The micro-phenomenology of Floatation-REST

Most people who float in a sensory isolation tank go through four distinct phases during a 60-minute session: acclimatization, a transitional phase, an altered state of consciousness (ASC), and finally reorientation. The ASC phase is marked by positive emotions, deep relaxation, loss of orientation in space and time, and reduced bodily sensations and thoughts. These characteristics emerge gradually and intensify over time. The findings suggest that the therapeutic benefits of Floatation-REST for mental health conditions may be linked to the experience of these altered states.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This micro-phenomenological study examines altered states of consciousness (ASC) during Floatation-REST, a sensory isolation method where individuals lie in a tank filled with Epsom salt-saturated water in complete silence and darkness. Salubrious effects of Floatation-REST have been shown in persons suffering from mental health conditions; these positive outcomes might be related to the experience of ASC. Micro-phenomenological interviews were conducted with fourteen participants who completed a 60-minute Floatation-REST session, to capture the generic structure of ASC. We found that most participants experience four distinct phases during a session (diachronic structure): after an initial acclimatization phase (1), participants experience a transitional phase (2) that prepares them for a subsequent ASC phase (3), followed by a phase of temporal and spatial reorientation (4). The ASC phase is characterized by the experience of positive emotions, deep relaxation, a loss of orientation in space and time, and a reduction in bodily sensations and thoughts (synchronic structure). The characteristics of the ASC phase emerge gradually and progressively intensify. This micro-phenomenological analysis of Floatation-REST sheds new light on the potential of this therapeutic technique. We discuss possible future research and therapeutic applications of Floatation-REST.