Float Therapy & Sensory Deprivation

Ten inches of water. A thousand pounds of Epsom salt. No light, no sound, no gravity, no phone. In one study, blood pressure dropped more than 12 points while people simply lay there.

About Float Therapy & Sensory Deprivation

Experience the ultimate environment for deep mental and physical recovery. Our state-of-the-art float cabins are filled with 10 inches of water and 1,000 pounds of medical-grade Epsom salt, creating a zero-gravity environment that allows your body to float effortlessly. By removing the burdens of gravity, light, and sound, your brain shifts toward theta activity - the slow waves of the threshold between waking and sleep.

Float therapy is a powerful tool for stress relief, anxiety reduction, and pain management. Ten inches of water and a thousand pounds of Epsom salt - enough magnesium sulfate that you float without any effort at all. How much of it your skin takes in is still being studied; we've set out what's known on our research page. This makes it a favorite among athletes and busy professionals across the North Shore. Without the constant input of the outside world, your central nervous system can finally hit the reset button.

At Flotstone, we honor the healing power of silence. Whether you are seeking a physical ritual or a soulful mental reset, our sensory deprivation experience will leave you feeling centered, clear-headed, and profoundly relaxed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is sensory deprivation float therapy?

It is a practice where you float effortlessly in a shallow cabin of water saturated with Epsom salt. The water is heated to skin temperature, and the cabin is soundproof and dark, removing all external sensory input so your mind and body can completely rest.

Do I need to bring anything for my float?

We provide everything you need, including towels, earplugs, body wash, and shampoo. You float completely nude in your private suite, so there is no need to bring a swimsuit.

What if I am claustrophobic?

Our float cabins are incredibly spacious, much larger than traditional "pods." You are in complete control of your environment; you can leave the cabin door open or keep the soft interior lights on if you prefer.

How is the water kept clean?

Our water is pristine. After every single float, the entire volume of water is cycled multiple times through a rigorous filtration system using UV light, Ozone purification, and a 1-micron filter.

Can I float if I am pregnant?

Yes! Floating is highly recommended for expecting mothers. The zero-gravity environment relieves the immense physical pressure of pregnancy on the spine, joints, and feet. (We always recommend consulting your doctor first).

The research behind this

Float therapy has been studied for anxiety, chronic pain, and athletic recovery. Three worth knowing:

  • Feinstein et al. (2018), Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging - one 90-minute float produced significant reductions in anxiety and muscle tension, with diastolic blood pressure falling by more than 12 mmHg. Read it
  • Kjellgren et al. (2001), Pain Research and Management - nine sessions over three weeks significantly reduced worst-pain intensity in people with chronic neck and back muscle tension. Read it
  • Systematic review (2025), BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies - 63 studies, 1,838 participants, with positive effects across pain, stress, clinical anxiety, mental well-being and athletic performance. Read it


flotstone spa company logo graphic for a sensory deprivation float therapy and infrared sauna wellness center in the north shore of illinois

Address

57 E. Scranton Ave.

Lake Bluff,

Illinois 60044

Hours

Sunday 11 AM–6 PM

Monday 8 AM–7 PM

Tuesday 8 AM–7 PM

Wednesday 8 AM–7 PM

Thursday 8 AM–7 PM

Friday 8 AM–7 PM

Saturday 9 AM–7 PM