What is Floatation Therapy? How Does it Work? What are the Benefits?

Do you feel stressed out? Overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life? If so, you may want to consider trying floatation therapy.

Floatation therapy, also known as Sensory Deprivation Tank therapy or Isolation Tank therapy, is a type of relaxation treatment that involves floating in a sensory deprivation tank. This post will explain how it works and discuss some of the benefits that have been reported by those who have tried it.

What is floatation therapy?

Floatation therapy is sometimes also called sensory deprivation tank therapy or isolation tank therapy. The treatment was first developed in the 1950s by Dr. John Lilly, a physician who was interested in the effects of sensory deprivation on the human brain.

During isolation tank therapy, you will lie down in a dark and quiet tank that is filled with water in which massive quantities of Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) have been dissolved. The high concentration of salt in the water allows you to float effortlessly.

You will enter the floatation tank and it will be closed so that you can’t see or hear anything. The air and water are the same temperature as your skin, which further enhances the feeling of becoming one with the water and being totally disconnected from the outside world.

This environment is designed to minimize all external stimulation so that you can focus on your inner thoughts and feelings.

How does the Sensory Deprivation Tank work?

Floatation therapy is thought to work by reducing the amount of sensory input that your brain receives. When you float in the dark tank, your body and mind can relax completely. This reduced level of stimulation has been found to have a number of benefits. These include decreased stress levels, improved sleep, and enhanced creativity.

What are the benefits of Floatation Therapy?

Floatation therapy has been found to offer a number of potential benefits, including:

Reduced stress levels. One of the most common reasons that people try isolation tank therapy is to reduce stress. A floatation session reduces blood pressure and cortisol levels, which can lead to a feeling of relaxation.

Improved sleep. Sensory Deprivation tank therapy has also been found to be helpful for those who struggle with insomnia and improve sleep quality.

Enhanced creativity. If you’re looking for a way to boost your creativity, floatation therapy may be worth trying. When your brain relaxes it enters what is known as the “theta state.” This is associated with enhanced creativity and intuition.

Relief from pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and tension headaches. It is thought that the high concentration of Epsom salts, or magnesium sulphate, in the floatation tank can help to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as reduce muscle tension.

Mental health benefits. Floatation therapy has been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well reducing stress levels. It has also been found to be effective in helping people struggling with phobias or substance abuse.

How to choose a good Floatation Therapy provider

If you’re interested in trying floatation therapy, it’s important to choose a reputable provider. Look for a provider that offers a clean and safe environment.

You should also ask the provider any questions you have about the treatment. The way they respond to your queries will go a long way towards determining whether they are a good fit for you.

Who should avoid Sensory Deprivation Tank therapy?

It is also important to note that floatation therapy is not for everyone.

If you are pregnant, have claustrophobia, have infective diseases or open wounds, then Isolation Tank therapy is not a good idea.

Also note that there have been isolated reports of floatation therapy inducing hallucinations, so if you are prone to mental health conditions such as psychosis, floatation therapy may not be right for you.

It is therefore a good idea for you to check with your doctor before booking a session.

Also note that you should never get into a floatation tank if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as there could be a risk of drowning.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to relax and rejuvenate, floatation therapy may be worth considering. Just be sure to choose a reputable provider and follow their guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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