It’s common knowledge that excess weight on your body isn’t ideal. However, the impact of this weight on one’s quality of life cannot be overstated. When measured on the EQ-5D summary scale, individuals with obesity and morbid obesity scored 4.9 and 11.3 percentage points lower, respectively, than those of average weight — meaning obese individuals had lower mobility, self-care, and overall quality of life. Morbid obesity has also been estimated to have the same impact as three or more physical long-term conditions, or an increase in age of 55 years.
There are numerous weight loss strategies that have been developed to combat obesity. While this has given way to an influx of unreliable diets or fads, the focus on reducing overweight and obesity has also led to further insights on natural ways to lose weight. These natural strategies prioritize holistic well-being, encompassing a wide range of methods such as squeezing in more sleep to increase relaxation or getting more exercise to decrease stress. This means that truly effective weight loss isn’t just about counting calories, but also includes embracing novel wellness strategies that contribute to overall health.
One such novel strategy is floatation therapy. This wellness practice involves immersing oneself in a sensory isolation tank to promote relaxation and relieve stress — two aftereffects said to help with natural weight loss. Below, this article explores how floatation therapy can complement your weight loss journey by addressing crucial aspects of your well-being.
Enhancing sleep quality
Quality sleep is essential for effective weight management. That’s because sleep can impact hormone regulation, particularly leptin, ghrelin, and cortisol — all of which affect hunger and cravings. Sleep also plays a role in regulating metabolism, blood sugar levels, and insulin sensitivity. These can contribute to weight gain when out of balance.
In a 2020 study published in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine, floatation therapy was confirmed to relax the muscles and promote the release of endorphins in the body. Float therapy provides a calm mental state conducive to better sleep by immersing individuals in a buoyant environment. This can improve sleep patterns, helping you get the recommended 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night for your body to maintain regular functions.
Reducing stress
Stress can lead to poor management techniques like stress or binge eating. This often includes the consumption of high-calorie, sugary, and fatty food, which can lead to excess calorie intake and weight gain over time.
Floatation therapy reduces stress, anxiety, and pain levels significantly by reducing external stimulation such as sound, touch, and light. Also, floating in a sensory deprivation tank allows profound introspection and relaxation. This heightened mindfulness can improve your relationship with food, making you more attuned to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
Relieving joint pain
Many individuals with obesity experience joint pain due to their excess weight. The discomfort associated with joint pain can hinder physical activity and lead to a more sedentary lifestyle — thus contributing to weight gain over time.
As we’ve explained in our previous article, Epsom salt is high in healing magnesium and has been shown to reduce inflammation. This can provide significant relief from joint pain and stiffness. Furthermore, floating in warm salt-infused water creates a sensation of weightlessness, alleviating tension and relieving stress on the joints. This temporary respite from gravitational pressure can provide much-needed relief from joint pain, making engaging in physical activities that promote weight loss easier.
To experience the benefits of floatation therapy, consider our services at Lift. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced professionals in Brooklyn, New York, can guide you through a transformative journey that complements your natural weight loss efforts. By embracing natural methods and exploring innovative therapies like floatation, you can achieve your weight loss goals while prioritizing your overall well-being.