THE STRETCH SPA

Your first float at THE STRETCH SPA

Never floated before? Almost no one has their first time, and a good center expects it. Here's what to know. What it is: you float effortlessly in about ten inches of skin-temperature water saturated with around 1,000 lbs of Epsom salt — so dense you cannot sink. In the dark and quiet, with no light, sound, or gravity to react to, your nervous system downshifts. Before you come: don't shave or wax for a day beforehand (salt stings fresh cuts — they'll have barrier ointment if you nick yourself), skip caffeine, eat a light meal an hour or two before, and remove contacts. If you colored your hair recently, wait a few days. In the tank: shower first, put earplugs in before you get wet, and keep a fresh-water spray bottle within reach for salt in the eyes. You can leave the light or music on until you settle, then turn them off from inside. Hold your arms out for the first 20–30 seconds to stop bobbing, then let go. It takes a few tries — the first 20 minutes are usually your mind winding down. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to shower and get oriented.

Floating isn't for everyone: skip it with epilepsy, kidney disease, uncontrolled heart conditions, open wounds, a contagious condition, or in the first trimester of pregnancy without your doctor's OK. If in doubt, ask the center and check with a physician — this is general information, not medical advice.