Lakeside Wellness
Why should you float?
Nine ways floating can help, and the research behind each one.
Stress relief
Open floatation therapy creates an environment free from outside stimulation, so your mind and body can relax deeply. Weightlessness helps to release muscle tension and reduce stress, which supports your overall wellbeing.
The research: A 2018 study in the International Journal of Stress Management looked at flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique). Participants reported significant reductions in stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression.
Deep relaxation and theta brainwave activation
Floating helps you reach a state of deep relaxation, and it is linked with theta brainwaves. Theta waves are associated with meditation and with heightened states of awareness, which is why many people describe floating as a mental reset.
The research: A 2014 study in the Scandinavian Journal of Psychology examined the physiological effects of flotation therapy. It found that flotation-REST leads to deep relaxation and promotes theta brainwaves.
Physical rehabilitation and pain management
Floating can help if you are recovering from an injury or living with chronic pain. The buoyant water supports your body and takes the load off your joints and muscles, which can promote faster recovery and relief from pain.
The research: A study published in Pain Research and Management in 2006 looked at flotation-REST in people with chronic pain. It reported pain relief, muscle relaxation and improvements in wellbeing and quality of life.
Better quality sleep
Floating in an open tank can reduce stress and anxiety, which makes it easier to fall into a deeper and more restorative sleep. It is a natural option to consider if you struggle with poor sleep or insomnia.
The research: A 2019 study in the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine reported improved sleep duration and quality after floating, which suggests it may be useful as a non-drug approach to sleep problems.
Improved athletic performance and recovery
Floating gives hard-working muscles a chance to recover in a low-load environment. Athletes and active people use it to bounce back faster between sessions and to support their performance.
The research: A study in the Journal of Human Performance in Extreme Environments in 2009 looked at athletes. Its findings indicated that flotation-REST significantly improved recovery and enhanced athletic performance.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Floating may offer support for people living with PTSD, by giving the nervous system a calm, low-stimulation space in which to settle. It is not a replacement for professional care, but it may be a useful addition to it.
The research: A 2018 study in the Journal of Traumatic Stress evaluated flotation therapy in people with PTSD. It reported significant reductions in the severity of symptoms and suggested floating could be a potential adjunct to treatment.
Enhanced creativity and problem-solving
With no distractions and a quiet mind, many people find new ideas and solutions come more easily while they float. It is popular with people who want fresh perspective on a creative or work challenge.
The research: Research in the Journal of Environmental Psychology in 2014 investigated creativity and problem-solving. Participants who floated showed improved performance on creative tasks and problem-solving challenges.
Anxiety and mood improvement
Floating can ease anxious thoughts and lift your mood by giving your mind and body a complete break from everyday demands.
The research: A systematic review in PLOS ONE in 2018 analysed the existing research on flotation therapy and mental health. It concluded that flotation therapy has positive effects in reducing anxiety symptoms and improving overall mood.
Enhanced meditation and mindfulness
Floating creates a meditative environment that supports mental clarity, focus and creativity. Because our tank is open, you can stretch out fully and settle into whichever position suits you best.
With no confined space, you are free to move and explore different postures, which can make the experience even more immersive.
Floating is not a substitute for medical care. If you have a medical condition or are unsure whether floating is right for you, please speak with your doctor and get in touch before you book.