Changed external stimuli and alpha state

During the treatment, the ears of the client are usually under water and the eyes are usually closed. The lack of everyday external stimuli creates a meditative state, which can facilitate access to oneself (Sakata et al., 1995; Schulz & Kaspar, 1994). At the request of the client, verbal accompaniment is offered during the treatment in the water.

Wakeful relaxation with closed eyes is reflected in the brain as an alpha state, which is characterised by EEG activity of 8 to 12 Hz and increased activity in the thalamus and insula brain regions (Goldman et al., 2002). In the alpha state, many clients experience a calming of the stream of thoughts. Their focus is directed inwards and thereby promotes self-awareness. Clients can perceive their body and their feelings in an unusually clear and focused manner. The ability to verbalise with regard to this perception often increases significantly between the beginning and the end of a session. Physical, emotional and mental states can become conscious, as can the interconnectedness of body, mind and soul as well as the constant interaction between internal and external social experience. Such knowledge can promote personality development and the resulting change in favour of a meaningful way of life for oneself and in the social environment.