The origins and evolution of float therapy with Coro Float
When Gaz and I went for our first float, we were hooked! Not only did we want to experience that weightless, relaxing feeling again, but we wanted to share it with others … that’s how Coro Float started.
So what is flotation therapy? It involves floating in lukewarm water saturated with Magnesium Sulphate (Epsom salts). The weightless, zero-gravity environment induces deep relaxation while the absence of external stimuli allows the brain to rest, escaping daily distractions.
Isolation tanks were first developed in the 1950s by neuroscientist Dr John C Lilly to isolate the mind from the body. Early tanks were upright, filled with seawater, and required breathing apparatus. Later, they were redesigned for participants to lie flat, with Epsom salts introduced, evolving into the floating experience we know today. Modern pods are sleek and well-designed, far from their coffin-like predecessors.
Coro Float’s purpose-built cabin houses our Dreampod VMax float tank. Inside, 1000 litres of body-temperature water (just 12 inches deep) with 550 kg of Epsom salts allows you to float effortlessly.
The water is kept at around 34.5°C, which matches your skin temperature, creating the sensation of not knowing where your body ends and the water begins.
So why float? Studies show that floating weightlessly in total relaxation can provide a wealth of health benefits.
Like many therapies, flotation’s benefits build over time, improving physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
Some key benefits include:
- Stress relief – Reducing sensory input lowers cortisol levels and blood pressure.
- Relaxation – Weightlessness releases muscle tension and eases joint pain.
- Faster recovery – It is ideal between workouts, reducing lactic acid and inflammation.
- Enhanced sleep – It helps combat insomnia.
- Pain relief – It alleviates chronic pain and promotes healing.
- Reduction of jet lag
- Habit-breaking support – It is useful for overcoming addictions.
- Improved athletic performance – Athletes use the tank for visualisation techniques.
- Better focus and concentration – Floating guides the brain into theta state, enhancing learning, creativity, and mental health.
So what happens when you visit Coro Float? You’ll float in 12 inches of water (about 30 cm), with 550 kg of Epsom salts. As you lie on your back with ears just below the waterline, the insulated tank allows you to relax without distractions. Once you close the lid and turn off the lights, you’ll be in total darkness for a whole hour to unwind and de-stress.
Some common questions we get asked:
- Will I feel claustrophobic? Our pod is spacious, and everything is under your control. While not recommended, you can float with the lid open and the light on.
- Is the water clean? Absolutely. After every float, the water is filtered through a system fine enough to catch particles a quarter the size of a human hair, plus it passes through UV light. A daily dose of hydrogen peroxide is added as a sanitiser, and the high salt concentration creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria.
- Is it safe to fall asleep? Yes! Many of our customers do, and it’s perfectly safe.
Floating is one of the most relaxing experiences your body will go through. Take a break from the busyness of everyday life and try something just for you.
Experience Coro Float in Whitianga. Book your session now!
07 867 1366 – [email protected]
Coromind: Coromandel’s Collaborative Magazine
Help us take Coromind Magazine to new heights by becoming a member. Click here
Change the Weather for Your Business: Advertise with Us.
Advertise your business in the whole Hauraki Coromandel in the coolest Coromandel Art Magazine, from Waihi Beach/Paeroa /Thames up to the Great Barrier Island.
Advertise Smarter, Not Harder: Get in Touch
