We have been told that meditation is quite a secular occupation. It is not necessary to become a Buddhist and find enlightenment: many people meditate just because it helps to calm down and relieve stress.
Recently in the Russian SPA has a new service: floating. The developers claim that during the procedure, the person is immersed in a deep meditative state. So here’s how it works, and what sensations to expect.
What is it?
Floating with English translates as “to float on the surface”. The essence of the procedure is to be in a state of complete isolation from physical stimuli. For this you placed in a chamber filled with a solution of a magnesium salt. Its density is so high that you will float on the surface, without making any effort. The water temperature in this case is close to the temperature of the human body, and the camera is very quiet and dark.
In the West, this service is very popular: cameras for float set even in fitness clubs. We have floating just appeared, and it is that few people know.
What will I feel?
The state of weightlessness. If you ever swam in the Dead sea, you already know the feeling. A few minutes after the start of the session you no longer feel the touch of the water and the weight of his body. Muscles relax, tension disappears. Up in a condition similar to a trance. Some even fall asleep.
Why is it necessary?
In floate maximally relaxes the musculoskeletal apparatus and the nervous system. You are immersed in a deep meditative state, during which the resting body and brain. There is a feeling of deep calm and inner peace, lost heavy thoughts. Normalization of blood pressure and heart rate, improves blood circulation, leaving the muscle tension, the body begins to produce hormones of happiness endorphins. In General, eliminated the effects of stress.
But in the long run?
Floating helps to get rid of the syndrome of chronic fatigue, reduces level of the stress hormone cortisol. It can also be useful in the treatment of depression and other mental disorders (but then you need to first consult with your doctor).
People who regularly engaged in them, normal sleep, coming in the tone of the immune system and increases concentration. They return to emotional balance, and the troubles of life cease to worry so much.
And this is proven?
Yes, the benefits of meditation for health has been proved by many studies. The fact that it relieves stress – and this is one of the main enemies of health. Studies confirm that those who regularly meditates, stronger immunity and lower the risk of various diseases.
With specific regard to float therapy, then its effect on the organism of study since the 1970-ies. It was then that the psychoanalyst and neuroscientist John Lilly built the first apparatus for float. A meta-analysis of 2005 confirmed that this procedure effectively relaxes and enters into a meditative state. It is believed that it is especially useful for people who are prone to anxiety and are not able to resist the stress.
How is it done?
You undress, take a shower and wash off all the makeup. This is to ensure that the session you were not distracted by its scent. The procedure goes without a swimsuit and cap, but with ear plugs: for sound and water insulation.
Then you go to the pool, turn off the lights and try to relax: due to the instinctive fear of drowning at first, it may not be so easy. You can hold hands or put it under the head of a special pillow. But don’t make any sudden movements that the spray did not get into the eyes or it will sting. And, just in case, be warned: trying the solution on the taste is not worth it. He is bitter.
The average session lasts from 40 to 60 minutes.
And if I get scared?
Camera for float quite large, so even people with claustrophobia they are usually comfortable. But if you’re still worried, you can open a door, turn on the lights or music – floating there are no strict rules.
Is it safe?
Yes, in this salt water impossible to sink, and the depth of only 25 cm Even if you suddenly doze off and roll over, then immediately wakes up.
An infection in the cell is also difficult: after each client solution is several times filtered and disinfected. UV lamp also does not allow germs to multiply.
But that towel better to take his own: the fungus survives even after washing at a low temperature. And do not step with bare feet on the floor: many people do not even know that suffer from a fungal infectionbecause it can occur without prominent symptoms.
And there are contraindications?
Yes, if you have on the body have cuts or scratches, it is better to refrain from floating. Otherwise the burning sensation will not let you relax. Also it is not necessary to visit floaty during the critical days and in a state of intoxication.
If you have diseases of the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous system or organs of hearing, first consult with a doctor.
And, of course, can’t do floating in skin and infectious diseases that can be transmitted to others.
What are the procedures cons?
The main disadvantage is the price: one session in Moscow costs from 1500 to 6000 rubles. And to undergo the procedure recommended 1-2 times a week.
Another important point: meditation is exercise, exercise for the mind. Not everyone turns to enter the same meditative state the first time. Therefore, there is a risk to spend a lot of money, but did not get complete relaxation and with it, all of the health bonuses.
And, of course, dangerous to assume floating is a panacea. This is a useful procedure, but at the same time, it’s just a way to relax. It cannot replace proper treatment under medical supervision.