The Samadhi Orientation
Courtesy of Samadhi Tank Company
The following is what we tell people before they
go into the tank the first time. This is what we say:
I'm going to talk to you
"I'm going to talk to you about the tank for a few minutes. I will include the things we have found most people want to know before their first float.
Many people have some fear or concern before they use the tank the first time. Fears such as being alone in the dark, drowning, not having enough air, claustrophobia, and others. The fears are usually the thought or the idea that YOU won't be in control of the situation, but in this situation you are totally in control. You can go in and out of the tank as you please. You can use the tank with the door completely open, you can keep it partially open, or you can close it. There is no particular way to use the tank that is more correct than another. Any way you use it, that is comfortable for you, is correct.
When you get to the tank, open the door just to feel the weight of it. It is very light. If you close the door while inside the tank, it is completely dark and that may be disorienting. When you get in and before you lie down, open and close the door several times, noticing how it feels different from the other surfaces . If you try to open the door and it doesn't open, it's not the door.
The Tank is Not Airtight
The tank is designed so that it is not airtight. You'll have plenty of air. To keep the tank air fresher, an air circulation system brings additional air from the room. The air enters at the rear of the tank. You may prefer to have your head at that end.
800 Pounds of Epsom Salts
The tank environment is humid. There are 10 inches of water in the tank with 800 lbs. of epsom salt dissolved in it. When you lie back you will float like a cork. Your ears will be under water. There are earplugs available if you would like them, and we recommend them if you have ever had ear problems.
Buoyant Body Positions
You can experiment with the best body position for you. For example, hands behind head, on your chest, along your sides. If you have tension in your neck you can relieve it by clasping your hands behind your head or using a head float.
Keep the Salt Out of Your Eyes!
If you get any salt water in your eyes you will be uncomfortable for a few minutes. To avoid getting drips of salt water in your eyes, push your hair back on your forehead when you change from lying down to sitting up. Also keep your salty hands away from your eyes. If you do happen to get salt in your eyes, have your towel where you can easily reach it, and use it to wipe your eyes.
More Ouch!!
If you have cuts or scratches or have recently shaved, there may be stinging for several minutes. If you have any open cuts use liquid bandage to seal them.
Last Stop Before Boarding
Remove your metal jewelry and contact lenses. Shower, shampoo, rinse thoroughly and dry your face before you get in the tank.
The End
Then get into the tank. After an hour passes a signal will let you know your time is up. A few minutes later, the filtration system will begin cleaning the tank. Some people don't hear the signal and if you don't hear it, you will feel the gently moving water as your signal to get out. Sit up, stand and squeegee the solution from your body before getting out of the tank. Step directly into the shower or tray whichever is in front of the tank.
Housekeeping Care
Your body has salt water all over it which you don't want to drip everywhere. If you have to walk to the shower, towel dry thoroughly. Shower, shampoo well, and dress. The bathroom has the amenities you need.
Reflects Your Life
At the beginning of each float you can set an intention for what you would like to accomplish during your float. You may also use your float to observe where you hold tension in your body or your mind. You will develop many of your own ways of using your floats. We don't say more because we don't want to spoil your own adventure.
Enjoy your float and check with your guide for any additional information.