Comments from the float DOCTOR

THE DOCTORS PAGE.
( Lots of doctor type lingo and other stuff that’s real boring. )
Floatation therapy :
One or more sessions of floatation, usually for sixty minutes, in a purpose built float tank containing a magnesium sulfate (MgSO) (Epsom Salts) solution at 35.4 degrees Celsius. The solution’s relative density is 1.25 making it impossible not to float, usually supine (except for pregnant women see below). The temperature is correct for maintaining body temperature without muscular action and there is no postural requirement either, so a profound state of relaxation is achieved within 15 to 20 minutes. Endorphins are released and blood flow in capillaries and soft tissue is maximized. Muscles in spasm tend to release. Because there is no contact pressure it is possible to float for many hours without any impulse to turn, even in deep sleep. Floatation has been academically studied extensively since about 1975, particularly in America, and currently in Sweden.
The Benefits
Apart from general relaxation, floatation therapy has been shown both anecdotally and in controlled studies to reduce or eliminate acute pain. The pain relief can be permanent after one session. The reduction of chronic pain lasts for several hours and a reduced need for analgesia. Other benefits include lessening of edema, increased range of movement in skeletal joints and lower perceived levels of stress. It also appears to help in anger management and PMT, reduce feelings of fatigue and insomnia, lower blood pressure and assist in weight control (in conjunction with talking cures/psychotherapy).
Floating in pregnancy
Mid term pregnant women often find considerable relief from pain and stiffness, particularly while floating prone, with elbows on the floor of the tank and chin cupped in hands. In this position the fetus is fully floating and the mother’s back and pelvic girdle are released from load.
Contra-indications
In general mental illness including clinical depression is a contra-indication because the effects of floating are unpredictable in these cases. Obviously patients with open wounds or incontinence are unsuitable candidates. Patients with severe hypertension may experience such drastic reduction in blood pressure as to faint but when this is controlled by a drug regime, there is little risk. Similarly there is little risk for controlled epileptic patients, but it is recommended to have a suitable helper present during the float session.
Epsom Salt:
Epsom Salt is a pure mineral compound (magnesium sulfate) in crystal form that gently exfoliates skin and smoothes rough patches. Epsom Salt helps to add body to hair. Dissolved in a bath, Epsom Salt is absorbed through the skin to replenish the body's levels of magnesium. Studies indicate this may help to relieve stress in a number of ways, including:
Raising the body's level of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of well being and relaxation.
Offsetting excess levels of adrenaline generated by pressure and stress; magnesium ions relax and reduce irritability by lowering the affects of adrenaline.
Help to regulate the electrical functions of nerves.
Lowering blood pressure.
Researchers have found that magnesium also increases energy and stamina by encouraging the
production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy packets made in the cells.