Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas

Far infrared saunas have become popular among health enthusiasts and those who simply want to live a healthier life. Far-infrared saunas provide a more comfortable experience than traditional saunas since the surrounding air stays cool and dry, while to body itself gets heated. The health benefits of Far-infrared saunas are numerous, but in this article, we will be focusing on the most important ones.

What is far infrared?

Far infrared saunas or heat therapy rooms are different from traditional saunas in that they heat the body directly rather than heating the air around your body. In a far-infrared sauna, only 20% of the heat generated is lost to the air in the room, while the remaining 80% heats up your body. This radiant heat penetrates the skin more deeply than traditional saunas, allowing the sauna to have a more potent effect at a lower temperature. Far-infrared saunas are often more tolerable than traditional dry or wet saunas because the air around the body is not heated.

Are Far-infrared Saunas Good for Your Health?

Potential Benefits

There are numerous health benefits associated with far-infrared saunas. Far-infrared saunas may assist in relieving pain, reduce stress, improve aesthetics as well as other advantages that can help with various medical conditions.

1. Better Skin :

   1. Stimulates the mitochondria to boost ATP which promote healing, DNA repair and cellular regeneration.

   2. Decreases tissue and skin inflammation and accelerates wound healing -Promotes collagen and elastin production that helps your skin become firmer, suppler, and younger-looking.

   3. Increases circulation of blood and improves cellular oxygenation.

   4. Improves overall skin clarity, tone, texture, and resilience.

2.   Blood Pressure:

   1. Far-infrared improve blood flow and circulation.

   2. Research found that Infrared sauna therapy can decreased blood pressure in those who suffer from High Blood Pressure.

3. Detoxification:

   1. -        It’s no secret that sweating helps rid the body of toxins. According to a 2012 review published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health certain chemicals like arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury, are found in sweat. Further research found that induced sweating is a potential method for eliminating BPA, a chemical contaminant associated with several adverse effects on the body.

4. Heart Health

5. According to a study conducted in Finland, more frequent sauna use was associated with a reduced risk of death from heart disease and stroke. The study found that men who frequented a sauna 4 to 7 times each week had the lowest mortality rate.

6. Another study that investigated the relationship between the regular use of far infrared saunas by men with coronary risk factors found that infrared sauna therapy improved risk by reducing blood vessel hardening and inflammation.

7. Chronic Disease management

   1. Since far-infrared saunas use more tolerable temperatures, they are more accessible to those who cannot tolerate extreme heat. Researchers are still investigating the role of infrared therapies in the management of chronic disease. Some of their findings include reduced pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and improved mood in people with chronic fatigue; Reduced blood pressure and waist circumference in diabetics; a reduced risk of developing an acute or chronic respiratory conditions in middle aged men; and significant short term health benefits for those with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

8. Pain Relief

   1. Far-infrared is most famous for improving muscle recovery after exercise. Anecdotal reports suggest a decrease in pain and inflammation after intense exercise when a workout is followed by a session in the sauna.

9. Weight loss

   1. Far-infrared sauna session is an ideal addon treatment to your current weight loss program. Infrared saunas are ideal for quickly loosing those extra pounds of retained water while burning some additional calories.

Risks and Side Effects

Most researchers investigating the health benefits of far infrared saunas note that few side effects are associated with their use. However, to stay safe, there are some factors to keep in mind.

Dehydration: It's possible to become dehydrated if you don't drink enough water, so be sure to drink plenty of water before and after your session.

Light-headedness: Even if you hydrate properly, light-headedness may occur. It's recommended to move slowly both in the sauna and as you move out to prevent falling or collapsing.

Overheating: If you are not used to using any type of sauna, there is a risk of overheating. That's why it's important to keep sessions short when you begin. Use the lowest heat setting, if possible.

Who Should Avoid Far Infrared

Certain people should exercise caution when using any type of sauna, including a far infrared sauna. These include:

-        People with serious heart condition

-        People taking diuretics, barbiturates or beta-blockers should be careful, as these medications may reduce the body’s ability to produce enough sweat to regulate your core temperature.

-        People who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Always speak with your healthcare provider before using any therapies for enjoyment or as treatment.

How to prepare for your Infrared Session:

You'll use the infrared sauna the same way that you would use a traditional sauna, except that the temperature most likely won't be as high.

Before you try an infrared sauna for the first time, follow these steps to stay safe and make the most out of your session:

1)     Make sure you drink plenty of water beforehand.

2)     Try and shower before you go.

3)     Choose a safe temperature and progressively work yourself up.

4)     Start with a shorter session and progressively work yourself up.

5)     Make sure you drink plenty of water afterwards, to ensure your body recovers afterwards.

6)     We will provide you with towels, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

7)     We also have private showers available for you to clean up before heading back.

8)     You can also bring along a friend, so you have someone to chat with during your session.

Are you ready to book your next Far-infrared Sauna session?