Thanks to pathfindertanks.com for this article about floating and the endorphins that result from it:
The discovery of the endorphin in 1976 was the first step in a revolution in scientific understanding of the subtle interplay between mind and body. As more and more neurotransmitters and receptors were discovered, and linked to major changes in body chemistry through the endocrine system, it became apparent that mental states profoundly effect the body, and vice versa.
Although this realization caused a paradigm shift in Western science, it was nothing new to advocates of holistic health practices or the ancient wisdom of such techniques as yoga or meditation … treat the person, not the symptoms.
By shielding the brain and nervous system from all sensation of gravity, temperature, and touch, floatation REST succeeds in reducing the traffic of signals through the autonomic nervous system by a factor of 95%. This remarkable reduction in nervous system activity has a direct and immediate effect on the hypothalamus, often referred to as the "link" between mind and body.
The hypothalamus – acting through the endocrine system – floods the body with endorphins and other beneficial hormones, while cleansing stress hormones from the bloodstream.
In an automatic chain reaction, a profound relaxation response encompasses the heart, cardiovascular system, internal organs, and brain, permeating body tissue down to a cellular level.
These chemical changes are experienced as emotional changes – a shift away from negative emotions such as anxiety and depression, towards feelings of empowerment, confidence, and well-being.
By changing your body, you change your mind.
In the tank, negative emotions and unwanted habits seem to melt away, along with the physical tensions that usually accompany them.
Categories: Floatation Tank
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