Traditional saunas and their numerous health benefits to the body date back to as early as the 12th century. The idea of saunas can even be traced back to ancient Roman culture as they regularly enjoyed their steamy public bathhouses.
Over time, however, a new and improved sauna has recently grown in popularity and is praised for providing similar, if not better, health benefits than a traditional sauna.
Infrared (Ir) saunas are now becoming the choice of heat as scientists and doctors continue to study their various healing properties.
Today, I’m going to share with you some of the fantastic benefits of infrared sauna lamps and how they can improve your overall physical health.
What is the Difference Between an Infrared Sauna vs. a Traditional Sauna?
You might be wondering what the difference is between these two types of saunas.
The traditional saunas you find at your local gym or spa are recognized for helping the body relax, sweat out toxins, relieve sore muscles, and improve overall health. These types of saunas are typically set at 150-180 degrees and use steam to heat the air around the body.
On the other hand, infrared saunas offer the same health benefits of a traditional sauna (if not more according to some experts) by using infrared sauna lamps to heat the body directly as opposed to the air. These types of saunas are also significantly lower in temperature than traditional saunas being set at around 120-140 degrees.
What are the Benefits of Infrared Saunas?
Infrared saunas are ideal for those who can’t handle the heat of a traditional sauna but are still looking to gain the same benefits.
Some experts say that infrared saunas could be better for the body as the heat near infrared sauna lamps penetrates the body on a deeper level, even more so than the air of your traditional sauna.
This not only allows you to expose your body to a more significant amount of heat, but it helps you to stay in the sauna longer and absorb even more benefits.
Other advantages of using infrared saunas include:
- detoxification
- better sleep and relaxation
- promotes the immune system
- deep tissue relief and faster muscle recovery
- heals scars and helps support clear, tight skin
- reduces inflammation in the body
- improves circulation and blood flow
- boosts metabolism and aids in weight loss
- relieves joint pain caused by arthritis
- lowers blood pressure and improves heart health
Infrared saunas also provide similar benefits to that of moderate exercise and can help increase heart rate and perspiration, resulting in calories burned and fat loss.
While scientists and doctors are still studying the many benefits of infrared saunas, rest assured that they have found no adverse side effects apart from normal overuse, such as heat exhaustion and dehydration.
How to Use an Infrared Sauna
Many places now offer the infrared sauna experience, such as doctors, spas, health clubs, and more. Some places even offer various infrared sauna light therapy colors, which can provide new and improved benefits.
Infrared sauna light colors can range from a variety of colors such as red, yellow, blue, green, and more. Each color is believed to help restore the body differently and improve overall wellness.
Guidelines for Using Infrared Sauna Lamps
Infrared saunas, like traditional saunas, come with suggested guidelines. Many companies who make and sell infrared saunas recommend that if you’re a beginner to increase your temperature and duration throughout multiple sessions slowly.
Since Ir sauna lamps are typically set to around 100-50 degrees, beginners are encouraged to start at the lower end of the spectrum and gradually work their way up.
If you’re new to the infrared sauna experience, start at about 10-15 minutes for your first session and then increase your time to 20-30 minutes as you become more comfortable. You can even track your time in the sauna by using the timer inside if that feature is available.
Some people can work their way up to using an infrared sauna 3-4 times a week. However, some people choose to practice it daily.
Be Mindful Before You Use an Infrared Sauna
There are a few key rules to be mindful of before using an infrared sauna.
If you have used alcohol or are sick and have a fever, refrain from using the sauna as you could become dehydrated and more ill.
Also, if you have any underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart problems, be sure to talk to your doctor before using an infrared sauna regularly.
Some people also experience dehydration when using saunas, so stay hydrated by drinking a glass of water before and after your session. You can even bring a glass of water into the sauna with you as well if need be to prevent feeling lightheaded when you stand up to exit the sauna.
Last but not least, relax and enjoy yourself. You can enter the sauna in your bathing suit or without clothes if you prefer. You can pass the time by meditating, listening to music, or by inviting a friend to sit in with you and chat.
Once your body has cooled down post-sauna, stay hydrated, take a shower, and reap the many benefits throughout the rest of the week.
Try an Infrared Sauna Yourself
Now that you know all about the benefits of infrared sauna lamps, I bet you’re ready to get out there and experience it for yourself. If you do, I’m sure you’ll leave feeling just as good as before you entered.
I encourage you to get out there and find a local infrared sauna near you. Better yet, install one for yourself in your home and use it as often as possible.
If you’d like to read more articles about how you can improve your overall physical and mental health, feel free to check out the “lifestyle” section on our blog.