In this day and age, where there is no end to notifications and the pressures of everyday life are always there, sensory deprivation tanks provide a unique chance to leave it all behind. Sensory deprivation tanks, or floatation or isolation tanks, provide a serene atmosphere in which both body and mind can relax. But what are these tanks, and do they deliver? Let’s find out.
What Are Sensory Deprivation Tanks?
Picture yourself entering a peaceful, dark pod that’s filled with warm water that’s full of Epsom salt. The high salt level causes you to float on your back without any effort, and the water is warmed to your body temperature, giving you a sense of weightlessness. This special arrangement is meant to minimize outside stimuli, providing what professionals refer to as Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST).
Sensory deprivation tanks have existed for some time. They were originally invented in the 1950s by neuroscientist John C. Lilly, who was interested in probing the limits of human consciousness. Nowadays, they are a common way to relax and even receive therapy.
The Potential Benefits
Though studies on sensory deprivation tanks continue, numerous individuals experience a wide range of benefits from their use.
Stress and Anxiety Relief
One of the most typical advantages individuals experience with float therapy is decreased stress and anxiety. In a study conducted in 2018, researchers discovered that individuals suffering from anxiety disorders showed reduced levels of stress, tension in muscles, and even depressive symptoms after they spent one hour in a float tank. Participants reported feeling happier and more relaxed afterward, having a greater sense of well-being.
The dark, silent room allows you to concentrate on your breath and pulse, which can quiet your mind, decrease your blood pressure, and even decelerate your heart rate, leaving you in a very relaxed state.
Pain Management
If you have chronic pain or muscle tension, float therapy can be helpful. The lack of weight in the Epsom salt water reduces the effects of gravity, allowing your muscles and joints to completely relax. A 2021 clinical trial found that multiple float sessions could lead to short-term pain relief, though the effects didn’t last longer than a week, so more research is needed.
Better Sleep
If you are experiencing insomnia, float therapy might be an option to consider. A 2022 small study had mixed findings, with some people sleeping better and insomnia symptoms decreasing. Yet, not everyone had that same success, so it might not benefit everyone.
Creativity and Mental Clarity
Float therapy may also stimulate creativity. A 2023 review of research cited earlier work indicating that sensory deprivation was found to improve creativity, especially in originality and divergent thinking. The same setting may, however, make it more difficult to solve problems, so the impact on creativity can differ from individual to individual.
The Risks and Side Effects
While largely safe, sensory deprivation tanks are not risk-free.
Claustrophobia and Anxiety
Some individuals will find the closed, dark environment uncomfortable, particularly if they are claustrophobic or have anxiety. If this is you, try opening the tank lid a little or practicing relaxation to make the session more tolerable.
Hallucinations
It is extremely rare for the lack of external input to cause hallucinations, but this is more likely to occur during longer sessions. This can be upsetting for anxious or some mentally ill people.
Skin Irritation and Infections
The Epsom salt solution is usually safe, but some people might experience skin irritation or rashes. Additionally, if the tank isn’t cleaned properly, harmful bacteria can thrive, leading to infections.
Practical Tips for First-Timers
If you’re thinking about trying a sensory deprivation tank, these tips can help make your experience more enjoyable:
- Keep an Open Mind: Go in without fixed expectations. Everyone’s experience is different.
- Breathe Deeply: Focus on your breath to help you relax and stay in the moment.
- Do Not Touch Your Face: The salty water burns if it enters your eyes or nose.
- Give Yourself Time: It’s ok to feel dizzy at first. Take your time to acclimatize to the stillness.
- Reflect Afterwards: Try journaling or meditating after your session to process the experience.
Who Should Avoid Float Therapy?
Though float therapy is wonderful for most, it’s not for all. Individuals with epilepsy, extreme claustrophobia, or open sores should consult a medical professional before attempting it. Pregnant women and individuals with low blood pressure need to consult a doctor as well to ensure safety.
A Unique Escape
Sensory deprivation tanks provide a unique opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with yourself. If you’re seeking stress relief, pain management, or a creative boost, these tanks offer a special place to explore the mind-body connection. But, as with any therapy, it’s wise to weigh both the possible benefits and risks, and consult with a professional if you have any questions.
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