What is Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna is typically a room with infrared heaters that are designed to aid in detoxifying and healing the body. Unlike traditional saunas that blow dry heat or hot steam, infrared saunas will utilize infrared heat lamps to raise body temperature in a unique way. An infrared sauna can operate at a lower temperature (usually between 120˚F and 140˚F) than a traditional sauna, which is typically between 150˚F and 180˚F.
Infrared heat penetrates human tissue as opposed to simply heating the surface of the skin. In fact, studies show that infrared saunas are 7x more effective than traditional saunas at detoxifying the body!
The benefits of using an infrared sauna are similar to those experienced with a traditional sauna. These include:
- better sleep
- relaxation
- detoxification
- weight loss
- relief from sore muscles
- relief from joint pain such as arthritis
- clear and tighter skin
- improved circulation
- help for people with chronic fatigue syndrome
How to Prepare for an Infrared Sauna
- Drink water. Make sure you’re fully hydrated to ensure that you won’t feel faint or get dehydrated during the experience.
- Choose the right temperature. If you are new to saunas or high temperatures, start with 100˚F. Feel it out and see if you can slowly increase the temperature until you reach 150˚F.
- Choose the appropriate length of time. For first-time users, start with 10 to 15 minutes. Then you can slowly add time each session until you reach the suggested time of 20-30 minutes.
- Clothing optional. Some people prefer to wear bathing suits, while others prefer to go in naked. Either way, you will get the luxury of being in your own private room.
- What you can do while in the sauna. Relax, read, meditate, listen to music, or watch a show.
Aftercare
When your session, drink plenty of water and give your body enough time to cool off. It’s suggested that you take your time and be patient with your body because you will be sweating even after you are out of the sauna. Once cooled down, a shower or bath will feel absolutely amazing!
Most facilities that offer infrared sauna treatments recommend using the sauna no more than 4x a week.
Infrared saunas offer one of the most relaxing ways to break a sweat, while getting the benefits of a traditional sauna. However, if you have any health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or are under medical care, make sure you get cleared by your doctor before your first session.
