There has been debate for some years over the health benefits of using infrared technology in saunas. What is known however is that unlike a traditional saunas that need to heat up an entire room to be used effectively, infrared saunas heat an individual directly, using far less energy than a traditional sauna would.
Infrared saunas are a recent development, having been around for only the last 50 years or so, compared with traditional saunas that were invented by the Fins and have been around for at least the last thousand years. Infrared versions are becoming increasingly popular as they are advertised as having all the benefits of a traditional sauna without any of the risks.
Infrared sauna use infrared lamps or other heating elements that generate yellow, red or orange light that draw heat into the body itself. Traditional saunas create heat and subsequently steam as a result of water being poured over the heat source. This gives infrared a distinct advantage as the individual is heated directly and allows for more control over temperature for those who are sensitive to extreme heat.
Infrared saunas raise the temperature of an individual helping them to sweat out toxins and are even reported to ease pain from conditions such as arthritis and digestive problems. They also help speed up the body’s natural metabolism and aid in weight loss. In addition they also help to lower blood pressure and improve the circulation of blood due to higher body temperatures.
Some of these benefits are debatable but are allegedly able to relieve symptoms associated with nerve or muscle pain, joint pain, chronic fatigue syndrome and low body temperature.
Just as with any sauna remember to hydrate yourself before and after a session. Never stay for longer than 30 minutes and keep them in the 15-30 minute range.
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