A hyperbaric session is simple, quiet and surprisingly relaxing. If you've never been in a chamber before, here's what happens from start to finish.
Before you start
- Wear loose cotton clothing. Comfortable, breathable and free of synthetic layers.
- Skip oils, lotions and hair products. Keep the chamber environment clean and follow your chamber's manual.
- Leave lighters and prohibited items outside. Only take in items your chamber's manual allows.
- Have a glass of water. Staying hydrated helps you feel comfortable.
- Check with your doctor first if you're pregnant, have an ear, sinus or lung condition, a cold, a seizure disorder, recent surgery or an implanted device.
Step 1: Settle in (about 2 minutes)
Lie down or sit in the chamber, close it, and fit your oxygen mask or headset. In soft chambers such as the Lay 1.5, you zip the chamber closed and the controls are inside with you. In hard-shell chambers, the door seals and a touch screen controls the session.
Step 2: Pressurise (about 5 to 10 minutes)
The chamber gradually fills with air. As pressure builds, your ears will feel full, the same sensation as a plane coming in to land. Equalise early and often:
- swallow or sip water
- yawn or move your jaw
- pinch your nose and gently blow
If your ears feel uncomfortable, pause or slow the pressurisation. Never push through pain.
Step 3: Breathe and relax (most of the session)
Once the chamber reaches its set pressure, simply breathe normally through your mask. This is the part people enjoy: read, listen to music or a podcast, watch TV in a seated hard shell like the Seat One, or close your eyes. Many people doze off.
Step 4: Return to normal (about 5 to 10 minutes)
The pressure comes down slowly. Your ears may "pop" again as they adjust. Once the chamber is back at normal pressure, open it and step out.
How long does a session take?
Most sessions run 60 to 90 minutes in total, including pressurising and returning to normal pressure. See the session timeline on our How it works page.
How will I feel afterwards?
Most people simply feel relaxed. Some notice their ears for a few minutes afterwards. Drink some water and take your time getting up.
Tips for a comfortable first session
- Start at a lower pressure if your chamber allows it
- Equalise before your ears feel uncomfortable, not after
- Have something to do: a book, playlist or show
- Keep sessions to a time that fits your routine
Questions about a specific chamber? Talk to our team, any time.
General information only, not medical advice. Follow your chamber's operating manual.
