As a couples and sex therapist, I spend my days helping people navigate some of the most intimate and vulnerable aspects of their lives. It’s meaningful, rewarding work, but like anyone in a helping profession, I also know how essential it is to have a good self-care plan. After all, I can’t give my best to my clients if I’m running on empty. That’s why I’ve made floats and massages part of my self-care routine.
These wellness treatments aren’t just a way to relax—they’re tools that help manage stress, improve mental clarity, and complement psychotherapy so you can show up fully for both at work and with loved ones. Both treatments are grounded in science and offer profound benefits for mental and emotional health. If you’re feeling burned out, stuck in your head, or just longing for a sense of calm, here’s why floats and massages are worth trying—and how they can work alongside psychotherapy to support your well-being.
The Benefits of Floats and Massages
Floats, also known as flotation or sensory deprivation therapy, involve lying in a warm tank of water filled with Epsom salt. The high salt concentration allows your body to float effortlessly, creating a zero-gravity experience that’s deeply relaxing. You can lie in complete darkness and silence, or turn on low lighting and relaxing music. Massages, on the other hand, use therapeutic touch to release muscle tension and promote circulation. Both are incredibly calming experiences that can transform how you feel physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Here’s how floats and massages can work their magic:
Stress Relief and Emotional Regulation Both floats and massages help lower cortisol, the hormone responsible for your body’s stress response. At the same time, they encourage the release of serotonin and dopamine, your brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. Whether you’re lying weightless in a float tank or experiencing the rhythmic pressure of a massage, these therapies help your nervous system shift into a calmer, more balanced state.
Mental Clarity and Focus Floats create a sensory-free environment that allows your brain to relax and reset. This can enhance creativity, problem-solving, and mental clarity—qualities that are often hard to access when life feels chaotic. Massage has a similar effect by reducing physical tension and improving circulation, which helps you feel more present and grounded.
Better Sleep Struggling to fall asleep because your mind won’t stop racing? Both floating and massage encourage deep relaxation, making it easier for your body and mind to transition into a restful state.
Physical and Emotional Connection Stress and tension don’t just live in your head—they show up in your body, too. Massage is particularly effective for releasing that pent-up tension, whether it’s in your shoulders, neck, or back. Floating, meanwhile, allows your muscles to completely let go as the Epsom salt’s magnesium helps reduce inflammation and promote healing. This connection between body and mind makes both therapies powerful complements to psychotherapy.
Common Misconceptions About Floats and Massages
Despite their growing popularity, there are still many misconceptions about floats and massages that may prevent you from giving them a try. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths so you can approach these wellness practices with confidence.
“Floats are only for people who meditate.” Many people assume that flotation therapy requires a level of mindfulness or meditation expertise. The truth? You don’t have to be a practiced yogi or meditation guru to enjoy the benefits of floating. The sensory-deprived environment naturally helps your mind slow down, even if you’ve never meditated before. Think of it as giving your brain a break from the constant noise of daily life, not a performance of stillness.
“Massages are just for sore muscles.” While massages are excellent for relieving muscle tension, their benefits go far beyond physical relief. They’re a powerful way to calm the nervous system, regulate emotions, and even boost your immune system. People often think they need a specific physical ailment to justify a massage, but regular sessions can be an important part of maintaining mental and emotional well-being—even when you’re feeling fine.
“Floating sounds claustrophobic.” If the idea of being in a sensory-deprivation tank makes you think of tight, enclosed spaces, rest assured that the reality is much more relaxing. Most float tanks are spacious enough to allow you to stretch out, and you can always leave the lid open if that makes you more comfortable. For many people, the sense of weightlessness and calm outweighs any initial hesitation about the setup.
“Massages are too indulgent.” A common misconception is that massages are a luxury you can only justify for special occasions. In reality, massage therapy is a scientifically supported practice with proven benefits for stress reduction, pain relief, and mental clarity. Think of it not as a splurge but as an investment in your health and well-being.
By challenging these myths, you open the door to experiencing the true mental and physical benefits of these practices—without any unnecessary guilt or hesitation.
Practical Tips for First-Timers
Trying something new, like a float or massage, can feel intimidating if you’re not sure what to expect. These tips will help you feel prepared and make the most of your first session.
For Floats:
Keep an Open Mind: It’s normal to feel a little unsure about sensory deprivation, but go in with curiosity. Give yourself time to adjust to the experience. Spa Oasis recommends giving the experience 3 tries before deciding whether it works for you, which I found helpful. The experience is so different from anything else you do in everyday life. It’s normal to need multiple experiences to get the fullest benefits.
Avoid Caffeine, Big Meals, and Large Drinks Beforehand: To help your body relax fully, skip coffee or other stimulants in the hours leading up to your session. You’ll relax more easily if you don’t feel full from eating.
Focus on Breathing: If your mind starts to wander or you feel restless, simply bring your attention to your breath. This can anchor you in the moment and enhance the experience.
Don’t Rush In or Out: Allow yourself some quiet time before and after the float to ease into and out of the experience. Pair the float with a massage for the fullest relaxation experience. To make a day of it, enjoy a relaxing light meal before jumping back into other activities.
For Massages:
Communicate Your Needs: Don’t be afraid to tell your massage therapist about any areas of tension or preferences for pressure. They’re there to make the experience comfortable and beneficial for you.
Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, easy-to-remove clothing, and know that you’ll be draped with a sheet for privacy during the massage. You are invited to undress to your level of comfort.
Hydrate Afterward: Massage can release toxins and improve circulation, so it’s important to drink water afterward to flush your system and stay hydrated.
Embrace the Relaxation: Some people feel the need to stay “alert” during their massage, but this is your time to let go. If you feel like drifting off, that’s perfectly fine!
For Both Experiences:
Schedule Strategically: Book your float or massage at a time when you don’t have to rush back to work or other commitments. Give yourself space to enjoy the lingering sense of relaxation. Scheduling a float before your massage will give you a maximum relaxation experience.
Consider Setting an Intention: Before your session, take a moment to reflect on what you hope to gain from the experience—whether it’s stress relief, clarity, or simply a break from your busy schedule.
Triggered Responses: If the experience brings up uncomfortable thoughts or feelings, or activates a trauma response, adjust how you are floating or what your massage therapist is doing. If feelings persist, contact a psychotherapist to help you work through and resolve them.
Be Present in the Moment: Some people feel more keyed up before they feel relaxed. If you are struggling to relax, focus on breathing, ask your massage therapist to change the technique they are using, or remind yourself that you will feel better if you stick with it.
By preparing for your session with these simple steps, you’ll be better able to relax, enjoy the experience, and soak up all the benefits floats and massages have to offer.
Supporting Psychotherapy Through Self-Care
While psychotherapy focuses on processing emotions, improving communication, and changing coping strategies, floats and massages provide physical and mental relief that can make the work of psychotherapy more effective. For instance, if you’re dealing with relationship stress, a float session can help you quiet the mental chatter and find perspective. Massage offers a grounding experience, helping you reconnect with your body and emotions when stressed.
Both practices also cultivate mindfulness, which is an essential skill for strengthening relationships with yourself and others. When you learn to be present with yourself—whether it’s during a float or massage—you’re also building the capacity to be present with your partner during tough conversations or moments of intimacy.
My Personal Takeaway
As someone who balances a demanding career and personal life, I can’t overstate how much floats and massages have helped me manage stress and feel more grounded. They’ve become part of my self-care routine not just because they’re relaxing but because they make me a better therapist, partner, and person.
If you’re feeling burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck, I encourage you to give these treatments a try. They’re more than just ways to unwind—they’re tools for healing, balance, and clarity.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for showing up fully in your relationships and your life. At Spa Oasis, you’ll find a peaceful environment where you can take a break from life’s demands and focus on your well-being. Whether you choose a float, a massage, or both, you’ll walk away feeling lighter, calmer, and more connected to yourself.
Schedule your float or massage today and see what a difference it can make.
About the Author
Dr. Cheri Timko is a couples and sex therapist passionate about helping individuals and couples reclaim their connection, intimacy, and joy. Individual and couples therapy is a unique opportunity to change how you interact in the world. Even if you can’t change anyone else’s behaviors, you can be happier and more grounded. If you’re ready to start strengthening your relationships and improving your well-being, schedule a free phone consultation to help you take the first step at https://couplescounselingcenter.online/.
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