Floating for Relaxation for the First Time – A Beginner’s Guide
You may have heard about it from friends or come across it online. Floatation therapy has become one of the most popular wellness services in Finland – and for good reason. In this guide, we go through everything essential: what floating is, how your first visit at Rentouttava Laine works, and who it is especially suitable for. We are the only wellness clinic in Oulu where floating can be combined under the same roof with massage and pampering treatments.
What is floatation therapy really?
Floatation therapy – or Flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy) – means floating in body-temperature water containing a high concentration of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate). Thanks to the salt, the body floats effortlessly on the surface, even for non-swimmers.
The floatation room is private, quiet, and warm. You can adjust the lighting and music yourself – or turn them off completely. Your body no longer has to support itself, muscles can release tension, and the mind gets a rare break from constant stimulation.
Why does it work? Research shows that Flotation-REST reduces cortisol levels (the body’s stress hormone), lowers blood pressure and heart rate, and increases alpha and theta brain waves – the same waves present in light sleep stages and deep meditation. A meta-analysis involving 449 participants across 27 studies found positive effects especially on stress, pain management, athletic recovery, and psychological well-being. (Source: Flotation-REST as a stress-management tool: A meta-analysis)
Rentouttava Laine – an atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere
We are the warmest wellness clinic in Oulu. Our location – Kajaaninkatu 34, about 40 meters from Oulu railway station – makes us easily accessible by train, bicycle, or on foot from anywhere in the city. Our premises are in a 1950s stone building, directly opposite the iconic Tuomi House.
When you walk in, you are greeted by soft lighting, a calm atmosphere, and a person who welcomes you by name. There are no automated videos – you are guided by a real person, on-site, just for you.
At Rentouttava Laine, we have two spacious float tanks:
- Feather (white) – a light, airy tank with a candle wall that creates a warm atmosphere
- Night’s Embrace (black) – the only black float tank in Northern Finland, where colored lighting “dances” on the ceiling like the Northern Lights. In darkness, the experience is unique.
The internal dimensions of both tanks (162 cm × 234 cm) provide ample space even for taller individuals. The tanks also feature mechanical ventilation – a feature we developed ourselves for our clients. Fresh air makes the experience significantly more pleasant.
How does your first float visit go?
The first time is always easier when you know what to expect. A typical visit at Rentouttava Laine goes like this:
Arrival
We recommend arriving 10–15 minutes before your appointment. This gives you time to settle in and allows us to properly welcome you.
Personal guidance
We go through how everything works, the floating process, and all adjustment options face-to-face with you.
Shower before floating
You shower in the float room before entering the tank. This keeps the water clean and the experience pleasant.
Your float session
A 60-minute float begins. You find a comfortable position and let go. The lid can be left open, lighting kept dim, or turned off completely – you decide.
Shower after floating
You rinse off the salt water. A blow-dry room is available with a hairdryer and carefully selected skin and hair care products.
Lounge time
After floating, you can relax in our lounge area. We offer coffee, tea, or house cocoa. You can take a moment before returning to everyday life.
Total duration: about 90 minutes, of which 60 minutes is the actual float.
Who is floating suitable for – and when is it especially beneficial?
Floating is generally suitable for everyone, but it is especially helpful when:
- Stress is building up
- The mind is overactive
- Sleep quality is poor
- Falling asleep is difficult or you wake up too early
Floating increases theta brain waves and reduces cortisol levels, supporting better sleep (Kjellgren et al., European Journal of Integrative Medicine).
It is also beneficial when:
- The body needs recovery – athletes, physically demanding workers, and rehabilitation clients benefit
- You need personal time – a moment just for yourself
Floating is also suitable for people with body pain, neck or shoulder tension, or chronic stress. Please note that floating is not suitable with open wounds or active skin infections. However, it is well-suited for dry skin conditions (atopic dermatitis) or psoriasis. As practitioners, we have strong expertise from a neuropsychiatric perspective, so we can also support special needs.
Floating experiences – what customers usually say
Customers typically describe floating as calming and pleasant. At first, many feel slightly nervous, but even after the first session they report clear benefits. Claustrophobia is often a concern beforehand but disappears by the end of the visit. The float tanks feel surprisingly spacious.
At Rentouttava Laine, customer experience is very important to us, and we have extensive feedback from different client groups. We can give you personalized tips for relaxation. Guidance is at the heart of our service, and post-float feelings are equally important.
Solo floating or duo floating?
Solo floating
Solo floating is usually the easiest way for beginners to start. It is ideal if you want to quiet your mind, recover, or give your body complete rest in your own space.
Price: from €69
Duo floating
Duo floating means two people floating in the same spacious tank. It is one of Rentouttava Laine’s special features – very few places in Oulu offer this experience. It is perfect for sharing a moment with a partner, friend, or sibling. Both can remain in their own silence – or share the feeling of time slowing down.
Price: from €99
Deep relaxation – combining floating and Neurosonic
Want to get the most out of one visit? Deep Relaxation combines a 25-minute Neurosonic vibration therapy session followed by a 60-minute float.
Neurosonic is a Finnish innovation that uses low-frequency vibration to calm the autonomic nervous system.
Developed by psychotherapist Marco Kärkkäinen, Neurosonic activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reduces tension, and improves sleep quality. Combined with floating, the experience is described by clients as exceptionally deep and restorative.
Price: from €79 or duo floating package €137
Silent Night’s Embrace floating
For those who value minimal communication and interaction. Lighting in the float room is dimmed. The price includes a private VIP space for one hour after floating. A separate exit allows you to leave when you are ready.
Price: €94 for one, €124 for two
7 practical tips for first-timers
Floating works on its own, but small choices can make the experience even more relaxing:
- Eat lightly before floating. A full stomach can disturb relaxation, an empty one may distract your mind.
- Allow time between activities. Avoid rushing straight from a meeting into the tank. A short walk helps.
- Start gently. Keep soft light or music at first, and reduce stimulation gradually.
- Ask for a neck support. It can help especially if your neck is tense.
- Let thoughts come and go. Mental activity is normal – your body can still relax.
- Rinse thoroughly after floating. This refreshes the body and completes the experience.
- Stay in the lounge for a moment. Coffee, tea, or cocoa helps anchor the relaxed state into everyday life.
Safety and frequently asked questions
“What if I can’t relax?”
The body is supported by buoyancy even if the mind is active. Deep relaxation often comes on the second or third visit.
“What if I feel claustrophobic?”
You can keep the lid open or lights on. The experience is fully under your control, and staff are available throughout your visit.
“Can I fall asleep while floating?”
Yes, sometimes. It is a sign of deep relaxation. The salt water will keep your body safely afloat.
“Is floating hygienic?”
The salt is naturally antibacterial. The water is filtered after every use, and hygiene is a top priority.
“What payment methods do you accept?”
We accept Smartum and Edenred employee benefit vouchers for floating and Deep Relaxation. Epassi is not accepted for floating. Standard card payments are available.
Floating as part of a broader wellness visit
One of Rentouttava Laine’s strengths is that floating can be combined with other treatments during the same visit:
- Hot stone massage – €129
- Indian head massage – €109
- Kalevala bone setting – €129
- Classic massage – €119
- Neurosonic – €79 (or included in Deep Relaxation package)
See all treatment packages: rentouttavalaine.fi/hoitopaketit
Frequently asked questions
Where is Rentouttava Laine located?
Kajaaninkatu 34, 90100 Oulu – about 40 meters from Oulu railway station. Easily accessible on foot, by bike, or by public transport.
Do I need to be able to swim?
No. The salt keeps the body floating automatically.
What should I bring?
Nothing. Towels, earplugs, and all necessary products are provided.
How often should I go?
Even one session helps, but many find that a monthly rhythm deepens the benefits.
Is floating a good gift?
Yes. Gift cards are valid for 6 months and suit many life situations.
Book your appointment
Opening hours: Mon–Sat 10:30–21:00, Sundays by appointment. Seasonal variations may apply.
Book floatation session in Oulu
Or call us: 050 4759 345 – we’ll help you choose the best option for you.
Sources
- Jonsson, K. & Kjellgren, A. (2016). BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 16, 108.
- Feinstein, J. S. et al. (2018). PLOS ONE, 13(2).
- Meta-analysis of 27 studies, 449 participants: Flotation-REST as a stress-management tool
- Kjellgren, A. et al. European Journal of Integrative Medicine
- Tarsitano, M. G. et al. (2024). Journal of Translational Medicine, 22, 629
- Pickering, G. et al. (2020). Nutrients, 12(12), 3672