Alicia Gatto, owner of FLOAT Chautauqua. Submitted photo

Chautauqua County’s first float center has recently opened in Jamestown.

Located at 484 Fairmount Avenue, behind Dr Rob Gatto’s new location, FLOAT Chautauqua, owned by Alicia Gatto, officially opened on Nov 13 and began hosting clients. The business is open on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The price is $65 for a one-hour float.

Floating, or flotation therapy, is known to reduce stress and anxiety, improve circulation and reduce small aches and pains. Other benefits include expedited healing of injuries, increased blood circulation, reduced anxiety and PTSD symptoms, increased creativity, and improved sleep. It involves floating in a water-filled sensory deprivation tank, or float pod.

Gatto said her first experience with floating is what inspired her to open her own business.

“I floated for the first time in 2021 and as I walked out from my session, I immediately knew I wanted to open a float center in Warren or Chautauqua County,” Gatto said. “The physical, mental and spiritual benefits were absolutely amazing and I was excited to share the experience with anyone who hadn’t heard of it yet. It has been such a pleasure to introduce this community to floating. I especially love seeing all of the reactions as people return to the waiting room after their floats. I have witnessed states of euphoria, tears of happiness, boosts of energy and the sheer ‘wow’ factor on so many faces.”

There are three main components of floatation therapy, Gatto said; Epsom Salt or Magnesium Sulfate, Zero Gravity and Meditation. These three components together are what lead to the overall health benefits.

“When they are experienced together, there are some incredible benefits,” Gatto said. “A client may experience these benefits during their float session only, or they may last for an extended period following their session. The complex work of our body and mind is responsible for our healthy and happy lives. Floating offers an all-natural approach, which has been proven to help a wide variety of ailments, while promoting physical and mental well-being.”

FLOAT Chautauqua has two floating pods available for clients during their open hours. Temperature, sounds, and lights are reduced and there is an option of relaxing music or guided meditations, along with other light options.

All of FLOAT Chautauqua’s new clients are taught exactly how to use the floating pods.

“Upon arrival at FLOAT Chautauqua as a new client, you will be given a brief tour of our facility and you will learn just how to float,” Gatto said. “One of our float facilitators will direct you to a suite that is equipped with a beautiful shower, shower supplies, soft robes, towels and of course, the amazing float pod. Your suite is your private oasis and we are dedicated to helping you achieve peace, wellness and relaxation.”

FLOAT Chautauqua also offers a program titled FREEDOM FLOATS for Veterans and those active in the military and law enforcement, allowing them to float at a discounted rate, which Gatto said shows the business’s appreciation for all that they do for the county and community.

To make an appointment at FLOAT Chautauqua, visit FLOATCHQ.com, or call 716-488-0123 during normal hours, or leave a message when outside of normal hours.