top of page
Search

Salty Science Update: Floatation-REST & Methamphetamine Recovery

  • Mar 26
  • 2 min read

A recent pilot study explored how Floatation-REST may impact individuals in treatment for methamphetamine use disorder (MUD). While still early-stage, it adds to the growing body of float research in meaningful ways.


Why this research matters

Methamphetamine use disorder remains a complex condition, often involving high relapse rates, intense cravings, and mood-related challenges. There are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically for MUD cessation, which has led researchers to explore supportive, non-pharmacological approaches.


Floatation-REST has gained attention due to its potential to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase body awareness. 🎉


The Interoception connection

This study focused in part on interoception, the body’s ability to sense internal signals like heartbeat and breathing. Disruptions in interoception have been linked to craving and relapse, making it a compelling area of study.


Because floatation reduces external input while enhancing internal awareness, researchers were interested in how it might influence this process.


Study overview

Participants in residential treatment for MUD completed two sessions:

  • A float session (pool-REST)

  • A relaxation comparison (chair-REST)

Researchers evaluated safety, psychological outcomes, and physiological responses.


What was observed

Both float and chair sessions led to reductions in:

  • Anxiety

  • Stimulant craving

  • Negative affect


This suggests that deep relaxation alone may play an important role.

However, floatation stood out in one key area.


Where float showed unique effects

Participants reported greater increases in positive experiences after floating, including:

  • Joy and happiness

  • Relaxation

  • Feeling refreshed

  • Gratitude and flow states


A note on limitations 

This was a short-term pilot study and was not designed to assess long-term outcomes like relapse prevention or repeated float sessions.


The Stay Salty takeaway

Floatation-REST appears safe, well-tolerated, and may uniquely enhance positive emotional states and body awareness in individuals undergoing treatment for MUD. As always, more research is needed but studies like this continue to expand our understanding of what floatation may offer.


Comments

bottom of page