Most of us are familiar with the use of traditional hot air/steam saunas, but what about infrared saunas? The benefits are enormous and diverse. Let’s dig in to learn more!
The use of heat therapy for healing is a longstanding and well tested modality. Infrared sauna therapy is a newer and exciting development. Through the use of infrared light waves, these devices can penetrate the skin and quickly heat the body without heating the surrounding environment. This means shorter times to benefit as well as safer use given the lack of extreme environmental temperatures. A typical regimen includes only 15-20 minutes of sauna time twice weekly with great benefit.
The infrared light waves used in saunas are able to create changes at the cellular level involving cell membranes and fluids, DNA/proteins, and mitochondria. Metabolism and energy production are therefore positively influenced. Chronic fatigue sufferers typically feel energized and invigorated after an infrared sauna session and may notice dramatic improvement in symptoms following a series of sessions.
While using an infrared sauna, most individuals sweat, sometimes profusely, which can be very effective for toxin elimination, including the release of stored toxins. It is a powerful detoxification tool that can be used alongside options such as chelation therapy for synergistic and more complete benefit.
Heat therapy via an infrared sauna can notably help the body to relax and lead to a release of endorphins similar to what might be experienced after a vigorous exercise session. This has been shown to improve symptoms of depression, anger, insomnia, fatigue, and stress-related illness.
Sauna therapy also leads to a substantial reduction in inflammation and chronic pain symptoms. Recent research showed that arthritis symptoms decreased with twice weekly infrared sauna therapy sessions. In those suffering from autoimmune-related inflammation, there were reductions in fatigue, pain, and stiffness.
Heart health can be positively impacted through the use of infrared sauna therapy. This is due to the ability to safely stimulate the cardiovascular system leading to stronger, healthier hearts and normalized blood pressure. Individuals with congestive heart failure also can experience improvement in overall heart function, which is an exciting outcome.
In summary, there is evidence of infrared sauna use leading to benefits such as:
- Weight loss/increased metabolism
- Improved energy
- Better sleep
- Normalized blood pressure
- Significantly reduced pain levels in chronic pain sufferers
- Decreased inflammation
- Reduced cholesterol
- Better overall heart health/function
- Relaxation and stress relief
- Decreased symptoms of type 2 diabetes
- Improved mood/mental health
- Better digestion
- Detoxification
If you have questions about infrared sauna therapy, please let us know! We are excited to be able to offer private infrared sauna sessions at our convenient Allentown location.