Infrared saunas are a type of sauna that utilizes light to create heat. Sometimes infrared saunas are called far-infrared saunas (far refers to where the infrared waves fall on the light spectrum). While traditional saunas use heat to warm the air, infrared saunas use light to warm your body. An infrared sauna can heat your body directly without warming the air around your body.
Infrared is safe. So much so that it is used in hospitals to keep newborn babies warm! Infrared light and infrared saunas have been researched and studied for some time now. Health care professionals like doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists incorporate infrared into their daily practices. You’ll find infrared being used in clinics and hospitals worldwide for pain treatment, skin conditions, to increase flexibility, and for general enhanced wellness.
If you are considering using an infrared sauna, you are probably interested in self-care practices and wellness. Infrared saunas are a fantastic tool for your health and well-being. They can help to get you feeling your absolute best!
What Is Infrared Sauna Good For?
Some of the health benefits of using an infrared sauna include:
- Detoxification
- Minimizing stress and reducing fatigue
- Helping manage muscle aches, arthritis, and joint relief
- Can aid in weight loss and calorie burning
- Increased metabolism
- Immune system support
- Relief for some skin conditions
- Improved heart health
- Decreased appearance of cellulite
- Diabetes support
Does Infrared Sauna Therapy Work?
One of the most appealing feats of saunas, in general, is that they can help elicit reactions in the body similar to the effects of exercise. These effects include sweating and increased heart rate. Infrared saunas use lower temperatures than traditional saunas to produce these results. This makes it more tolerable for those who are heat-sensitive. But are there any real health benefits to using infrared sauna therapy?
Several studies have delved deeper into the science of using infrared saunas to treat chronic health problems. One study has even reported improvements in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. While there has been some evidence of health benefits to certain health conditions using infrared sauna therapy, more research is needed to confirm these results. More importantly, there have been no adverse effects reported with infrared saunas. One thing that’s sure is that infrared sauna therapy is an excellent option for relaxation.
Does Infrared Sauna Therapy Work?
If you are considering infrared sauna therapy, you might be wondering if there is an optimal amount recommended for sessions. There is no magic number for the ideal number of sessions per week. But our saunas are safe for daily use. You will notice wellness improvements sooner if you use infrared sauna therapy every day. Most people, on average, use 3-4 times a week for 30-45 minute sessions.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Remember to hydrate when using an infrared sauna, especially for extended periods. Adequate hydration is the key to optimizing infrared sauna therapy outcomes. It would be best if you hydrated before and after each session. Refrain from alcohol or other substances. Infrared saunas are also not recommended if you are not feeling well.
Is It Normal to Get a Shallow Sweat During Your First Session?
If you are new to infrared therapy, your body may need time to adjust. During the first session(s), it’s possible for you only to have a shallow sweat. That’s completely normal. Just give your body time to acclimate and adjust to infrared. Don’t forget to stay hydrated. After a while, your body will produce deep, purifying sweat. This type of sweat can leave you feeling more refreshed and revitalized after an infrared session.
The Best Way to Recharge After a Session
It’s normal to continue sweating for a while after you get out of an infrared sauna. This is because your core body temperature needs time to cool down. Use a towel to pat dry gently, and then get in the shower when you’re ready. A shower will not only be invigorating but also help wash away the toxins you released while sweating.
Hydrate again after you’ve showered. Your body will excrete electrolytes while you sweat, so it’s vital to replenish those electrolytes. Although the current research does not suggest any harm from using saunas every day, it’s still important to use common sense. Take precautions to avoid overheating and dehydration. Be sure to familiarize yourself with recommended infrared sauna protocol before using it.
Do Infrared Saunas Burn Fat?
Your body expands extra energy while producing sweat. This causes your basal metabolic rate (BMR) to rise. Increased metabolic rate means more efficient calorie burning and, as a result, assists in weight loss.
Some studies have shown supporting evidence that infrared saunas can burn calories at a rate of up to 600 calories an hour. Studies also suggest it might even keep your heart rate elevated for up to 30 minutes after a session. Infrared sauna therapy can be more effective than a gym session since your BMR stays elevated beyond the actual infrared session.
A more obvious way that infrared sauna can help with weight loss is by shedding water weight. Our bodies can hold up to five pounds of water weight. You can lose weight by increasing physical activity or using an infrared sauna to induce sweat. Keep in mind that water weight is easy to gain and lose. Don’t be alarmed when you see that you’ve gained back the water weight you lost as soon as you hydrate yourself again. Always remember to hydrate yourself before and after every sauna session.
Does Infrared Sauna Give You Vitamin D?
Many people are vitamin D deficient and unaware of it. Vitamin D is an essential building block in your immune system critical for good bone, teeth, and skin health. Vitamin D can even help reduce your risk of certain types of cancer. Infrared sauna naturally rejuvenates skin and boosts Vitamin D levels.
Enhanced Wellness Infrared Sauna Therapy Services
Book your appointment for Infrared Sauna Therapy at Enhanced Wellness today if you are ready to:
- sweat out toxins and detox heavy metals
- unburden your body from stress, soreness, and free radicals
- relax and unwind as your body burns calories and alleviates inflammation
- experience minor pain relief
- accelerate athletic recovery
- boost circulation and cardiovascular health
All in under an hour! The best investment you can make is in yourself and your health. Call us today to book your appointment.