The article "The Experience of Flotation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique): Consciousness, Creativity, Subjective Stress, and Pain" by Kjellgren, investigates the psychological and physiological effects of flotation therapy.
Hypothesis
The primary hypothesis was that flotation-REST would induce altered states of consciousness (ASC) and result in various psychological and physiological benefits, including pain reduction, stress relief, and enhanced creativity. The study also aimed to explore whether the context and participants' previous experiences of altered states would influence their experiences during flotation-REST.
Aim
The aim of the study was to systematically investigate the effects of flotation-REST on consciousness, creativity, subjective stress, and pain. The researchers sought to determine how flotation-REST compared to other methods of inducing ASC, such as chamber-REST, and to evaluate its potential therapeutic benefits.
Model
The study utilized several theoretical models to frame its investigation:
Primary-Secondary Process Model: This model distinguishes between primary processes (instinctive, imaginative, and less logical) and secondary processes (logical, analytical, and reality-oriented) to understand the cognitive shifts during ASC.
Stanislav Grof's Model: Focuses on different psychological levels experienced during ASC, including sensory, unconscious, perinatal (birth-related), and transpersonal levels.
Transient Hypofrontality Hypothesis: Suggests that ASCs are primarily due to a temporary reduction in prefrontal cortex activity, leading to changes in cognitive and behavioral functions.
Methodology
The methodology included several experimental studies:
Participants: Individuals with varying levels of previous ASC experience were recruited and randomly assigned to control or experimental groups.
Procedures: Participants underwent flotation-REST sessions lasting 45 minutes, three times a week, over three weeks. The control group did not receive flotation treatments.
Measurements: Various psychological and physiological assessments were conducted before and after the treatment period, including:
Creativity tests (fluency, originality, deductive thinking)
Subjective pain and stress questionnaires
Blood samples to measure beta-endorphin and MHPG levels
Anxiety and depression scales (HAD, LOT)
Sleep quality assessments
Results
Altered States of Consciousness: Flotation-REST induced higher levels of ASC compared to chamber-REST. Participants reported deep relaxation, pseudo-hallucinations, and transpersonal experiences.
Pain and Stress Reduction: The most severe pain intensity was significantly reduced in the flotation-REST group, while low pain intensity remained unaffected. Flotation-REST also significantly reduced noradrenaline metabolite levels (MHPG) but did not affect beta-endorphin levels.
Creativity: Flotation-REST increased originality but impaired deductive thinking. Chamber-REST induced more realistic and elaborated thinking. Stress conditions influenced these outcomes, with stressed individuals showing different creativity patterns.
Mood and Sleep: Flotation-REST elevated optimism, reduced anxiety and depression levels, and improved sleep onset and quality.
Overall, the study concluded that flotation-REST is a promising method for inducing ASC and offers significant benefits for pain reduction, stress relief, and enhancing certain aspects of creativity .
Download the full paper below.
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