Research By: Feinstein JS, Khalsa SS, Yeh H-w, Wohlrab C, Simmons WK, Stein MB, Paulus MP
Participant Information
50 participants, many with multiple disorders
26 with Generalized Anxiety Disorder
16 with Social Anxiety Disorder
12 with Panic Disorder
8 with Agoraphobia
17 with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
92% of participants also suffered from unipolar Major Depression
Methods/Procedures
3 types of measurement:
Baseline- used to measure symptoms/mood during the study
Pre/post float- used 30 min before float and 30 min after, to see the effects on symptoms/mood
Follow-up questions- questions concerning the participants’ overall float experience
The floats were followed by a 43 question side effect list revolving around anxiety/depressive symptoms
An interview was performed after each float to gauge what the participants’ overall opinion on floating
Participants floated in open circular float tank w/ blue LED light that had the option of being turned off or kept on
Participants could remain in the tank for 60 minutes or stop their float early
Key Findings
48 out of 50 of the participants floated for the full hour session
50% of the participants floated with the light on
Minimal Negative side effects reported, most commonly itchiness and dry mouth
Many Positive side effects reported; feeling of complete serenity/relaxation and feeling revived/refreshed after the fact.
All participants reported decrease in overall anxiety, stress, depression, muscle tension; with an increase in mood and energy-levels.
100% of participants would float again
47/50 participants said floating could be used as a form of therapy/treatment
Practical Implications
The above evidence suggests that floating does have a large, positive effect on disorders such as Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Major Depression, PTSD, Panic Disorder, and Agoraphobia. The reductions in negative symptoms suggest that floating could be used as an effective form of treatment for those dealing with these conditions.
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