Discover the Health Benefits of Using an Infrared sauna
Infrared saunas, a modern evolution in wellness technology, offer many health benefits that extend beyond traditional sauna experiences. These saunas use infrared light to warm the body directly, providing a range of therapeutic advantages, including enhanced muscular recovery, improved skin health, and additional benefits for cardiovascular health, detoxification, and mental well-being.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared saunas are a style of sauna that utilise infrared waves to generate heat in the body. These waves penetrate the body's tissues without the potentially uncomfortable heat experienced when using traditional saunas.
This is because infrared saunas don't significantly heat the air around you but instead provide a more direct and efficient heating method.
Temperatures in infrared saunas typically land between 110 degrees Fahrenheit and 135 F (43.33 degrees Celsius and 57.22 C), making it more comfortable for those who struggle to remain in high-temperature environments.
Health Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy
Infrared saunas offer a range of holistic health benefits, making it a popular approach to wellness. Infrared saunas unique approach contributes to the following benefits:
Improved Circulation: Infrared saunas have been shown to increase blood flow, similar to the effects of moderate exercise. This improved circulation can lead to better oxygenation of tissues and aid in overall cardiovascular health.
Pain Relief: The heat from infrared saunas can alleviate muscle soreness and joint pain. This heat can enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and help with chronic pain conditions like arthritis.
Relaxation: Infrared sauna sessions can be a relaxing experience, which can help reduce stress. Similarly, the heat helps to soothe nerves and muscles, further promoting relaxation.
Skin Health: Regular use of infrared saunas can improve skin tone. Similarly, it can influence skin elasticity. Sweating helps open pores and cleanse the skin, potentially reducing acne and giving a clearer complexion.
There are additional benefits that we'll dive into in more detail below.
How Infrared Saunas Improve Cardiovascular Health
Infrared saunas may also positively impact cardiovascular health. The heat mimics the effects of mild exercise by increasing heart rate and promoting blood circulation. This cardiovascular workout can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and enhance overall heart health, making it a valuable tool for those looking to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
Alleviating Joint Pain and Arthritis with Infrared Heat
Infrared saunas may help people with rheumatoid arthritis heal tissue, improve mobility, and reduce pain. Studies have shown that ten patients with chronic fatigue syndrome were given infrared sauna treatments once a day, five times a week for a month, with the researchers noting that "perceived fatigue levels significantly decreased after therapy," and that "no patients reported any adverse effects during therapy".
Evidence suggests the sauna is good for arthritis symptoms, including pain management and joint stiffness. A pilot study from Clinical Rheumatology found a "significant" impact on the short-term improvement of pain and stiffness decreased clinically in people with arthritis. Authors note a "trend towards long-term beneficial effects" of infrared sauna use for these patients and the fact that infrared saunas have had "no adverse effects" for the users. They also pointed out that their results indicated that "fatigue also decreased" in their patients.
Another study from the University of Twente asked people with rheumatoid arthritis to measure and rate their pain before and after sauna bathing, with their results showing that "pain and stiffness improved significantly during treatment," with the average improvement rate anywhere between 40-60% for arthritis pains. The authors noted that "infrared whole-body hyperthermia has statistically significant positive direct effects upon pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis patients."
Enhancing Blood Flow and Circulation through Infrared Sauna Use
Infrared saunas excel in aiding muscular recovery. The deep penetrating heat helps soothe muscle aches and reduces inflammation by increasing blood circulation. This enhanced blood flow delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to tired muscles, accelerating healing and reducing recovery time. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts find infrared saunas particularly beneficial to ease muscle tension and promote faster recovery from intense workouts.
The Detoxification Power of Sweating in an Infrared Sauna
Another significant benefit is the sauna's ability to aid in detoxification. Sweating is one of the body's natural ways to eliminate toxins. The deep sweat induced by infrared saunas helps expel toxins at a greater level than traditional saunas, aiding in detoxification and improving overall health.
Infrared Saunas Impact on Mental Well-being
Beyond physical benefits, infrared saunas offer a sanctuary for mental relaxation. The warm, quiet space is ideal for reducing stress, anxiety, and fatigue. This mental relaxation can profoundly affect overall well-being, contributing to better sleep, improved mood, and a general sense of calm.
Skin Health and Anti-Aging with Infrared Saunas
The skin health benefits of infrared saunas are manifold. The heat helps open pores, removing dirt, oil, and other impurities, leading to clearer and more radiant skin. The increased blood circulation also stimulates collagen production, which is vital for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Regular use can reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of ageing, giving the skin a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
Dry Heat vs Steam: Which is Right for You?
Whether you choose between dry heat and steam saunas depends entirely on your preference. Infrared saunas opt for dry heat to provide a heat experience - excellent for detoxification through deep sweating and to provide the myriad of benefits we've already noted. Dry heat is also often more bearable for those with respiratory issues as it doesn't involve humidity.
On the other hand, steam rooms use moist heat and are known for their respiratory benefits. The humid air is excellent for clearing congestion and hydrating the skin and can also help with some symptoms of asthma or bronchitis. Some may also find steam more relaxing, further reducing stress.
Safety Measures and Best Practices for Infrared Sauna Use
Like all therapies and recovery modalities, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting, especially if you have a preexisting health condition or you are pregnant.
Shorter sessions - around 15-20 minutes - are recommended for beginners to get used to the environment. You can then gradually increase the duration to 30 minutes max once you've built a tolerance for the heat.
Avoid using the sauna after intense workouts or if you're feeling unwell. Similarly, it's vital to exit immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncomfortable.
Once your session has ended, allow time to cool down and always ensure to sit on a clean towel.
Maintaining Hydration: Why Drinking Plenty of Water is Crucial
The increased sweating while using the infrared sauna leads to a significant loss of fluids. Proper hydration enhances the detoxifying effects and helps you regulate your body temperature. Maintaining adequate hydration prevents dehydration-related health issues like dizziness or heat exhaustion.
Similarly, we advise you to drink at least a glass or two of water before entering the sauna to prepare your body for sweating. Having water on hand during the session is also imperative, especially in longer sessions.
Post-sauna hydration is also vital to replenish fluids and to help flush out remaining toxins.
Are Infrared Saunas for you?
Infrared saunas have many benefits for those looking to take a holistic approach to wellness. Whether you're looking to capitalise on the anti-ageing effects or for pain relief and everything in between, infrared saunas can be a great recovery option.
As noted, ensure you take proper precautions when entering the sauna. It can be easy to let the time pass by or forget to drink water, which can significantly affect your health. Check with a healthcare professional before the first session and enjoy.
