Pregnancy is a remarkable and transformative journey, a period of immense joy, anticipation, and occasional discomfort. While the prospect of bringing new life into the world is an extraordinary experience, it also places unique physical and emotional demands on expecting mothers.
While it is different for everyone and even for the same person each pregnancy is unique. But most people who have grown a human inside their bodies will tell you it can often be quite uncomfortable, especially towards the end.
Fortunately, amidst the whirlwind, there exists a tranquil oasis that offers solace, relaxation, and rejuvenation—floating therapy.
So what is this floating thing all about?
Floating therapy, also referred to as sensory deprivation or floatation therapy, immerses you in a specially designed float pod filled with warm water (93.5F) saturated with Epsom salt.
This dense saltwater creates a buoyant environment, allowing you to effortlessly float on the surface, experiencing a sensation of weightlessness and serenity. You will have your own private room where you can leave your clothes and take a shower before and after the floating experience. Since the room is totally private, you can float naked and leave the door of the tank open if you want. There is a little light you can keep on or off, leave music on or turn it off, and some props you can use to support you, although the salt and water by themselves provide enough support and a glorious gravity-free experience. The tank is designed to block out external sensory input, creating a serene and isolated environment that is conducive to deep relaxation and weightlessness experience so precious during pregnancy.
Physical Benefits of Floating During Pregnancy
To understand how these benefits happen, one of the main things to remember is that we are floating on Epsom salt water. Epson salt is comprised of magnesium and sulfate.
According to the Universal Health Institute, soaking in an Epsom Salt bath is one of the most effective means of making the magnesium your body needs readily available. Supplemental calcium-magnesium is a popular remedy to many pregnancy problems and even in the hospital they will provide IV Magnesium-Sulfate to stop preterm labor.
Some of the benefits you will experience from floating during pregnancy include:
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- Relief from Aches and Pains: Pregnancy often comes with a myriad of physical discomforts, including musculoskeletal aches and pains. Floating in the warm, buoyant water can provide relief by alleviating pressure on joints and muscles. This is particularly beneficial for issues such as lower back pain and sciatica, common challenges faced by pregnant women.
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- Reduction in Swelling: Edema, or swelling, is a frequent companion during pregnancy, particularly in the feet and ankles. Floating’s buoyant properties promote enhanced circulation, aiding in the reduction of swelling and the associated discomfort.
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- Enhanced Sleep Quality: Pregnancy-induced insomnia can disrupt much-needed rest. Floating therapy encourages deep relaxation, reducing anxiety and promoting improved sleep quality. Expecting mothers can recharge both physically and mentally.
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- Improved Circulation: Adequate blood circulation is vital for the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. Floating can enhance circulation, contributing to better overall health and oxygen supply.
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- Lower Blood Pressure: Blood pressure is closely related to stress levels, so it makes sense to think that the deep relaxation state you can achieve in the float tank could help lower it. But in addition to the relaxation, when your body is relieved from the burden of gravity your blood vessels can fully dilate, reducing blood pressure and increasing blood flow.
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- Stress Reduction: Our always rushed, always busy culture leaves little time and space for self-care. It’s stressful! This applies to everyone, but especially if you’re already a mom it can be really hard to get just a few minutes of peace and quiet. Pregnancy can be a time of heightened stress and anxiety. Floating therapy triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators, leading to a profound sense of calm and reduced stress levels.
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- Pelvic Floor Relief: As pregnancy progresses, the pelvic floor may experience increased strain. Floating offers a unique opportunity for the muscles to relax and recover, potentially easing discomfort.
Mental Benefits for Expecting Moms
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- Emotional Balance: Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can lead to mood swings and emotional turbulence. The sensory-deprived environment of a float tank offers pregnant women a serene and stress-free setting, allowing them to find emotional equilibrium and inner peace.
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- Bonding with Baby: there is something very womb-like about the float tank. When you turn the lights off and allow your mind and body to drift into deep relaxation, you can often hear your own heartbeat and even your baby’s heartbeat. While listening to those sounds it’s easy to imagine the experience of the baby inside the uterus, which allows for a very special connection. It’s a time to focus on baby’s movements and connect on a profound level.
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- Mindful Relaxation: Floating encourages mindfulness and deep relaxation. You can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, connecting with their inner selves and cultivating mindfulness—a skill that can prove invaluable during labor and childbirth.
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- Reduced Anxiety: Pregnancy often brings with it unknowns and uncertainties that can lead to anxiety and worry. Floating therapy can alleviate these concerns, providing a safe space for contemplation and relaxation.
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- Effective Pain Management: For pregnant women dealing with conditions such as sciatica or lower back pain, floating can provide effective pain management without the need for medication. It’s a holistic approach to physical comfort during pregnancy.
Special Considerations for Floating During Pregnancy
While floating therapy offers a plethora of benefits, safety should always be a priority. You should consult with their healthcare provider before attempting floatation therapy. Most women can safely float during pregnancy, but there may be specific recommendations based on individual circumstances, such as waiting until after the first trimester.
Embrace the serenity of pregnancy and float on, moms-to-be, knowing that this unique therapeutic experience can nurture your body and soul as you prepare to welcome new life into the world.