Saunas have been used for centuries, and their popularity grew as the public became aware of their scientifically based benefits. Many cultures adopted traditional saunas to relax and improve overall well-being. Today, infrared saunas have just as many fans. Users get the advantages of classic saunas without the high heat. There are infrared models in sizes and styles for every taste, they are often less expensive than traditional models, and many models can easily be used at home.
How an Infrared Sauna Works
All saunas feature a heated environment that provides a range of health benefits. Traditional saunas heat the air to high temperatures, so users enter a hot environment that causes their bodies to begin cooling. However, infrared saunas heat the air differently than classic saunas.
Infrared styles use a light source to warm the user’s skin and body. Temperatures are lower but still provide impressive benefits. Because the infrared process is more comfortable than traditional heating methods, thousands of consumers research infrared models online. There are sauna comparison sites that provide information on various options. Shoppers who have been gathering information can see more here and find a model that suits their needs.
Weight Loss
Sauna therapy is associated with weight loss. A Muscle & Bone study of obese participants found that “body weight and body fat significantly decreased after two weeks of sauna therapy.” These results are believed to be caused by an increased heart rate and the body working harder to cool itself.
Heart Health
Research shows that routine sauna use benefits the heart. A Finnish study showed a 63% decrease in the risk of sudden cardiac death among sauna users. Regular sessions help reduce blood pressure and improve walking endurance among peripheral artery disease patients.
Per The Cleveland Clinic, an infrared session provides benefits similar to walking at a moderate pace. That’s because the body’s response to the environment mimics exercise. Heart rate increases, blood vessels widen, and blood flow increases.
Relaxation
Stress harms the body, but deep relaxation can help prevent many stress-related issues. Spending time in an infrared sauna is relaxing and can reduce anxiety and depression. It’s essentially meditation in a warm, comfortable setting.
Pain Relief
There’s a reason so many athletes spend time in saunas. The warm environment can help treat chronic pain and discomfort associated with injuries. Sauna use has been associated with improved range of motion, and there is evidence that sessions relieve arthritis symptoms. The warm, soothing conditions also minimize pain associated with frequent headaches.
Fights Chronic Fatigue
Thousands of people have chronic fatigue syndrome, which results in extreme tiredness and has no specific cause. Many patients using infrared saunas find relief from their symptoms. In one study, CFS patients spent 15 minutes in a sauna once daily, then were on bed rest for 30 minutes.
Patients reported improved moods. Their fatigue ratings (based on a scale of 1 to 10) improved from 6.7 to 4.8. Researchers believe that results are due to improved cardiac output and reduced oxidative stress.
The demand for infrared saunas is growing as more people discover the benefits of regular sauna sessions. Infrared saunas warm the skin instead of the air, so the environment is not as hot as classic saunas but offers the same benefits. Routine use can help with weight loss, reduce anxiety, improve heart health, and minimize pain.
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