Far Infrared Saunas
Have you ever tried sweating it out in a sauna, only to find that you couldn’t take the heat longer than a few minutes? You’re certainly not alone; a traditional session in a high-heat sauna (at 180 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit) can be difficult to tolerate. The good news is that there is an alternative therapy with similar detoxification benefits that’s growing in popularity: the far infrared sauna. This space age-sounding technology was introduced to the US in the 1980s, but it feels as modern as ever today due to a growing presence in spas, gyms, hotels, medical offices and even homes. What makes a session in the far infrared sauna a unique experience? Rather than electric or wood-fired heat, far infrared saunas emit light waves, similar to the sun’s rays (no harmful UV light is used), that penetrate skin, muscles and even organs more than an inch and a half beneath the skin to encourage deep tissue detoxification—without directly heating the air around your body. These saunas operate at 100 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit, a much more manageable temperature that allows for longer, more comfortable time spent reaping the therapeutic benefits inside. An average session in a far infrared sauna lasts 30 minutes, compared to less than 20 in a high-heat sauna.
In addition to detoxification, what positive effects can your body experience from a far infrared sauna session? One of the most profound reported benefits is relief of chronic pain, making the far infrared sauna a hot topic among those who seek alternative pain management. Many compare the effect of a far infrared sauna to that of a fever in its ability to speed up the healing process and stimulate the body’s immune response. Infrared sauna heat has been shown to improve a broad spectrum of conditions, while relaxing muscles and improving lymph flow.
Those looking for beautifying benefits in the sauna may be interested in the far infrared experience as well. As deep sweating releases toxins and waste, the improvement of cellulite (especially when combined with massage), eczema, acne and clogged pores, as well as weight loss and a glow-inducing boost in circulation have been cited. Many spas offer an a la carte menu that allows you to add 30 minutes in the infrared sauna to your spa session.
If you currently enjoy the experience of a high heat sauna, especially the additional respiratory benefits of steam or essential oils, a far infrared sauna might not be for you. Consult your doctor before using either type of sauna, especially if you have a serious medical condition or you plan to begin a long-term sauna therapy program. As with high-heat sauna use, pay close attention to hydration and heat exhaustion while inside a far infrared sauna. Drink water before your session, replace fluid loss immediately with water and electrolytes and steer clear of alcohol. Your fluid intake will only serve to extend the detoxifying benefits of this unique alternative therapy.
