flotation therapy

A form of relaxation therapy that involves floating on very salty water in a light-proof and sound-insulated room. To many people who have not experienced flotation therapy, it appears to be a form of self-inflicted sensory deprivation. If imposed by an outside agency, such as army interrogation officers, it would be banned under the Geneva Convention of Human Rights. However, regular practitioners (called floaters) claim that they experience feelings of great relaxation and euphoria during a float. Some use the float as part of their weight-loss activities and state that it gives them the opportunity to focus their thoughts on positive images about themselves, their diet, and their exercise regime.

A form of stress therapy that is becoming increasingly popular among athletes. The subject floats in a tank filled with warm, saline solution and experiences reduced sensory input due to the quiet environment. Physiological changes (reduced heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and depression) associated with flotation help athletes recover from demanding training sessions.