INFRARED SAUNA

It seems only fair that since we dedicated a whole blog to the benefits of a cold plunge, we also chat about the benefits of an Infrared Sauna! 

For thousands of years, saunas have been used to relieve stress and increase relaxation and detoxification. 

Because the traditional sauna has been around for so long, there is tons of research and science backing the benefits. Spending time in the sauna is linked to things like decreasing the risk of dementia, improving skin health, lowering blood pressure, removing certain toxins through sweat and improving your immune system. 

Light therapy has become very common and is often paired with the sauna. This combo is the Infrared Sauna.

An infrared sauna uses light that emits electromagnetic wavelengths to penetrate your skin and soft tissue, heating the body from the inside out. 

These wavelengths are absorbed by your body to help relax, improve circulation, improve heart health, recover faster, detox and help with healthy aging. 

By increasing your body’s core temperature, you are also promoting blood redistribution and increasing your sweat. This increases your heart rate, blood pressure and cardiac output. If you are consistent your body will also become more efficient at responding to heat stress. 

A few more infrared sauna benefits include: 

• Burning calories

• Sweat and detox

• Mental and cognitive health 

• Pain management and reduced inflammation 

It is recommended that when you first start, you should start slow. Begin with a goal of 25-30 minutes at 140 degrees, and adjust based on your comfort level throughout your session. Eventually, you can get up to 45-minute sessions twice weekly.  

No matter where you are starting with saunas, it is important to hydrate before, during and after your session. You can even drink some electrolytes after your sauna session to help replenish the good things you might have sweat out.

And, lucky for us, because this is becoming more and more common — Infrared sauna spas are popping up all over! 

As always, consult with your doctor before you jump right in!