The effects of brief flotation REST on physiological, cognitive, and mood measures

The present investigation explored physiological, cognitive and mood effects of flotation REST, as well as the subjective experience and memories of flotation.;The sample consisted of 11 male and 4 female volunteers enrolled in an advanced psychology seminar at the Pennsylvania State University, during spring 1985.;Participation involved completion of three 60 minute flotation REST sessions at a local commercial flotation facility, and a special meditation session at home. Pre and post pulse, systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements were taken with a digital Sphygmomanometer. Subjects completed the Abbreviated Personal Experience Report (APER) pre and post each session, and a Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique-Personal Experience Report (REST-PER) post only. The Hidden Meanings Test was completed pre and post flotation three. One week after flotation three, subjects completed APERs and REST-PERs from memory of flotation three.;Nineteen research questions were formulated. Hypotheses were not set forth for all research questions, due to the exploratory nature of the study. Hypotheses were set forth for six questions regarding the physiological effects of REST. It was hypothesized that pulse, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure would decrease significantly both pre to post and across flotation sessions. It was hypothesized that abstract, cognitive, verbal performance would improve after flotation.;Results indicated that the predicted physiological effects of REST were not found. The hypothesis that abstract, cognitive, verbal performance would improve after flotation was strongly supported.;Results of comparisons between flotation REST and control revealed that subjects felt more positive before their first float than before the control session, as measured by the APER theme Value. Significant differences between flotation and control emerged on the REST-PER theme Sensation. During flotation, subjects focused more attention on internal sensations.;APER comparisons between flotation REST and recall revealed no significant differences. The REST-PER theme Value differed significantly. Subjects remembered flotation more positively immediately after flotation, than one week later.;Across flotation sessions APER themes Value and System Dynamics changed significantly pre to post. Subjects experienced greater well being and decreased intrapsychic conflict following flotation.;Other findings suggest that flotation sessions were experienced independently, without a progression of increasing effects.