A journalist from NGS22.RU in Barnaul, Russia, recently tried a floating session, a procedure involving immersion in a capsule filled with water with a high concentration of Epsom salt. The session is marketed as a method for stress relief, relaxation, and fatigue reduction. Despite pre-session instructions to avoid reading about floating beforehand, the journalist researched the procedure and found mixed reviews.

The journalist’s experience at the relaxation center began with a small room equipped with a shower, relaxation area, and toilet. Instructions from the administrator included showering before and after the session, using earplugs, applying petroleum jelly to cuts, and avoiding touching the eyes. A lack of hot water due to city maintenance almost derailed the session, but the journalist proceeded, entering the floating chamber.

Inside the chamber, the water was warm and buoyant, allowing the journalist to float effortlessly. The first 10 minutes involved a gradually dimming starry sky projected onto the ceiling, intended to ease the user into the sensory deprivation. However, the journalist found it difficult to relax due to tension in the neck and shoulders. The initial phase felt like floating in a salt lake at night.

Once the starry sky disappeared, the journalist experienced an intense darkness that triggered a feeling of defenselessness and unease. The sensory deprivation led to a rapid stream of thoughts and existential questions. The journalist noticed her senses adapting, distinguishing the silhouette of the door, a blue light, and sounds outside the chamber.

Despite these adaptations, the journalist failed to achieve complete relaxation or sleep. The session ended with a knock from an employee, as the expected starry sky and music cue never occurred. After the session, the journalist concluded that sensory deprivation was not a suitable relaxation method for her and that she wouldn’t repeat the experience. However, she acknowledged that individual experiences may vary and wouldn’t dissuade others from trying floating.