinence or under the influence of any drug or alcohol. Participation in any Flow Retreat service is also not advised if you have uncontrolled epilepsy or serious physical or mental health concerns.
3) You cannot participate in Float Therapy or Contrast Therapy (Sauna / Ice Bath) if you have any fake tan or temporary dye on your skin or in your hair (e.g. temporary hair dye / henna).
4) If you have permanent hair dye please ensure that it has been at least 3 weeks since application and you have washed your hair several times since. Bright red / pink / purple / jet black hair dyes are prohibited as they can bleed into the float tanks irrespective of how long they have been in your hair (even if permanent). This is because the level of magnesium in the float tanks is so high that it opens up the pores of the skin and hair follicles and the colour comes out and stains the tanks.
5) If your Float Therapy or Contrast Therapy (Sauna / Ice Bath) appointment is scheduled during your menstrual cycle you will need to ensure you take the same precautions you would when swimming in a pool (e.g. tampons).
6) Under 18 years will require parental consent and under 16 will require their parent to be on site for the duration of their appointment.
7) Sauna and Contrast Therapy (Sauna / Ice Bath) is not recommended during pregnancy. Float Therapy, however, is very popular among expecting mothers. To industry knowledge it poses no greater risk than taking a bath .. as we limit the heating of the float pool solution to skin temperature (34.5 degrees) and the salt water solution and pools are sanitized and maintained to a very high standard. We do however, recommend avoiding floating in the very early and late stages of pregnancy .. in the interests of minimizing any chance of the salt water solution becoming contaminated with body fluids. We recommend high risk pregnancies seek guidance from their treating physician before participating in float therapy .. as they would for any new activity.
*Please ensure you thoroughly read the Terms of Participation outlined on the online booking form of your specific appointment to ensure compliance prior to attending.
How to prepare for your first flow appointment…
1) Don't have a heavy meal immediately before your appointment, but similarly don't arrive hungry either. You are aiming for a balance - similar to if you were about to do exercise.
2) Avoid caffeine at least 3-4 hours before any flow practice, as caffeine is a stimulant and it will impact your ability to calm the mind and body.
3) We recommend avoiding shaving and waxing on the day of any appointment including Float Therapy as the salt water may sting those areas of skin.
4) You don’t need bathes for float therapy appointments but you do need bathes for the Sauna and Ice Bath. So, if you have booked the Soothe & Soak (Sauna and Float Therapy) or the Fire & Ice (Sauna and Ice Bath Contrast Therapy) .. please ensure you bring / wear your bathes.
A guide for your first float…
1) Focus on your breath. Let it help you relax…with slow and deep inhalations through the nose into the lower belly and then out slower again.
2) Use the float halo that will be provided for neck support if you have any neck discomfort / issues.
3) You may leave lights or music on throughout your float (although we’d love you to try without). You can turn the music and lights on-off from within the float pools.
4) Find the best position for your body. Some people prefer to float with their arms above their head, others to their side and some prefer to rest their hands on their belly.
5) Remember to have a lukewarm pre-float shower (before you enter the float pool you have a pre-float shower to wash and remove all hair conditioners and body oils). If the shower water is too warm your float may feel cold. Your room is beautifully heated so a cooler shower is not unpleasant.
How often should I book a flow practice?
A regular practice of entering the flow state is ideal.. Weekly is great but if a monthly practice is more practical it is also going to help you see consistent and rewarding results in your mind and body. When you are new to float therapy in particular, we recommend you schedule three appointments within 3-6 weeks to experience the benefits of an ongoing practice and determine if the therapy is right for you. It’s different for everyone…monitor how you feel and be guided by what’s practical for you.
See the great value Introductory Packs under Special Offers if you would like to try a new flow practice. Certainly, the more you practice the more benefits you feel and see in your everyday life.