Floatation therapy is an escape from the constant stress of life’s daily pressures and a natural way to heal the body and mind. The concept is similar to the mineral salt baths in the Dead Sea in Israel. Eight hundred pounds of Epsom salt are dissolved into the spa tub in skin temperature water to create this effect right here in Alexandria, VA. Both lightproof and soundproof, this peaceful space frees you of gravity, noise, and other distractions. Floatation therapy brings the body back into homeostasis. Read our floating tips and watch our video on this page to get the most from your session.
Floatation Therapy
“The open-air design completely removes all feelings of claustrophobia. I cannot overemphasize the importance of having an open pool for anxious populations. Without it many of our patients would have refused to even try floating.”
– Justin Feinstein, PhD, Clinical Neuropsychologist Director, LIBR 3Float Clinic & Research Center, Principal Investigator, Laureate Institute for Brain Research
Benefits of Floating
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Deep Relaxation
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Stress Relief
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Pain Management
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Enhanced Physical Appearance
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Enhanced Creativity and Focus
Floating, with no light or sound, is one of the fastest and most effective ways to elicit the body’s natural relaxation response and enter a state of deep relaxation. Your brain responds by removing undesirable chemicals and releasing endorphins, stimulating feelings of happiness and well-being. Simply put, floating in floatation pods calm our overly stimulated systems and restores the body’s chemical and metabolic balance. Studies have shown that stress can be profoundly helped by floatation therapy. That is why Synergy Float Center partners with Pathways for Veterans to help people with PTSD.
Perceived stress can be correlated with increased levels of cortisol and in floatation therapy there is a natural tendency for cortisol to be reduced. For this reason, floatation therapy is one of the few noninvasive techniques available to manage stress when it is a factor in reducing a person’s ability to cope with normal life. Daily life has a way to take you away from yourself. It’s not uncommon for people to be in a state of constant stress activating the “fight-or-flight” response multiple times during the day. This can be brought on by any number of events such as traffic, inconsiderate people, or looming deadlines. Over time, such low-grade chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and muscle tension. Visiting a floatation spa can help people counteract the toxic effects of chronic stress by slowing breathing rate, relaxing muscles, and reducing blood pressure. People often report feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and better able to cope with life’s minor annoyances after floating. These effects can last for a few days after a float. Read our floating tips to get the most from your session.
Research has shown that regular use of the float pod can help health problems that are caused or exacerbated by chronic stress such as fibromyalgia, insomnia, hypertension, anxiety disorders, and migraines. By invoking the relaxation response, blood flow increases to all parts and systems of the body, including the brain, creating a whole body healing effect. Floating also provides relief from the constant downward push of gravity, the single greatest cause of wear and tear to bones, joints and body tissue. The zero gravity effect also provides relief from discomfort during pregnancy.
Although athletes often turn to floatation therapy in order to cope with an injury, floatation therapy can actually be used to enhance athletic performance as well. Floating can help to relax muscles so that an athlete is better prepared physically for a big event, but it can also be used to enhance mental clarity in athletes. Since floatation therapy is able to impact both your mental and physical capabilities, it is an invaluable practice for serious athletes. As floating enhances your mental and physical abilities, you will experience a dramatic improvement in your overall athletic performance. The relaxation caused by floating can help to take pressure off of the tired joints and muscles that might be causing you pain. Floating can also help your whole body to relax so that your muscles align properly, which can prevent injuries and can help to speed your recovery time when you are dealing with an injury. CrossFit athletes, MMA fighters, long distance runners, and even professional golfers have been utilizing floatation therapy for some time. Several professional sports teams are incorporating it into their standard practices. Whether you’re a professional athlete, or play a sport for exercise or hobby, you can benefit from floating. Check out some articles on floating to see who else has benefitted from it. Read our floating tips to get the most from your session.
Being inside the floatation pod, where sensory input is eliminated, produces a mental state where one’s learning abilities are at their highest and powers of visualization and auto-suggestion are greatly enhanced. As the float progresses, there is a transition from beta or alpha brainwaves to theta which can last indefinitely without losing consciousness. With practice one can increase the amount of time that they spend in the theta state. Many use the extended theta state as a tool for enhanced creativity and problem solving or for super learning. With the brain being held in a theta state wave-length, the mind becomes hyper-suggestible. With less distractions and greater resources at its disposal, the mind is able to absorb new material very deeply, with research showing improved performance in memory and recall activities. Check out these videos on what it’s like to be in a float tank.
“Each day I become more and more convinced that the positive clinical benefits we are witnessing in our research are enhanced by Floataway’s masterful engineering.”
— Justin Feinstein, PhD, Clinical Neuropsychologist Director, LIBR Float Clinic & Research Center, Principal Investigator, Laureate Institute for Brain Research
Types of Floating
Floataway Tranquility Float Tank
Photo Courtesy of Floataway
The Floataway Tranquility Float Tank, provides you with the traditional ‘pod’ experience. The tallest possible floatation tank is 7 ft 8 in. The tank includes an attendant call button, internal lights with user control including a stars setting, a motorized door with control button inside and out, and a full airflow design ventilation.
Floataway Float Cabin For Two
Photo Courtesy of Floataway
The Floataway Float Cabin For Two is a two person cabin. The tank includes an attendant call button, internal lights with user control, and a full airflow design ventilation. The cabin allows you the ability to step into the tank and then lie down, similar to being in a bathtub with a glass enclosure that helps with sound proofing. If you’re concerned about claustrophobia, this is an excellent option that still grants you the benefits of floatation therapy.
Floataway Open Pool
For Two
Photo Courtesy of Floataway
The Floataway Open Pool For Two can be used by a single person, but can also accommodate two individuals. The pool includes an attendant call button, and lights with user control. during Similar to the float cabin, you can stand up in the pool and thus it is an excellent choice if you are concerned about claustrophobia.
Superior Revolution
Float Orb
Photo Courtesy of Superior Float Tanks
The largest float pod designed for taller users which can be used in the enclosed position or left open during the float session. Low side-entry threshold for ease of entry and exit. Superior is one of the leading manufacturers in the industry and provides similar float tanks to Tom Brady, Boston Celtics, US Navy Special Operations, US Air Force Special Operations, LA Rams, Notre Dame, New Orleans Saints, University of West Virginia, US Army Special Operations, Baltimore Ravens, Washington Commanders, to name just a few. So you will be in good company, floating in our Orb!
What People Are Saying
- I decided to do a float to relieve stress and some muscle tension, and it did exactly that! I loved my experience. I used the float orb so I could close the lid. The space is very clean, the temperature was perfect, and the atmosphere was so calm. I love that they provided everything I needed, including two hair dryers at the beauty bar. There's a lovely room where you can relax afterwards and have some tea or water and just continue relaxing.
I will bring shower shoes next time for post-float, but I felt that walking barefoot was fine because of how clean it was.
I parked on the street for free, but then realized there is dedicated parking. I can't wait to go back!Read MoreRead LessJoy H.3/18/2024I give 10 stars!! As a first-time floater, I am hooked. Every detail of my sauna/float experience was above and beyond my expectations. I highly recommend Synergy Float Center. I will be a regular client. Thank you so much!Read MoreRead LessMelinda W.3/02/2024So unbelievably relaxing and meditative. They really walk you through everything and provide all kinds of amenities. Highly recommend!Read MoreRead LessEricka M.8/19/2023 - My floating experience was amazing. As a first-timer, the thorough explanation of how everything worked, the safety precautions and tips I was given for a positive float made me feel relaxed and helped me quickly feel completely comfortable as soon as I entered the water.
I will absolutely do this again. It's like nothing I've ever experienced before and I loved it.Read MoreRead LessTim M.7/30/2023This was my first float experience, it was very rejuvenating. The atmosphere was relaxing and calming. Remember to bring your water. The mint tea helped to refresh and hydrate after the session.Read MoreRead LessMonica T.7/08/2023I am a floater and been a member as well - worth your money, friendly staff and amazing accommodations. They do have access for wheelchairs through the building and they are in the basement. All the rooms are spacious, clean and very nice and warm. Bathrooms and vanity area are clean and ready each time I get out. Chill out area after the float is nice and has complementary water and Tea. Love to come with beat friends and myself!Read MoreRead LessJoanna C.6/17/2023 - I am a floater and been a member as well - worth your money, friendly staff and amazing accommodations. They do have access for wheelchairs through the building and they are in the basement. All the rooms are spacious, clean and very nice and warm. Bathrooms and vanity area are clean and ready each time I get out. Chill out area after the float is nice and has complementary water and Tea. Love to come with beat friends and myself!Read MoreRead LessJoanna M.6/17/2023I absolutely loved my experience at Synergy Float! I first have to commend and praise how clean and pristine everything was while also being comfortable, inviting, and absolutely beautiful to the eye! I also love the location since I’m often in old town and I know how to navigate the area very well. My float was very cool and serene! I got to control and change the light, safety, and opening settings from within the pod; moreover, there were different pods that I could choose from. The pod itself was so comfortable and clean!!! The owner at the front desk was an absolute joy to speak with! I learned so much about what they offer and was even presented with amazing deals to save money! Super, super friendly and welcoming, I can tell she gets to know her clients individually and that’s a great feeling! I cannot wait to become a regular at this location and enjoy the other services. Look no further than Synergy Float!Read MoreRead LessJonathan W.3/23/2023I had an amazing experience here. I arrived early and got a tour of the facility from Kim. She told me of all of the services and and gave me information on how to prepare for the sauna and float. I have floated before but the sauna beforehand absolutely was an extra boost of relaxation. I look forward to returning and checking out the other services.Read MoreRead LessJonathan B.2/17/2023
- Went with the Mrs. This was our first "float" experience. There are two entrances, one on the back of the building which is stairs and an elevator on the front so that it is accessible to all.
In spa style, it's serene on the inside and the staff is great. They are really helpful and once they take you to your float room, they explain everything very thoroughly. Excellent experience.
The sensation of the float is very difficult to explain. The water solution has a strange quality. We had a shared tank, both of us floated side by side. Once you're comfortable, it's really easy to get lost and forget about everything else. An hour float passed us by but we didn't feel uncomfortable or claustrophobic in any way, just calm.
We weren't sure about what we had just experienced when we got out until we had time to realize just how relaxing it had really been.
I think that this is worth trying. It really made a difference.
We spent $75 per person, no more than a massage, and it was worth it. We do plan on going back and trying some of the other options that they offer.Read MoreRead LessBill2/11/2023We treated our friend to float therapy as part of her bridal gift from all of the bridesmaids. It was heavenly! As first-time floaters, Kim did an excellent job explaining everything to us and making us feel comfortable. She even surprised the bride with flowers! The level of customer service was incredible, and we only have great things to say about our experience!Read MoreRead LessKate W.1/26/2023We did an hour float for the first time. The staff was polite, professional and informative. Pro tip bring flip flops with you and change quickly in the car before hand. The floor will get wet and socks are not a good idea. They provide you petroleum jelly to cover cuts and ear plugs. You have the option of three light settings that you control. This place is a 10/10 and we will definitely be back!Read MoreRead LessSE41/21/2023 - We had company from out of town and wanted to have a new experience. A float session was the right choice.
The people were very professional and helped us to pick out our float tank.
The float itself was very calming and relaxing. The facility was very well maintained and the equipment was first rare! I highly recommend this company- and we will be back!Read MoreRead LessMike W.12/28/2022Very pleasant staff. Peaceful, quiet and calming atmosphere. My float experience was amazing!! I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a way to relax, rejuvenate and relieve general body aches and pains.Read MoreRead LessJulie M.11/14/2022Synergy Float Center has been a God-send for my mental wellbeing. The facility is always clean, tidy and relaxing. The staff is kind and thoughtful. Floating has really helped ease my anxieties and allows me to clear the mental clutter and become more centered.Read MoreRead LessTammy C.10/03/2022 -
Highly recommend Synergy Float Center for a relaxing experience. I found out about floating and tried it while on vacation... I came back home and found Synergy Float Center... immediately signed up for a monthly membership. Staff is wonderful facilities are great and I love floating to escape from a busy world filled with so much input all the time.Read MoreRead Less
Dave M.9/07/2022This was our first time floating. Synergy is very clean and elegant. The staff was very personable and informative, making sure we were comfortable every step of the way. Our joints and muscles feel fabulous! We are looking forward to making monthly appointments for future float sessions.Read MoreRead LessKian S.9/05/2022This place is wonderful. A very relaxing place for anyone on a healing journey, whether physical, mental or emotions. A variety of therapies to support wellness. My favorite was the sitting room after my treatment. I’ll be back.Read MoreRead LessGrace B.8/31/2022 - Very cordial and helpful staff. Kim showed us the facility and made recommendations that helped us make the most of our experience.
The facility was very clean and the anesthetics were comforting. I would return and recommend to others.Read MoreRead LessJohnnie A.8/26/2022My husband and I really enjoyed floating together. Very relaxing and they thought if everything to help make the experience great. Thank you!Read MoreRead LessBrenna C.8/21/2022This place was just what I needed! It was so relaxing. The staff was friendly. It was my first float and I appreciated the tour, with explanation of the different equipment and float experiences. Loved the relaxing tea room afterward as well.Read MoreRead Less
Sarah W.7/24/2022 - The staff are very kind and customer service oriented. The prices are reasonable and scheduling is easy on their website. I love this place!Read MoreRead LessJamie U.7/05/2022My experience at Synergy Float Center has been amazing. The center is very clean and the staff is very professional. I love floating so much that I had to purchase a membership. The membership allows me to float at least once a month at a phenomenal price as well as access to other perks. Thank you Synergy Float Center for being an amazing addition to my monthly mental health regimen.Read MoreRead LessDumeka M.6/29/2022Very therapeutic experience. Great way to bring awareness to the monkey mind and teach yourself self-discipline. Additionally, I felt a great relief in my spine and bones, like all pressure was released from them.Read MoreRead LessRandy D.6/23/2022
- I had a wonderful first experience and I highly encourage any newcomers that may be on the fence to give it a try, and those that have tried other places to consider a trip here ! The staff is knowledgeable and kind. All my concerns were attended to. I could go on about what I loved, and I have no complaints whatsoever!Read MoreRead LessDell6/22/2022This is a great place for an infrared sauna and I really liked the floating pool. Service is super friendly and the facility is very clean. I look forward to doing the float pod thing here. I like floating in dark silence but I'm the weird one that stays awake the whole time doing body scanning and passing thoughts without touching them. Fun stuff!Read MoreRead LessMatthew H.6/12/2022I did the 30 minutes sauna & 60 minute float. It was extremely relaxing. I can see why they recommend 3 float sessions though. It took me a little while to get the hang of it and relax in the tank but when I finally did, it was amazing. Definitely recommend.Read MoreRead LessMelissa4/24/2022
- Synergy Floats are an important part of my mental and emotional well-being. Very professional operation - first-rate equipment (always clean and in good working condition), responsive and client-centric staff. I feel safe and well cared for at every visit.Read MoreRead LessDavid F.4/18/2022I loved my visit to Synergy Float Center! The staff member was so helpful and accommodating. I used my time there as a mental health day and did the 60 min float tank, infared sauna, and salt therapy. I would recommend all three treatments but the float was my favorite. They also have a VERY clean facility which is a must for me during visits to places like this. I felt very comfortable and at home during my visit. I am so looking forward to going again! It was a great experience for my first ever visit!Read MoreRead LessAdam F.4/17/2022A cut above other float spas. The energy is calming. Several open float choices. Nice amenities. Friendly, helpful staff. Loved the special drinking water.Read MoreRead LessWendy W.4/10/2022
- Although I’ve heard much about the floating experience, this was my first time. Synergy’s staff and facilities were welcoming. The float did the trick. I chose the pod float. I highly recommend that option. It’s totally dark and quiet and an amazing way to spend an hour of me time.Read MoreRead LessDeidre F.4/10/2022
I really like this place. The own does a good job explaining float therapy. The entire experience is very relaxing. Just make to sure to cover your hair really good because it can be hard to get the salt out of it when you are done with your session.Read MoreRead Less
coleen h.3/02/2022Easy to make an appointment online, which is always a big plus for me! Synergy is in the basement of a building with a parking lot. Nice facility - waiting area, bathrooms, and float room were all neat & clean. Staff both friendly and helpful. My husband and I tried the open float tank together. I though that floating open air was a little chilly! The room also has a small sauna, which we didn't use, but I will if I do the open float again - apparently it warms up the entire room. The room had an open shower and bench/hooks for clothing and bags. Amenities offered include an assortment of teas and water (outside of the room) and ear plugs, floatie head rest, & Vaseline inside the room. Washcloth, towels, and soap are also provided. Outside of the room is a space to blow dry your hair. They also have a "pod" tank and larger sauna - maybe more but those were the doors that were open when were walking through.Read MoreRead LessDeirdre F.2/25/2022 - Very clean facility and very polite staff. Super relaxing to float in the open tank. My boyfriend and I have done a 60 minute float twice and he gets so relaxed he has fallen asleep during it. I think it is great to do when needing some stress relief. We love it!Read MoreRead LessAmy H.2/25/2022As soon as I walk into Synergy Float Center, the atmosphere changes and becomes a calm, tranquil environment. The staff are very helpful and friendly. They provide an overview of the different offerings they have, instruct me on how to use the equipment and answer any questions I have. I’ve tried the float cabin and float spa and have had great experiences with both. The lounge area allows me to reflect on my float experience and is a helpful transition space to relax before leaving.Read MoreRead LessAshley H.2/25/2022My first float was with a friend because neither of us knew what to expect. Now, I’ve gifted this experience to multiple friends and family members. I give it as gifts for new parents, fellow recovering cancer survivors and those who are at the beginning of their wellness journey. Synergy has a beautiful energy that is grounding and welcoming.
If you’ve never experienced a float, or any of the other modalities they offer, Synergy is the place to go for your first time. It’s quiet, they have all the amenities you’d expect from a spa and more.
You will definitely feel the difference after your first visit.Read MoreRead LessGina R.2/20/2022 - This place is awesome! This was my first time floating and I loved it! Plan to arrive in time to get a tour of the place. I felt great afterwards and the effects lasted 3 days. I will definitely be back again.Read MoreRead LessOSchae B.2/19/2022This place feels like a treat every time my husband and I visit. We have tried all of the float tanks/pods and have been pleased with them all. The entire ambiance and experience is a great way to unwind and relax.Read MoreRead LessRana D.2/19/2022This was my first float, and it was great! The facilities were clean, everything was explained cleary, and there's just a very nice vibe about the whole place. Will definitely visit again.Read MoreRead LessKyrstyn K.2/19/2022
- I really enjoyed my first float here and am now a member. I tried floating at another business while on vacation and decided that taking time out for a float on a regular basis was something I wanted for the stress relief and mental relaxation that it provided. Synergy Float center has a great location, friendly staff, and free parking.Read MoreRead Less Dave M.1/27/2022I saw Heather for a manual lymphatic drainage massage after having liposuction to get everything healing and feeling better and man was it worth it! I felt so much better just after one session and am counting the days until I can visit again. HIGHLY recommend having the manual lymph drainage massage if you've had any surgeries, injuries, or cosmetic procedures. It really does get things feeling and looking better faster and is absolutely doing something good for my body.Read MoreRead Less
Cheryl L.1/24/2022My float at Synergy Float Center was amazing! I will definitely be returning for another float.
Everything is provided for you: earplugs, towels, soap, shampoo, and conditioner. I recommend bringing a pair of shower shoes. Parking is not an issue and the location is easy to find.
They have a lounge area that is filled with reading materials about floating and a journal filled with entries from previous floaters. I spent about hour after my float in the lounge because it was so peaceful and serene!Read MoreRead LessPamela O.1/16/2022 - My float at Synergy Float Center was amazing! I will definitely be returning for another float.
Everything is provided for you: earplugs, towels, soap, shampoo, and conditioner. I recommend bringing a pair of shower shoes. Parking is not an issue and the location is easy to find.
They have a lounge area that is filled with reading materials about floating and a journal filled with entries from previous floaters. I spent about hour after my float in the lounge because it was so peaceful and serene!Read MoreRead LessPamela O.1/16/2022This was my first time doing float therapy and it really was a cool experience! I received a session as a Christmas gift and I was very eager to use it. You can book a session online or call the center. I did have a bit of an issue trying to figure out how to book with my credit so I ended up having to call for assistance. The employee was very helpful and I was able to easily book after speaking with her. I booked one day prior to going and there was a lot of availability.
What stood out about the center is that they have different floating options. I wasn't quite ready for the pod, so I chose the floating cabin. There is also an option for something that is similar to a small pool.
The center is located in the Old Town Virginia area. There is plenty of parking and a sign to let you know where to enter the building (go down the step). The place is very clean and serene. Upon checking in, there is a beautiful lounge with magazines, tea, and water.
The room with the cabin was a nice size. Along with the cabin, there was a shower and an area with a robe and towel. They provide earplugs and petroleum jelly for any cuts.
The floating experience was amazing and peaceful! Imagine just floating under the stars in peace and quiet for an hour. The cabin was spacious. You could fit two people in it. I like that they provide a detailed video of how to float on their website.
The only thing I would bring to your attention is that I had to wait about 30 minutes after my scheduled appointment to start my session. There was someone scheduled before me in the cabin and they were not done by the time I checked in. Not sure how the scheduling works. So just be prepared for a possible wait.
Overall, I would definitely come back for another float session!Read MoreRead Less
Tony G.1/07/2022I love this place. It’s a bit expensive but worth it and the prices are fair for their niche services. I have a sauna membership and love my visits. I’ve also used their float tanks. The facility is clean, has a great relaxing vibe, and the owners are kind and communicative. Great service to have in the area.Read MoreRead LessAshley R.1/05/2022
