Physiological and Psychological Responses to Flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy in Law Enforcement Officers

Introduction/Background Flotation-restricted environmental stimulation therapy (float-REST) is a recovery intervention in which individuals lie supine in a shallow tank void of sound, light, warmed to body temperature and filled with Epsom salt-saturated water that allows participants to float. Law enforcement officers (LEOs) work in a highly stressful occupation characterized by sustained vigilance, exposure to traumatic events, and irregular schedules. This study examined the effectiveness of float-REST in reducing physical and psychological stress among LEOs. Methods Fourteen LEOs recruited from a local department completed six 60-minute sessions, 2 times per week for 3 weeks separated by at least 24 hours. Resting heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and profile of mood state (POMS) were assessed before and after session to evaluate acute responses, while chronic effects were examined across each session and at a one-month follow-up. Acute measures were examined with non-parametric Wilcoxon-signed rank tests. While chronic measures were examined with non-parametric Friedman tests. Results Acute float-REST sessions resulted in significant (p