REST

 

   

I came across this helpful information many years back*. Some of you may find it useful.

 

“Experiments by University of British Columbia researcher Peter Suedfeld and his colleagues show that renewal comes not only from rest, but from REST—Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy. Suedfeld knew from earlier studies of sensory restriction that being alone in a monotonous environment heightens a person’s sensitivity to any sort of stimuli, whether external or internal. So he offered hundreds of people a chance to tune more deeply into themselves through a literal day of REST, during which they would do nothing but lie quietly on a comfortable bed in the isolation of a dark soundproof room. Food, water, and a chemical toilet were available, and communication was possible over an intercom through which brief persuasive messages could be transmitted.

“The day of REST has been notably successful in helping people who want to increase their self-control—to gain or lose weight, reduce alcohol intake, improve speech fluency, reduce hypertension, overcome irrational fears, boost self-confidence, or stop smoking.”

 

Anyone can experience this (REST) for themselves through places that offer “sensory deprivation tanks.” Though to experience a whole day of this technique is extremely expensive, but good results have been found with just an hour or two.

*The Pursuit of Happiness: Discovering the Pathway to Fulfillment, Well-Being, and Enduring Personal Joy, by David G. Myers, PhD.

Take care.

Mark