New floatation centre now open on Devonshire Road

The very thought of floating in a warm bath to relieve tired aching muscles or after a stressful day is relaxing in itself, but did you know that this concept has many other benefits?

For some the idea of ‘Floatation Therapy’ conjures up the vision of a tank full of water with a lid along with a good helping of claustrophobia. Fortunately however, floatation facilities have come a long way since Dr. John C Lilly originated the concept back in 1954. Flotation therapy, according to today’s scientists, has evolved into "a method of attaining the deepest rest that humankind has ever experienced."

Chiswick is now home to West London’s newly opened floatation centre, Floatopia. One of only three such facilities in the capital, Floatopia is the brain child of Sacha Hemans who, after his first floating experience back in December of last year, gave up his job to start his own floatation rooms.

At 97 Devonshire Road, Sacha provides an oasis of peace and tranquility in this purpose built centre and right down to the finest detail has provided everything to ensure his clients get the most from their float experience. From the Molton Brown products in your private shower to herbal teas and hammock chairs in the rest area, Floatopia is a serene and restful haven.

The floatation rooms are large and airy with a normal door, not a hatch, making it easy to get in and out. Each float suite has its own private changing space and shower. Towels and toiletries are provided in each suite so there is no need to bring anything when you visit.

Each floatation room has water depth of 25cm warmed to skin temperature. As you enter the float room and lie down there will be soft music playing which fades after 5 minutes. The water is treated with a very high concentration of Epsom Salts which produces a high density that allows the individual to float naturally without conscious effort and gives the sense of weightlessness. It is this sense of zero gravity coupled with the absence of sound and that enables the ultimate in relaxation. The end of the sessions is signaled by the return of the soft music to gently rouse you.

It is recommended that you take time to relax after your float so that your return to the outside world is not too abrupt. Floatopia has a wonderful indoor and outdoor rest area for after your shower and also provides purifying herbal teas free of charge. This time will also present you with the ideal opportunity to discover the benefits of floating which are cumulative and can help in the following areas:

• Relieving stress
• Easing of Arthritis
• Releasing Endorphins – the body’s natural painkiller and happy pill.
• Improving the condition of the skin and hair.
• Detoxifying the system.
• Relieving backache during pregnancy (for the full 9 months).
• Increasing creativity and imagination.
• Increasing circulation and energy levels.
• Balancing the left and right brain.
• Improving concentration.
• Assisting in the treatment of addictions, phobias and depression.
• Regulating sleeping patterns – one float simulates 4 hours of sleep.
• Relief from old injuries (especially back aches etc.)

Medical conditions such as cardio-vascular, rheumatic and digestive, can also be benefited bv floatation therapy.

Some frequently asked flotation questions

What happens if I am claustrophobic?
You control the float room’s interior lights and door and so you are in total control of your environment at all times.

What effects does floating have on the body?
In the gravity free environment the body balances and heals internally as all the senses are rested. Research shows that floating measurably reduces blood pressure and heart rate whilst lowering the levels of stress related chemicals in the body. Old injuries and aches, (especially backache) experience relief as floating helps blood circulation. Also, one hour in a floatation tank has the restorative effects of 4 hours of sleep!

What effects does floating have on the mind?
During a float you produce slower brain-wave patterns, known as theta waves, (normally experienced only during deep meditation or just before falling asleep). This is usually accompanied by vivid imagery, very clear, creative thoughts, sudden insights and inspirations or feelings of profound peace and joy induced by the release of endorphins.

Is floating successful for everyone?
Floating, as with other things, doesn't suit everybody. It needs a willingness on your part to let go and see what happens, and you may need to float a few times before you are able to relax completely, both physically and mentally.

What if I can't swim?
Floating doesn't require any swimming skills what so ever. You'll actually float like a cork and it doesn't matter what shape or size you are.

Is it private?
Yes. You float on your own and within individual rooms (so there is no requirement to wear a swimming costume). Each room has it's own shower and is for your exclusive use for the duration of your session.

Will my skin wrinkle?
No. Because the water contains high salt levels it doesn't rob your skin of salt, (which is what causes wrinkling). Rather, it leaves your skin soft and silky.
Am I locked in?
No, the door simply pushes open.

How is water hygiene maintained?
FTA members have to comply with stringent health and safety regulations. The water contains mostly salt and so the solution is sterile. A limited amount of (swimming pool) chemicals are added to ensure it's totally clean. Also, the water is filtered thoroughly between each float session.

July 16, 2004

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