Epsom Salts, Magnesium Sulfates, and Floating

One of the primary mechanisms of the experience and benefits of floating is the high concentration of epsom salts in the water.

These salts create the buoyancy that allows us to float effortlessly, as well as providing the body with essential nutrients that are absorbed through the skin.

Magnesium and its associated sulfates offer many medical benefits related to essential functions of the body and its vital organs.

In addition, the magnesium sulfate absorption has a potent effect on the relaxation of the nervous system, both during and after the float, providing a perfect combination with the tranquil sense of weightlessness and absence of external stimuli in the float tank.

Properties of Epsom Salt

Effortless Floatation

The combination of epsom salts and water is what creates the super-buoyant solution in the float tank, enabling you to float effortlessly on the surface of the water.

Absorption thru the Skin

While floating in a float tank filled with epsom salts, your skin naturally absorbs magnesium through a process known as molecular diffusion. The body balances magnesium levels effectively, ensuring no risk of excess absorption even during extended float sessions.

Medicinal History

Epsom salt, scientifically known as magnesium sulphate, has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits, which are highly beneficial when used in floating.

Magnesium's Vital Role in Health

Epsom salts help reduce stress, relieve muscle aches and pains, and promote Zen-like states of relaxation. Soaking in the solution also stimulates lymph drainage and enhances absorption of magnesium and sulphates.

As the second-most abundant element in human cells, magnesium, a key component of epsom salt, plays a critical role in over 325 enzymatic activities, controlling muscles, electrical impulses, energy production, and toxin elimination.

Modern Magnesium Deficiencies

Due to changes in agriculture and dietary habits, magnesium levels in the modern human body have drastically declined over the last century. According to various studies, it is estimated that between 50-75% of modern Americans are deficient in magnesium.

Sulphate Intake

Alongside boosting your magnesium levels, epsom salts also introduces sulphates to your body. These compounds are hard to obtain through food but are easily absorbed through the skin.

Sulphate Health Benefits

Sulphates serve many functions in the body, including a critical role in forming tissues in the brain, joints, and digestive tract. They also stimulate the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes and are thought to aid in cleansing the body of residual pharmaceutical substances and environmental pollutants.