The modern age has brought many advancements, but it also seems synonymous with stress. Thus, finding effective and natural means to combat stress becomes a necessity.
One of these avenues is flotation therapy. But how does this age-old practice, revitalized for modern use, play such a critical role in alleviating stress?
Let’s delve deep into understanding how floating therapy reduces stress, its workings on stress hormones, and promotes a serene state of mind.
What is Floating Therapy?
Before we proceed, it’s essential to understand what floating therapy is. Also known as sensory deprivation or isolation tanks are specially designed tanks filled with salt-saturated water, allowing individuals to float effortlessly.
The water is usually at skin temperature, rendering the sensation of where the body ends and the water begins nearly imperceptible.
The Cortisol Connection
There is a connection between float therapy and mental health since it affects Cortisol, a primary stress hormone that regulates various processes in the body, including metabolism and immune response.
It also plays a vital role in how the body responds to stress. Elevated cortisol levels over prolonged periods can lead to various health issues. So, how does floating therapy reduce stress hormones like cortisol? The serenity and sensory isolation experienced during a float session can significantly decrease cortisol levels.
The Environment Promotes Relaxation
External stimuli such as light, sound, and even the tactile sensation of clothing are eliminated inside the isolation tank. This sensory reduction allows the brain to relax, as it doesn’t have to process vast amounts of information. This undistracted environment is crucial in understanding how floating therapy reduces stress, giving the mind a break and allowing it to refresh and rejuvenate.
Activation of the Parasympathetic System
One primary way floating therapy reduces stress is by promoting the dominance of the parasympathetic nervous system – the segment of our autonomic nervous system responsible for the ‘rest and digest’ functions. When this system is active, it aids in lowering blood pressure, slowing the heart rate, and reducing cortisol levels, leading to an overall feeling of calm and relaxation.
Enhanced Release of Endorphins
Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators. Floating therapy encourages the release of these “feel good” chemicals, countering the effects of stress hormones and promoting a state of euphoria and calm.
Role of Magnesium
The Epsom salt used in flotation tanks is rich in magnesium, which many of us lack. Magnesium absorption during the float session can help in muscle relaxation and neurotransmitter activity modulation, further elucidating how floating therapy reduces stress.
Enhanced Mindfulness and Present Moment Awareness:
Like meditation, floating therapy allows individuals to become keenly aware of the present moment. This mindfulness helps users avoid ruminative thoughts and anxiety loops, common stress triggers. By promoting present-moment awareness, we see firsthand how floating therapy reduces stress and its long-term effects on the mind.
Reduction in Overstimulation
In our digitally dominated era, our senses are often overwhelmed with constant stimulation, leading to chronic alertness and stress. The sensory deprivation aspect of floating therapy shields one from this overstimulation, providing a profound break for the nervous system.
Facilitates Theta Brainwave Production
Floating has been shown to increase the production of theta brainwaves, typically linked to deep meditation and dream states. These waves are associated with profound relaxation, creativity, and deep tranquility. This alteration in brainwave activity offers a direct window into how floating therapy reduces stress on a neurological level.
Boosts the Immune System
Chronic stress is known to weaken the immune system. Floating therapy indirectly boosts the immune system by reducing stress and its associated hormones, making individuals less susceptible to illnesses. A robust immune response means fewer sickness-related stressors, reinforcing the beneficial cycle of how floating therapy reduces stress.
Improved Emotional Resilience
Regular floating sessions can enhance emotional resilience. As individuals get accustomed to the profound relaxation floating provides, they may find it easier to access that sense of calm in their daily lives, even in stressful situations.
Promotion of Self-Introspection
Floating therapy provides a quiet space for self-reflection, allowing individuals to confront and process emotions, thoughts, or experiences that may be contributing to their stress levels. By offering a safe space for self-introspection, we further see how floating therapy reduces stress by aiding emotional processing.
Over To You
In conclusion, understanding how floating therapy reduces stress is paramount in today’s fast-paced world. Through cortisol level regulation, sensory isolation, endorphin release, and numerous other benefits, floating therapy has emerged as an oasis of calm in the storm of modern life’s challenges. Embracing this therapeutic approach can be a game-changer for those seeking holistic well-being.
The multifaceted nature of floating therapy offers numerous avenues through which stress is combated, and calm is instilled. As more people experience its myriad benefits, floating therapy’s prowess in promoting holistic well-being becomes undeniable.
Book a slot to rejuvenate
Isn’t it time you gave yourself the gift of peace and serenity? Dive deep into relaxation, rejuvenate your mind, and recharge your spirit. Experience firsthand how floating therapy reduces stress and elevates your well-being. Don’t just hear about the benefits; feel them for yourself.
Book your floatation therapy session at PureRest in Calgary today and embark on a journey to pure relaxation and profound calm. Your sanctuary of serenity awaits.