We have delivered a number of recovery room concepts recently, one for the Aleenta Resort Spa in Thailand, another for Fusion Group student accommodation in the UK and also for a private client in Nebraska, USA. Typically this involves an infrared sauna combined with an ice bath and, if space allows, a flotation tank, also known as ‘sensory deprivation tanks’.

Billed as a pathway to profound relaxation and mental clarity by minimizing sensory input, engaging in ‘float therapy’ is as simple as it sounds yet for many brings tangible pain reduction and stress-reduction benefits.

This blog explores what flotation tanks are, their history, benefits, and the transformative effects they have on both mind and body.

We previously published a Trend Report on Athletic Recovery, Longevity and Biohacking in Gym and Spa Design. Read here.

trend report: recovery, longevity biohacking in gym spa design

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trend report: recovery, longevity biohacking in gym spa design 〰️

dreampod floatation tank sensory deprivation

What is Sensory Deprivation Tank Therapy?

Definition and Description of Flotation Tanks

A flotation tank, often referred to as a sensory deprivation tank, isolation tank, float tank, or sensory attenuation tank, is a specially designed, enclosed environment that provides an experience of near-total sensory isolation. These tanks are filled with water saturated with Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate), allowing individuals to float effortlessly.

The water is heated to match the skin’s surface temperature, typically around 34.5°C (94°F), creating a sensation where the boundaries between the body and the water seem to disappear.

Flotation tanks are constructed to be pitch-black and soundproof, minimizing light and sound inputs. This unique environment reduces sensory stimulation to a bare minimum, promoting a state of deep relaxation and mental calmness.

The experience is often described as “sensory deprivation,” but it is also referred to as “sensory attenuation” or “restricted environmental stimulation therapy” (REST). This controlled reduction of sensory inputs can have profound effects on both the body and the mind, facilitating a powerful meditative and restorative experience.

Origin and Development of Flotation Tank Therapy

The concept of the sensory deprivation tank was pioneered in 1954 by Dr. John C. Lilly, a neuropsychiatrist and medical practitioner. Dr. Lilly was fascinated by the workings of the human mind and sought to explore the effects of sensory deprivation on consciousness.

During his psychoanalytic training at the US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), he developed the first isolation tank, a rudimentary device aimed at reducing sensory input to the brain.

Initially, Dr. Lilly's experiments were driven by a scientific curiosity to understand the mind’s response to an environment devoid of sensory stimulation. Over time, the therapeutic potential of these tanks became apparent.

In 1972, Glenn Perry, a computer systems programmer and a devotee of Dr. Lilly's work, began producing the first commercial isolation tanks, making this innovative therapy more accessible to the public.

Today, flotation tanks are used worldwide, embraced by athletes, wellness enthusiasts, and individuals seeking relief from stress and chronic pain. The evolution from experimental tool to wellness mainstay underscores their versatility and profound impact on health and well-being.

Benefits of Flotation Tanks

Flotation tanks offer a broad spectrum of benefits, encompassing both physical health and mental well-being. The process involves floating in a sensory deprivation tank filled with warm water and Epsom salt, which aims to calm the mind and body by reducing stimuli. This unique environment facilitates a range of therapeutic effects, making it a valuable tool for holistic health practices.

Physical Health Benefits

Relieves Muscle Tension, Chronic Pain, and Hypertension

One of the most immediate benefits of sensory deprivation therapy is the relief of muscle tension and chronic pain. The buoyancy provided by the Epsom salt-saturated water allows for a complete release of physical tension, as the body is supported without the need for muscular effort.

This state of weightlessness helps to alleviate pressure on joints and muscles, providing relief from chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Additionally, the magnesium in the Epsom salts is absorbed through the skin, which can aid in muscle relaxation and reduce inflammation. This mineral is essential for muscle function and has been shown to alleviate muscle cramps and spasms. Regular sessions in a flotation tank can also contribute to lowering blood pressure, thanks to the combined effects of deep relaxation and magnesium absorption.

Improves Circulation and Reduces Inflammation

Flotation therapy promotes improved blood circulation throughout the body. The zero-gravity environment allows blood vessels to dilate, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. This process is beneficial for reducing inflammation and accelerating the body’s natural healing processes.

Athletes and individuals recovering from injuries often use flotation tanks to speed up recovery. Enhanced circulation helps in the removal of metabolic waste products and reduces the buildup of lactic acid, which can cause muscle soreness. The reduction in inflammation and improved nutrient delivery facilitate quicker recovery from physical exertion and injury.

Supports Relaxation, Improves Sleep, and Decreases Stress, Anxiety, and Pain

The tranquil environment of a flotation tank induces a deep state of relaxation, which can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels. The absence of sensory input allows the body to shift from the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for the fight-or-flight response) to the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest and recovery.

This shift leads to a decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and an increase in endorphin production, the body’s natural painkillers. Regular use of flotation tanks has been shown to improve sleep patterns, reduce symptoms of insomnia, and provide relief from chronic stress and anxiety disorders.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Reduces Anxiety and Improves Mood in Individuals with Stress- and Anxiety-Related Disorders

The sensory isolation provided by flotation tanks creates a unique environment that can significantly reduce anxiety and improve mood. The lack of external stimuli allows individuals to disconnect from everyday stressors and focus inward, leading to profound mental calmness and clarity.

Studies have shown that flotation-REST can be particularly beneficial for individuals with anxiety disorders. The reduction in sensory input helps to lower the activity of the brain’s amygdala, the area responsible for processing fear and anxiety. This can lead to lasting improvements in mood and reductions in anxiety symptoms.

Enhances Creativity, Imagination, and Intuition

The deep meditative state induced by flotation therapy can enhance cognitive functions such as creativity, imagination, and intuition. With the mind free from the constant bombardment of external stimuli, it enters a state of relaxed awareness, often referred to as the "theta state."

In this state, brainwave patterns slow down to a frequency associated with deep relaxation and enhanced creativity. Many users report experiencing vivid mental imagery, heightened creativity, and insightful thoughts during and after float sessions. This cognitive enhancement makes a sensory deprivation tank a valuable tool for artists, writers, and anyone seeking to boost their creative potential.

Improves Concentration and Focus, Leading to Clearer and More Precise Thinking

The mental clarity achieved through flotation therapy also extends to improved concentration and focus. The absence of distractions allows the mind to settle into a state of singular focus and deep concentration. This can lead to clearer and more precise thinking, making it easier to process information and solve problems.

For individuals who struggle with attention and focus issues, flotation tanks provide a sanctuary where the mind can recalibrate and sharpen its faculties. This mental clarity and focus can translate into better productivity and performance in everyday tasks and professional endeavors.

Effects of Sensory Deprivation on the Mind and Body

The Science Behind Sensory Deprivation Tanks

The therapeutic effects of floatation tanks are supported by a growing body of scientific research. A notable meta-analysis conducted in 2005 found that flotation-REST has a large effect size for stress reduction, highlighting its efficacy in promoting relaxation and mental health. The controlled sensory deprivation environment of floatation tanks enhances the body’s and mind’s ability to relax and recover.

Flotation-REST is considered a form of sensory enhancement rather than deprivation because it amplifies the body’s internal sensations, such as breathing and heartbeat. This heightened interoception—awareness of internal bodily sensations—can foster a deeper connection between mind and body, promoting a state of holistic well-being.

Promoting Relaxation, Reducing Anxiety, and Improving Mental Health

The science behind float therapy indicates that the practice not only reduces stress and anxiety but also supports overall mental health. The deep relaxation and sensory isolation help to reduce the activity of the default mode network (DMN) in the brain, which is associated with mind-wandering and rumination. By quieting the DMN, flotation therapy can provide relief from the negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and depression.

Additionally, the endorphin release and lowered cortisol levels resulting from flotation therapy contribute to improved mood and a sense of well-being. The cumulative effect of these physiological and psychological benefits makes flotation tanks a powerful tool for enhancing mental health and resilience.

Enhancing Exposure to Interoceptive Sensations

Isolation tanks, also known as float therapy, enhance exposure to interoceptive sensations, which are the internal signals that inform the brain about the state of the body. By amplifying sensations such as the breath and heartbeat, float therapy fosters a deeper awareness of the body’s internal environment.

This heightened interoception can improve self-awareness and body consciousness, promoting a sense of balance and harmony between the mind and body.

Getting Started with Flotation Therapy

What to Expect from a Float Session

For those new to float therapy, knowing what to expect can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to prepare for your first float session:

Wear a Swimsuit and Wax Earplugs: Although many people choose to float in the nude to enhance the sensory deprivation experience, wearing a swimsuit is perfectly acceptable. Wax earplugs can help reduce sound and keep water out of your ears.
The Lights Will Be Dimmed: The room with the sensory deprivation tank is typically dimly lit to help you relax and acclimate to the environment.
You Can Adjust the Tank Lid: Once inside the tank, you can choose to keep the lid open, slightly closed, or completely shut, depending on your comfort level.
Float Sessions Typically Last Around One Hour: Most float sessions are designed to last about an hour, but some facilities offer longer sessions for those who wish to extend their experience.

Preparing for Your First Isolation Tank Session

Before your first float therapy session, it’s helpful to follow a few guidelines to maximize the benefits:

Avoid Caffeine and Heavy Meals: Try to avoid caffeine and heavy meals before your session, as these can make it difficult to relax.
Shower Before Entering the Tank: Most facilities provide a shower and recommend rinsing off any lotions or oils to keep the tank water clean.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your float to stay hydrated and help flush out toxins.

Post-Session Tips

After your float therapy session, take some time to reintegrate into the outside world. Here are some tips to enhance the post-float experience:

Move Slowly and Mindfully: Your senses will be heightened after emerging from the tank. Move slowly and mindfully to allow your body to readjust.
Reflect on Your Experience: Take a few moments to reflect on your float experience and any insights or sensations you encountered.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink water and have a light snack to replenish your energy levels and support your body’s recovery process.

Conclusion

Flotation tanks, also known as float therapy, offer a powerful and transformative tool for achieving deep relaxation, enhancing mental clarity, and promoting physical recovery. Whether you seek relief from chronic pain, wish to boost creativity, or simply want to unwind and reduce stress, float therapy provides a sanctuary of tranquility and healing.

Contact us to discuss your own recovery room design consultancy project.

Unlock the Power of the Flotation Tank in Gyms & Spas: Benefits and Effects