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Harnessing Healing: Five Key Benefits of Far Infrared Sauna

Reviewed by Kristen Reynolds, MD of Forum Health Mequon and Brookfield

 

If you’re looking for a simple, effective, and non-invasive way to improve all areas of your health, look no further than the infrared sauna. A long-standing cornerstone of relaxation and wellness, saunas have a rich history that spans thousands of years originating in ancient Finland over 2,000 years ago. 

Today, they’re revered for their rejuvenating and health-promoting properties from improved cardiovascular health to enhanced mental well-being. In this blog, we explore the key advantages of incorporating sauna use into your wellness routine and how it can contribute to a healthier, happier you. 

Understanding Far Infrared Technology

Far Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures (typically around 120-140°F) compared to traditional saunas, making them more comfortable for longer sessions.  

 

Far infrared heat is part of the infrared spectrum, which lies just beyond visible light, and is experienced as gentle, radiant warmth that can penetrate the skin and tissues more deeply than conventional heat sources.  

 

This deep tissue penetration is believed to stimulate cellular detoxification and metabolic processes, fostering a cascade of health benefits. 

5 Benefits of Far Infrared Sauna Use

Before we dive into the amazing benefits of far infrared sauna use, let’s talk about the MVP of sauna use – heat shock proteins. 

 

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are a family of proteins produced by cells in response to stressful conditions, such as elevated temperatures in a sauna, oxidative stress, and exposure to toxins. These proteins function as molecular chaperones, meaning they help other proteins maintain their proper shape, fold correctly, and prevent aggregation, thereby ensuring cellular stability and survival under stress. 

 

Far Infrared (FIR) heat stimulates the production of heat shock proteins within the body and drives the benefits you can experience from regular sauna use. 

Studies found people who regularly use saunas have lower rates of cardiovascular disease and fewer problems with lung disease and mental healthSauna users also experienced a reduced risk of stroke, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and death and60% percent reduced risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s. 

Ok, now the amazing benefits you’ve been waiting for! 

 

  1. Detoxification and Cleansing: One of the primary benefits of Far Infrared sauna therapy is its ability to promote detoxification. Sweating is a natural mechanism through which the body eliminates toxins, heavy metals, and environmental pollutants. Far Infrared heat enhances this process by promoting sweating at a lower temperature, which may facilitate the release of stored toxins that are otherwise challenging to eliminate.

  2. Cardiovascular Health and Circulation: Regular use of Far Infrared saunas is associated with improvements in cardiovascular health. The heat dilates blood vessels, promoting better circulation and oxygenation throughout the body. This can help reduce blood pressure, and enhance overall cardiovascular efficiency.

  3. Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery: Saunas have been shown to alleviate chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle soreness. The deep penetrating heat helps relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility. Athletes and individuals recovering from injuries often use FIR sauna sessions to aid in muscle recovery and accelerate healing processes.

  4. Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement: The soothing warmth of a Far Infrared sauna induces a state of relaxation, helping to reduce stress and promote mental clarity. Regular sauna use has been linked to improved mood, decreased anxiety levels, and better resilience against stress- related disorders. The release of endorphins during sauna sessions contributes to a sense of well-being and relaxation.

  5. Immune Support and Skin Health: By stimulating circulation and promoting detoxification, Far Infrared saunas can bolster immune function. Sweating helps expel toxins from the body, supporting immune resilience. Additionally, FIR heat can enhance skin health by promoting collagen production, improving skin tone, and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and cellulite. 

Sauna Usage: Duration and Temperature

The latest research suggests the optimal duration varies based on individual tolerance, experience level, and specific health goals.  

 

Beginners: It’s recommended to start with shorter sessions of 10-15 minutes to allow the body to acclimate to the heat. Over time, the duration can be gradually increased as you become more comfortable. 

 

Regular Users: For those accustomed to sauna use, the ideal session duration is typically between 15-20 minutes. More experienced users might extend sessions up to 30 minutes, but it’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid overheating. 

 

Frequency: The recommended frequency of sauna sessions varies. Beginners might start 1-2 times per week, while more experienced users can benefit from sessions 2-4 times per week. Daily use is also possible for those who have built up a tolerance and feel comfortable with it. 

 

Safety Considerations: It’s essential to stay hydrated before, during, and after sauna sessions. Signs that it’s time to exit the sauna include feeling lightheaded, dizzy, excessively hot, or experiencing a rapid heartbeat. Taking breaks between sessions and cooling down properly is also important. 

Integrating Far Infrared Sauna into Your Wellness Routine

Whether used for detoxification, pain relief, stress management, or overall rejuvenation, FIR saunas offer a non-invasive, natural approach to enhancing health and vitality.  

 

Want to learn more about sauna use and how Forum Health can help you reach your health goals? 

 

Contact us today! 

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