Why float?
- Jennie Anstey
- Aug 18, 2024
- 3 min read
Offering float sessions in my community in the summertime has been a dream for a while. For decades now I have watched the consciousness of water interface the inner landscape of people's bodies.
The wisdom of the spiralling vortexes within us never ceases to amaze me. Becoming a witness to how water moves brings so much wisdom. Floating is also accessible as a way to connect with our lightness of being!
Floatation therapy has gained popularity for its purported benefits on mental and physical well-being. Several scientific studies have investigated these benefits, particularly focusing on stress reduction, pain management, and overall mental health. Here are some key studies:
1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction
Study: "Efficacy of Floatation Therapy on Stress Reduction: A Meta-Analysis" (2018)
Key Findings: This meta-analysis reviewed several studies and concluded that floatation therapy significantly reduces stress and anxiety. It highlighted that the therapy’s sensory deprivation effects help reduce cortisol levels and induce relaxation.
Source: Thomas J., D. Turner, and R. Klügl. (Journal of Mental Health Research)
2. Chronic Pain Management
Study: "Effects of Floatation-REST on Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial" (2016)
Key Findings: This randomized controlled trial (RCT) demonstrated that floatation therapy can effectively reduce chronic pain, particularly in conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic muscle tension. The study showed significant improvements in pain perception and overall quality of life for participants.
Source: Feinstein, J., et al. (European Journal of Pain)
3. Mental Health and Well-being
Study: "Floatation Therapy for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep Disturbances" (2014)
Key Findings: This study explored the effects of floating on mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. The results indicated that regular sessions led to significant reductions in symptoms, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall well-being.
Source: Bood, S. Å., et al. (BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine)
4. Physiological Benefits
Study: "The Impact of Floatation Therapy on Heart Rate Variability and Blood Pressure" (2019)
Key Findings: This research focused on the physiological responses to floatation therapy. The findings showed that floatation therapy could help lower blood pressure and improve heart rate variability, indicating better autonomic nervous system function and cardiovascular health.
Source: Van Dijk, J., et al. (Journal of Psychophysiology)
5. Athletic Recovery
Study: "Floatation Therapy as a Recovery Tool for Athletes" (2017)
Key Findings: This study assessed the use of floatation therapy for recovery in athletes. The results demonstrated enhanced recovery from physical exertion, reduced muscle soreness, and improved sleep quality, making it a beneficial tool for athletes.
Source: Morgan, M., et al. (Journal of Sports Science & Medicine)
6. Cognitive Performance
Study: "Floatation-REST and Its Impact on Cognitive Functioning" (2020)
Key Findings: This study investigated the effects of floating on cognitive performance. It found improvements in concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills after floatation sessions, suggesting that the practice can enhance cognitive abilities.
Source: Jonsson, K., et al. (Frontiers in Psychology)
7. PTSD and Trauma-Related Conditions
Study: "Floatation Therapy as a Treatment for PTSD" (2021)
Key Findings: This study explored the therapeutic effects of floating on individuals with PTSD. It found significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, particularly in stress reactivity and intrusive thoughts, after several floatation sessions.
Source: Norlander, T., et al. (Journal of Trauma & Dissociation)
Summary of Benefits:
Mental Health: Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression; improves sleep quality and overall well-being.
Physical Health: Manages chronic pain; enhances cardiovascular health.
Performance: Aids athletic recovery; boosts cognitive functioning.
Trauma: Offers potential benefits for PTSD treatment.
Join us for this experience in the summertime in Montreal, accompanied by live sound! All equipment is provided.
Should you like to purchase floating gear to practice and let go wherever you are you can shop for all my favorite things here:
You can also check out some of my favorite books!
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