You asked, we answered . . . Why would any sane person voluntarily sit in a 158-degree sauna while it’s 90-100+ degrees outside?
We all know that the more regularly you use an infrared sauna the more amazing (downright magical) the effects are. Because of this, saunas seem like a no-brainer in the cold and dreary winter months. But once the weather warms and everyone is flocking to the nearest pool, your sauna time is no less important.
Here’s why…
Glow Boost / Sunburn Relief: IR heat accelerates cellular activity and increases circulation bringing more nutrients to the skin aiding in the healing process of your skin at both the dermis and epidermis levels. Because of this, infrared therapy can assist in skin renewal, wound healing, and tissue growth. IR sweat detoxifies the pores—purging dirt, debris, and toxins from skin. In addition, the IR sauna heat is known to improve both collagen and elastin production. So glow on, DROP by and enjoy fewer breakouts, and a smoother, younger-looking, glowing complexion this summer!
Weight Loss / Cellulite Reduction: A study conducted by Binghamton University revealed that an increase in core body temperature from IR sauna use resulted in decreased body fat. People who used an IR sauna three times a week for 30 minutes dropped an average of 4% body fat over a four-month period. For a 175-pound man, that represents a weight reduction of seven pounds. Participants who experienced weight loss did not change their exercise or diet patterns during the study. Control groups in the study who did not use IR sauna therapy showed no weight loss.
Longevity / Anti-Aging: The ability of Far infrared sauna therapy to decrease inflammation and oxidative damage has the potential to improve nearly every disease of aging. It has been extensively studied in humans and has not only shown widespread health benefits but no significant adverse effects have been reported. Growing research suggests that regular IR sauna sweat therapy has the potential to significantly increase longevity and quality of life.
Energy Boost: IR heat stress stimulates the body to make and repair bigger/stronger mitochondria, which means greater capacity to produce energy. Mitochondria are the energy generators in our cells, and our energy/vitality depends directly on their size, power, number, and function. If your mitochondria are damaged, weak, small, fragile, and unhealthy, then you will be too.
Workout / Training Recovery: Research shows that IR sauna use (acclimation to heat) reduces the strain of aerobic activity on the body to include lower heart rate and lower core body temperature during workouts, increased blood flow to skeletal muscle and other tissues, reduced rate of glycogen depletion, increased red blood cell count, and increased efficiency of oxygen transport to muscles. Studies have also shown that infrared saunas decrease delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and improve exercise recovery. Infrared saunas penetrate the neuromuscular system to promote recovery. Plus, research shows that sitting in the sauna for 30 minutes increases women’s levels of human growth hormone (HGH), which helps our bodies break down fats and build muscle.
Heart Health / Blood Pressure: Studies have shown that Far infrared therapy significantly improves markers of heart disease. Men with cardiovascular risk factors were treated with far infrared sauna therapy had significant improvements in blood vessel dilation and function. Patients with congestive heart failure treated with far infrared sauna therapy showed significant improvement in exercise tolerance and significant decreases in markers of heart dysfunction. Studies have also shown that IR sauna users experience a drop in blood pressure and artery “stiffness” immediately after their session. They also show an increase in heart rate similar to the effect of moderate exercise.
Cognitive Function: Cognitive function universally declines with age, and according to the World Health Organization, Alzheimer’s disease is now the third leading cause of mortality in high-income countries. Far infrared therapy has been shown to reverse brain damage by promoting regrowth in damaged brain cells. One study showed that the treatment of diseased cells with far infrared lead to decreased protein accumulation and restored normal cell function. Other studies have shown that treating neurons with far infrared increases the speed at which neurons grow and regenerate.
Mood Regulation: Stress / Depression / Anxiety – IR sauna heat increases circulation, relaxing muscles and improving the flow of oxygen and other necessary elements to all parts of your body. IR heat also helps your body regulate the amount of cortisol, our “stress hormone”, it makes and releases. And studies show that just one IR sauna session can reduce symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety by about 50%—benefits can continue for up to six weeks.
PRO TIP: Hydration is key! Remember to come hydrated and rehydrate after.
