The Benefits of Using a Near Infrared Sauna for Detox, Health and Relaxation

The Benefits of Near Infrared Sauna Therapy

Infrared sauna therapy has become an increasingly popular wellness trend in recent years. Unlike traditional saunas, near infrared saunas use light to create heat and induce sweating without warming the surrounding air. This allows for a more tolerable and enjoyable experience at lower temperatures than regular saunas.

How Do Infrared Saunas Work?

Infrared saunas generate infrared light using heating elements such as ceramic, black carbon elements or incandescent emitters. This light penetrates the skin directly to heat the body rather than simply warming the air.

There are three types of infrared saunas:

• Near infrared: Uses incandescent light emitters to output near infrared waves that penetrate the outer layers of skin.
• Mid infrared: Emits mid infrared waves that penetrate deeper into the body's tissues.
• Far infrared: Uses ceramic or black carbon emitters to product longer far infrared waves that penetrate deepest into the body.

The most common type of infrared sauna is the far infrared sauna. Near infrared saunas occupy a smaller segment of the market but offer unique health and relaxation benefits.

The Many Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy

Decades of research have shown that regular infrared sauna sessions can provide many health advantages. These evidence-based benefits include:

• Safe, effective detoxification
• Relaxation and stress relief
• Pain relief
• Weight loss and calorie burn
• Heart health support
• Improved circulation
• Healthier, more youthful skin
• Boosted immunity

One key reason infrared saunas deliver such wide-ranging benefits is their ability to induce a profuse sweat. Sweating is one of the body's main ways to eliminate toxins that can contribute to disease as well as uncomfortable symptoms.

Additionally, the effects of infrared waves themselves—which penetrate deeply into tissues, joints and bones—have positive effects throughout the body.

Unique Benefits of Near Infrared Saunas

As discussed above, near infrared saunas have a distinct set of features compared to the far infrared saunas that dominate the consumer market.

Specifically, the near infrared waves emitted only penetrate the outer layers of skin. This makes near infrared sauna therapy gentler while still offering detox and relaxation perks.

Other evidence-based benefits unique to near infrared saunas include:

• Increased blood flow to help nurture skin health
• Quick workout recovery when used right after exercise
• Support wound healing
• May stimulate cell health and regeneration

Furthermore, some people report that near infrared saunas provide a uniquely relaxing and meditative experience compared to far infrared saunas.

Who Can Benefit from Infrared Sauna Use?

The gentle detoxifying effects make infrared sauna therapy useful for most people. It's a convenient way to purge toxins from your body, no sweaty exercise required!

In particular, those struggling with chronic illnesses often gravitate toward infrared sauna therapy. The saunas provide a complementary approach to support healing without harsh side effects.

However, as with most health interventions, moderation is key when it comes to infrared sauna use. Overdoing it can lead to dehydration, overheating and fatigue.

Tips for Using a Near Infrared Sauna

If you’re a rookie looking to try out a near infrared sauna, follow these tips to maximize benefits while staying safe and comfortable.

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink at least 16 oz of water before your sauna session. Staying well hydrated prevents overheating and dehydration.
2. Start slow. Begin with 10-15 minute sessions at lower temperatures then gradually increase time and heat.
3. Listen to your body. Pay attention to any discomfort, dizziness or nausea, a sign it’s time to exit the sauna.
4. Cool off slowly. Avoid going from hot to cold. After your session, sit and relax before hitting the showers.
5. Discuss with your doctor, especially if you have any health conditions or take medications.

Optimal Use for Exercise Recovery

Using a near infrared sauna after your workout or competition can help speed up recovery between training sessions. Spending just 10-15 minutes sweating out inflammation brings blood flow to fatigued muscles. This allows them to heal and strengthen faster.

To leverage this benefit, plan to use your near infrared sauna as soon as possible after exercising. Within 30-60 minutes is ideal. Drink fluids to rehydrate and enter the warm sauna room for a nice sweat. Then be sure to cool down gradually afterwards.

Everyday Use for Detox and Relaxation

You need not be a gym rat to enjoy infrared sauna benefits! Using a near infrared sauna a few times a week provides ongoing detox as well as stress relief.

Aim to sweat for about 20-30 minutes per session. Bring along a book, relaxing music or simply close your eyes and meditate. Adjust settings to the highest level you find comfortable. The goal is to sweat profusely which eliminates toxins and relaxes the mind.

After a few weeks of regular use, expect to feel less stressed and more energized!

Infrared Sauna Safety Tips

Infrared sauna therapy is very safe for most healthy adults when used appropriately. However, it’s important to keep these precautions in mind:

• Children under age 7 should not use infrared saunas.
• Individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs should avoid use.
• Pregnant women should avoid infrared saunas during the first trimester especially. Check with your doctor before using one later in pregnancy. The core body temperature should not exceed 100°F (38°C).
• People with health conditions should speak with their doctor before using infrared saunas. This includes those with heart disease, lung issues, adrenal fatigue, kidney problems or Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
• Limit use alongside medications that alter thermoregulation, including antihistamines, diuretics, barbiturates, and tranquilizers.

Additionally, be sure to stay hydrated before, during and after your session. Avoid alcohol prior as it increases risk of overheating. Check with your sauna’s manufacturer for appropriate usage guidelines.

Say Goodbye to Toxins and Stress!

Infrared sauna therapy with regular use provides science-backed benefits ranging from detoxification to chronic pain relief. And near infrared saunas serve up their own unique health perks—like a meditative way to find your zen.

Check with your doctor if infrared sauna therapy makes sense for your individual health history. Then get ready to soak in all the benefits from head to toe!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.