Floatation therapy which is becoming hugely popular these days as an alternative approach to address ailments and chronic symptoms is not a newly invented concept. The concept was actually invented by Dr. John Lily in 1954 during which time it was known as a sensory deprivation tank.
The idea behind it was simple – deprive an individual from his primary sensory elements such as gravity, sight, sound, smell and temperature. The mechanics behind floating is relatively quite simple; individuals are placed in a pod that is filled with a solution containing Epsom salt that is heated to match skin temperature and sealed off. The pod is dark inside and most are sound proof and the Epsom solution allows the ‘floater’ to float without sinking, giving the individual the sensation of being in an environment that is devoid of gravity which makes it practically impossible for the floater to know which parts of his or her body is in Epsom solution and which parts are not leaving the floater feeling free and completely weightless.
This activity has become a trend with people from all walks of life using it away to address both physical and psychological issues and according to most of them and researchers, these floating pods produce amazing results with regular use.
From improving moods and lowering blood pressure to elevating dopamine and endorphins levels floatation therapy seems to be able to support the body’s natural healing ability and take it to another level entirely. Researchers have come to find that floatation therapy is effective for enhancing creativity levels as it clears certain areas of the brain by improving neurotransmitters and athletes have come to find that with the regular use of a float pod their performance on the field is vastly improved. Psychologists recommend floatation therapy for individuals with high levels of stress as these tanks reduce stress significantly by reducing cortisol levels.
Another factor that is worth mentioning about the health benefits of these tanks is the fact that they help patients to handle their habit disorders such as addictions. REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy) as it is known in professional circles has been clinically proven to be beneficial towards a variety of diseases and research has picked up pace as the medical world look for more holistic approaches towards improving health.
Floatation therapy recommended for those who have been undergoing a lot of stress, anxiety and for those who have trouble sleeping or even experiencing pain or discomfort. For an hour session is only $75 AUD, a bargain compared to the benefits that individuals derive from it by spending an hour in it.
Last, but not least, it is worth mentioning here that, those who are claustrophobic approach the therapy with an open mind, it is possible at some leading venues to turn the lights off or very dim and leave the tank open so you feel more comfortable during the session.