We see so much on social media about doing MORE—I know I post about it a lot myself. While it’s no secret that I LOVE my work, it doesn’t feel like work. It’s truly a passion however, sometimes I feel the need to unplug and slow down.

Many articles and blog posts have been written about self-care—so many, in fact, that I think sometimes we tune out when we hear the phrase.

But I’ve been thinking a lot about what self-care is, and working to make time and space for it in my schedule. I am by no means perfect at it! There have been weeks where I didn’t do nearly enough, if anything, to rest and re-charge.

I keep trying to do better! Perhaps you are too. Maybe we can help encourage one another.

One of the most enjoyable ways I have found to unplug is floating. Float centers are something that entered my awareness fairly recently. Basically, it creates an environment in which external stimulation such as sound, touch and light are eliminated or significantly reduced. You enter a tank which contains about a foot of water, rich in Epsom salt. The salt makes you extremely buoyant, so it’s easy to float. You can read about some of the benefits of floating here.  

I’ve seen some physical benefits from floating. My lower back pain and headaches have diminished significantly.

The forced unplugging has had less tangible benefits too. I’ve had the most amazing encounters in the tank while I pray/meditate. I have remembered much-loved songs from my childhood, which has brought me so much joy. (If you know me at all, you know about my passion for music.) I’ve had dreams from a long time ago jump up and down and say, “hello again!” while I’ve been floating.

Some floating sessions are just quiet and peaceful. I don’t have any inspiration strike or walk out with a significant take away. And that’s great too. Sometimes all I want is time to rest and just chill. That’s important to keep in mind. Just the act of relaxing is a win.

If you just find being in or near water calming, I recommend a book called the Blue Mind. It's a great read about the relaxing power of water. (Note that the link above is an Amazon Affiliate link, which means I receive a commission should you purchase the book through that link. If you’d rather purchase the book without using my affiliate code, you may do so here.)

If you are interested in trying floating, here are some of my tips:

• Schedule it for a time that allows you to go home and rest after. Your hair will be wet. You’ll be relaxed. The last thing you’re going to want to do is go back to work or run an errand, etc.

• Have a prayer, meditation or song to focus on while you’re in the tank. Certain places give you the option to listen to music. I prefer listening to music at the beginning and at the end. But I prefer silence in the middle. I need quiet so that I can be receptive to the words and songs God wants to give me. 

• You might feel a bit itchy when you first get in.. it’s normal and it will pass. Don’t freak out. Just breathe, let go and enjoy the full experience.

• Don't drink caffeine beforehand—you want to be as calm and relaxed as possible. One time I had a diet coke before I went in and it was enough to amp me up and prevent me from relaxing and quieting my mind. 

• Follow the float center’s instructions regarding the cooler shower beforehand and using ear plugs and vinegar in your ears afterwards. 

If you’re in the Tacoma area, the float center I go to is the University Place Urban Float. I highly recommend.