With new wellness trends cropping up all the time, it may seem hard to keep them all straight. However, there is one that stands out from the rest. It has been around for decades yet has been making a remarkable comeback in recent years. It is so effective, in fact, that two-time NBA MVP Stephen Curry reportedly uses the technique every few weeks to help him stay at the top of his game. So what is this amazing wellness treatment, you ask? Flotation Therapy! This incredible healing therapy offers the body relief from a wide range of ailments, which makes it useful for just about everyone out there.
Keep reading to learn more about this calming wellness trend that is definitely worth trying:
What is flotation therapy?
Flotation therapy involves entering a flotation tank (also known as an isolation tank or sensory deprivation tank) that is filled with skin temperature salt water which helps muscles heal while calming the body as it effortlessly floats. The isolation tank shuts out all light and sound, which minimizes sensory input to the brain, allowing it to slow down and helping the body to fully relax. Since it provides such an immensely restful environment, floating in a tank allows the body to more efficiently heal itself while restoring the mind and spirit, too. It is extremely effective at shutting out stress and negative thoughts. What’s more, your spine and muscles are able to realign themselves as they stretch out as you float weightlessly in the water.
Why was this practice developed?
Developed in 1954 by neuropsychiatrist John C. Lilly, flotation tanks were first used to study the effects of sensory deprivation. He experimented with the practice for more than 10 years before adding psychoactive substances to the experience. The power of using sensory deprivation tanks has recently been featured in episodes of Stranger Things.
What are some of its benefits?
Spending time in a flotation tank allows you to enjoy a completely unique experience that can help you open your mind, body and spirit to a deep awakening from within. This alternative form of medicine is used to treat a wide variety of ailments such as chronic pain, muscle tension, PMS, rheumatoid arthritis, tension and stress. The peaceful environment allows the body, mind and spirit to heal and regenerate without any added distractions, which is key to its success.
How is it effective at managing stress?
As the root cause of diseases ranging from depression to cancer, stress is especially toxic to our systems. When you feel stress, your body produces chemicals that are harmful to your wellbeing. When the mind and body are relaxed during flotation therapy, however, it is possible for both to realign themselves towards optimal health. From pain relief to a deeper sense of self awareness and enlightenment, you will likely discover a plethora of benefits once you give it a try. Since floatation therapy takes place in a stress-free environments with no distractions, it can help the brain release endorphins which are known for reducing stress levels.
