Each pool in our sensory isolation capsules contains half a ton of Epsom salt. Better known to scientists as magnesium sulphate, this chemical compound is primarily used for body buoyancy, but has many health benefits. Let’s discover the benefits of Epsom salt.
Magnesium sulphate was already part of the pharmacopoeia of ancient physicians as a purgative. It was not until the 17th century that thee that its many health benefits were identified near the town of Epsom. Legend has it that during the scorching summer of 1618, a farmer found a hole filled with water and enlarged it, but his cattle did not want to drink the bitter liquid. The news spread and, as peasant “common sense” kicked in, people soon came to dip their aching limbs and wounds in it. In a second phase, this water will be offered as a medicinal drink. Little by little, doctors in the region recommend a cure for various illnesses, to relax the muscles and relieve pain and fatigue. Finally, real thermal baths were built.
The scientific and medical world recognises that magnesium plays a key role in more than 400 biochemical reactions and the list of its beneficial effects on the body, growth, certain deficiencies and diseases is long.
In this case (a sensory deprivation tank), the benefits of the water charged with this famous “English salt” increase the effects of the session thanks to its multiple properties.
Unsurpassed flotation
The buoyancy in the first sensory deprivation tanks filled with seawater was not optimal. For true weightlessness, one of the pioneers of this discipline, who “didn’t float well”, turned to Epsom salt and highly concentrated the water in the pool.
The result is more than effective: almost 80% of the body weight disappears, 4 to 5 times more than a bath in the Dead Sea.
While the use of magnesium sulphate was primarily “mechanical”, the benefits of water saturated with this mineral salt optimise the effects of a sensory deprivation session.
Relaxation of muscles, tendons and joints
Floating without constraint in water of the ideal temperature allows an unequalled relaxation.
Many sportsmen and women, for an effective and gentle physical recovery, or people who often suffer from arthritis, find deep relief in our pools. This is supported by the virtues of Epsom salt. Its relaxing properties help to alleviate all kinds of tension: sciatica, rheumatism, tendonitis, chronic or postural pain are all relieved after the session. The relief is, moreover, long-lasting.
At home, after a difficult hike, a day with new shoes or to alleviate arthritis, a warm foot bath with magnesium salt is very helpful.
The importance of magnesium
The high magnesium content of Epsom salt makes it an effective anti-inflammatory. It also helps to stimulate the immune system. Putting it in a hot bath is said to be effective against flu and colds.
Magnesium sulphate is included in the World Health Organisation’s list of essential medicines.
Soothing the body and mind
As well as having a real impact on joint and muscle problems, magnesium sulphate promotes relaxation and thus the secretion of serotonin. Again, this natural effect reinforces the relaxing effect of the sensory isolation.
During a session, the disconnection of the brain from external stimuli triggers the production of dopamine, endorphins, etc. Among these ‘happiness hormones’, serotonin is known to have an effect on depression and sleep quality, among other things.
Magnesium deficiency is at the centre of many health concerns, so a bath in water saturated with Epsom salt is a real gift to the whole body.
Elimination of toxins, positive effects on the skin and hair
Epsom salt is often cited for its detoxifying properties. When ingested (to be used under medical supervision), it facilitates difficult transit thanks to its laxative power. In contact with the skin during a bath, it also has a beneficial effect on its hydration and relieves inflammations like psoriasis or eczema.
In fact, during the first few minutes of a float session, you may feel a little tingling on the skin, which quickly disappears. This is the action of salt on micro-injuries and other skin concerns thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect.
At the end of the session, after an hour in the water, unlike a classic bath, the skin is not wrinkled but on the contrary more supple and hydrated.
Epsom salt is therefore a natural ingredient in cosmetic preparations, including exfoliating solutions for the skin and hair care products.
For the record, it is also very good in the garden: it provides plants with a wide range of nutrients. This natural fertiliser in high doses and mixed with white vinegar also serves as a weedkiller.
Enjoying the benefits of Epsom salt at home
Our sensory isolation tanks contain no less than half a ton of Epsom salt! Enough to feel its benefits without problems.
And so that you can enjoy its effects at home, we sell bags of Epsom salt crystals in our spas in Bordeaux and Lyon.
A few spoonfuls in your bath will have an undeniably relaxing effect. Remember to rinse well after bathing and moisturise your skin with a vegetable oil, for example.
There are many uses for this product in the field of “beauty”. You can find tips and advice on the internet or from our team on how to make your skin – Epsom salt has a great exfoliating effect – and hair radiant again.
Finally, you can test the relief of your feet after a few minutes in a basin of warm water into which you add a spoonful of magnesium sulphate.
Reminder: the use of Epsom salt internally, particularly to treat constipation, should only be done after medical advice.
In short, Epsom salt is the only natural product that can simultaneously provide unparalleled weightlessness and deliver a range of benefits to the body.
Our float centres are the perfect place to test the effects on the body and mind of this ‘miracle’ product.
Book your session here. Or come directly to our spas if you want to buy a bag of Epsom salt.
