Floatation Therapy

Whats the Science?

1. Epsom Salt and Magnesium Absorption The water in float tanks is saturated with Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), allowing the body to float effortlessly. Magnesium is a key mineral for muscle relaxation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing recovery. When absorbed through the skin, magnesium can help reduce muscle tension, cramps, and soreness.

2. Sensory Deprivation and Reduced Stimulation The concept behind float therapy is sensory deprivation—a state where external stimuli like light, sound, and gravity are minimized. This lack of stimulation helps to reduce activity in the brain’s sensory cortices, allowing the brain to enter a deeply relaxed state. By reducing external sensory input, the mind and body can switch from the sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) to the parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-digest), which promotes relaxation and recovery.

3. Stress Reduction and Cortisol Levels Research has shown that float therapy can help lower cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. By inducing a state of deep relaxation, float therapy reduces stress levels, which can lead to improved mood, better sleep, and decreased anxiety. A study in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that float therapy significantly reduced cortisol levels and increased feelings of well-being.

4. Pain Relief and Endorphin Production Float therapy has been found to help with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and muscle tension. The combination of weightlessness, warm water, and magnesium sulfate reduces pressure on the joints and muscles, alleviating discomfort. Additionally, floating has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which help enhance mood and further reduce pain.

5. Enhanced Theta Brainwave Activity During float therapy, the brain often enters a theta brainwave state, which is associated with deep relaxation, creativity, and meditation. This state is similar to the brain activity experienced during deep meditation or just before falling asleep. Theta brainwaves are known to promote mental clarity, creativity, and a sense of inner peace, making float therapy a powerful tool for mental well-being and emotional reset.

6. Improved Sleep Quality The deep relaxation induced by float therapy can help improve sleep quality. Research indicates that people who regularly use float tanks experience fewer sleep disturbances and improved REM sleep, which is essential for recovery and cognitive function. In summary, the science behind float therapy combines magnesium absorption, sensory deprivation, stress reduction, pain relief, and brainwave activity enhancement to promote both physical and mental well-being. It’s a powerful way to reset the body and mind.