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The discovery of the endorphin
in 1976 was the first step in a revolution in scientific understanding
of the subtle interplay between mind and body. As more and more neurotransmitters
and receptors were discovered, and linked to major changes in body chemistry
through the endocrine
system, it became apparent that mental states profoundly effect the
body, and vice versa.
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Although this realization caused a paradigm shift in Western science,
it was nothing new to advocates of holistic health practices or
the ancient wisdom of such techniques as yoga or meditation …
treat the person, not the symptoms.
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By shielding the brain and nervous system from all sensation of gravity,
temperature, and touch, floatation REST succeeds in reducing the traffic
of signals through the autonomic nervous system by a factor of 95%. This
remarkable reduction in nervous system activity has a direct and
immediate effect on the hypothalamus, often referred to as the
"link" between mind and body.
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The hypothalamus - acting through the endocrine
system - floods the body with endorphins
and other beneficial hormones, while cleansing stress
hormones from the bloodstream.
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In an automatic chain reaction, a profound
relaxation response encompasses the heart, cardiovascular system,
internal organs, and brain, permeating body tissue down to a cellular
level. |
These chemical changes are experienced as emotional changes - a shift
away from negative emotions such as anxiety and depression, towards feelings
of empowerment, confidence, and well-being.
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By changing your body, you change your mind.
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In the tank, negative emotions and unwanted
habits seem to melt away, along with the physical tensions that usually
accompany them. |
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