In the quest for restful sleep, many are turning to the regular use of float therapy. Floating takes relaxation to a new level with the use of sensory deprivation tanks or capsules filled with buoyant, skin-temperature saltwater. The benefits of float therapy for sleep are profound and go beyond relaxation.
A study published in 2022 explored the effects of flotation (also known here as Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy, or REST) on individuals with insomnia. The findings indicated that participants experienced improvements in their most prominent insomnia symptoms. These symptoms include sleep-onset latency or wake after sleep onset, and enhanced sleep efficiency. These benefits persisted two months post-treatment, suggesting that flotation-REST may be particularly beneficial for young adults with sleep-onset insomnia. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Pressure Release
Floating promotes healthy sleep through several mechanisms. Firstly, the weightlessness experienced in the buoyant saline solution alleviates pressure on joints and muscles, facilitating physical relaxation. This reduction in physical tension can ease chronic pain symptoms, allowing the body to enter sleep more easily and deeply.
Mental Relaxation
Moreover, the sensory deprivation aspect of floating induces a state of deep mental relaxation. By eliminating external stimuli such as light, sound, and gravity, floaters enter a meditative state conducive to stress reduction and mental clarity. This calmness extends beyond the float session, helping to alleviate anxiety and racing thoughts that often hinder sleep onset.
Research by Kjellgren and Westman investigated the effects of sensory isolation in a flotation tank on stress-related ailments. The study reported significant decreases in stress, depression, anxiety, and pain among participants, along with improvements in optimism and sleep quality. These findings suggest that the deep relaxation induced by floating can positively affect sleep by alleviating factors that commonly disrupt rest. thebodylablondon.com
Rhythms
Regular floating sessions have been shown to regulate circadian rhythms, the internal body clock governing sleep-wake cycles. Consistent exposure to sensory deprivation encourages the brain to recalibrate its natural rhythms, promoting a more predictable and restorative sleep pattern over time.
While direct research on flotation’s effects on circadian rhythm regulation is limited, the therapy has been associated with benefits that may indirectly influence circadian rhythms. For instance, flotation-REST has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, alleviate stress, and improve sleep quality, factors that can positively impact circadian rhythms. researchgate.net
Mind-Body
For those struggling with insomnia or sleep disorders, floating offers a drug-free alternative that complements existing therapies. By fostering a tranquil mind-body connection and enhancing relaxation responses, individuals can experience improved sleep duration and quality, waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Integrating regular floating sessions into your wellness routine can significantly enhance sleep quality by reducing physical tension, calming the mind, and regulating circadian rhythms. Embrace the serene depths of the float tank to embark on a journey towards better sleep and overall well-being.
At Stella Luna Counseling and Wellness, we offer a unique float therapy experience designed to support deep relaxation and restorative sleep. Unlike traditional sensory deprivation tanks, our open float tub provides a spacious environment, making it ideal for those who may feel uneasy in enclosed spaces. For individuals working through trauma or seeking shared relaxation, our float tub can also accommodate two people. While complete sensory deprivation is an option, we offer customizable settings, including soft lighting and calming music, for those who prefer a more guided experience. Whether floating solo or with a trusted companion, our service helps ease stress, regulate sleep patterns, and promote overall well-being.
References
- Norell-Clarke, A., Jonsson, K., Blomquist, A., Ahlzén, R., & Kjellgren, A. (2022). A study of flotation-REST (restricted environmental stimulation therapy) as an insomnia treatment. Sleep Science, 15(Spec 2), 361–368. https://doi.org/10.5935/1984-0063.20210012
- Juffs, K. (2024, February 9). The ultimate guide to improving sleep quality with float therapy. The Body Lab London.
- Kjellgren, A., & Westman, J. (2014). Beneficial effects of treatment with sensory isolation in flotation-tank as a preventive health-care intervention—a randomized controlled pilot trial. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 14, 417. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-14-417
John has a Bachelors in Communication from Cleveland State University and has made a career in child and adolescent mental health, working in residential, community, and day treatment settings in a variety of roles. He has also spent over 25 years training in Chinese Internal Arts, most of that time he has also been instructing. On top of all this, John has a rich work history which includes retail, performance, fitness, and construction. He is also the Operations Manager at Stella Luna Counseling and Wellness.