Floatation-REST and Anorexia Nervosa

Flotation-REST (reduced environmental stimulation therapy) alters the balance of sensory
input by systematically attenuating signals from the visual, auditory, thermal, tactile,
vestibular, and proprioceptive systems. Previous research has shown that this heightens
interoceptive awareness and reduces anxiety in clinically anxious populations. Anorexia
nervosa (AN) is characterized by elevated anxiety, distorted body image, and disrupted
interoception, raising the question of whether floatation therapy might positively impact
these symptoms. A recent safety study found that Floatation-REST was well tolerated by
individuals weight-restored outpatients with current or prior AN. Additionally, participants
reported improvements in affective state and body image disturbance following floating,
raising the possibility that this intervention might be investigated for clinical benefit in
more acutely ill cases.

The primary aim of this study is to begin to examine the effect of Floatation-REST on body
image disturbance in inpatients with AN. Secondary aims including determining whether
Floatation-REST has an impact on anxiety, emotional distress, eating disorder severity,
functional ability, and interoception.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Primary clinical diagnosis of anorexia nervosa

- Receiving inpatient treatment for eating disorder

- Body mass index greater than or equal to 16

- No new medication prescription in the week prior to study randomization

- Independently ambulatory

- No current evidence of orthostatic hypotension

- Ability to lay flat comfortably

- Possession of a smartphone with data plan

- English proficiency

Exclusion Criteria:

- Active suicidal ideation

- Active cutting or skin lacerating behaviors

- Orthostatic hypotension (defined as a drop of ≥ 20 mm Hg in systolic BP or a drop of ≥
10 mm Hg in diastolic BP when measured shortly after transitioning from lying down to
standing)

- Comorbid schizophrenia spectrum or other psychotic disorder