The Benefits Of Isolation Tanks

Isolation tanks, also known as sensory deprivation tanks or floating tanks, go on and off regularly. Although they were originally invented to study the brain, many people today use them as a form of relaxation. Many companies specialize in sensory deprivation experiences, and many spas offer them as well.

Supporters of sensory isolation thoughts say that it is like being back in the womb. They probably exaggerate a bit, but people who use them often describe the experience as unique. These thoughts seem to offer an opportunity for extreme relaxation.

The mind also has critics. Some approach the experience with a certain fear. They feel anxious about disconnecting completely from the outside world. Those who manage isolation thoughts say that you need a certain level of emotional stability and maturity to have a good experience.

The invention of insulation tanks

Sensory deprivation thoughts were invented by John C. Lilly, a neuropsychiatrist from the United States. His goal with these thoughts was not to build a successful business. It was far from it. He wanted to study the changes that occur in the brain when isolated.

In the 1950s, this type of subject gained the attention of many scholars, including Lilly. He created what he called “sensory isolation chambers”. He designed them to reduce the senses to an absolute minimum.

Lilly proved that his inventions actually offered a very special experience. Being inside the mind was very relaxing and rejuvenating. Yet no one in the scientific community took his research seriously, because Lilly was an outsider. Other researchers thought he was just an eccentric trying to get attention.

New research

Lilly’s invention did not receive much attention in the beginning, but over time people became more interested. Researchers began experimenting with Lilly’s insulation tank and discovered that the idea might not be so crazy after all. In fact, they saw the potential for therapeutic use.

To begin with, researchers studied the mind for military purposes. Their potential to help strengthen the body and mind was evident, and several Marines underwent sensory deprivation therapy. Later, NASA used the floating tanks as part of the astronaut training program.

In the 70’s, insulation tanks began to become quite popular. High-performance athletes were the first to use them for muscle recovery. Then the spa and relaxation market saw the potential of the tanks, and began to integrate them into their services. In a world of very stressed people, they seemed like a good business choice.

How are your thoughts?

Insulation tanks contain between 400 and 600 liters of water. At least half of this consists of magnesium sulphate (epsom salts). The high salt concentration makes your body flow naturally, as in the Dead Sea.

The water has a body temperature, so you do not feel hot or cold. In some cases, the tank has a door that closes so that you are completely encapsulated. In these cases, you float in complete darkness and complete silence.

Other sensory deprivation thoughts are open, but there is little light in the room and there are no sounds. Usually you lie in the tank for 60 to 120 minutes.

The benefits of insulation tanks

Research indicates that using these thoughts causes positive changes in the brain. First of all, when your senses are taken from you in this way, your brain shows activity similar to what happens when you meditate. As a result, it is a very relaxing experience.

These thoughts can also have benefits for our health. They can help relieve muscle pain and prevent chronic problems such as migraines or menstrual cramps. People suffering from anxiety may also find relief in this type of therapy.

On top of all these alleged benefits, followers claim that isolationist thoughts also stimulate creativity and increase their intellectual capacity. Although a small minority complain that the experience is boring or uncomfortable, most people who try such a tank become repeat customers. Since it does not seem to have any negative side effects, what are you waiting for? Maybe you’ll get hooked.