An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that emits a wavelength of light that the human body experiences as radiant heat. The body absorbs this heat, stimulating the lymphatic, immune and cardiovascular systems, as well as increasing the production of sweat. These different reactions within the body are similar to those caused by moderate exercise. Here’s a breakdown of infrared saunas to help you understand how beneficial they are to your health and recovery.

Infrared vs Traditional Saunas

A traditional sauna may produce all the reactions stated above, but it operates by heating the ambient air around the sauna room, with temperatures ranging from 70-90 degrees celsius. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, operate at much cooler temperatures of between 40-60 degrees celsius. It means they consume much less energy to do the same amount of work while also being more efficient at heating the body since they do not rely on heating the air first. 

Installation and maintenance of infrared saunas is much easier since they do not need a dedicated room to operate, as opposed to coal or steam-based saunas. Additionally, since the infrared light is emitted using lamps, storage and repairs are much easier than the mechanisms used to run a traditional sauna.

If you’re looking for an “infrared sauna near me”, you can visit the site.

What Are the Benefits?

When used regularly, an infrared sauna can do wonders for your health. Although you should not rely solely on a sauna to achieve optimal health and physical conditioning, there are many proven reasons to visit a sauna to boost your health and optimize your recovery after exercise or injury. The following are a few of those benefits.

Lower Blood Pressure

The heat generated within the body as it absorbs the infrared rays stimulates the heart. It causes it to beat faster, which in turn causes the blood within the circulatory system to move faster around the body to lower its internal temperature. The sudden fast movement of the blood causes a drop in its pressure, which reduces the risk of stroke and heart-related diseases. It also causes you to feel relaxed by reducing the amount of cortisol within the body.

Better Muscle Recovery

The increased circulation around the body ensures that your muscles also receive a larger volume of oxygenated blood within a shorter time. This is very important during the recovery period after intense work or exercise and reduces inflammation and stimulates the growth of new muscle fibers.  

Better Skin Health

Infrared rays stimulate the production of collagen, which is used by the body to create firmer, smoother and more elastic skin. It reduces the effects of aging, such as wrinkles, and helps repair scarred tissue under the surface of the skin. New skin also retains oil and moisture for much longer, making you appear much more youthful than you actually are and reducing the risk of skin cancer and melanoma.

Improve Your Immunity

As you sweat, toxins within the lymphatic system and any particles within the inner layer of the skin are pushed out along with excess water and some lactic acid from the skeletal muscles. Better blood circulation also improves the oxygen saturation in the blood since the deoxygenated blood is replenished more efficiently.

Join an Infrared Sauna Near You

As discussed above, you can experience many benefits by attending an infrared sauna session, although it may be wise to look for one near your home or gym. It will make it easier to incorporate into your lifestyle without spending extra time, energy and money on travel. A simple infrared sauna near me search should be enough to get you started.