“This study found that a single one-hour session of Floatation-REST was capable of inducing a strong reduction in state anxiety and a substantial improvement in mood in a group of 50 anxious and depressed participants spanning a range of different anxiety and stress-related disorders (including PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, and Social Anxiety Disorder). The findings from this open-label study suggest that Floatation-REST may be a promising technique for acutely reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, although the persistence of these effects is presently unknown. With regard to our primary outcome measure, the reduction in state anxiety was evident in every participant regardless of sex or medication status (Fig 4A). Moreover, the anxiety reduction was robust, with an estimated Cohen’s d > 2 across all disorders and subgroups (S3 Fig). Beyond the immediate dissipation of anxiety, the float experience also induced a significant decrease (p < .0001) in self-reported stress, muscle tension, pain, depression, and negative affect, along with a significant increase (p < .0001) in serenity, relaxation, happiness, positive affect, overall well-being, energy levels, and feeling refreshed, content and peaceful (Fig 5), with estimated effect sizes ranging from large to very large across variables (Fig 6).”

“Results
A significant Time x Group interaction effect for GAD-symptomatology [F (2,88) = 2.93, p < .001, η p 2 = .062] was found. Further analyses showed that the GAD-symptomatology was significantly reduced for the treatment group (t (23) = 4.47, p < .001), but not for the waiting list control group (t(21) = 0.98, p > .05), when comparing baseline to post-treatment scoring. Regarding clinical significant change, 37 % in the treatment group reached full remission at post-treatment. Significant beneficial effects were also found for sleep difficulties, difficulties in emotional regulation, and depression, while the treatment had ambiguous or non-existent effects on pathological worry and mindfulness. All improved outcome variables at post-treatment, except for depression, were maintained at 6-months follow. No negative effects were found.

Conclusion
The findings suggest that the method has potential as a complementary treatment alongside existing treatment for GAD. More studies are warranted to further evaluate the treatments efficacy.”

“Video | Gersch Academy Autistic Student Finds Many Benefits With Flotation Therapy”

“RESULTS: Relative to the comparison condition, Floatation-REST generated a significant anxiolytic effect
characterized by reductions in state anxiety and muscle tension and increases in feelings of relaxation and
serenity (p , .001 for all variables). Significant blood pressure reductions were evident throughout the float
session and reached the lowest point during the diastole phase (average reduction .12 mm Hg). The float
environment also significantly enhanced awareness and attention for cardiorespiratory sensations.
CONCLUSIONS: Floatation-REST induced a state of relaxation and heightened interoceptive awareness in a clinical
sample with high AS. The paradoxical nature of the anxiolytic effect in this sample is discussed in relation to Wolpe’s
theory of reciprocal inhibition and the regulation of distress via sustained attention to present moment visceral
sensations such as the breath.”