Float Tanks: A Promising Approach to Addressing Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a complex and challenging eating disorder characterized by distorted body image and severe weight loss.
Traditional treatments have primarily focused on nutritional rehabilitation and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
However, recent research has shed light on a novel approach that might offer additional therapeutic benefits: float tanks - known as floatation-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) in clinical settings.
What is Floatation-REST?
Floatation-REST involves immersing an individual in a shallow pool filled with a dense saltwater solution. This environment is specially designed to minimize sensory input, including visual and auditory stimuli. Participants float effortlessly on their back, thanks to the high salt concentration, and can choose to be in total darkness or have soft ambient illumination.
How Can Float Tanks Help Those with Anorexia Nervosa?
A recent study delved deep into the potential benefits of floatation-REST for individuals with AN. Here's what they found:
Reduction in Body Dissatisfaction: The primary outcome of the study was self-reported body dissatisfaction, measured using the Photographic Figure Rating Scale (PFRS). Participants who underwent floatation-REST sessions showed significant reductions in body dissatisfaction.
Decrease in Anxiety Levels: AN often coexists with heightened anxiety levels. The study noted acute reductions in state anxiety among participants after their float sessions.
Enhanced Interoceptive Awareness: One of the theories behind AN's distorted body image is the diminished perception of interoceptive body signals, which are signals from within the body, like hunger and fullness. By reducing external sensory input, floating heightens awareness of these interoceptive sensations, potentially helping individuals with AN reconnect with their body's signals.
Why is this Significant?
Anorexia Nervosa is not just about food. It's deeply intertwined with how individuals perceive their bodies. Traditional treatments, while effective, might not address all facets of the disorder. Floatation-REST, with its unique approach, offers a complementary method that addresses both the perceptual and emotional aspects of AN.
Moreover, the relaxing environment of the float tank can be a therapeutic experience in itself, offering individuals a break from the constant sensory overload of the modern world.
Float Tanks and Broader Anxiety Implications
While the study primarily focused on Anorexia Nervosa, the implications of float tanks extend to the broader spectrum of anxiety disorders. Here's how:
Natural Anxiolytic Effect: The significant reduction in state anxiety observed among participants with AN suggests that floatation-REST has inherent anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. This aligns with previous research on float tanks, which have shown promise in alleviating symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and panic disorder.
Sensory Deprivation and Mindfulness: The sensory-deprived environment of a float tank can be likened to certain mindfulness and meditation practices. By minimizing external distractions, individuals are better able to focus on their internal experiences, promoting a state of calm and present-moment awareness. This can be especially beneficial for those with anxiety, as it offers a respite from the incessant cycle of anxious thoughts.
Enhanced Interoceptive Connection: Just as with AN, individuals with anxiety disorders often struggle with interoceptive awareness. They might misinterpret bodily sensations (like a racing heart) as signs of impending doom. By enhancing interoceptive connection, floating can help individuals better understand and regulate their bodily responses to anxiety.
Safe Environment for Exposure: For those with heightened anxiety, even the thought of new experiences can be daunting. The controlled and safe environment of a float tank can serve as a gentle form of exposure therapy, allowing individuals to confront and gradually desensitize themselves to certain triggers.
A Holistic Approach to Mental Well-being
It's important to note that while floatation-REST shows promise in addressing anxiety symptoms, it should be viewed as a complementary therapy. Traditional treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication, remain crucial. However, as we continue to understand the multifaceted nature of anxiety and its interplay with other disorders like AN, holistic approaches like floatation-REST offer a fresh perspective and an additional tool in the therapeutic arsenal.
Floatation-REST, with its unique sensory-deprived environment, offers a promising complementary approach to traditional treatments for both Anorexia Nervosa and broader anxiety disorders. Its ability to reduce body dissatisfaction, alleviate anxiety symptoms, and enhance interoceptive awareness makes it a valuable tool in the holistic treatment of mental health disorders.
While it's not a standalone cure, the initial findings are encouraging. It underscores the importance of integrating diverse therapeutic methods to address the multifaceted nature of disorders like AN and anxiety. As we continue to explore and validate the benefits of such therapies, it's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan. Float tanks, in their tranquil embrace, might just offer many individuals the respite and clarity they need on their journey to mental well-being.