In the wellness world, where trends come and go, infrared therapy has become the new go-to treatment for many enthusiasts.
Saunas have been a part of human culture for thousands of years. Originating in Finland more than 2,000 years ago, traditional saunas involved heating a small room with a stone-filled fireplace.
Water would be thrown onto the hot stones to create steam, raising the room’s temperature and inducing a heavy sweat. The Finnish people embraced saunas as a place for physical and mental cleansing, and the tradition spread across the world.
Over the centuries, saunas evolved in various cultures. The Romans had their own versions called “thermae”, which were large bathhouses.
Native American tribes used sweat lodges for both health and spiritual rituals. Despite cultural variations, the underlying principle remained the same: using heat to promote relaxation and health.
Sauna versus infrared baths: What’s the difference?
While traditional saunas heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared lamps to warm your body directly. This method allows the heat to penetrate deeper into the skin without making the room unbearably hot.
Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures (typically between 49ºC and 66ºC) compared with traditional saunas, (which can reach 82ºC to 93ºC).
Here’s a simple breakdown of the differences:
Heat source: Traditional saunas use steam or hot air while infrared saunas use light.
Temperature: Infrared saunas offer a gentler heat, which can be more comfortable for those who find traditional saunas too intense.
Heating mechanism: Infrared saunas heat the body directly, not the air around you.
The growing popularity of infrared saunas can be attributed to their potential health benefits, which include:
1. Detoxification: Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways to eliminate toxins. Infrared saunas are said to help release more toxins due to the deeper heat penetration.
2. Relaxation: The gentle heat of an infrared sauna can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Many users report feeling calm and rejuvenated after a session.
3. Pain relief: Infrared therapy may help alleviate muscle and joint pain by increasing circulation and reducing inflammation.
4. Improved skin health: Regular use of infrared saunas can improve skin tone and reduce signs of ageing by promoting better blood circulation and collagen production.
5. Weight loss: While sitting in a sauna isn’t a substitute for exercise, infrared saunas can increase heart rate and metabolism, potentially aiding in weight loss.
Saunas are generally preferred by individuals because they have similar effects to moderate exercise, such as elevated heart rate and profuse perspiration.
These effects are obtained at lower temperatures in an infrared sauna than in a conventional sauna. According to a Mayo Clinic article on understanding infrared saunas, this makes infrared saunas a good option for those who are sensitive to heat.
Making infrared saunas part of your lifestyle
If you’re considering incorporating infrared therapy into your wellness routine, here are some tips:
Start slowly: Begin with shorter sessions, around 10 to 15 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as your body adjusts to the heat.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your sauna session to prevent dehydration.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels. If you start feeling dizzy or uncomfortable, it’s time to step out.
Have a routine: For the best results, aim for regular sessions, whether it’s once a week or several times a month.
Infrared saunas are more than just a trend; they represent a fusion of ancient practices and modern technology, offering a unique way to enhance your well-being.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, pain relief, or improved skin health, infrared therapy might be the new addition to your wellness routine needs.