In an increasingly busy and relentless world where information is flowing all around us, it's more important than ever to switch off once in a while. There are many ways to relax, but floating in water is one of the best ways of completely and utterly drifting away. Which is where Float – designed to make floating in water a more pleasurable experience – could prove useful.
Float is a water therapy product originating from Iceland. It's designed to aid total relaxation of body and mind by taking the effort out of floating on water. You can probably get a similar experience by floating in the sea, as salt water is denser than freshwater. But floating mindlessly in the sea carries the risk of being taken away from shore by an outgoing tide. As Float is designed to be used in a swimming pool, it's likely to be a safer alternative.
Float comes in two parts; a cap to keep your head buoyant and out of the water, and support aids that strap to your legs. The cap is made from neoprene, Lycra and polyethylene foam, while the support aids are made from neoprene, Lycra and soft Velcro. They can be bought individually – the cap costing US$85 and the support aids costing $55 for two – or as a set for $135.
This is a lot more affordable than any sensory deprivation (or isolation) tank, including the Zen Float Tent we have previously featured.
The video below shows Float in action, helping to keep the test subject suspended in water without her having to exert any physical or mental energy.
Source: Float via BlessThisStuff
Turns out you can do the same thing with a kids life jacket and a noodle or two. I put a life jacket on my head, and got the added benefit of having left over material for a sunshade. Started with two noodles, and then switched to one.
Felt safe and comfortable. Was a little worried my kids would sneak up and cannon ball me. Falling asleep could lead to a sunburn. I didn't turn off the filter or use earplugs, but that might help. Would also be a relaxing way to listen to audible books.