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Everything You Need to Know about Sensory Deprivation Tank Therapy

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Sensory deprivation tank therapy may support relaxation, improve sleep, and decrease stress, anxiety, and pain. It may have other health benefits as well.

Sensory deprivation effects


The water in a sensory deprivation tank is heated to skin temperature and nearly saturated with Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), providing buoyancy so you float more easily.


You enter the tank nude and are cut off from all outside stimulation, including sound, sight, and gravity when the tank’s lid or door is closed. As you float weightless in the silence and darkness, the brain is supposed to enter into a deeply relaxed state.

Sensory deprivation tank therapy is said to produce several effects on the brain, ranging from hallucinations to enhanced creativity.


Can it improve concentration and focus?


Though most of the research that exists is older, there is some evidence that sensory deprivation may improve focus and concentration, and may also lead to clearer and more precise thinking. This has been linked to improved learning and enhanced performance in school and different career groups.


Does it improve athletic performance?


The various effects of sensory deprivation tank therapy on athletic performance are well documented. It has been found effective in speeding up recovery after strenuous physical training by decreasing blood lactate in a study of 24 college students.

A 2016 study of 60 elite athletes also found it improved psychological recovery following intense training and competition.


Benefits of a sensory deprivation tank


There are several psychological and medical benefits of a sensory deprivation tanks on conditions such as anxiety disorders, stress, and chronic pain.


Does sensory deprivation tank treat anxiety?


Flotation-REST has been found to be effective in reducing anxiety. A 2018 studyTrusted Source showed that a single one-hour session in a sensory deprivation tank was capable of a significant reduction in anxiety and improvement in mood in the 50 participants with stress- and anxiety-related disorders.


A 2016 studyTrusted Source of 46 people who self-reported generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) found that it reduced GAD symptoms, such as depression, sleep difficulties, irritability, and fatigue.


Can it relieve pain?


The effect of sensory deprivation tank therapy on chronic pain has been confirmed by several studies. It is shown to be effective in treating tension headaches, muscle tension, and pain.


A small study of seven participants found it effective in treating whiplash-associated disorders, such as neck pain and stiffness and reduced range of motion. It has also been shown to reduce stress-related pain.


Can it improve cardiovascular health?


Flotation-REST therapy may improve your cardiovascular health by inducing deep relaxation that reduces stress levels and improves sleep, according to researchTrusted Source. Chronic stress and sleep deprivation have been linked to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.


Will it make me happier?


There are many claims about flotation-REST causing feelings of overwhelming happiness and euphoria. People have reported experiencing mild euphoria, increased well-being, and feeling more optimistic following therapy using a sensory deprivation tank.


Others have reported spiritual experiences, deep inner peace, sudden spiritual insight, and feeling as if they were born anew.


Takeaway


When used properly, a sensory deprivation tank may help relieve stress and ease muscle tension and pain. It can also help improve your mood.


Sensory deprivation tanks are generally safe, but it may be a good idea to speak to a doctor before using one if you have any medical conditions or concerns.

-Adrienne Santos-Longhurst



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