Float therapy helps relieve stress, disconnect from the world

HOUSTON – Born in the 1960s and popular by the 1980s, float therapy is now making a comeback.

Spa owner Morgan Cunningham said there's a place for it in our fast-paced world.

"In our society it's really rare that we take that hour just for ourselves and just relax," he said.

Floating begins with 1,100 pounds of salt dissolved in 200 gallons of water.

"Everyone floats effortlessly. It's a really unique experience to have that zero gravity-like feeling," Cunningham said. 

Users are encouraged to turn the lights off and remain as still as they can, focusing on their breathing and the beat of their heart.

The water matches skin temperature, eliminating the sense of touch and the feeling of gravity.

"Everything begins to meld together, so sometimes you have to check if you're still in the tank or if you're still there or not, so you almost become pure thought," Cunningham said.

A brain state or dream-like state sets in.

Client Matthew Clark explained his experience:

"(I got) answers to problems I've had lately, by going into meditative state, other realm, where you're able to solve problems easier," client Matthew Clark said of his experience.

"Some people can see memories, some people see faces, shapes and colors," Cunningham said It's unique to the person having the experience," Cunningham said.

Floating can drop stress hormone levels. Clarity of mind contributes to overall well-being.

"It can help with chronic pain, insomnia. That meditative state that it takes you to allows you to work on whatever you want to work on," Cunningham said. 

"I felt like I had surfed for about 12 hours, had a massage session and meditated in a one-hour period. It's the most I've slept in quite some time," Clark said.

It's an hour to tune out ringing cellphones, crying children and the stress of the day.

There are several float spas in the Houston area. They charge anywhere from $75 to $100 an hour.  Customers can even book a couples session.