£60 for One Hour Introduction to Floating Experience at Floatworks

I have to admit, having seen countless depictions of floatation tanks on both the big and small screen, my pre-conceived idea of the experience was slightly skewed.

However, my curiosity got the better of me and I agreed to try out the treatment courtesy of Wahanda, but I was slightly apprehensive. The Simpsons portrayed Lisa and Homer’s foray into floating as a slightly psychedelic experience and rather frighteningly, on film individual pods often take the form of claustrophobic coffin-like contraptions. Thankfully, the outdated Hollywood and cartoon counterparts are vastly different from the reality that greets you at Floatworks in London Bridge.

Located in an unassuming building a short walk away from London Bridge station, Floatworks may be housed in somewhat simple surroundings, but by the end of my stay I was convinced it was a basement bliss.

Descending the stairs after having buzzed in, a serene setting awaits. Blue and white decor emblazoned with the centre’s logo directs you to the reception desk where you are met with a smile, a form which you fill in with basic personal details (enabling you to have a free float on your birthday each year) and a helpful laminated ‘Guide to Floating’. Fish bob about in tanks around the comfortably furnished waiting area and you are given ample time to read through the recommendations detailed in the guide booklet (what to expect, the basic ins and outs of the floatation pod and your individual room, and the importance of protecting any cuts and grazes with the petroleum jelly provided- the water in the pods is saturated with Epsom salt, enabling you to float as in the Dead Sea, but also likely to really sting if it comes in contact with any nicks).

After changing into the provided slip-on waterproof sandals (to insure you do not slip upon entering or exiting your pod), the receptionist leads you into your own (lockable) private float room and runs through the pod functions and room’s facilities. There is a shower (for pre-and post float cleansing in order to remove any product/oils from your hair and body before entering the pod, and the salt after exiting), a chair on which to place your belongings, a pair of earplugs to prevent salt water getting into your inner ear and the pod itself. Towels are provided for a small charge, but you are free to bring your own.

White, sleek and shaped rather like a computer mouse, the pods at Floatworks are equipped with a controllable blue light, a large curved lid which can be manually adjusted to you height of choice (from fully shut to fully open- which leaves it at 45 degrees, sitting about three to four feet above the base), a water bottle to spritz away any salt water splashes from your face and an alarm (just in case things get too much and you need assistance).

I opted to keep the lid of my pod open throughout, and after gradually being lulled into a relaxed state by the subtle sound of waves and seagulls that plays during the first ten minutes, I began to lose track of time. Floating itself was incredibly easy, and even though I am not that confident about floating on my back in a swimming pool, it came as second nature in my pod. There is plenty of room, no noise intrusion from the outside world and the light switch can be turned on and off with minimal effort.

At the end of my float, having been roused by the seaside soundtrack and brightening room light, I readied myself to re-enter the outside world in the specially designated (and reasonably well lit) hair drying and make up rooms. I felt lighter, noticeably calmer and also increasingly (but comfortably) tired. I was aware that my joints ached slightly on my journey home, and the Floatworks staff had explained this was likely to be due to the relief my body had felt after being free from the strains of imperfect posture and gravity whilst in the pod.

Overall, it was a unique experience, but by no means an unpleasant one. I can see myself returning for a second float now knowing what to expect, and feel that perhaps I would be more readily able to relax (and perhaps lower the pod lid) having put my initial reservations aside!