Key Takeaway
12 flotation sessions over 7 weeks significantly reduced stress, depression, anxiety, and pain while improving optimism and sleep quality.
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.
Methods
- 65 participants with stress and muscle tension
- Randomized controlled trial (flotation vs wait-list control)
- 12 float sessions over 7 weeks
- Questionnaires at baseline, 7 weeks, and 4-month follow-up
- Measures: Stress, anxiety, depression, pain, sleep, optimism
Key Results
- Stress-related symptoms: Significant reduction
- Depression: Significant reduction
- Anxiety: Significant reduction
- Pain: Significant reduction
- Sleep quality: Significant improvement
- Optimism: Significant increase
- Effects maintained at 4-month follow-up
- Control group showed no significant changes
Figures
Figure 1
Limitations
- Wait-list control (not active control)
- Blinding impossible
- Self-report measures
- Relatively small sample size
- Swedish population (generalizability)