Saunas were invented by the Finnish 2000 years ago, and generations of people around the world have used them since. Traditionally, saunas are heated enclosures that provide a place to sit and let the warmth offer health benefits. This type of controlled exposure to heat has been linked to increased metabolism, better sleep, and weight loss. In recent years, infrared saunas have been introduced and offer a range of enhanced health benefits.
How an Infrared Sauna Works
An infrared sauna uses light to create heat. A traditional sauna uses heat to warm the air, which warms your body, while an infrared sauna heats your body without warming the surrounding air. Infrared saunas can offer the benefits of regular saunas at a lower temperature, making them good choices for those who cannot tolerate high heat.
Several companies manufacture infrared models with various qualities and features. As a result, there is a style for everyone. Choosing the best product for your needs can seem overwhelming, but you can refer to Infrared Sauna Expert’s review site for unbiased feedback on various models.
1. Get Relief from Sore Muscles
Heat helps reduce the pain of sore muscles. That is why athletes often own saunas. An infrared sauna will heat your body from the inside out, loosening muscles, which is why athletes may spend time in a sauna before an intense workout. A sauna can help release endorphins that reduce muscle and arthritis pain.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a sauna’s heat improves blood circulation, which helps speed muscle recovery after intense activity. There is evidence that spending time in a sauna may also improve performance.
2. Relax and De-Stress
Per The American Psychological Association, stress impacts every body system. Millions of people now juggle jobs, homes, families, and more, resulting in unprecedented stress levels. Stress is linked to significant health issues, but studies show that relaxing, stress-relieving activities improve body functions and moods.
Infrared sauna therapy promotes relaxation and provides an invigorating deep-tissue sweat. Because infrared heat is gentle and soothing, it helps improve sleep. After a sauna session, you will feel refreshed and renewed.
3. Increase Your Metabolism and Encourage Weight Loss
A slow metabolism is a factor that is a physical deterrent to weight loss. Your body’s endocrine system includes glands that help regulate metabolism. A poorly functioning endocrine system causes your metabolism to slow, resulting in extra weight.
Infrared saunas penetrate the skin and reach the endocrine system. The stimulation creates a more efficient endocrine function, speeds up your metabolism, and helps you lose stubborn weight.
4. Improve Heart Health
Almost as soon as you enter an infrared sauna, your body responds. As sweat begins to appear on your skin, blood vessels widen, and blood flow increases, increasing your heart rate. These changes mimic those that happen during exercise and benefit the heart.
Research by The Department of Family Practice at the University of British Columbia shows that infrared sauna therapy can positively affect blood pressure and benefit patients suffering from congestive heart disease. A Japanese study revealed that infrared sauna therapy might help reduce heart arrhythmia and symptoms associated with chronic heart disease.
Few things are as relaxing as an infrared sauna session, which can help promote sleep, ease pain, and lower stress levels. Infrared sauna therapy has also been linked to lower blood pressure, cardiovascular benefits, and improved metabolism function.
Also read: Red Light Therapy – The Optimum Guide