5 Ways Floating Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Throughout history, water has always been at the core of several healing practices — from aquatic therapy and pool rehabilitation, to steam baths and hydro massages. And in today’s stress-induced society where one in five Americans experience mental health issues, these holistic cures have become more relevant than ever, alongside other wellness methods.
One treatment that has been gaining traction in recent years is none other than floatation therapy — or simply, floating. It’s a luxurious way to soothe and heal our bodies from the tension of everyday living. But how exactly does it work?
Alleviates body pain
Floatation therapy is one of the fastest, most efficient ways to recover after exercising, and athletes such as New England Patriot’s quarterback Tom Brady swear by it. Floating increases blood flow and the distribution of red blood cells, which speeds up the recovery sustained from injuries while reducing aches that have built up during long days of training or competition. Even if you’re not an athlete or fitness geek, floating can help alleviate chronic muscle and joint pain, and even help realign your posture.
Helps sleep better
During a floatation session, epsom salts dissolve in water and release moderate amounts of magnesium and sulfate ions. A 2015 study conducted by the Radboud University Medical Center found how these particles help the brain produce neurotransmitters, responsible for inducing sleep and alleviating stress. Plus, since floating relieves physical pain, it can at least get rid of one barrier that makes it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
Reduces cortisol levels
Cortisol is the body’s stress response hormone, which gets triggered during times of anxiousness. According to researchers from the University of Tulsa, floatation therapy helps lower cortisol levels, thus reducing stress and helping your body feel calmer. What’s more is that a study cited on Maryville University confirms that mental health and learning development are closely related. This implies that regular floatation therapy can help condition you to be more relaxed during tense situations, as both your body and mind will be better equipped to deal with stressful scenarios.
Clears up skin
For some people, having acne can be both a cause and effect of stress. Findings from Columbia University note how people with acne may even suffer from self-esteem issues and anxiety. If that sounds like you, floatation therapy can help you detoxify your body at a cellular level, flushing out toxins and clearing up skin irritations in the process. It may sound superficial, but being in control of one’s self is a simple way to deal with stress.
Removes distractions
Being suspended in a tank of water for an extended period sounds relaxing—and it really is. Being alone with nothing but your thoughts makes for a unique sensory deprivation experience, similar to deep meditation. In fact, basketball legend Steph Curry appreciates floating for the chance “to get away from the demands and all the stimuli [in life].” It’s so relaxing that some patients even fall asleep in the middle of a session.
If you concerned about being claustrophobic in the tank, that is just not the experience that people have. You are completely in control of your environment . . . if you want to get out you can! The tanks are as large as a walk-in closet.
So do something good for you and go try floating!
Written by: Raine Jeremi
To be published only on Floatnorthcounty.com
