Tell us a bit about Fadeaway Floatation Center. Why did you start this business?

At Fadeaway we offer floatation REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) — also known as sensory deprivation or isolation tank — float sessions. We opened Fadeaway in January of 2015, wanting to bring this experience to the Des Moines area. We see a real need in our over-stimulated society for people to have a place to go, unplug, and experience nothing.

What are float tanks and why float?

Each float chamber contains a mix of water and about 850 pounds of epsom salt. You get in, lie back, and float like a cork. If you turn off the light and close the door it is completely dark. All you hear is your heart beat and your breathing. The temperature of the solution is around 94 degrees F, the average skin temperature. So after a while of being in the tank, you don’t feel anything. It is a completely stimulation and stress-free environment — the only environment like it on earth. It is almost gravity free which is a big relief to your entire body.

The high concentration of epsom salt makes it great for reducing inflammation. So it helps relieve aches, pains, arthritis, sore muscles, and has shown to be able to help with a number of chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, insomnia, and more.

Floating has also been shown to help with anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and overall wellbeing. Depending on the individual, after about 30-45 minutes your brain waves begin to shift into the Theta state, similar to being in deep meditation. When that occurs, the brain releases endorphins and dopamine which make you feel good. Blood pressure and stress hormones decrease. Any condition aggravated by stress can find relief from floating.

But you don’t need to have any ailments to find benefits. It is a great place to unplug, unwind, rejuvenate, and recharge. In this busy society, it is beneficial to have a place to take a break. To have a few minutes to yourself for uninterrupted reflection and contemplation. A place to release your worries and expectations. To just be.

It is also a great place to just take a nap! Yes, it is safe to sleep in the tank — I’ve woken up snoring many times!

How does your business help people?

We help people manage their pain and reduce their stress. We provide a tool to do that without pills or side effects.

Floating has been around for over 60 years. There is really quite a bit of science behind it. We have links to over 200 studies on our website. This is a good place to start if you want to research the research.

On the main page of our website there is a 6-minute video titled “What Is Floating” (created by Float House) that is really descriptive of the benefits and the experience. If you are new to floating, that is an easy way to check it out.

What’s one thing people should know about your business if they’ve never tried it before?

I always recommend 90 minutes to begin with and to try it more than once. Ninety minutes might seem like a long time, but it usually takes longer to let go in the beginning. Relaxation takes practice. The first time I floated, they only offered 60 minutes and I think I spent about 45 just wondering what I was doing in there and if I was getting anything out of it. The second float I came out wondering how to get a tank into my house, which was the first baby step to Fadeaway.

Typically, the second time in most people tend to sink in quicker and deeper just because they know what to expect. Even for people who have a great first time, the second is usually a bit better. Floating is a life improvement practice, like a healthy diet, exercise, and meditation. You get better at it the more you do it. Consistency is the key. There may be a learning curve, but for most people it is quick.

What gets you up in the morning?

Well, I have an amazing wife and two awesome daughters, so that helps! The older that I get the more I realize that this ride is far too short. Even the days that are not so great, I’m still thankful for the experience and the opportunity to just exist and grow and to be a part of this consciousness. Plus, coffee!

What do you love about the Des Moines community?

There are several things that I love about Des Moines. I was born here so I may have some bias.

1. The people. I’ve had the chance to meet so many genuinely nice people through the float center, that has been amazing.
2. I also like the size. It seems like the 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon here, there always seems to be a connection even if it’s not direct.
3. And the opportunity. I hear people complain sometimes that Des Moines is too small and lacks whatever, but I think you should see that as an opportunity to bring that whatever it is here.

What’s next?

We’re gonna float on and keep spreading the word!

Learn More

Website: fadeawayfloatation.com

Facebook: facebook.com/fadeawayfloatation/

—

About the Our Health Community Series

“Our Health Community” is a blog series by Capital Chiropractic & Rehabilitation Center designed to celebrate health-centered causes, services, and businesses in Greater Des Moines (DSM). Explore “Our Health Community.”