the relaxation response explanation

The body’s natural reaction to stress is the “fight or flight” response resulting in a multitude of physical reactions including increased blood pressure, heart rate and nervous system sensitivity. In short duration these effects are healthy and do not have a negative impact on the body. However, in our current society, this becomes the dominate state causing a huge variety of illnesses including hypertension, hormone dysfunction and anxiety disorders, just to name a few. It has been found that floating goes beyond just eliminating stressors in the environment, and actually induces a mirror physiological response as powerful as “fight or flight”.  Called the Relaxation Response, the body is brought to an active, alert and balanced state of deep relaxation. Through the parasympathetic nervous system muscle tension is decreased and biochemicals are released that fill the body with feelings of pleasure, well being and euphoria.  Floating has been proven to reduce the levels of a number of stress-related neurochemicals in the body, such as adrenaline, norepinephrine, ACTH, and cortisol. Blood pressure is reduced, breathing regulated, hormone production balanced, and brain waves slowed. This effect lasts beyond the float and can consistently counter the effects of the stressful modern life.

© Copyright 2005 Driftaway Corporation. All rights reserved.