For Mark Simons, a seasoned truck driver for a Sydney Freight Company, the open road is both a profession and a passion. Navigating Australia's vast landscapes, he often spends up to 12 hours a day behind the wheel, doing non-stop trips from as far as Sydney to Perth. While the journey offers a sense of freedom, the physical demands of operating a large vehicle and prolonged sitting can take a toll on the body.
"I started out as a diesel mechanic and naturally fell in love with trucking," Mark shares. "But sometimes you're spending 4-days of non-stop driving, my body feels the strain. Sitting for long hours, dealing with the vibrations, feeling the weight of the truck, and the mental focus required—it all adds up."
Mark came across True Float from a referral from his accountant and has since made regular sessions of floatation therapy and infrared sauna at True Float an essential part of his recovery after long-haul drives.
The Demands of Long-Haul Trucking
Long-haul trucking is a demanding profession that requires extended periods of sitting, often leading to muscle stiffness, back pain, and reduced circulation. The drivers at INH Transport need constant focus needed to navigate highways and manage a heavy vehicle which naturally adds mental fatigue to the physical strain.
"After a long trip, I used to feel completely drained," Mark recalls. "Not just physically, but mentally too. I needed to find a way to recover better because gearing up for long-hauls started to become very daunting."
Discovering Floatation Therapy
Floatation therapy, also known as sensory deprivation therapy, involves floating in a tank filled with a high concentration of Epsom salts, allowing the body to float effortlessly. The environment is designed to eliminate external stimuli, promoting deep relaxation.
"The first time I tried floating, I was extremely skeptical, but I was given a referral from my accountant so I figured why not, " Mark says. "It just really helped with the mental and physical tension I was carrying in-between drives. My back pain eased, and I came out feeling refreshed."
The benefits of floatation therapy for individuals like Mark include:
Muscle Relaxation: "The buoyancy reduction just makes my muscles feel loose and relaxed, I feel 20kgs lighter after every session"
Stress Reduction: "The sensory deprivation, really helps calm my mind. When you're on a truck carrying a heavy-heavy load it's just load for hours on end"
Improved Sleep: "I've just noticed my sleep and rest in-between line hauls has been so much better, you need your sleep as a driver and being sleep deprived is the most dangerous thing you can do"
Incorporating Infrared Sauna
Complementing his floatation sessions, Mark also utilises the infrared sauna at True Float. Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly, promoting various health benefits.
"The infrared sauna is fantastic," Mark notes. "It helps with muscle recovery and sinuses and I feel more energised after each session."
A Holistic Approach to Recovery
By integrating both floatation therapy and infrared sauna into his routine, Mark has began taking healthier approach to recovery. These therapies address both the physical and mental demands of his profession.
"It's become a much-needed part of my routine," Mark explains. "After a long haul, I book a session at True Float. It helps me reset and be ready for the next trip."
The team at True Float has been instrumental in supporting Mark's wellness journey. Their facilities and personalised approach ensure that each session meets his specific needs.
"The staff at True Float are great," Mark adds. "They understand the stresses of my job and have tailored the sessions to help me recover effectively."
Embracing Wellness on the Road
Mark's experience highlights the importance of self-care for professionals in demanding roles. By prioritising his health and incorporating therapeutic practices, he not only enhances his performance but also ensures longevity in his career.
"Taking care of my body and mind is crucial," Mark reflects. "True Float has been a game-changer for me. I encourage my drivers to explore these therapies. It's made a world of difference."
For those in similar professions, exploring floatation therapy and infrared sauna could provide the relief and recovery needed to maintain optimal health and performance. True Float offers tailored sessions to meet individual needs, promoting wellness for all.
"It's not just about the job," Mark concludes. "It's about living well and feeling good. True Float has helped me achieve that balance."
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