Infrared Saunas: Therapy Beyond What You Have Imagined

Saunas have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, detoxification, and healing. Traditionally, they have used rocks or stoves to heat the air, which in turn heats the body. However, in recent years, infrared saunas have emerged as a popular and safe alternative to traditional saunas. They use infrared light to create heat that the body absorbs as heat energy. In this blog we further explore the differences between traditional and infrared saunas and explain the types of infrared saunas and their benefits.

Differences between a traditional and an infrared sauna

Facts are facts, so let’s get one thing straight: An infrared sauna is definitely “cooler” than the more traditional sauna. Instead of steam or flame-stoked heat to raise the temperature of the surrounding air, it uses infrared lamps and electromagnetic magic to create warmth that penetrates deep into the body. The process allows the infrared sauna to operate at a lower temperature while still providing therapeutic benefits. Consider it a modern twist on how our ancestors sweated their way to better health and wellness.

Infrared sauna technology uses infrared waves to directly heat the body, without warming the air around it as much as the traditional sauna. But, don’t worry! You’ll still sweat! While traditional sauna temps average 150-180 degrees Fahrenheit, infrared averages 115-140 degrees Fahrenheit, generally making it tolerable for even people sensitive to heat to reap the benefits.

One of the biggest and most beneficial differences is the ability of the heat generated by the infrared sauna to penetrate deep into the body, having some effects at the cellular level. This means that they can help to increase circulation, which in turn can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Furthermore, infrared sauna therapy can help to improve the immune system, reduce fatigue, and even boost metabolism! By promoting the release of toxins through sweat, the toxin burden is decreased. Continue reading for more benefits!

Lastly, for those of you looking for home use, infrared saunas are much easier to install and use than traditional saunas. They do not require any special ventilation or plumbing, and they can be set up in almost any room of your house… or even outside! They are more convenient, more effective, and more accessible, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being.

Types of infrared heat

Infrared sauna heaters can deliver three levels of infrared heat, each with its unique benefits. The most beneficial of the infrared saunas combines all three and provides what is referred to as full-spectrum.

• Near-infrared
  • the shortest wavelength, penetrating and absorbed below the surface of the skin; the sun emits nearly half of its total energy in this spectrum. This provides various skin benefits by stimulating collagen production and cell regeneration. Also excellent for energy production and wound healing -the rebuilding of damaged joints and cartilage.

• Mid-infrared
  • you may have guessed, a mid-length wavelength, penetrates deeper (than near-infrared) into the body’s soft tissue, increasing circulation and releasing oxygen to reach injured areas; also boosts metabolism, decreases inflammation, and speeds the healing process.

• Far-infrared
  • the longest, and closest of the wavelengths to the infrared heat the human body emits; stimulates vasodilation, which in turn increases blood flow throughout the body. It penetrates and is mainly absorbed by the water within our bodies, and activates the sweat glands. This allows for deep heat penetration, raising core body temperature, causing a profuse sweat and detoxification at a cellular level. This is the most effective at weight loss, muscle recovery, pain relief, and stress relief.
    
    

At CenterLine Wellness, we have incorporated a full-spectrum luxurious sanctuary, offering a combination of all three types of infrared heat for maximum benefits! Near, mid, and far-infrared heat is emitted all at once, providing the FULL range of benefits! Our infrared sauna is available for use from 20 minutes to 45 minutes per session and can be booked HERE.

Chromotherapy: How is it beneficial?

Chromotherapy, also known as color therapy, is a form of alternative medicine that uses light and color to provide energy and healing. With the use of chromotherapy, infrared saunas can provide an even deeper therapeutic experience. When the sauna is heated, the colors of the lights create a calming mood and the associated energy of the color can help to heal the body. The colors can also help to reduce stress and fatigue and improve mood and mental clarity. Additionally, colors can be used to target specific areas of the body to help promote healing and relaxation. For example, blue can be used to reduce inflammation, yellow to stimulate the nervous system, and green to calm the mind. See a full-color chart and additional information HERE.

At CenterLine Wellness, our full-spectrum infrared sauna includes a fully-customizable medical-grade chromotherapy experience. BOOK HERE.

Infrared sauna health benefits

More and more people are discovering the many benefits of infrared saunas! From relaxation and detoxification to improved circulation and skin health, infrared saunas offer a wide range of health benefits. Not only are they a great way to relax and unwind after a stressful day, but they are also a great way to cleanse the body of toxins. In fact, why not reap the benefits of energy production they offer and incorporate a session at the beginning of your day? We have one conveniently located at 267 Smithtown Boulevard in Nesconset!

Improved heart health

Within minutes of sitting in an infrared sauna, the body’s natural response begins. Beads of sweat appear on the skin and blood vessels widen and increase blood flow. Heart rate ticks up. What is occurring is mimicking exercise when you think of physiology -and there is certainly a benefit to that! Studies show that infrared sauna therapy can help boost heart health and reduce blood pressure. Researchers equated the physical response of an infrared sauna session to walking at a moderate pace.

Soothing of sore muscles

The improved blood circulation brought on by an infrared sauna session can help speed up muscle recovery following physical activity. It does this by penetrating deep into the injured muscles, tissues, and joints which increases blood flow and circulation, which in turn decreases inflammation. Staying hydrated is key, too!

Weight loss

Watery fat and cellulite deposits begin breaking up into smaller water clusters as core body temperature reaches approximately 100.5 degrees F. (It is important to never allow body temperature above 102 deg. F.) Regular use of an infrared sauna helps to move an individual out of plateau weight loss by burning additional calories, reducing levels of visceral fat cells and decreasing weight over time.

Pain relief

Researchers found that infrared sauna therapy may be a promising method for the treatment of chronic pain. The determination followed a two-year study where people showed improved outcomes with the treatment. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis have been shown to beneficially respond to the use of infrared sauna therapy. As with other benefits, this comes about partially due to decreased systemic inflammation.

Relaxation

Warming your body seems to warm your soul, too. Setting aside some sauna time may help decrease depression, anxiety and stress. These effects are attributed to a balance in the body’s level of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Think of it as a meditation session in warmer temperatures. Listening to an audiobook or playing your favorite music may provide added benefit.

Catching ZZZs

A bonus to being more relaxed? Better sleep! The use of this type of therapy encourages the development of stress-fighting hormones. This leads to an increased likelihood of a full night’s quality sleep, which in turn, helps to regulate your mental state. It’s a win-win-win!

Fighting off illness

Regular use of a sauna can help ward off the common cold by reducing oxidative stress. This type of stress is essentially an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects. Oxidative stress is mainly accumulated through lifestyle choices. It is associated with cardiovascular disease, cancer and degenerative diseases such as dementia.

Tips for using infrared saunas

Start low and slow. Dial down the temperature and keep sessions short when you begin using an infrared sauna. Start near 110 degrees for 10 minutes, see how it feels, then build from there. After you begin to break a sweat, a 20-30 minute session is recommended. After becoming acclimated to infrared heat, users average 25-45 minute sessions. 

1. Stay hydrated. Sweat during a session can leave the body’s fluid levels low. Bring water to the session. Afterward, it’s advisable to drink a (low-sugar/no-sugar) electrolyte-laden drink to replenish.
   
   
2. Avoid alcohol. Alcohol may lead to dehydration and potentiate the (already known) effect of low blood pressure.
   
   
3. Do not overheat. Take care not to overheat during the first few sessions. If you feel lightheaded, have a queasy stomach, or start to get a headache, terminate the session immediately. As the body continues to adjust, sweating can increase dramatically and body temperature regulation becomes more effective.
   
   
4. If the sauna cabin temperature becomes too hot for your comfort, or the cabin becomes ‘stuffy’, slide open the ceiling vent or just open the door for a minute or so, to let some fresh air inside.
   
   
5. Sauna Apparel. Lightweight shorts and a tee shirt are ok. Swimsuits are better. “Birthday Suit” is fine, too. A fresh towel on the sauna bench is a must to catch perspiration and for hygienic purposes.
   
   
6. If the sauna cabin temperature becomes too hot for your comfort, or the cabin becomes ‘stuffy’, slide open the ceiling vent or just open the door for a minute or so, to let some fresh air inside.
   
   
7. When finished with your sauna session, it is important to relax and cool down while the body continues to perspire.

Risks of infrared saunas

Sauna use is viewed as a safe activity, which explains why they’ve been around for thousands of years. However, it is important to always be aware of the potential for dehydration. If you suddenly feel dizzy or nauseated, get out of the sauna immediately, alert someone, and begin re-hydrating slowly. It is important also to not rehydrate too quickly or with too much plain water. Coconut water, herbal iced teas and fruit-infused water all have added benefits! Electrolyte replacement is a must!

Sauna use is contraindicated in certain situations:

• Impaired sweat function. There are several conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, that contribute to this.
• Pregnancy. Especially early in pregnancy, sauna use can be harmful to the fetus and may cause birth defects according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
• Attempting to conceive. Heat may not be beneficial for sperm health.
• Sickness/fever.
• Certain cardiovascular conditions.
  
  

If you have any pre-existing medical condition(s), always check with your healthcare provider before starting an infrared sauna routine.