Infrared saunas are becoming increasingly popular due to their many health benefits. They help detoxify the body, improve circulation and stimulate the metabolism. It helps detoxify the body and relieves stress, fatigue, depression, and other health problems. The infrared sauna is a natural way to cleanse and heal your body, but you must know how to use them properly. If you’re new to using an infrared sauna and need clarification on what to expect from your first session, follow these tips for beginners to get the maximum benefits.
What is an Infrared sauna?
An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared light to heat the air inside. It heats your body faster than traditional saunas as it works directly on your skin rather than heating the air around you. This makes it a great option for those who want to experience all the benefits of a traditional sauna without waiting for their bodies to cool down again before getting out, which takes time.
There are two types of infrared saunas: far-infrared and near-infrared. Far infrared emits long wavelengths that penetrate deep into the body. Near-infrared emits shorter wavelengths that penetrate less deeply into your body but offer many benefits, like pain relief, detoxification, and weight loss.
Infrared Sauna Tips for Beginners
Besides relaxing and unwinding, infrared saunas can detoxify and heal. If you’re planning to get started with infrared sauna therapy, here are some tips for making the most of your experience:
Take a Bath Before Sauna
Before entering the sauna, take a hot shower or bath. The warm water opens up your pores and allows for more blood flow to the surface of your skin. This blood flow will help you feel more relaxed after your sauna session.
Wear Loose Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing that will not restrict your movement or cause discomfort during your stay in the sauna, preferably loose-fitting, made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. You can also wear a bathing suit if you choose. Some people prefer to go without clothes when taking sauna baths, which is also acceptable as long as your privacy is confirmed.
Keep Your Phone Away
Leave it outside your room, or at least turn it off completely. The heat from infrared rays can cause damage to electronic devices.
Before a Sauna Session, Avoid Eating Heavy Meals
You should avoid eating heavy meals 1-2 hours before a session in the sauna as it takes time for your body to digest food and absorb nutrients into your bloodstream. Eating too much food before using an infrared sauna makes you feel nauseous and lightheaded during the session.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Drink plenty of water before and after using your infrared sauna to avoid dehydration. Dehydration causes headaches, fatigue, and dizziness during an infrared sauna.
If you are dehydrated, it’s difficult for your body to eliminate toxins released during your sauna.
Consult With Your Doctor
Infrared saunas are beneficial if proper precautions are followed. If you have health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes, or hypertension, consult your doctor before using an infrared sauna to determine whether it is safe. Some people have had lung issues after using these saunas, so you must take the precautions necessary to avoid any negative side effects.
Start Slow and Work Your Way Up
Infrared saunas are great for detoxification, but it is best to start slow and work your way up. This way, you can gradually get used to the heat without feeling overwhelmed. It takes time for your body to adjust to the intense heat in these rooms, so don’t rush into spending forty minutes in one without proper preparation. Start by spending five minutes in there before gradually increasing your time until you’re spending thirty minutes or more per session.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Infrared sauna use can cause dehydration, making it more difficult for the body to regulate its temperature during a session. Avoiding alcohol is important during initial sessions where the body adjusts to this new form of therapy.
The Benefits of Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas differ from traditional saunas as they use far-infrared heat, penetrating the body more deeply than other forms of heat. This means you can feel their effects more quickly and for longer periods.
The benefits of an infrared sauna include the following;
Reduced Stress Hormones
The heat increases circulation, which allows more oxygen to reach the brain. This reduces stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, resulting in relaxation.
Increased Circulation
Infrared saunas increase your blood flow, which delivers oxygen to your organs, muscles, and brain. This improves your metabolism and boosts energy levels.
Improved immune system function
Better circulation also helps deliver more oxygen to your immune system cells, which helps them fight infections more effectively.
Improved Skin Condition
The heat from the infrared sauna helps open pores, removing dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne and other problems.
Increased Energy Levels
The detoxifying effects of infrared saunas can improve energy levels by removing waste products from your system and helping your organs function more efficiently.
Detoxifying the Body
Infrared saunas help sweat out toxins from your body by increasing blood flow. Sweating increases your heart rate and cellular activity, which helps eliminate toxins.
Improved Sleep Quality
Studies have shown that infrared saunas help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The increased circulation and lowered blood pressure associated with infrared saunas reduce stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality.
There is a wide range of health benefits from an infrared sauna session. However, ensuring you are safe during your treatment and comfortable during the sauna is important. This ensures you get the maximum benefits. The infrared sauna is a safe and cost-effective way to eliminate toxins, help your immune system function more efficiently and reduce inflammation. They can be used by those looking for natural pain relief and targeted physiotherapy for specific body parts. They are great for those with respiratory and skin conditions who have trouble exercising outside when it’s cold.