PUBLISHED June 19th, 2017 06:00 am | UPDATED March 26th, 2019 05:37 pm
Floatation might still be new to many, but it was first introduced in the 1950’s by neuroscientist, Dr. John C. Lilly. Researching the nature of consciousness led Dr. Lilly to create the first sensory deprivation tanks. What happens to the brain when you remove all sensory input? Would it simply go to sleep? Instead, he found that with 90% of its resources now free, the brain focuses its powers inward, harmonising and regulating your internal processes.
Today, floatation is the most popular in the United States, but it’s spreading globally thanks to personalities like Joe Rogan and athletes such as Stephen Curry. And here in Singapore, we have Palm Ave Float Club to spread the gospel.
Starting out in a spare room in 2014 with just one float pod and a webpage. Threes years on, the folks behind Palm Ave Float Club has become one of Asia’s most known float centres and have opened their second outlet at Kampong Bugis (just right above Kilo Kallang).
Designed by LLX Studio, the serenity of the space at Kampong Bugis settles one’s equilibrium. In the “living room” area (where guests are encouraged to hang around after their float), is decked out in beautiful plants, Tibetan singing bowls, tank drums, books on the mind and lounge chairs. It houses four float pods, and doubles up as an event space with a view.
Prior to my visit to the float club, I’ve heard all my friends raving about it, so I’ve done my own research to understand more about floating. Most importantly, I went with no expectations. Like all beginners, I started with a 60-minute float.
Well, I spent the first half of the session trying to get my position right in the tank, but I managed to meditate for the last 30 minutes.
During the float, I was able to switch the lights on or off, and both options provide a very different experience. When the lights were off, I felt that I was just one tiny speck in this vast amount of space, and no amount of problems seem to matter. In that instance, it healed me in a way that, I was able to assess my behaviour, actions and beliefs again. By the time I emerged, I was relaxed, my mind was clear, and I felt calm.
According to Derrick, the founder of Palm Ave Float Club, each tank uses 600kg of bath salts and there’s no fear of drowning. When asked about why he started floating, he says, “The tank is known to be a good tool for personal development. When you’re in the tank, you’re just alone with your thoughts. Think of it as a mirror, reflecting your thoughts, your activities; and when you step out of tank, you have a sort of calmness. As you constantly float and meditate, you start to become more mindful.”
Floating might not be for everyone and the experiences differ from each person but I strongly recommend you to try at least once in your life because all of us have the desire to unlock our better self to gain inner calm, self-awareness and mental clarity.
Expect nothing, except nothing, accept nothing.
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Palm Ave Float Club has two outlets, 66 Kampong Bugis #05-01, Singapore 338987, opened from 10am to 10pm daily and 20 Waringin Park, Singapore 416333, opened from 10am t0 10pm (closed on Thursdays). For more information about floatation, please visit their website.
*All images credit to Palm Ave Float Club