The Experience of Floatation-REST as a Function of Setting and Previous Experience of Altered States of Consciousness

• AbstractThe purpose of this study was to investigate if experiences induced by flotation-REST (in flotation-tank) are affected by settings or subjects earlier experiences of altered states of consciousness (ASC). No such significant differences were found. Significant effects owing to flotation-REST were found regarding reduction in experienced pain and enhancement of mood. Flotation-REST was considered a pleasurable technique. Different kinds of visual and acoustic effects, altered time perception and a sense of weightlessness have been reported. Also deep transpersonal experiences were quite common, these could be distinguished into three types: experiences of one's own childbirth/delivery, feeling of cosmic unity and experiences of losing contact with the body or out-of-body-experiences. Flotation-REST must be regarded as a consciousness-altering method with promising potential for clinical and therapeutic use.Key words: Flotation-REST - Setting - Drug experience - Pain - Mood - Verbal analysis - Altered state of consciousness.

Ämnesord

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

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Key words: Flotation-REST - Setting - Drug experience - Pain - Mood - Verbal analysis - Altered state of consciousness

Psykologi

Psychology

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