Examining the Differential Effects of Traditional Float-REST and Dry Float on Subjective and Objective Health Outcomes

Traditional flotation therapy (Float-REST; Flotation Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy) uses sensory deprivation tanks that consist of a very large warm water enclosure with a high concentration of Epsom salt to create a completely buoyant environment. This, along with a combination of temperature that is kept equal to skin temperature (94 degrees), allows the participant to eliminate the gravitational effects on the body, and along with lack of sound and low to no light (depending on comfort) allows the brain and body to completely relax for augmented physical and mental recovery. Provided the growing understanding that sleep quality and quantity are at the forefront of ensuring optimal human performance states, compounded by the deleterious effects of high stress and anxiety on sleep, utilizing flotation therapy as a mechanism for enhancing sleep requires further investigation. In addition to the traditional Float- REST, there have been developments in newer technologies that enhance the convenience of receiving these proposed benefits; Zerobody Dry Float technology (www.Zerobody.com) rids the need for multiple showers by its user, frequent water treatments, and extensive maintenance experienced with traditional flotation environments. However, research is still needed to assess how this recovery modality compares to traditional Float-REST.

To assess whether traditional (Float-REST) or simulated (Dry Float) flotation therapy positively influences sleep and perceptual recovery, participants will undergo a crossover study. Over the course of 9 weeks, participants will alternate Float-REST and Dry Float in 3 week segments with a 1 week break in-between to gather baseline data (known as the testing battery). In addition, testing battery data will be collected at weeks 1 and 9. The order in which participants begin their crossover study, either Float-REST or Dry Float, will be randomly assigned. All participants may wear a fitness tracker and a sleep monitoring ring worn on the finger for the duration of the study. In addition, daily, per session, and pre/post-study questionnaires will be submitted via a smartphone application.

Inclusion criteria

• Male or female 18-60 years of age

Exclusion criteria

• Weighs more than 250 pounds
• Taller than 76 inches
• Has undergone a float-REST session of any kind in the last 3 months
• Has a fresh piercings that is less than 6 weeks old from scheduled session
• Has a fresh tattoo that is less than 4 weeks old from scheduled float
• Has an injury requiring an orthopedic cast (i.e. plaster or synthetic), immovable splint or brace
• Is claustrophobic (fear of confined spaces)
• Has a skin or respiratory sensitivity or allergy to chlorine, sulfate, magnesium, rubber latex or synthetic latex
• Has a history of or is prone to motion sickness
• Has had an episode of loss of consciousness in the last 6-months
• Has had a concussion or traumatic brain injury in the last 6-months
• Has a contagious skin conditions
• Has skin ulcers, open rashes, incisions, stitches or large open wounds that could cause pain when exposed to saltwater
• Has a diagnosis of kidney disease, heart disease or other chronic illness
• Has a irremovable medical port or catheter
• Has had a seizure in the last 10 years
• Has communicable diseases (e.g. HIV, Hepatitis A, B & C, tuberculosis, or measles)
• Lack of control of bodily functions prior to scheduled float
• Has a diagnosis of any psychiatric condition (e.g. schizophrenia or bipolar disorder)
• Pregnant or actively trying to become pregnant