Visiting Toronto is a wonderful experience, but if you’re not used to the hustle and bustle of the streets, it can become exhausting for some. If you’re looking for a way to rest and relax, why not try something unexpected and different from your regular Swedish massage?

Floating, or sensory deprivation, is the latest health trend to pop up in various Toronto neighbourhoods. It involves climbing into a soundless and warm float tank that has been filled with 1000 lbs of dissolved Epsom Salts, allowing one to become extremely buoyant. You can’t sink in this water, and don’t have to try to ‘float’. The water is set at body temperature so you don’t feel too cold or too warm. Most tanks have the option of playing music or keeping the lights on, but experts suggest embracing the total silence and darkness for the full effect. Sessions last for approximately 1 hour to 90 minutes.

When you remove the need to pay attention to the constant stimuli of the city (traffic, navigating directions, conversations, avoiding running into people, etc.) it frees up your mind for creativity, problem-solving, meditation, rest, and relaxation. Some say when they emerge from a float, their senses are sharpened and they feel completely refreshed. The effects of floating last for hours, and for some, days.

If you’d like to try Floating while you visit Toronto, here are a few places to try.

Float Toronto

A true sensory deprivation experience in a cozy setting. Floaters are encouraged to linger after emerging from the tank to enjoy a cup of tea. The staff at this location are very friendly and always willing to talk about your experience floating. Float Toronto is located at 1159 Queen Street West, accessible via the Queen Streetcar or an Uber ride.

H2O Float Spa

Featuring sleek and modern float pods that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie, H20 Float Spa is ‘the new way to relax.’ The unique feature this float spa has is an open-concept float pool for those that want to float with their loved one, or are uncomfortable with the thought of shutting themselves inside of a tank. H20 Float Spa is located at 138 Danforth Avenue, accessible via Uber or the subway.

Rest Nest Float Club

Located in Yorkville, Rest Nest Float Club welcomes floaters into their beautiful spa-like space. They have every amenity you may need pre and post-float to make the experience truly relaxing. Located at 21 Yorkville Avenue, getting to the Rest Nest Float Club is simple via Subway or Uber.