While humans are social creatures, we also all need time to ourselves to recharge and regenerate. For some, that can be challenging- working full time with others and then coming home to a family. Isolation tanks or float therapy is a great way to escape for a little while. Isolation therapy is done in small pods saturated with salt to make floating easier. The pods can be closed, and this cuts out all outside stimulation of the senses. Below are the top ten benefits of letting go and floating.
Pain Relief
Floatation therapy also known as REST (restricted environmental stimulation therapy) brings about a deep sense of relaxation. This in turn has been shown to bring about relief of physical pain such as headaches and muscle tension.
Reduces Stress
There is always something happening. So much to look at, listen to, smell, taste, touch. We may not even realize we are being overstimulated daily until we take time for ourselves to fully decompress. Isolation therapy can do just that by shutting out the outside world and its many distractions for 45 to 90 minutes. This complete rest can reduce cortisol, which is the stress hormone.
Arthritis Relief
Arthritis is joint pain that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. Floating relieves pressure on joints and thus provides relief for those who suffer from arthritis. The Epsom salts used also play a role in joint relief due to the high levels of magnesium in the salts.
Helps Lower Blood Pressure
Nearly one third of Americans have high blood pressure. Flotation therapy has been shown to help lower blood pressure in adults. This can be a great way to naturally lower one’s blood pressure.
Improves Athletic Performance
For those who are professional athletes or even people who just enjoy group fitness classes at their local gym, isolation therapy can help you relax your muscles and recharge. You’ll then be ready for your next bike race or barre fitness class.
Cultivates Creativity
REST therapy studies have shown that users come out of the tanks feeling more creative and with a more active imagination. This is great for those with jobs that require them to be imaginative such as someone that works in advertising, photography, or design.
Helps Kick Bad Habits
Everyone has bad habits that we try to quit, such as over eating, smoking, or drinking too much. There are studies that show that floatation therapy helps change bad habits for the better.
Improves Sleep
While many Americans have reported decent sleep quantity, the same was not said for sleep quality. Data shows going through floatation therapy improves sleep quality in individuals.
Meditation
Being deprived of all outside stimuli gives you a chance to focus all your energy on simply being. Being present and meditating on things that truly matter. Isolated pods are a great place to meditate and find inner peace.
Mood Booster
Many feel a sense of euphoria upon exiting the floatation tank. It works even better if you’re able to fully let go and nap while in the pod this shouldn’t be hard for most people as studies show that over half of Americans report being more tired than ever before.
