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Educational Series: Infrared Sauna
Join us over the coming weeks as we take a deep dive into infrared saunas. Learn about what it is, how it works, what the benefits are, and how it differs from a steam sauna.
What is an infrared sauna?
An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared light to heat the body directly, unlike traditional saunas which heat the air around the user to warm the body indirectly. Infrared saunas can operate at lower temperatures compared to traditional steam saunas and still be effective, typically between 120°F and 150°F, making them more tolerable for some people.
The infrared heat comes from infrared heaters that emit infrared light, which is absorbed by the skin's surface and heats the body from the inside out. This direct heating method produces several health benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification through sweating, relief from muscle soreness, aiding in weight loss and skin rejuvenation, and relaxation.
There are three types of infrared saunas, categorized by the wavelength of light they emit:
Near-infrared saunas
These use the shortest infrared wavelength and are believed to promote skin renewal, cell health, and tissue growth.
Mid-infrared saunas
These penetrate deeper into the body's soft tissue, increasing circulation and releasing oxygen to reach injured areas, which may help reduce pain and speed up the healing process.
Far-infrared saunas
These penetrate the deepest into the body, which may help with detoxification through significant sweating, relaxation, and potentially other health benefits.
The infrared saunas we have here at West Omaha Cryotherapy are full spectrum, which means they emit a mixture of all three types of wavelengths. Our saunas also heat up to higher temperatures than most other infrared saunas commercially available.
How often should I do an infrared sauna session?
The optimal frequency of infrared sauna sessions can vary widely depending on individual health goals, tolerance, and lifestyle. Generally, for most people, 3-4 times a week is a balanced approach that allows for the enjoyment of the benefits without overdoing it. However, personalization is key, and adjusting based on your own experiences and health needs is important. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if you're using the sauna to help manage a specific health condition.
How long should an infrared sauna session last?
The recommended duration for an infrared sauna session can vary depending on several factors, including your tolerance to heat, experience with sauna use, and specific health conditions. Generally, for new users, it's advisable to start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as you become more accustomed to the heat.
Ultimately, the key is to personalize your sauna experience based on how you feel and what health benefits you're seeking. Paying attention to your body's signals and adjusting your sessions accordingly will help you maximize the benefits while minimizing any risks.
Stay tuned tuned for next week’s edition as we explore the benefits of infrared sauna use.
Ready to get started with an infrared sauna session now?! Call us at (402) 934-9931 to schedule your appointment or you can request an appointment online by clicking below. We offer both memberships and a la carte packages to suite our client’s individual needs.