Dr. J.C. Lilly said you are attuning your senses when you float in a tank. In our 21st-century float tanks, you have the option to listen to music, leave the lights on, and in some cases, use open pools without lids. One of the main benefits of float therapy is the reduction of external stimuli, such as sight and sound, allowing your brain some time to rest. Dr. Lilly mentioned that 85% of the brain’s computation is spent on spatial awareness. Once this is minimized in a float tank environment, the magic can begin.
Unfortunately, the term "sensory deprivation" has been associated with floatation therapy. In reality, sensory deprivation, or perceptual isolation, involves the deliberate removal of stimuli from one or more senses. While floating, your senses are actually heightened. Hearing your heartbeat can be very calming, and learning to control or self-regulate your breathing can reduce anxiety and help centre your thoughts. Being supported in a warm, buoyant magnesium solution is deeply relaxing and benefits the whole body as it removes pressure from the spine, improving blood flow to your extremities, regulating blood pressure and reducing inflammation.