Health and thxrapeutic applications of chamber and flotation restricted environmental stimulation thxrapy (REST)

Abstract

Basic research has documented reliable changes in emotional. cognitive, behavioral, and psychophysiological functioning as the effects of two related techniques that drastically reduce the level of environmental stimulation: chamber and flotation restricted environmental stimulation therapy (REST). Studies applying these findings in medical. psychotherapeutic, and behavioral health contexts have shown reductions in stress and inappropriate behavior among patients suffering from drug-induced mania. agitation, autism, and Alzheimer's syndrome; reduced phobic symptoms; Significantly lower relapse in habit modification interventions (e.g., smoking, alcohol intake, and weight loss); improved stress management and the amelioration of tension headaches, insomnia, and other stress-related symptoms; reduction of chronic pain; and better muscle control among cerebral palsy patients and others. The broad benefits of chamber and flotation REST. used alone or in combination with other intervention techniques, warrant further investigation and clinical use.

Key Words:

• Restricted stimulation
• flotation
• isolation
• REST.