What is an Infrared Sauna and What Are Its Benefits?
Infrared saunas have been gaining popularity in recent years for their numerous health benefits. Unlike traditional saunas, which use heat to warm the air, infrared saunas use infrared lamps to directly heat the body. This results in a number of benefits that traditional saunas cannot provide.
At Reboot, we offer infrared saunas as a 30-minute stand-alone service, and also combined with our Cold Plunge in our Fire & Ice service.
Infrared Sauna Benefits
One of the most notable benefits of infrared saunas is their ability to help with weight loss. The heat generated by the infrared lamps causes the body to sweat, which in turn helps to burn calories and reduce body fat.
Sweating produces many health benefits, including detoxification, improved skin tone, stress relief, and improved blood circulation. It also helps kill pathogenic bacteria and viruses
Additionally, the heat generated by the lamps can also help to increase circulation, which can lead to improved cardiovascular health and longevity. In one study, frequent sauna users improved their cardiac-related death by ~30-80%.
Another major benefit of infrared saunas is their ability to relieve pain and muscle soreness. The heat generated by the lamps can help to increase blood flow to sore muscles, which can help to reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process. Additionally, the heat can also help to relax tense muscles and reduce stiffness, making them a great option for those who suffer from chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.
Infrared saunas are also beneficial for improving the immune system. The heat generated by the lamps can help to increase the production of white blood cells, which can help to fight off infections and illnesses. Additionally, the heat can also help to reduce stress levels, which can further boost the immune system.
Infrared saunas are also known for their ability to improve skin health. The heat generated by the lamps can help to open up the pores, which can help to remove impurities and toxins from the skin. Additionally, the heat can also help to increase collagen production, which can lead to improved skin elasticity and a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
For an even more thorough look into the science behind the benefits of sauna use, check out Dr. Rhonda Patrick's video here:
Infrared Saunas vs Other Types of Saunas
One of the most notable differences between traditional saunas and infrared saunas is the temperature. While traditional saunas typically reach temperatures of around 150-190 degrees Fahrenheit, infrared saunas typically reach temperatures of around 120-150 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that infrared saunas are much more tolerable for people who find traditional saunas to be too hot and uncomfortable.
Another difference between traditional saunas and infrared saunas is the time required to experience the benefits. While a traditional sauna session typically lasts around 20-30 minutes, an infrared sauna session can last as little as 10-15 minutes. This makes them a more convenient option for those who are short on time.
Infrared saunas are also more energy efficient than traditional saunas. Traditional saunas use a significant amount of energy to heat the air, while infrared saunas only use energy to heat the body directly. This means that infrared saunas are much more energy efficient, which can result in significant savings on energy bills over time.
If you're looking for a convenient and effective way to improve your overall health and well-being, an infrared sauna may be a great option for you. It's important to prepare for sauna usage by properly hydrating and remaining hydrated during and after the session by drinking plenty of water and electrolytes. Like with cold exposure, exercise, and many other things in life, comfort and the length of time you're able to sustain a session improves with frequency and consistency of use over time, as the body adapts to the stimulus of heat in this environment.