Float Tanks (Sensory Deprivation) Research
6 peer-reviewed studies supporting this intervention. Evidence rating: B
Study Comparison
| Study | Year | Type | Journal | Key Finding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garland MM et al. | 2024 | RCT | PloS one | Six sessions of flotation-REST were safe and feasible in anxious and depressed individuals, with pool-based and tank-based formats both showing acute anxiolytic effects |
| Loose LF et al. | 2021 | RCT | JAMA network open | Flotation-REST provided short-term pain and anxiety relief in chronic pain patients, but no long-term benefits over placebo, with similar improvements in the sham group suggesting effects may not be specific to flotation |
| Feinstein JS et al. | 2018 | Study | PLOS ONE | A single float session produced significant and substantial reductions in anxiety and improvements in mood across 50 participants with anxiety and stress-related disorders. |
| Jonsson K et al. | 2016 | Study | European Journal of Integrative Medicine | Long-term float therapy study showing cumulative benefits with continued practice, with stress reduction and well-being improvements persisting after 50 sessions. |
| Kjellgren A et al. | 2014 | Study | BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine | 12 flotation sessions over 7 weeks significantly reduced stress, depression, anxiety, and pain while improving optimism and sleep quality. |
| Bood SA et al. | 2006 | Study | International Journal of Stress Management | Float therapy significantly reduced pain intensity, stress, anxiety, and depression in patients with chronic stress-related muscle pain while improving sleep and optimism. |
Study Details
PloS one
View Summary
This single-blind randomized trial examined the safety and feasibility of repeated flotation-REST in 75 individuals with anxiety and depression. Participants completed six sessions in different formats: pool-REST, pool-REST preferred, or chair-REST (active comparator). The study established that repeated flotation sessions are safe and well-tolerated in clinical populations.
JAMA network open
View Summary
This randomized clinical trial examined flotation-REST for chronic pain in 99 patients. Both the intervention and placebo groups showed short-term improvements in pain intensity, relaxation, and anxiety. However, no long-term benefits were found from 5 flotation sessions, and clinically relevant changes in the placebo group suggest improvements may not be caused by flotation-specific mechanisms.
PLOS ONE
View Summary
This study from the Laureate Institute for Brain Research examined the effects of a single float session on participants with clinical anxiety, stress-related disorders, and depression. It represents one of the most rigorous modern studies of flotation therapy.
Fifty participants with diagnosed anxiety-related conditions underwent a single 60-minute float session. Results showed large effect size reductions in anxiety (Cohen's d = 0.79), stress, muscle tension, pain, and depression, with concurrent improvements in serenity and overall well-being.
The study demonstrated that flotation therapy can provide rapid relief from anxiety symptoms, even after just one session, making it a promising intervention for anxiety disorders.
European Journal of Integrative Medicine
View Summary
This longitudinal study examined the effects of extended flotation-REST treatment (50 sessions) to understand both the cumulative benefits and potential side effects of long-term float practice.
Participants showed progressive improvements in stress-related symptoms, with benefits continuing to accumulate over the treatment period. Importantly, no significant negative side effects were reported even with extensive use, supporting the safety of regular float practice.
The study demonstrates that flotation therapy benefits are cumulative and that regular long-term practice is both effective and safe.
BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
View Summary
This randomized controlled trial from Karlstad University, Sweden examined the effects of flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy) as a preventive health intervention. Participants received 12 float sessions over 7 weeks and were compared to a wait-list control group.
Results showed significant improvements across multiple domains including stress, depression, anxiety, pain, and sleep quality. Participants also reported increased optimism and reduced symptoms of burnout.
The study supports flotation therapy as a preventive intervention for stress-related conditions and overall well-being.
International Journal of Stress Management
View Summary
This study examined flotation-REST as a treatment for patients with stress-related chronic muscle pain. Participants underwent 12 float sessions over 7 weeks, with measurements taken before, during, and after the treatment period.
Results demonstrated significant reductions in pain intensity, stress, anxiety, and depression, along with improved sleep quality and increased optimism. The effects were clinically meaningful and persisted through the treatment period.
The study provides evidence for flotation therapy as an effective intervention for chronic pain conditions with a stress component.
Evidence Assessment
This intervention has moderate evidence from some randomized trials and consistent observational data, though more research would strengthen conclusions.