The health benefits of sauna bathing have long been celebrated — and infrared saunas are growing in popularity due to their potential and promise as a modern wellness solution. What are infrared saunas, how do they work, and what are the benefits they offer?
What Are Infrared Saunas?
Infrared saunas are dry saunas that have lamps that emit infrared light. This light penetrates directly into the skin, warming the body without heating the surrounding air. While traditional saunas heat the air, infrared saunas rely on light wave technology to heat the body directly.
Because the surrounding air temperature is lower, you might find that an infrared sauna is more comfortable than a traditional sauna. But that’s not the only benefit you could discover from trying this modern update to an age-old health practice.
Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas offer many potential benefits for your mental and physical health, including:
· Pain Relief - Saunas are also known for relieving pain and discomfort, especially for people living with arthritis. When infrared light penetrates deeply into the body, it helps increase circulation and promote muscle relaxation. The increase in circulation and enhanced muscle relaxation can help alleviate joint pain, muscle soreness, and arthritis.
· Improved Circulation - The heat from the infrared light increases your body’s core temperature, which boosts circulation. This effect is similar to the increase in blood flow you experience during exercise. Improved circulation helps support the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and organs throughout your body.
· Weight Loss and Metabolism Boost - When you step out of an infrared sauna and your body works to cool itself, your heart rate and metabolic rate increase. These increases cause your body to burn more calories, which can help support weight loss.
· Skin Rejuvenation- Regularly using infrared saunas can positively impact the health of your skin. Sweating and increased circulation not only help flush out impurities in the skin but also deliver much-needed nutrients. Routine sauna use may also combat sebum production and offer an overall protective effect for the skin.
· Stress Reduction and Relaxation - Infrared saunas are great for your physical health, but they also benefit your mental well-being! The gentle heat helps relax your muscles, relieving tension throughout your body. The peace and quiet of the sauna can also help calm your mind. Many individuals report that time in infrared saunas is a great way to kick back and relax.
· Immune System Boost - The increase in your core body temperature from an infrared sauna can help your body produce more white blood cells and antibodies, which can strengthen your immune system. Sauna bathing also reduces oxidative stress, which is linked to conditions like dementia and cancer.
· Improved Sleep - Many individuals who regularly use infrared saunas report improvements in their sleep. By helping users relax and combat stress, infrared saunas can contribute to better, deeper sleep. The calming effect of the heat helps your body prepare for rest, which can make it easier for you to not only fall asleep but stay asleep.
· Social and Emotional Benefits -Beyond the physical and mental benefits of saunas are the social and emotional ones! Share a sauna session with a family member or friends you want to bond with.
Are There Drawbacks to Infrared Saunas?
You should use an infrared sauna with caution, as heat therapy can be risky for people living with certain conditions. In particular, you shouldn’t use a sauna if you are pregnant or currently sick. If you have a preexisting condition, ask your doctor whether sauna use is a good activity to try.
Additionally, stay aware of the risk of dehydration and overheating. Leave the sauna immediately if you feel dizzy or nauseated.
Visiting an Infrared Sauna
Begin by using an infrared sauna in small doses. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the length over time. Start with a lower temperature as well. Some experts recommend setting the sauna to 110 degrees Fahrenheit and starting with 5- to 10-minute sessions a few times a week.
It’s important that you also stay hydrated before, during, and after your session. Drink lots of water before your session to prepare, and continue drinking water after the session. And since alcohol can contribute to dehydration, you should never drink it before or during a sauna session.
Wear clothing that is lightweight and breathable. Often, even wearing just a towel wrapped around you is acceptable.
Enjoy the Health Benefits
Infrared saunas are accessible ways for you to boost your health physically, mentally, and emotionally. They provide a relaxing, effective experience and a range of health benefits. If you’re looking for a wellness boost, give infrared saunas a go!
Resource Links
- “Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors” via National Library of Medicine
- “Infrared Saunas: What They Do and 6 Health Benefits” via Cleveland Clinic
- “Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review” via National Library of Medicine
- “Infrared sauna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis” via National Library of Medicine
- “A hot topic for health: Results of the Global Sauna Survey” via ScienceDirect
- “Effect of regular sauna on epidermal barrier function and stratum corneum water-holding capacity in vivo in humans: a controlled study” via National Library of Medicine
