If you’re looking for a natural way to detoxify your body and reduce stress, you might want to consider infrared sauna therapy. Unlike traditional saunas, which use hot air to heat the body from the outside in, infrared saunas use far, mid, or near-infrared wavelengths to penetrate the skin and heat the body from the inside out. This process has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, including detoxification and relaxation.
What is Infrared Sauna Therapy?
Infrared sauna therapy uses infrared light to generate heat, which is then absorbed by the body. This type of therapy is different from traditional saunas, which use hot air to heat the body from the outside in. Infrared saunas can use far, mid, or near-infrared wavelengths to penetrate the skin and heat the body from the inside out. Far-infrared saunas are the most common, as they are believed to provide the most health benefits.
During an infrared sauna therapy session, the body absorbs heat from the sauna, causing the body’s core temperature to rise. This rise in temperature stimulates sweating, which can help to remove toxins from the body.
The Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy for Detoxification
Infrared sauna therapy has been shown to have a number of potential benefits for detoxification. The heat generated by the sauna can stimulate sweating, which is one of the body’s natural ways of removing toxins. Sweating in an infrared sauna can also help to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body. The heat from the sauna can improve circulation, which can also aid in detoxification.
Several studies have shown the effectiveness of infrared sauna therapy for detoxification. For example, a 2012 study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at removing a variety of toxins from the body, including heavy metals and organic chemicals. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2016 found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at removing toxins from the body and improving skin health.
The Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy for Relaxation
Aside from its potential benefits for detoxification, infrared sauna therapy has also been shown to be an effective way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. The heat from the sauna can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. This can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
Along with its effects on endorphins, infrared sauna therapy may also be helpful in improving sleep. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2015 found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at improving sleep quality in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 2015 found that infrared sauna therapy improved sleep quality in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Infrared sauna therapy can also be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. Many people find that spending time in an infrared sauna can help them to feel more calm and centered. This can be especially helpful for people who suffer from anxiety or other stress-related conditions.
Other Potential Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy
Infrared sauna therapy may also have other health benefits. While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, some studies suggest that infrared sauna therapy could be beneficial in the following ways:
Improved Skin Health
Infrared sauna therapy may be beneficial for improving skin health. A 2017 study published in the journal BioMed Research International found that infrared sauna therapy improved skin texture and elasticity in postmenopausal women. Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy in 2015 found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in the face.
Reduced Joint Pain
Infrared sauna therapy may be helpful in reducing joint pain. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at reducing pain and improving mobility in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Another study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology in 2018 found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at reducing pain in patients with fibromyalgia.
Aid in Weight Loss
Some studies have suggested that infrared sauna therapy may be beneficial for weight loss. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at reducing body weight and waist circumference in obese individuals. Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1981 found that infrared sauna therapy was effective at burning calories and increasing heart rate.
How to Get Started with Infrared Sauna Therapy
If you’re interested in trying infrared sauna therapy, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, choose a reputable facility that offers infrared sauna therapy. Look for a facility that is clean, well-maintained, and staffed by trained professionals.
You should also make sure that you are properly hydrated before and after your infrared sauna therapy session. Drink plenty of water before your session to help prepare your body for the heat, and continue to drink water after your session to help rehydrate your body.
It’s also a good idea to start slowly with infrared sauna therapy, especially if you have never tried it before. Begin with a shorter session, such as 10-15 minutes, and gradually increase the time as your body becomes more accustomed to the heat. Most people find that a session of 30-40 minutes is sufficient to experience the benefits of infrared sauna therapy.
When you are in the sauna, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a towel to sit on. It’s also a good idea to bring a water bottle with you to stay hydrated during your session.
If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, to talk to your healthcare provider before starting infrared sauna therapy. Infrared sauna therapy may not be suitable for everyone, and your healthcare provider can help you determine whether it is safe for you.