Ice Bath FAQ’s
What is an ice bath, and how does it work?
An ice bath is a form of cold therapy that involves immersing your body (up to your neck) in water that is chilled to between 10 and 0 degrees Celsius. The ice bath we have at Clear Mind Studio is an Odin Ice Bath.
What are the benefits of taking an ice bath?
Some of the benefits of taking an ice bath include reducing muscle soreness and inflammation, improving circulation, boosting immune function, and increasing mental clarity and focus. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts use ice baths to speed up recovery after workouts or competitions but the ice bath is also popular with everyday people to reduce stress, increase dopamine and improve mindset. You can find out more about the benefits on our website here and on our social media here.
How long should I stay in the ice bath?
It's recommended that you start with shorter durations, such as 1-2 minutes, and gradually work your way up to longer sessions over time. Rather than counting the time it’s more beneficial to count the ‘walls’ which is the point where your mind wants to get out but your body is still safe. We have guide videos available for you to watch before you take your first plunge.
Is an ice bath safe? Who shouldn’t use it?
While an ice bath can be uncomfortable, it is generally safe for most people. However, if you have any medical conditions that affect your circulation or your ability to tolerate cold, it's important to talk to your doctor before trying an ice bath. The ice bath should not be used by people who are pregnant, people with heart conditions, people with Raynaud's disease, people with hypothermia, people with open wounds or sores or people with a cold or flu.
It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before trying an ice bath, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.
Who shouldn’t use the Finnish sauna?
While Finnish saunas are generally safe for most people, there are some groups who should avoid using them or consult with a doctor before doing so. These include: People with heart conditions, people who are pregnant, children, people who are dehydrated, people who have recently consumed alcohol, people who are sensitive to heat and people with certain medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or epilepsy may be more sensitive to high temperatures and should consult with a doctor before using a sauna. It's always a good idea to consult with a doctor before trying a sauna, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.
What should I wear when taking an ice bath?
You should wear swimwear
What is the temperature of the ice bath?
The temperature of the Ice bath at Clear Mind Studio is between zero and 10 degrees celsius.
What is the temperature of the Finnish sauna?
The Finnish sauna is between 90 and 110 degrees Celsius.
Do I need to prepare my body in any way before taking an ice bath?
While there are no specific requirements while preparing for an ice bath , it's a good idea for those who are new to warm up your body before getting into an ice bath by spending 12 to 20 minutes in the Finnish sauna (located in the same room). There is also a shower in the room for you to rinse off sweat before getting into the ice bath.
What should I do after an ice bath?
After an ice bath you can air dry, take a warm shower, head back into the Finnish sauna, or do some light exercise. It's also a good idea to stay hydrated and eat a nutritious meal to help your body recover. You can also spend time relaxing in our tea lounge.
Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water after an ice bath can help replenish lost fluids and promote recovery.
Rest: Give your body time to rest and recover after an ice bath. Avoid strenuous activity for at least an hour to allow your body to adjust and recover.
Remember to always listen to your body and stop the ice bath if you feel uncomfortable or experience any adverse effects.
How often should I take an ice bath?
The frequency of ice baths depends on your personal goals and preferences. Some people take ice baths daily, while others use them less frequently. It's important to listen to your body and not overdo it, as too much cold exposure can be harmful.
What do I need to bring with me?
Please take a towel with you and take your swimwear with you.
Can I try the Ice bath + Finnish sauna with friends?
Yes, the room fits 4 friends. Although there is one shower in the room, an extra shower can also be found in the bathroom near reception for your use. Ask a member of staff to show you.
What is Contrast Therapy?
Contrast therapy is the name given to the therapeutic technique of alternating between hot and cold temperatures. It is often used in physical therapy, sports medicine, and rehabilitation to improve circulation, reduce muscle soreness and pain, and speed up healing of injuries BUT is also a really useful technique to calm your mind, reduce stress and build resilience. Finnish sauna is best coupled with an ice bath for contrast therapy as a Finnish sauna can get up to temperatures much higher than an Infrared sauna, typically between 90 and 110 degrees celsius. A typical protocol would be 20 minutes in the sauna followed by 3 minutes in the ice bath followed by air drying for 2 minutes then repeating 2 times. Sessions at Clear Mind Studio are 60 minutes (you can book a double session if you like) and you can bring up to 3 friends with you.
What’s the difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional Finnish sauna?
Traditional Finnish saunas and infrared saunas both offer potential health benefits, but they differ in the way they deliver heat to the body. Here are some of the main differences and potential benefits of each type of sauna:
Traditional Finnish Sauna:
Delivers heat primarily through hot air and radiant heat, which can help to rapidly raise core body temperature and promote sweating. Offers a more intense, invigorating experience due to the high temperatures and dry air. Encourages a natural, internal cooling response through sweating, which can enhance blood flow and improve circulation. Is culturally significant and has a long history of use for health and relaxation in Finland.
Infrared Sauna:
Delivers heat primarily through infrared light, which penetrates the skin to raise core body temperature more gradually. Offers a more gentle, relaxing experience due to the lower temperatures and humid air. Promotes sweating at a lower temperature, which some people find more comfortable. Offers potential benefits for skin health due to the infrared light's ability to penetrate skin tissue and improve circulation.
Ultimately, the best type of sauna for you will depend on personal preference, comfort, and your own specific goals. Both traditional Finnish saunas and infrared saunas have been shown to offer potential benefits for overall health and well-being.
Floatation Therapy FAQ’s
How often should I float?
You wouldn’t just go to the gym once and hope to see results, would you? To reap the lasting benefits and results of floatation therapy and to see a significant change to your long term mental and physical health we recommend floating once a week. Saying that you will feel amazing after one float, but this feeling will only last a few days. Best results come with long term regular use.
How long do I stay in the float tank?
Until the music comes on! Music will play for the last 5 mins then it's time to get out. A regular session is 60 mins, some people love floating so much they want to try longer floats, contact us and we can make that happen!
Floating with the music or a meditation on the whole time? No worries:
If you are in our open pool, the lights will come back on automatically at the end of your session and you will hear a doorbell noise to signify the end.
If you are floating in one of our pods then a voiceover will say “your session has ended”.
I’m claustrophobic/afraid/anxious…
We have 1 float pod rooms and 1 open pool room. If you are anxious why not try our open pool first. It’s a large round pool with no lid, and it’s even large enough for two people to fit in, so bring a friend if you wish.
If you want to try the pod room, don’t be worried, you are in complete control! Keep the lights on if you want. Leave the lid open if you want. Since there is an absence of space, time and sensation in the pod it’s pretty difficult to feel claustrophobic. While we’re on the subject you won't sink or roll over either. I dare you to try to make yourself sink, it’s pretty impossible in that much salt water.
Still worried? Book a free 15 minute pre float consultation with Craig and he will explain everything.
I'm a bigger person will I fit in the pod?
Unless you are over 7ft and weigh more than 200kg then you are good to go. A float pod is about the size of a small car. If you are worried then book into the open float pool room, it’s way larger than the pod with plenty of space to stretch out. We hosted the England rugby team last time they were in Perth, so if they can fit in you can too.
What do I wear to float?
In the pod rooms, you float in your own room, which has a lock on the door. Just you and your pod, so most people wear nothing. If that makes you feel uncomfortable then swimwear will do.
If you are booked into our open pool room, it’s large enough for two people to float at the same time, so you can bring a friend if you wish. Feel free to float naked or bring bathers to wear. Whatever makes you comfortable.
How do I prepare for my float?
We recommend eating a small meal one to two hours before your float, if you’re hungry your tummy may disturb you by making rumbling noises during your float, but if you eat too close to your float time your tummy will make digestion noises throughout your float.
Have a shower in the float room. Rinse off any oils, products, makeup, then dry off and step into the pod/pool. The room lights are on sensors so will switch off on their own. You are in control of the float tank lights and the lid. We recommend having a face cloth nearby in case you want to wipe your face or hands (salt water stings the eyes). Then close your eyes and relax...
Staff will explain this all to you on the day.
What happens during my float?
Floating is such an individual experience. Most customers report feelings of peace and relaxation, deep concentration and creativity.
Here at Clear mInd Studio we have developed a series of 7 float meditations to help you calm your mind and relax. They are complementary with every float. You can find out more here.
If you’d like to know more, then book a free 15 minute pre float consultation with Craig.
What do I do after my float?
Music will play to signal 5 mins left. After 5 mins the music will stop, this is when you get out of the pod. In the pod, a voice will say “your session has ended”. In the open pool the lights will come on automatically and you will hear a doorbell noise. Shortly after the filters will start, the filters are pretty noisy, so there no chance you’ll sleep through them.
If you’re in a pod room, leave the lid of the pod open to use the light while you shower the salt off. The room lights don’t come back on at the end. We designed the room purposely like this ‘cause if you have been in the dark in sensory deprivation for 60 minutes you don’t want to overwhelm your senses with a bright light as soon as you get out. Saying that, if you really need extra light, you can find the light switch behind the door.
Once you are dressed and ready, come and relax in our relaxation lounge with a complimentary cup of herbal tea.
We love to chat so let us know how your float experience was. If you don't feel like chatting you can relax solo in our cosy nook with a selection of books and magazines (did you know our studio owner Craig is also an author).
What do I bring?
You don't have to bring anything but for an enhanced experience we would recommend bringing comfy clothes you can put on after your float.
If you wear contact lenses you might want to bring your case and solution so you can take them out for your float. We supply towels, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, moisturiser and we even have a hairdryer. All our products are paraben and sulphate free and as eco-conscious as we can get. We’re not perfect but we try our best.
We use bamboo biodegradable eco towels. You’re welcome to take your towel home and reuse it.
Can two people float in the tank at once?
YES! We have Western Australia’s only couples float pool, where two people can float in the same pool at the same time!
If you see floating as a solitary experience but want to bring a friend, we do have more than one room. Yay! So your partner/parent/gym buddy/neighbour can book a float at the same time in a different room then after you can relax together in our Relaxation Room.
Please be aware, when you book a ‘couples float’ this is two people in the open pool at the same time.
Is there a situation where I would not be allowed to float?
You will not be permitted to float if...
You have an infectious disease
You have open wounds
you have epilepsy or serious mental conditions
You are pregnant in your first trimester or have a high-risk pregnancy
You have coloured or permed your hair in the last 7 days. We ask that you DO NOT float until your hair rinses clear when you wash it.
Have fake tan on
You are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
You are under 16 and don't have your parents permission
Is the tank clean?
The high concentration of salt in the water creates an inhospitable environment for most pathogenic microorganisms. We use a chlorine or bromine solution to take care of the rest. In addition, after each use, the entire water content is filtered through 10 micron bags 4 times and passed through a UV filter before the next user. It’s cleaner than your own bath at home.
Will my skin get wrinkly?
The high salt content in the pod prevents this from happening.
I'm pregnant, can I float?
Yes! Floating is great in pregnancy, after 12 weeks, as laying in the tank relieves pressure from tired joints. Please consult your doctor first if you have any concerns. Pregnant women love to float on their tummy to relieve hip/ back pressure. If you want to try this we can add pool noodles into the tank and show you how. Just ask!
I'm currently menstruating, can I float?
That's a personal choice. If you choose to float just take the same precautions you would as if you were going swimming.
But I can't swim...?
You don't need to be able to swim. The water is only 30cm deep. The high concentration of salt water will keep you afloat, no probs.
SAUNA FAQ’S
What is the difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna?
A traditional sauna heats the air temperature with hot rocks and you get hot because the air is hot. An infrared sauna emits infrared waves that penetrate deep into the cells of your body, heating you at a cellular level, increasing your core body temperature, resulting in a really good sweat and a detox effect. You can breathe no problem in an infrared sauna compared to a traditional sauna and you will find you can tolerate the heat for a lot longer too. Our saunas don’t have panels at head level as that can make people light headed.
What are the benefits of infrared sauna?
Infrared saunas may be beneficial for a range of health conditions including:
Detoxification;
Improve skin tone;
Help with skin conditions such as acne, eczema and dermatitis;
Bacterial infections;
Muscle fatigue and recovery;
Water retention;
Energy production;
Weight loss;
Immune boosting; and
Stress relief.
Can I sauna with friends?
Of course! Lots of our regular sauna users love bringing a friend with them. It is a great healthy way to catch up or the perfect date night activity. Our 1-2 person sauna fits 2 friends and our 1-3 person sauna fits 3 friends seated. We charge an extra $15 per friend that you bring along.
Are the sauna rooms private?
Yes, the sauna room is private, with a lock on the door, so you can relax, listen to music, read a book, chat with your friends, do yoga, meditate, stretch. If listening to music, please be mindful that there is a massage room next door and they can hear you. All our sauna rooms have a change area and a shower too.
What do I wear to sauna?
As our sauna is in a private room you can wear as much or as little as you like. We provide towels for you to sit on. If you’re with a friend it’s a great idea to wear swimwear. We recommend taking something loose to wear after. If you’ve ever tried to get a sports bra or leggings back on whilst hot, you’ll know what I mean.
Is there a shower? and should I shower after my sauna?
This is a really good question and there are several trains of thought about this.
The Infrared sauna works to increase your core body temperature. If you have a shower straight after or during your sauna, this will lower your core body temperature. Research shows if you don’t have a shower, your core body temperature will continue to be raised for 30-60 minutes post sauna! Saying that most of us live busy lives these days so we are happy to say all our sauna rooms have en suite showers. We also have an additional shower room outside the sauna room, so if you wish to lounge in our tea lounge in a robe for a while before showering, that’s okay too.
If you come with a friend and one of you wants a separate shower room, please use the shower at reception.
Should I bring anything?
We provide filtered water, towels, books, magazines, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, moisturiser, hairdryer. You shouldn’t need to bring anything. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes so you can lounge in our Relaxation Room and have a complimentary cup of herbal tea after your sauna experience.
Who should consult their doctor before using a sauna?
Children under the age of 18
People above the age of 65
Anyone with cardiovascular conditions, on blood thinning medication, haemophiliacs or people who are prone to bleeding.
Pregnant women should avoid using the infrared sauna
Individuals suffering from chronic health conditions should always consult their doctor first
If you are unsure about using an infrared sauna, always consult with your doctor first.
Is the sauna clean?
We clean the saunas after each use with vegan, organic plant based, low toxic products. The saunas are made from Canadian cedar wood, which is naturally antibacterial. Infrared lighting is also a natural disinfectant.
How often should I sauna?
As often as you like! We recommend twice a week, but you can sauna daily if you wish. You can build it into your lifestyle as you do with exercise. If you have a specific health goal it may help to use it more often.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel your service, please do so as soon as possible. Cancellations within 12 hours for float, massage, and infrared sauna services may incur a 50% charge of the price. Classes cancelled less than 1 hour prior to class may incur a 50% charge of the full price.
If you do not give notice, or give notice 1 hour prior to an appointment, or do not show for an appointment, you will be charged at the full price of the scheduled appointment. Cancellation period for classes is up to 1 hour prior to class.
Clear Mind Studio reserves the right to charge for appointments cancelled less than 12 hours prior to the scheduled start time.
Massage FAQ’s
Will I be sore after my remedial massage?
It’s very common to be sore post massage! You may feel tender for up to 3 days. In saying this, your massage should be performed at a comfortable pressure for you. We recommend drinking lots of water and utilising heat (eg. Wheat pack, hot shower, infrared sauna) after your massage.
When shouldn’t I get a massage?
If you are feeling unwell, have a fever or infectious skin condition please call and reschedule your appointment. If you have a diagnosed medical issue, we advise you to consult with your GP prior to your massage.
What types of massage do you offer?
Our remedial therapists are qualified in a wide range of techniques and will use the required modality to reach your treatment goal. Please see remedial massage for a detailed list. We also offer full body relaxation massage.
Can I go to the gym straight after my massage?
We advise you to do your gym session, run or exercise class before you come in for a massage. After your massage your muscles need time to heal and recover. You are at a higher risk of injuring yourself and putting stress and strain on the relaxed muscles if you workout straight after your massage. Both a sauna or a float are great ways to help with sore muscles.
Can you get a massage while pregnant?
Yes, you absolutely can! We love to care for pregnant women during this special time.
Remedial massage is safe for the mum and baby from 12 weeks. The therapist adapts their techniques to suit the different stages of pregnancy.
What is the difference between relaxation massage and remedial massage?
A remedial massage is a spot focussed massage on an area of pain, issue, discomfort or injury. The therapist may decide to use other techniques alongside massage, such as cupping, dry needling, euro stimulation and taping. Please note, Remedial massage is NOT a full body massage. If you’d like a full body massage please book in for a relaxation massage.
A relaxation massage is a full body (60min +) or back, neck and shoulders (30mins) of blissful strokes at a pressure you decide. Often the therapist would use hot towels on your hands and feet to calm your nervous system. Luxury oils and aromatherapy essential oils may be used. The room is darkened and atmospheric candles are lit to help you on your journey to a calm mind, better sleep and relaxed muscles.
I have allergies, will the oil be ok for me?
I have allergies too and I completely understand the stress going somewhere new can cause. We have a range of massage oils to suit everyone. It’s always good if you can let us know about your allergy prior to your appointment so your therapist can set the room up appropriately.
How long will my massage be? and what is involved?
We offer 30, 60 and 90 minute massage appointments. The appointment starts from the time the massage therapist takes you into the room. The therapist will perform a short consultation to decide what treatment is best suited to your needs. The therapist will then leave the room so you can get undressed (please leave underwear on). Once undressed lay on the bed with the towel provided covering you. The therapist will knock on the door to ask if it’s ok for them to come back into the room.
Please let our therapist know if the room is too warm or too cold - we have air con, a heater and blankets!
If the pressure is too soft or too hard please let the massage therapist know at the time so they can change to suit you.
Your massage therapist will leave the room so you can get dressed.
Please don’t be intimidated about telling your massage therapist exactly what type of massage and pressure you’d like. You won’t be offending them. Communicating clearly about what you want is so important, our therapists do have magic hands, but they are not mind readers!
If you are finding the massage uncomfortable or it’s not what you wanted please let your therapist know, at the time, so the pressure/ type of treatment can be adjusted accordingly. If you have any questions about your massage during your massage, your therapist would be happy to answer - they are all highly qualified Diploma trained therapists and they are used to explaining what they are doing and why. If you are unsure what type of massage you need prior to booking, give us a call and we can advise you.
Clear communication of your needs and expectations means you get the massage you want.
I can’t seem to book 30 or 90 minutes online?
That’s right, please call to book 30 or 90 minutes as we have to re jig the schedule slightly to fit those times in. Please note our opening times when calling.
What should I do after my massage?
Head back to the Tea Room and help yourself to some water or yummy herbal tea. Your massage therapist will give you specific after care instructions. Please follow these. They may include but not limited to - drinking more water that day to flush out toxins, applying heat to a specific area, some stretching that the therapist showed you.
I got a headache after my massage, is that normal?
A massage brings out toxins from your soft tissue into the blood stream. It is important that you drink plenty of water after a massage to avoid getting a sore head.
Miscellaneous FAQ’s
Do you have parking?
Yes we do! find out more here
Do I have to leave my shoes outside?
We kindly ask that you take your shoes off when in our studio but you don’t have to leave them outside. We have lockers you can use, if you prefer to lock them away.
I love your Shampoo, where is it from?
We get asked this a lot! It’s from Earth Products in the Swan Valley.
I love your tea! Where is it from?
We get asked this a lot! It’s from The Tea Crowd, a Perth based artisan, organic tea blender. You can purchase it from reception.
What’s with the eco towels? Why do you not use big fluffy, fancy towels?
We have chosen to use once use, bamboo eco towels. They look small but when you shake them out they are actually really big and they are super absorbent. Did you know that to keep soft, fluffy white towels fluffy and soft spas and hotels use them for a few weeks then throw them out and replace them? We feel this is super bad for the environment, so we choose to use the bamboo biodegradable option. You can take your towels home with you if you wish. They last about 5 washes before they decompose. They are very absorbent so great for cleaning or washing pets. We wash and reuse some for cleaning the studio.
Can I pat the dog?
Our golden retriever is called Amber. She’s super friendly and loves a cuddle. She doesn’t frequent the studio as much as she used to but if you’re local to Inglewood you might bump into her out for walkies. She also loves a swim at Mosman dog beach.
