Guide
The hyperbaric oxygen therapy guide
Wellness or “mild” hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) at a recovery studio means resting in a pressurised chamber, breathing air or oxygen at a pressure a little above normal, usually for around an hour. This is distinct from medical hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which is delivered in hospitals at higher pressures for specific medical conditions under clinical supervision. This guide covers what a wellness session is like. It is general information to help you prepare for a visit, not health advice.
What a wellness HBOT session is like
At a wellness venue you usually settle into a soft-shell or hard-shell chamber, which is then gently pressurised to a mild level — noticeably lower than the pressures used in a hospital setting. Once at pressure, you rest for the session, often around sixty to ninety minutes. Many people read, listen to something, or simply lie back.
The venue's staff run the chamber and stay in contact with you throughout. Wear comfortable clothing, and expect a slow, gradual change in pressure at the start and end rather than anything sudden. If you are ever unsure whether a session is appropriate for you, speak with a qualified health practitioner.
Preparing for and getting the most from a session
The main thing to know about is your ears. As the chamber pressurises, you will feel your ears need to equalise, much like on a plane or descending underwater — gentle swallowing, yawning, or the technique the staff show you clears them. Let the operator know if you cannot equalise comfortably, and they can slow the change or pause.
Go in relaxed, use the bathroom beforehand since sessions run long, and avoid taking loose items that could be a problem in a pressurised space — the venue will brief you on what is allowed. A first visit is a good time to ask questions and get comfortable with the routine before settling into longer sessions.
Last updated 2026-07-12
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