Floating FAQ

Massage Therapy FAQ
Can I drown if I fall asleep in there?
Can I float with another person in the float tank/pod?

Floating FAQ
How long is a float session?

The float session is 60 minutes long. But you should arrive around 10 minutes beforehand so you can arrive, check in, fill out paperwork, and shower before your float.  You have 10-15 minutes to shower afterwards as well. The whole process takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, so please leave yourself enough time when scheduling. There's no rush after your session if you want to hang out and have some tea. When scheduling a shorter or longer service, add 30 minutes for an accurate time estimate.
Do I need to bring anything?

If you wear contacts, you may want to bring something to put your contact lenses into while you’re in the tank.  Other than that, we provide everything you need (towels, earplugs, body wash/shampoo…). No need to bring anything!
Should I wear anything in the float tank?

Swim suits trap a lot of bacteria and can hold fabric cleaners and softeners trapped within their fibers. Though it is ok to wear a swim suite, we recommend floating without anything on. It is something that helps us keep the tank clean. Some find the clothing against the skin as a distraction. Our float room is fully private and includes a private shower directly outside of the float space.
 Will floating effect my hair treatment?

We understand that you have spent a lot of money on your hair and we don't want to jeopardize it. That being said, if you have recently dyed your hair we recommend that you wait 1-2 weeks before floating. When you shampoo, it should come out clear of dye. If you have any concerns please contact your stylist for recommendations. Also, people who have had hair straightening treatment (e.g., with keratin) or extensions should not float because salt disrupts the treatment. Red hair can be particularly tricky and take longer to set, so please keep that in mind when scheduling.
I am on my period. Can I still float?

If you are on your period you may still float but you MUST use a tampon. If you are experiencing an especially heavy flow, we would urge you to consider rescheduling for a day when you would be more comfortable.  If you cannot wear a tampon, you will need to reschedule your float.
Is it safe to float while pregnant?

Floating is not only safe for pregnant women, but is highly encouraged!  Float sessions not only provide a stress relief and weightlessness, but coupled with the Epsom salt's anti-inflammatory properties, a float session can really ease the strain on a pregnant body.  The quiet, stimulus-free environment is a beautiful opportunity to connect more closely with your baby as well.  All that being said, we recommend that you consult your doctor before booking a session.
Do I have to stay in the whole time?

There aren’t any latches on the tank door, and you can get out anytime.  That said, the 60 minutes usually goes by very quickly for most people. If you do chose to step out, your time will continue to count down.
What if I’m claustrophobic?

This is a common concern for first-time floaters. It is perfectly normal. Floating is so freeing and relaxing that the apprehension of tight spaces goes away very quickly for most people. If you feel like you need some space, you can float with the door open or get out right away, no questions asked.  Our tank does have a 6ft ceiling so it is one of the largest options for floating. You have complete control over your environment. If you want to float with the light on, or with music, that's okay too, it is completely up to you. 
What if I can't swim?

Floating doesn’t require any swimming skills whatsoever. There is less than 12 inches of water and you’ll float like a cork. It doesn’t matter what shape or size you are.
How do you clean the tanks?

The levels of salt do prevent bacteria from growing and we frequently test all levels to maintain a clean and buoyant atmosphere. But as an added precaution the water is fully filtered 3 times between each float. There is a micron filter and UV light that not only cleans the water but also the air and walls inside the tank. The filters run 24 hours a day 7 days a week except when the tank is in use.
Do I get dehydrated from soaking for so long?

No- your skin doesn’t even prune up, but it does become silky soft afterwards.
Can I drown if I fall asleep in there?

Nope.  Some people fall asleep, but the water is so buoyant that you stay afloat.  The worst that can happen is getting woken up by a bit of salt water in your eyes. It is even safe to spend the night in one and it may be a service we provide in the future.
Can I float with another person in the float tank/pod?

We currently only have one float room and it is designed for single occupancy. If you would like schedule a float for more than one person we would be happy to schedule them back to back. You could also schedule a massage while you wait your turn.  
I cannot step the 15inches into the tank. Can I still float?

If you have mobility issues and need assistance getting in and out of the tank, please contact us directly BEFORE scheduling so that assistance can be arranged. If you need assistance but forget to tell us, we may have to reschedule your appointment until arrangements can be made.
Is there an age restriction?

We do have age limitations. Its less about age and more about cognitive ability. The child must be able to shower thoroughly and completely on their own, be comfortable in the tank by themselves, and be able to understand and abide by the tank rules. Usually this is around 12-13 or older. It may be by a case-by-case basis. Any person under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign paperwork as well as remain within the building during the service.
Are there are any other rules?

It goes without saying, but no bodily fluids in the tanks – no spitting, no mucus, no urination, please help us keep it all clean. If you are sick, experiencing diarrhea, or other stomach issues, please reschedule. There is a $1000 fee charged to a guest if we have to drain the tank prematurely. This would result in us having to cancel appointments as we refill and rewarm the water and dissolve the salt. We are also a drug free facility. If you appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol we will require your appointment be rescheduled. We have a zero tolerance policy.

Massage Therapy FAQ

What should I wear on the table?

Less is more...the less you wear the more the therapist can work on. Some people wear underwear and some people do not. Your therapist does not care either way. You will be professionally covered with a blanket and sheet the entire service. Our table also has a heater and we have a heated blanket available, we promise you won't get cold.
Will the massage therapist be in the room while I disrobe?

The massage therapist will step out of the room to give you privacy while you disrobe. We will give you plenty of time to get undressed and on the table. Before they enter, the massage therapist will knock and ask to come inside.
Does it have to be a full body massage?

Absolutely not! If you do not like your feet or legs worked on (or other areas) please just let your therapist know during your consultation.
Will my massage be painful?

Sometimes there is pain in a massage but there doesn't have to be. Usually the "pain" is similar to a good stretch. Each person is different. Some people like that stretch feeling and some do not. It is important to communicate with your therapist before and during your service so that you can be happy at the end. You won't hurt their feelings, we promise.
I just want my neck and back worked on. Is that ok?

Of course! It is your massage. If you still want the time spent on tension areas but don't want to sacrifice time other places consider booking a 15 minute focus.
How will I feel after my massage?

Most people feel very relaxed. Some even experience a burst of energy! It is very common to feel sore after a massage. This is because the skin and muscles aren't used to being pushed around for an extended period of time. It can even feel tender to the touch, especially in the neck and shoulder area. It can even feel like you did a vigorous workout. It will get better after a day or two. Just make sure you drink plenty of water and take it easy for the rest of the day.
Is it beneficial to have a float and a massage together? Which should I do first?

Booking a massage and a float together is an amazingly relaxing & rejuvenating experience.  Some say it is the most relaxing experience they have ever had. 

Whether to have a massage before or after your float is personal preference – for those who have never floated before the massage is a good way to prepare for the float & we find that first time floaters who have a massage beforehand seem to relax quicker into the tank environment.  For clients with extreme muscular tension, floating first can assist with breaking through the first few layers of tension, allowing the massage therapist to more quickly achieve results.
Do you accept health insurance?

Unfortunately at this time we do not accept health insurance. However, we recommend consulting with your doctor and your tax preparer because you may able to deduct massage therapy from your taxes under special circumstances.
I have (blank). Do I need a doctor's note?

There are some conditions that may require a doctor's note before a massage (or float) can happen. It is just a precaution to make sure that both our guests and our therapists are as safe as possible. Some examples are recent accidents or surgeries, blood clots, and cancer.

You can download our form HERE. Please take it to your physician and have them fill it out and return it to us. Notes and forms other than our own may not be accepted.

We have the right to refuse service if a note is needed and not provided out of safety.
Will my massage therapist talk during my session?

Our massage therapist will talk to you before your session begins to discuss your goals. She will also check in with you from time to time during the massage to make sure you are ok with the pressure. Other than that she understands that this is your time to relax. She will take her cues from you: if you want to talk, she will talk with you. If you are silent, she will be silent. You cannot hurt her feelings. If halfway through, you decide you don't want to talk anymore, THAT IS OK. Just let her know and she will be quiet. Communication is important during a massage.
Is there an age restriction?

We do have an age limit. We do not perform massages on children under the age of 14. For anyone under 18 we require a parent to sign paperwork and remain in the room during the massage. If you have any questions you can contact us directly for information at info@saltwaterstatecollege.com
Can I bring my children and have them waiting in the waiting room during my service?

Though we love children, we do not allow guests to leave them in the waiting room during a service. Nor do we allow you to have your child in the treatment or float room with you during your service. We are trying to create a relaxing, peaceful, and quiet atmosphere where you can have some "you" time. We want you to be able to relax completely and not be worried about your child(ren).