Have you ever heard of sensory deprivation tank, or often referred to as “float therapy”?
A float tank is a large soundproof tank/tub that contains about a foot of Epson salt filled water. The water is normally warmed up to the standard body temperature, so you aren’t to cold or to hot. While it is only 12 inches of water, the salt helps you to float. The soundproof part of the tank helps to cut out the background noise and allows you to help remove distractions and get the benefit of deprivation.
According to an article written by Michael J. Breus, Ph.D. in Psychology Today, he states that “there’s a growing body of research that demonstrates the potential for floatation therapy to significantly improve physical pain. Studies show pain relief is one of the most prominent benefits of floatation REST therapy. While we’re still relatively early in exploring the full spectrum of possible therapeutic benefits, scientific research has investigated float therapy in treating many different types of pain and pain conditions, with promising results.” REST stands for restricted environmental stimulation therapy.
Dr. Breus further states “It’s not surprising to me that many studies of floatation therapy find simultaneous relief from physical pain and psychological distress, at the same time they experience improvements to sleep. The three are inextricably linked. Research shows pain can be reduced by floatation therapy, and so can chronic, stress-related muscle pain and the depression and anxiety that accompanies it.”
Here is a couple of personal thoughts on my two floating experiences:
1. Patience. Depending upon how you are, the first time can be nerve racking trying to calm down with your own thoughts in the dark (or whatever lighting choice in the tank you use). Once you close the lid it gets dark and quiet. Real quiet. You have the option for music or no music so it is your preference. The hardest part, for me anyway, is relaxing and not thinking you will drown in 12 in of water. Trust me, the salt keeps you afloat and there is no way, even if you fall asleep, you will drown.
2. Breath. Think of a float tank as a wet mediation system. Slow down your breathing and slow down your thoughts. The tank is a not only a great way to reduce muscle pain, professional athletes use it to increase visualization. When I go I try to pick out a few things I want to work on visually and then allow the thoughts to go wild. At other points, I just try to go blank in my mind and allow the thoughts disappear.
3. Go more than once. While I have only been a couple of times, it is recommended that you go repeatedly to get the most benefit. For many, the first time is a wash as there seems like there is to much going on at once. Water, darkness, floating, trying to relax. However, once I knew what to expect, the second time was much more beneficial, and I was able to get in full relaxation mode much quicker.
4. Pillow. The float tank comes with an inflatable pillow that can be used to prop your neck up with. If you have a hard time relaxing because you think your head will go under water, use it. Also, if you have neck pain like I do, it is much more comfortable, and I didn’t leave in worse pain than I showed up in.
5. Get naked. While you can wear clothes in the tank, I would recommend going nude. Not because I am nudist, but helping to take off restrictive clothing is much more comfortable. Plus, you are in a room all by yourself so no one will see you.
I hope this article helps and maybe inspires you to seek out your local float company. If you are in Spokane make sure to check out Float Spokane at www.floatspokane.com (this is a non paid recommendation).
In your corner,
Ryan