This Is Easily the Most Unique Spa Treatment You Can Get in Washington

Whether you're a newbie to the world of wellness or a seasoned pro, sometimes a traditional massage can't quite hit the spot. That's where Oly Float comes in. Located in my childhood hometown — our lovely state capital, Olympia — this fantastic wellness center has earned a devoted following who swear by its one-of-a-kind services. But the most interesting thing on offer? Floatation therapy — it's in the name, after all! Part meditation session, part physical therapy, and all relaxation, this treatment promises total restoration, and I'd say it delivers!

Though it's sometimes described as zero-gravity or sensory deprivation therapy, at its core, floating is just a fantastic way to reset your mind and body. Here's how your first session works: After receiving a brief orientation to ensure you have the best experience, you'll head to a pool that's filled ten inches deep, loaded with 800 lbs of Epsom salts, and perfectly calibrated to match the temperature of your body.

After submerging yourself, you'll experience what's best described as a sensation of total weightlessness. With the gentle support of the water, the buoyancy created by the high salinity, and the relaxing temperature, you'll find it easy to let go, releasing the tension that's held in your tired muscles and allowing your mind to wander. Some visitors even achieve what's called a "Theta state," a brainwave pattern correlated with serenity, imagination, and elevated consciousness.

Though it may seem slightly "woo" at first glance, floatation therapy has solid research to support its claims. Since first developed in the 1950s by a neurologist studying the effects of sensory stimulation on the brain, scientists have found that float tanks can help with pain management, reduce anxiety, improve creativity, and a host of other benefits.

Can't keep a good thing to yourself? If you're hooked after your first float, Oly Float allows you to make a reservation for two. There are many reasons to go as a couple — amid the busyness of everyday life, intimacy is easily crowded out by external distractions. During floatation therapy, relieved of all the noise, you'll have nothing to prevent you from tuning into your partner, allowing you to share a unique experience of closeness.

Just a bit of preparation can set you up for a fantastic float session. For starters — though we all love our coffee here in the Pacific Northwest — skipping caffeine beforehand will help prevent racing thoughts, which can detract from your experience. And while a fresh shave may seem like a no-brainer before donning a swimsuit, remember that the water is salty. Micro-abrasions left by the razor might sting when you're submerged. For more tips, refer to Oly Float's website or give the center a call.

If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind spa service in Washington that will leave you feeling restored, I recommend checking out Oly Float's floatation therapy. Not only does this treatment promise total relaxation, it's science-backed, meaning you can be confident that you're doing something great for your body and your mind.