An infrared sauna, like a rainbow after a warm rain, illuminates the world of wellness in vibrant hues of health benefits. Unlike traditional saunas, which use steam or hot rocks to heat the air around you, an infrared sauna works differently—it uses invisible infrared wavelengths to directly heat your body. It's a fascinating technology that brings the healing power of sunlight into a controlled environment. Imagine soaking in the warmth of a summer day without the intense brightness of the midday sun. That's the magic of infrared therapy.
How Infrared Saunas Differ from Traditional Saunas
Comparing the infrared vs traditional sauna varieties, infrared saunas operate at a lower temperature—usually between 120°F and 140°F, while traditional saunas can get as steamy as 195°F.1 You might think, "Well, isn't hotter better?" Not necessarily. Infrared saunas offer a gentle, radiant heat that penetrates more deeply into your body, thereby warming you up without the need for hotter air. This makes your sauna session both comfortable and effective. It's kind of like toasting marshmallows over gentle embers, rather than a raging bonfire.
Understanding Infrared Technology
Types of Infrared Waves
Infrared waves aren't one-size-fits-all. They come in near infrared, mid infrared, and far infrared wavelengths. Near infrared is the shortest wavelength, associated with improved cell health and healing,2 while far infrared is the longest, linked to detoxification.3 Mid infrared, the middle child of the infrared family, is a master of improving circulation and promoting muscle recovery.2 So, whether you're seeking deep detoxification or a post-workout recovery aid, there's an infrared wave for you.
Infrared Heat vs. Traditional Heat
Infrared heat isn’t like the heat from your oven or a steam sauna. Traditional heat warms the air, which then warms your body. But infrared light, like a well-delivered punchline, goes straight to the heart of the matter—it heats your body directly.4 This direct approach not only makes the heat more bearable but also improves the efficiency of your sauna session. This means you can sweat out your worries and toxins, even at a lower temperature.
Safety of Infrared Saunas
Safety first! The infrared heat used in these saunas is safe, as natural as the far infrared rays from our dear friend, the sun. So safe, in fact, the Mayo Clinic has nodded in agreement, stating that infrared saunas don't carry risks beyond those of regular saunas.5 The light from an infrared sauna is gentle and does not contain the harmful ultraviolet rays that you get from sunbathing. So, you can sweat and detoxify in peace, knowing you're in safe hands.
What Are the Benefits of an Infrared Sauna?
So, what exactly are some of the benefits of infrared saunas? Let’s take a closer look at the science-backed advantages of these powerful wellness tools.
Detoxification
Ever wished you could shake off toxins like a dog shakes off water? Infrared sauna therapy can help! It increases your body temperature, causing you to sweat and release toxins at a cellular level.3 Sweat it out and watch as your body flushes away impurities. Think of it as a full-body cleanse without the tasteless juices.
Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery
Like a trusted friend, the soothing heat from infrared sauna sessions can help comfort and soothe sore muscles and chronic pain. Increased blood circulation, thanks to those far infrared waves, aids muscle recovery.3 Think of it as your personal muscle whisperer, easing tension and promoting relaxation. After all, relaxation isn't a luxury—it's a necessity.
Improved Circulation
Infrared saunas boost blood flow like a well-directed symphony. By raising your core body temperature, infrared heat helps get your blood pumping, which could help with health conditions like high blood pressure.6 Imagine it as your personal cardiovascular workout, stimulating blood flow and delivering oxygen throughout your body. Plus, improved circulation can lead to better skin health, too!
Weight Loss and Metabolism Boost
Who knew sitting and sweating could help you shed pounds? Infrared sauna use can increase heart rate and metabolism, helping your body burn calories—almost like a passive workout. Just like a morning run or an evening bike ride, regular sauna use can help you maintain a healthy weight. Plus, it's a lot more relaxing than hitting the gym, however, using an infrared sauna for weight loss is much more effective in conjunction with healthy eating habits and exercise.
Stress Reduction and Relaxation
In this go-go-go world, everyone could use a little tranquility. Infrared sauna sessions offer a peaceful retreat, promoting stress reduction and relaxation.3 Research has even indicated the potential benefits of an infrared sauna for anxiety, providing a soothing space for the mind to unwind. It's like having your private island getaway, minus the sand in your shoes. Just step inside, close your eyes, and let the gentle heat melt your worries away.
Skin Rejuvenation
Using an infrared sauna for acne or other skin problems can be highly effective as part of a holistic routine. Red light therapy, a type of infrared therapy, can improve skin tone and texture.7 It's like getting the glow of a summer tan without the harmful UV exposure. So, not only will you be feeling good on the inside, but you'll be looking radiant on the outside too!
Components of an Infrared Sauna
Infrared Heating Panels
Infrared heating panels are the heart and soul of the infrared sauna—they emit the infrared radiation that heats your body. These panels evenly disperse heat, so you can say goodbye to cold spots and hello to total body warmth. It's the even, consistent warmth that sets infrared saunas apart.
Sauna Construction and Design
A sauna isn't just a box with a heater. It's a beautifully designed piece of wellness equipment. With an array of sizes, designs, and construction materials, from spectrum infrared saunas to portable infrared sauna blankets, there's a sauna to suit every home and lifestyle. Your personal wellness oasis can fit perfectly in your living room, bedroom, or even a spacious bathroom.
Temperature Control and Settings
Like a well-tuned car, the temperature controls in an infrared sauna let you customize your experience. Whether you prefer a gentle warmth or intense heat, you're in the driver's seat. It's the user-friendly design of infrared saunas that truly makes them a joy to use. Choose your temperature, set the timer, and bask in the healing warmth.
Using an Infrared Sauna
Preparing for Your Sauna Session
Before you dip your toes into the warm embrace of an infrared sauna, be sure to hydrate! Just like prepping for a workout, your body needs plenty of water to compensate for the sweat sesh ahead. Keep a water bottle handy, and remember to drink both before and after your session.
How Long Should You Stay in an Infrared Sauna?
While you might want to bask in the comforting heat forever, it's best to start with sessions of 15-20 minutes. As your body adjusts, you can gradually increase the time to about 30-45 minutes. Remember, it's not a race—it's a journey to wellness. Pay attention to your body's signals, and always step out if you start to feel uncomfortable or dizzy.
Post-Sauna Care and Hydration
Post-sauna care is just as important as the sauna session itself. After sweating out your toxins, hydrate with water or electrolyte-packed drinks. Think of it as refueling your body's tank after a long journey. Just as you'd cool down after a workout, allow your body to cool naturally, and avoid shocking it with a cold shower immediately after your session.
Is an Infrared Sauna Right for You?
Evaluating Your Health Goals
Are you seeking relief from chronic pain, looking to boost your mood, or perhaps aiming for a natural detox? Evaluating your health goals can help determine if infrared sauna use is right for you. It's not about jumping on a trend—it's about making an informed decision for your well-being.
Budget and Space Considerations
From the compact infrared sauna blanket to the larger spectrum infrared sauna, there's an option for every budget and space. Just like finding the right pair of shoes, it's all about fit and comfort. Ensure your chosen sauna not only fits your available space but also meets your needs and preferences.
Embracing the Power of Infrared Saunas with Lifepro
Whether it's the allure of detoxification, the promise of pain relief, or the tranquil oasis from stress, infrared saunas offer a smorgasbord of health benefits. And with Lifepro's selection of portable saunas, you can bring the healing power of infrared heat into your own home. It's like having a wellness spa at your fingertips. Welcome to the future of self-care!
So, next time you find yourself asking, "What is an infrared sauna?" think of it as a personal haven, a space designed to support your body's health and wellbeing. With Lifepro, embracing the radiant warmth of an infrared sauna has never been easier, or more rewarding. Dive in, and let the journey to wellness begin! It's time to feel the glow of health and wellness radiate from within.
Sources:
- Hussain J, Cohen M. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 Apr 24;2018:1857413. doi: 10.1155/2018/1857413. PMID: 29849692; PMCID: PMC5941775. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941775/
- Admin. 2018. “Infrared Radiation - Electromagnetic Waves.” BYJUS. Byju’s. August 2, 2018. https://byjus.com/physics/infrared-radiation/
- Wilson, Lawrence. "Far-infrared sauna therapy." Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, no. 232, Nov. 2002, pp. 84+. Gale Academic OneFile, https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A93736414/AONE?u=anon~a39aa0c8&sid=googleScholar&xid=aaf5b7a7
- Young, M.D., Melissa. 2022. “Why Infrared Saunas Are ‘Cooler’ than Traditional Saunas.” Cleveland Clinic. April 14, 2022. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/infrared-sauna-benefits/
- Bauer, M.D., Brent. n.d. “Do Infrared Saunas Have Any Health Benefits?” Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/infrared-sauna/faq-20057954
- Lin CC, Chang CF, Lai MY, Chen TW, Lee PC, Yang WC. Far-infrared therapy: a novel treatment to improve access blood flow and unassisted patency of arteriovenous fistula in hemodialysis patients. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2007 Mar;18(3):985-92. doi: 10.1681/ASN.2006050534. Epub 2007 Jan 31. PMID: 17267744. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17267744/
- Barolet D, Christiaens F, Hamblin MR. Infrared and skin: Friend or foe. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2016 Feb;155:78-85. doi: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2015.12.014. Epub 2015 Dec 21. PMID: 26745730; PMCID: PMC4745411. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4745411/
Author
Joel Gottehrer is the Co-Founder of Lifepro Fitness and has dedicated his life to helping people transform theirs. With over 12 years of experience in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and owner of two personal training studios, Joel has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to helping transform lives. After suffering from physical injuries, Joel and his business partner, Abraham Brach, came together with a common goal to alleviate the pain caused by their injuries.
They continued to find themselves disappointed with the results stemming from various products promising to relieve their pain, and with that – Lifepro Fitness was born. Joel's mission is to have a positive impact on millions of lives with the Lifepro brand. Whether it's finding new and innovative ways to help people recover from injuries or developing products to improve overall wellness, Joel is always looking for ways to push the boundaries. Thanks to his commitment to help people live their lives free of pain, Lifepro has been able to do this for thousands of people since its founding in 2017.
