Is a Sauna Good for a Cold?

Is sauna good for a cold

Getting a cold is not fun, but there’re ways to fight the virus and enjoy relaxation at the same time. There are numerous home remedies and common practices that claim to help cure a common cold. In fact, recent studies have confirmed the notion that hot beverages can help relieve some flu and cold signs and symptoms.

Sitting in an infrared sauna raises your body’s core temperature and helps fight viruses and flush out toxins. Although it’s always recommended that you consult your doctor for severe cold symptoms, research has proven that relaxing in an infrared sauna not only helps fight colds but can also help prevent them.

How does an infrared sauna help fight colds?

Sweating out colds is the notion that using things that make us sweat such as exercise or heat can make colds go away faster. Perspiration or sweat is water that is secreted by sweat glands in the skin. This is basically the body’s way of getting rid of excess heat as well as toxins.

A rise in the body’s temperature triggers the nervous system which sends signals to the sweat glands to release water onto the skin. This water then evaporates off the skin, causing a relaxing, cooling effect. Although sweat is actually water, it also contains other substances, including vitamins, electrolytes, and toxins.

With temperatures of about 176 degrees Fahrenheit, infrared saunas have been shown to be effective for chronic fatigue, asthma, and arthritis, among other conditions, since they were used by Finnish nomads centuries ago. While some reputed benefits of infrared saunas have not been properly examined, there’s evidence that infrared saunas may help fight colds and even reduce their occurrence.

Some researchers report that sauna heat helps reduce symptoms by improving drainage, while others suspect that the high sauna temperatures weaken flu and cold viruses. However, it’s unclear how high sauna temperatures may help prevent colds and flu in the first place. However, recent studies suggest a positive effect.

Saunas are good for your immune system

Studies have proven that infrared saunas are beneficial for the body to fight toxins and pathogens by providing the immune system with essential building blocks it needs to stay strong and fight infections such as the common cold.

Infrared saunas can also help detoxify the lymphatic system which is mainly responsible for maintaining the health of the immune system. The lymphatic system works in conjunction with the cardiovascular and immune systems, which are significantly accelerated during sauna sessions.

Saunas increase your core temperature and help fight colds in the following ways:

  • Heat increases sweating, which can help detoxify the body.
  • Saunas help open the airways, making it easier to breathe. This is particularly beneficial if you have congestion symptoms.
  • Sauna heat increases oxygenation and blood flow, making it easier for immunity boosters to be carried throughout the body.
  • Increased blood flow and oxygen supply in the brain help alleviate muscle soreness and fatigue.

A study by Australian scientists studied a group of 50 adults and followed them for a period of 6 months. The group was divided into 2 groups and one group was put under infrared sauna therapy while the control group abstained. By the end of the study, the group that used saunas regularly had contracted significantly fewer colds. Fewer colds among the sauna group were particularly observed during the last 3 months of the study when the incidence was almost halved compared to the control group.

Although other recent studies have reported similar results, doctors caution that infrared saunas can be unsafe for people with circulatory or heart conditions.

Does sweating help reduce or treat congestion?

Some methods commonly used to sweat out colds such as exercise and inhaling hot steam may provide temporary relief by relieving nasal congestion but they typically don’t shorten the period you are sick. In most cases, it takes about 7 days to fully recover from the common cold.

Saunas expose your body to infrared heat which penetrates deep into the skin to induce sweating. According to a 2017 study, being exposed to infrared heat in saunas may help alleviate the symptoms of the common cold. However, there’s still a need for further studies to confirm whether saunas can help treat colds.

If you want to use a sauna for the common cold, it’s recommended that you adhere to the following safety tips:

  • Limit your infrared sauna time to 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Limit your intake of foods and beverages that tend to dehydrate the body, such as caffeine, salty foods, and alcohol. Remember, you can lose a fair amount of water through sweat from sauna therapy.
  • Always rehydrate after each sauna session by drinking 2-4 glasses of water.
  • Pay keen attention to your body and leave the sauna and cool off in case you start feeling unwell during your sauna session.
  • Avoid using the sauna if you are pregnant.

Although it is fine to use a sauna if you have a cold, it is important to take into account how you are feeling. If your cold is particularly severe, you can take the day off and rest. Avoid using the sauna if your symptoms include severe congestion in the chest, cough, or fever.

Useful tips to help you recover from colds

  • Rest: Your body needs time to fight off the infection. Be sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night.
  • Stay hydrated: In addition to helping your body fight off the infection, staying hydrated also helps loosen mucus. Liquids such as warm bone broth or tea can help fight colds and soothe a scratchy throat.
  • Correct dosing of over-the-counter medications can help relieve cold symptoms. Expectorants, decongestants, and pain relievers can help fight your symptoms.
  • If you have a sore throat, gargle with warm salt water to reduce swelling and pain.

Can infrared saunas help with chronic fatigue syndrome?

The bottom line

The heat stress from infrared saunas stimulates an artificial fever and the immune system responds by boosting the production of germ-fighting white blood cells. Heat stress also increases blood flow and cardiovascular response which provides the nutrients and energy the immune system needs to fight against infections such as the symptoms of the common cold.

Infrared sauna benefits

Sauna and Stress Reduction: Why Sauna Therapy Is the Key to Relaxation

Portable sauna benefits stress

Stress and anxiety affect nearly everyone at some point, and with depression being one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in the U.S., finding effective ways to manage these challenges is crucial. One increasingly popular method is the use of saunas for stress. They offer a range of mental and physical benefits that may help alleviate stress and improve overall well-being

Some people are also at risk of cognitive impairment conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s later in life. Considering the monetary and emotional costs of these health conditions on the victims as well as their families and friends, it’d no wonder that most people fear this more than other chronic conditions.

Sauna and Stress

Scientific findings show that infrared sauna therapy is effective in helping users stay mentally strong and cognitively sound.

Sauna and stress

Heat treatment through infrared sauna therapy could help alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety, stress, and depression.  

Infrared sauna use has been linked with longevity and postponing or avoiding cognitive decline.

Natural Stress Relievers – Infrared Sauna

One of the unexpected benefits of sauna use is stress relief. Despite being a very important health benefit, this is a very undervalued and understated benefit to infrared saunas. Most people report that after a 30 to 45-minute session in the sauna, they come out feeling refreshed and relaxed. Stress is causing a wide range of health problems for many people and some treatment regimes have started adding stress management to their programs.

How does stress impact our lives?

Sauna and stress

Stress is so ingrained in our daily lives today. In fact, it is almost everywhere you turn; deadlines, traffic, cell phones, overbearing bosses, and more.

Numerous studies have linked stress to a wide range of health conditions including heart disease, lowered immune function, high blood pressure, depression, diabetes, sleep disorders, Alzheimer’s, obesity, and premature death. When you’re stressed, the mind and body take a defensive “fight or flight” position.

This natural Autonomic Nervous System response is designed to take you away from potentially dangerous situations. However, the body is not designed to remain in the “flight or fight” position for extended periods. Unfortunately, most people live in this position daily and this creates a path to the “danger zone”

When you are stressed for extended periods of time, your body gradually wears down and your adrenal glands (which help regulate the “fight or flight” response) start malfunctioning. During a stress response, the body directs all of its energy into your muscles in a bid to “protect” itself. As a result, the brain, organs, and nervous system are depleted of this vital life force which helps them heal and sustain optimal health.

Many chronically and highly stressed people suffer from gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases, which often result in stroke or heart attack. Continuous production of stress hormones such as epinephrine and cortisol has very damaging effects on our bodies over time. These dangerous hormones disrupt metabolism and normal function and have been closely linked to the physiology cascade that leads to the health conditions discussed above.

Natural Remedies for Nervousness

This can be resolved by getting into the parasympathetic nervous system (the “relaxation” or “rest and digest” state). While in the sauna, your body is surrounded by heaters that produce infrared heat. The heat penetrates up to 2 inches into your body causing pain relief, muscle relaxation, vasodilation, and an overall feeling of well-being. This stimulates the release of endorphins which help relax the entire body.

Using an infrared sauna regularly and repeatedly over several weeks significantly reduces stress even when you’re out of the sauna. Most infrared sauna users report greater peace and improved sleep.

Sauna and stress

When you’re stressed, various chemical changes occur, resulting in unbalanced hormones. Studies show that far infrared sauna therapy helps normalize hormone levels thereby restoring a healthy state by rebalancing both the body and mind. Since stress is the leading cause of disease, adding an infrared sauna to your stress management or stress management program has been shown to be highly beneficial.

Infrared sauna therapy is a great way to relax in soothing warmth while allowing the much-needed healing energy to re-enter all depleted and sore areas of your body.  

It is clear that infrared sauna use makes you feel good, reduces anxiety, and lowers stress. In addition to the “feel-good factor,” saunas have other health benefits which make them a worthy investment in your mental and physical well-being.

Natural Remedy to Calm Nerves

A trip to the infrared sauna is leisure time. It’s an enjoyable and pleasant healing activity. Infrared saunas are designed for relaxation and rest. They are great places to feel calm, chill, and escape from the worries of the world for a short time.

This getaway to relax and rest is very beneficial for the body as well as the brain. Infrared sauna use could have a significant impact on your mental well-being. Spending time in the tranquility of an infrared sauna helps cleanse your mind and body. Most people describe the feeling they get after leaving the infrared sauna as “pleasant” and “calm”. Although this feeling lasts for a relatively short time, studies show that it provides long-term benefits.

Add good company to infrared sauna use and you have a have yourself a high-quality leisure activity. The moderate use of infrared saunas is entirely a healthy and pleasant activity.

An infrared sauna is a form of thermotherapy

Infrared saunas sessions feel good because the body responds to the heat. The skin senses the rise in temperature and sends signals to the hypothalamus hence triggering the release of “feel good” hormones. Moreover, as your breathing rate increases, your blood circulation also increases and this creates a pleasant sensation.

Sauna and stress

Whilst in an infrared sauna, the body keeps working, just like when you’re exercising (physical stress).

Sauna and Stress

As a result, the heart keeps pumping significantly higher amounts of blood in order to supply all cells and keep up with the demand created by increased heat. This requires the lungs to be more active, boosting oxygen intake to keep the blood oxygenated. Higher oxygen intake is closely associated with relaxation and positive emotions.

The bottom line

All in all, the stress-relieving benefits of infrared saunas are quite clear. The heat provided in infrared saunas helps relieve stress, improve mental health, and can have a calming effect on individuals with anxiety. It makes it easier to relax, improves sleeping disorders, and improves your appetite, which are all signs and symptoms of stress.

sauna and stress

Best Detox Cleanse for Weight Loss 2024

Does Sauna burn fat

Maintaining your weight within a healthy range is very important for your general quality of life. In fact, according to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, your waist circumference is an important factor when it comes to assessing the overall risk of health complications and premature death. This 10-year study shows that maintaining a healthy risk can help you live a healthier, longer life.

Infrared sauna therapy helps you lose weight by burning calories and detoxifying the body while you relax in comfort.

Infrared heat technology and weight loss.

Recent clinical studies show that infrared heat technology is highly effective when it comes to aiding weight loss. A 2009 study shows that regular infrared sauna use helps reduce waist circumference and lowers weight in just a 3-month period.

One of the common themes among subjects was that infrared sauna use is similar to moderate physical exercise but more relaxing. This study shows that far infrared sauna therapy is an effective lifestyle advantage especially for people who cannot participate in physical exercise due to various medical conditions such as cardiovascular conditions, respiratory problems, and osteoarthritis.

The Journal of the American Medical Association published a study that shows that infrared sauna therapy sessions can burn up to 600 calories. Core temperatures increase during sauna weight loss sessions and the body is tasked with working to cool itself. This causes a healthy sweat which helps detoxify the body while helping you burn calories and lose weight.

Infrared sauna use increases heart rate, metabolic rate, and cardiac output, burning more calories and leading to weight loss. Furthermore, blood flow increases from about 6 quarts to 13 quarts per minute. Studies also show that regular infrared sauna use provides most of the same health benefits as regular physical exercise. Other benefits of infrared sauna therapy include cardiovascular conditioning, just like passive cardio exercise.

How does an infrared sauna help you lose weight?

Infrared sauna therapy has been shown to help in weight loss by increasing your core temperature to gradually induce sweating. This results in an increase in heart rate and blood flow, which, just like moderate physical exercise, has been proven to aid in weight loss.

Infrared saunas also aid in weight loss by easing pains and aches associated with most forms of weight training. This helps you get back to your workout routine the next day.

It is essential to keep in mind that there are a lot of factors that go into weight loss, such as eating habits, current weight, and exercise routine.

Just as there is no one diet for everyone, there’s no specific number of calories or pounds you can lose using infrared sauna therapy. However, studies show that an infrared sauna session can burn up to 600 calories, similar to jogging on a treadmill for 1 hour.

How should you use an infrared sauna for weight loss?

You simply sit or lie back and enjoy total comfort. However, there are numerous more ways to boost your sessions and subsequent weight loss. For instance, you can perform hot yoga while in the sauna.

In addition to improving weight loss, hot yoga offers a wide range of other benefits like better sleep and flexibility. People who find hot yoga too strenuous can consider adding stretching to their sauna sessions. Mild stretching is a relaxing low-impact workout that improves your flexibility and helps raise the core temperature even more. Such exercises effectively aid in weight loss while in your infrared sauna and even for a while after the session.

Is there any difference between an infrared sauna and steam sauna for weight loss?

Traditional saunas use dry or wet heat to raise the temperature of the air around you, inducing sweating. Although this can also help users lose weight, studies show that the weight loss induced by steam saunas is mainly a result of heavy sweating (loss of water).

On the other hand, infrared saunas heat the body from the inside out, allowing you to enjoy longer sessions. These saunas also increase your heart rate resulting in more calories burnt in a significantly shorter period. Infrared saunas produce far-infrared heat wavelengths of about 9.4 microns, the level at which the body absorbs infrared heat energy.

Moreover, water molecules resonate or vibrate at this frequency resulting in the release of most cellular toxins. Optimal micron output allows for deep penetration of infrared heat, which has been shown to improve weight loss outcomes.

Improving your body’s core temperature

Improving your body’s core temperature has numerous health benefits, the biggest benefit being weight loss. In fact, nowadays many health spas and gyms include infrared saunas as part of their facilities mainly because of their proven weight loss benefit.

Binghamton University conducted a 2-phase infrared sauna weight loss study that revealed that increasing the body’s core temperature results in a reduction in body fat. The study concluded that using an infrared sauna 3 times per week for about 30 minutes per session helps reduce an average of 4% body fat over a period of 4 months. This means a 175-pound man would shed about 7 pounds. 

It is important to know that participants who were involved in the study experienced infrared sauna weight loss without changing their diet or exercise patterns during the study period. Control groups who did not use infrared sauna did not show any reduction in weight.

These findings show the significant improvement that infrared sauna therapy provides for your weight loss goals. This infrared sauna weight loss study opens the door for more research and goes a long way to demonstrate what we have always suspected: infrared saunas are good for your overall health.

The bottom line

Although weight loss usually requires a change in lifestyle, it doesn’t mean there’s a specific number you should aim for to be healthy. The Obesity Action Coalition reports that a weight loss of about 5-10% benefits your overall health. Other infrared sauna weight loss benefits include improving cholesterol levels, preventing diabetes, alleviating hypertension, reducing stress, and combating inflammation of the body and sleep apnea.

Infrared sauna benefits

Will Sauna Help Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Will sauna help chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as CFS, is a long-term, debilitating illness with severe cases impairing patients’ ability to live productive lives. Some severe cases of CFS may also cause mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Studies now show that infrared sauna therapy may be able to help alleviate a wide range of chronic fatigue symptoms and improve overall wellbeing.

What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?

Although the disease can affect anyone children included, it is more common in women. In most cases, the symptoms start appearing between the mid-20s and mid-40s. The main symptom of CFS is extreme tiredness and feeling generally unwell. Other symptoms that you may experience if you are affected by CFS include:

sauna when sick
  • Headaches
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • A sore throat
  • Sore glands even when they are not swollen
  • Sleep problems
  • Problems concentrating, thinking or remembering
  • Irregular or fast heartbeats
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Feeling sickly or dizzy

How does sauna therapy help chronic fatigue syndrome?

CFS is chronic and in most cases treatment focuses on managing the symptoms. Medication and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can have a positive effect. However, in most cases these treatment options prove to be insufficient. A study performed in Japan’s Kagoshima Respiratory and Stress Center observed great improvements in CFS patients treated with heat or thermal therapy.

It reported that symptoms such as pain, fatigue, low-grade fever, and even sleep disturbance significantly improved after about 15 to 30 sessions of heat sauna therapy. These results suggested that long-term moderate thermal therapy is a promising treatment method for chronic fatigue syndrome.

Another observing two patients with CFS put them through sauna therapy once per day for a period lasting 35 days. They were then put under a program where they underwent further infrared sauna sessions twice a week for a year. This study found drastic improvements in CFS symptoms such as mental and physical complaints, confusion, pain, insomnia, depression, and fatigue. The results were consistent in both patients, suggesting that sauna can help reduce the symptom of chronic fatigue.

Another important improvement observed during these studies was a slow but sure increase in energy levels. There was also a significant increase in time spent on the non-sedentary activity. Although there’s still a need for more research into the topic of sauna therapy improving chronic fatigue syndrome, existing studies have us excited for the promising future. The sauna surely offers something that can potentially help CFS patients who have exhausted their treatment options.

Ways to help cognitive function

Other studies on infrared saunas for CFS also support the hypothesis. For instance, a study analyzed 11 chronic fatigue patients and found that sauna therapy improved cerebral blood flow and brain function in all of them. This was accompanied by other improvements in CFS symptoms. In another study, it was found that after 4 weeks of infrared sauna use, CFS patients experienced significant improvements in depression, anxiety, fatigue, and overall performance.

For people who have not tried infrared sauna therapy to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, these studies prove that it might be actually worth trying. Although it does not provide a cure, as any CFS patient knows, it is not about a cure but is actually about improving the symptoms and quality of life. Infrared sauna therapy makes it easier for chronic fatigue patients to function day to day despite the limitations presented by the condition. Recent studies show that sauna therapy can help by up to 30%. In fact, some people reported experiencing relief up to 80%.

CFS or not, thermal therapy engages the skin, nervous system, internal systems, the brain, and the body in its entirety. Regular infrared sauna therapy can help anyone (people with chronic conditions as well as healthy individuals) live a more comfortable and healthier life. Fortunately, infrared saunas have gained immense popularity and can now be found in most spas, gyms, fitness facilities, and hotels.

Releasing toxins from the body

cfs treatment

Infrared saunas produce heat light that raises the body temperature and promotes dilation of blood vessels leading to perspiration through skin pores. This helps release toxins through sweat. Some patients with conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome cannot tolerate elevated room temperatures. Infrared saunas are designed to produce heat light without elevating room temperature. This ensures that the infrared sauna sessions are less invasive and deliver much better outcomes than dry saunas.

Additionally, perspiration removes toxins, radioactive particles and toxins that can impair the body’s metabolic activities.

Improving circulation

Infrared sauna therapy helps improve the body’s internal congestion and blood circulation. This improves the general well being especially in people with chronic conditions such as CFS. Moreover, raising your body’s core temperature helps kill viruses and bacteria which adds to your overall health benefits.

Infrared saunas provide the same benefit of working out without the negative effects of physical exertion on chronic fatigue patients. For people with CFS, physical exertion can easily reverse the benefits.

Reducing stress and pain

how to combat chronic fatique

Infrared sauna therapy inhibits the “flight or fight” response. Sweating helps induce the “relax and digest” response which helps relieve stress. Moreover, it loosens ligaments and tendons and regulates the nervous system response, hence reducing the pain from CFS usually felt in the joints.

How to combat chronic fatigue

Infrared sauna therapy has also been shown to help our bodies maintain balanced PH levels which help reduce inflammation in people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. The increase in body temperature also speeds-up the destruction of weak cells that may have been exposed to radiation, fungi, viruses, bacteria and parasites.

Promoting deep tissue healing

Infrared sauna therapy also induces the production and release of proteins that have a healing effect on the body. It also promotes healing and reduces pain by boosting oxygenation, circulation, removing toxins, and helping lower sensitivity of the sympathetic nervous system.

The bottom line

Infrared sauna therapy can be beneficial for people with chronic conditions as well as healthy individuals. The benefits are targeted for people with toxins overload, nerve and joint pain, as well as chronic fatigue syndrome. However, it’s important to take some precautionary measures before undergoing sauna therapy. Lactating and pregnant women, as well as people with prosthetic devices, heart conditions, and high blood pressure, should consult their physician before beginning sauna therapy.

Infrared sauna benefits

Comparison of Infrared Sauna vs Traditional

infrared sauna vs traditional sauna

In the world of health and fitness, there are many options to choose from to improve your overall wellness. One such option is using a sauna. In this article, we would like to give an overview of using an Infrared sauna vs and traditional sauna. Both have their unique benefits, making it difficult to decide which is the best choice for you. In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between infrared saunas and traditional saunas so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you

What is a Sauna?

health benefits infrared sauna

Before we dive into the differences between infrared saunas and traditional saunas, let’s first take a look at what a sauna is. A sauna is a room or cabinet heated to high temperatures to create an environment that promotes sweating. This sweat can help detoxify the body by releasing toxins from the skin.

What is an Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna uses heat lamps that emit wavelengths of light. This technology can penetrate several inches into the body to warm blood vessels and tissues. When these areas are warmed, they release endorphins which help promote feelings of relaxation and reduce tension in muscles while also boosting circulation throughout your body.

What is a traditional sauna?

A traditional sauna uses heaters to produce steam. This type of sauna heats the air, which then heats your body. The high temperatures in a traditional sauna can cause you to sweat more than in an infrared sauna. However, it can be challenging to breathe in a traditional sauna because the air is heated, making it uncomfortable for some people.

What are the Differences?

Now that we have a basic understanding of what both an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna are, let’s look at some of the key differences between them.

  • Time: Traditional saunas can take longer to produce results because you are sitting in a heated room with hot air. There is typically less time needed to complete the same benefits as using a traditional sauna in an infrared sauna. This is because infrared light penetrates deeper into your body and heats blood vessels and tissues more quickly – resulting in sweating sooner rather than later.
  • Temperature: The temperature in a traditional sauna is typically much higher than that of an infrared sauna. This can be a pro or con, depending on your preferences. A high temperature in a traditional sauna can help you sweat more and detoxify your body faster, while an infrared sauna’s lower temperatures may be more comfortable for some people.
  • Cost: Traditional saunas can be much cheaper upfront than purchasing an infrared unit for use at home or even renting one from a spa center occasionally. However, when considering how often you will need or want to use it over several years of ownership, owning an infrared unit might end up being cheaper overall since they heat up faster and do not require heating the entire room.
  • Heat: One of the key differences between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna is that infrared saunas use heat lamps to emit light, while traditional saunas rely on heated air. This means that you will feel hotter in a traditional sauna because all of the heat is coming from the air, whereas in an infrared sauna, some of the heat is being emitted directly onto your skin. If you don’t enjoy feeling too hot when sweating out toxins, then opting for an infrared sauna may be a better choice for you.

Who Should Get a Traditional Sauna?

While infrared saunas are great for many people, they may not be the best fit for everyone. Some of the key groups that would likely benefit more from a traditional sauna include:

Those with respiratory conditions or lung problems

Because traditional saunas heat your entire room instead of just emitting wavelengths of light onto you, it can be easier to breathe in this type of environment. This is especially helpful if you have any lung condition or breathing issue that could flare up when exposed to high humidity and hot air levels.

Anyone looking for an intense detoxification session

Traditional saunas are excellent at inducing heavy sweating, which means toxins will exit your body faster than using an infrared unit where sweat typically does not pour off your body as profusely. If you are looking to detoxify your body quickly and thoroughly, then using a traditional sauna may be the better option for you.

Athletes

Traditional saunas can help increase blood flow and reduce inflammation in muscles post-workout. This can speed up recovery time and help athletes feel less sore after a tough training session.

Who Should Get An Infrared Sauna?

On the other hand, some people would likely benefit more from an infrared sauna than a traditional one. These groups include:

Those with chronic pain conditions

Infrared light has been shown to help relieve pain symptoms caused by conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines. This can significantly reduce the number of pain medications you need to take when using an infrared sauna because it alleviates your symptoms rather than just masking them with drugs.

Anyone who prefers a lower temperature

infrared sauna vs traditional sauna

If you struggle to feel too hot in traditional saunas or have overheating issues, opting for an infrared model may better suit you. This is because they emit wavelengths of light instead of heating the entire room. It also means that there will typically be less humidity in this environment, making it easier to breathe and not feel as overwhelmed by high temperatures.

People who just want to relax

Infrared saunas do not heat the entire room and can be a more soothing and relaxing environment than traditional ones. If you are someone with high blood pressure or uncomfortable in super-hot environments, opting for an infrared sauna may give you a better overall experience.

Conclusion

Now that you have a better understanding of the key differences between infrared saunas and traditional saunas, you can make an informed decision about which is right for you! Both options offer a variety of benefits, so it comes down to what is most important to you and what you hope to achieve from your sauna experience.

Learn about how to fight COVID 19 by using a sauna HERE!

Infrared sauna benefits

Top 10 Benefits of Using an Infrared Sauna Blanket

infrared sauna blanket detox

An infrared sauna blanket makes use of far-infrared heat, a technology that concentrates heat within the body in order to avoid warming the surrounding environment. Therefore, you don’t have to be bothered by the high temperatures or vapor in the room.

Although the temperatures within the infrared sauna blanket will be high, the surrounding environment will maintain its normal temperature. The temperature range is usually between 60 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit and it does not feel hot as an ordinary sauna. This allows you to stay in an infrared sauna blanket for relatively long periods of time.

What are the Benefits of Infrared Sauna Blankets?

When used regularly (up to 5 times per week), infrared sauna blankets boost heart function and metabolism. The heat generated by an infrared sauna blanket helps in reducing blood pressure, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

What are the Benefits of Infrared Sauna Blanket?

Studies have shown that it helps with post-workout recovery as well as easing chronic pain and pain for rheumatoid arthritis benefits. Key benefits of an infrared sauna blanket include:

Benefits of infrared sauna blanket

1. Detoxification

Sweating helps our bodies reduce their toxin load while boosting metabolism and general body energy levels. A sauna blanket heats up the body to its optimum sweating temperature making it easier for the body to get rid of potentially harmful toxins through the skin.

2. Boosts immune system

Once the body starts releasing toxins, you feel more radiant and healthier. An infrared sauna blanket boosts our immune system by facilitating cell regeneration and repair to ensure old cells are replaced with new, stronger ones. Regular sauna blanket sessions can help strengthen your immune system and other body systems.

3. Weight loss

Higher body temperatures as well as the increased heart rate brought about by an infrared sauna blanket can help strengthen the cardiovascular system. This aids the body to burn excess calories. When carefully combined with a balanced, healthy diet, regular use of an infrared sauna can improve your physique, your general appearance, and promote weight loss.

4. Better mood

An infrared sauna blanket helps reduce cortisol while stimulating the release of feel good hormones. Heat therapy in an infrared sauna blanket increases endorphins in the brain which can improve your mood and reduce anxiety and depression.

5. Better sleep

The happy feeling from regular use of infrared sauna blankets keeps users rejuvenated throughout the day, resulting in better sleep at night. If you are having trouble with your sleep cycle, an infrared sauna blanket can help you get high-quality, refreshing sleep.

6. Soothes sore muscles and joints

Infrared sauna blankets can help soothe painful joints and muscles. Infrared sauna blankets are calming and relaxing in the sense that they improve mood and reduce chronic pain.

7. Improves blood circulation

As the heart rate rises, blood vessels dilate and the body sweats more, which helps improve blood circulation and heart rate. Improved heart rate leads to better cardiac health and helps lower blood pressure.

8. Reduces inflammation

Infrared sauna blankets alleviate inflammation and pain, making it possible for people suffering from muscle tension to work out. However, infrared sauna blankets should not be used as a replacement for prescription medication.

9. Easy to clean

Simply open the blanket flat, wipe down the surface with a cloth and spray some antibacterial after each use. Once dry, fold it up and store it in a cool dry place.

10. Improved metabolism

Better metabolism helps clear skin blemishes, boosts collagen, and produces a healthy glow.

For most people, spending a few hours at the spa for sheer relaxation sounds perfect. But, between family engagements and work, along with finding time for meditation, yoga, or the gym, relaxing becomes a luxury many people can’t afford. SurmountWay Far Infrared Sauna Blanket with Remote control gives you benefits similar to those of a spa without having to visit the local spa.

Key Features and Benefits of the SurmountWay Far Infrared Sauna Blanket

Boost circulation infrared sauna blanket
  • High quality construction

SurmountWay Far Infrared Sauna Blanket features high-quality construction that employs a high-quality PU exterior and PVC interior for optimal comfort and durability.

  • Ideal for detoxification

The far infrared rays emitted by the blanket penetrate the skin causing a thermal effect of the deep subcutaneous tissue. This causes capillaries and tissue to expand, thereby boosting metabolism and blood circulation.

  • Safe design

Once the blanket detects temperatures higher than 85 degrees, it will stop heating immediately and sound an alarm for approximately one minute. This mechanism helps create a safe environment fir achieving your health goals.

  • Zipper design allows you to free your hands

The zipper design is a useful feature that allows you to enjoy other activities such as playing on your phone, reading magazines, and even making calls while still in the sauna blanket.

  • Convenient home spa

The SurmountWay Far Infrared Sauna Blanket allows you to enjoy the benefits of relaxed full body sauna sessions at the comfort of your home.

The radiant energy produced by an infrared sauna blanket is sure to aid you work-up for good sweating without effort. The heat produced by an infrared sauna blanket also aids to relax and relieve muscles and tension all through the body.

Research has also shown great benefit in using infrared sauna blankets for the treatment of chronic health problems like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, congestive heart failure, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Does an Infrared Sauna Help Nerve Pain?

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Numerous scientific and medical studies attest to the pain relief and other health benefits provided by regular infrared sauna therapy. The direct effect of far infrared light energy on peripheral nerves soothes irritated parts that send pain signals to your brain.

Various inflammatory conditions such as joint pain, rheumatism pain, and arthritis are benefited by lower levels of prostaglandins, which help regulate the relaxation and contraction of smooth muscle tissues.

Infrared sauna therapy also stimulates the production of white blood cells (leukocytes) which improves the body’s capability of healing itself and prevent recurring pain symptoms. Moreover, delivering a higher amount of oxygen to cells helps heal the affected area and stimulates the reduction of the causative sources of many conditions that make the body ache, cramp, and sore.

The pain relief mechanisms of infrared sauna therapy also include relieving ischemia and reducing muscle spasms due to improved circulation throughout the body.

Elimination of toxins and acids, removal of pathogenic microorganisms and improved oxygenation of cells and tissues all aid in bringing powerful pain relief to every part of our bodies through the use of an infrared sauna therapy program.

Help for Arthritic conditions, muscle spasms, and chronic pain.

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Infrared sauna therapy has been proven to be a highly effective treatment plan for relieving nerve pain and arthritic pain. For instance, in Japan, infrared sauna therapy is used extensively in providing relief to people suffering from nerve pain and muscular-skeletal ailments such as back and hip pain, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, sprains, and fibromyalgia. In Europe, infrared sauna therapy has been used successfully to treat people afflicted with lower back pain and various forms of arthritis.

When muscles are heated by infrared sauna light, blood flow is significantly increased, just like what we experience when we exercise. An infrared sauna elevates the body’s core temperature, thus producing dilation of the venules, arterioles, and capillaries.

This deep heating process dilates the capillaries thus bringing healing and relief to joints, muscles, and soft tissue. Improving blood circulation helps in the detoxification and transportation of oxygen-rich blood to joints and muscles that are oxygen-depleted so that they may heal faster.

Infrared sauna heat decreases joint stiffness and pain

In one study, joints heated in an infrared sauna at 112 degrees Fahrenheit has a 20% decrease in joint stiffness Therefore, it is speculated that thickened connective tissue and stiffened joints may respond in a similar way.

Infrared sauna heat helps reduce muscle spasms

Studies show that infrared heat is highly effective when it comes to reducing muscle spasms including those caused by underlying neuropathological, joint, or skeletal conditions. This pain-relieving effect is caused by the combined effect of infrared heat on nerves (both primary and secondary) that carry impulses from the body to the spinal cord or brain and blood vessels that supply blood to organs from the spindle cells. The effect is further enhanced by the impact of infrared heat on Golgi tendon organs which detect force or tension in the muscles.

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Sometimes nerve pain is linked to the lack of blood supply (ischemia) due to spasms or tension that can be significantly improved by a high level of blood and oxygen in that particular area, which infrared sauna therapy can generate.

This is achieved by the widening of the blood vessels, particularly the arteries, thus leading to reduced blood pressure or increased blood flow. Infrared heat also reduces pain by direct action on peripheral nerves as well as free nerve endings in tissues.

In one study regular infrared heat application resulted in the elimination of the nerve response that causes pain arising from the dental pulp.

Infrared heat is quickly becoming a leading treatment for injuries in soft tissues. It has been successfully used to promote relief in Intractable (permanent) or chronic cases as well as speeding up healing in new injuries.

The bottom line

Nerve pain can be caused by different factors including chronic conditions, injury, over-exercise, arthritis, as well as hormonal imbalances. Many studies have shown that infrared sauna therapy can be used to provide relief for many different types of pain. In fact, it has been used across cultures throughout history for more than 2,500 years. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks used volcanic hot air caverns and thermal baths to treat body pains and muscle spasms. Infrared saunas are modern day solutions for natural pain relief.

While it’s always important to consult your physician first to decide how your specific pain should be treated, it’s worth considering how infrared sauna therapy can help relieve your specific pain naturally.

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Is It Safe To Use An Infrared Sauna Every Day?

Can I use an infrared sauna everyday

Safety, health, and wellness are the main driving forces behind the immense popularity of infrared sauna therapy. However, some people are concerned about the frequency of using infrared saunas and session durations. While there are numerous health benefits of using infrared saunas, there are some important things that should be taken into consideration before using them.

Establish a threshold of endurance

Introducing a new substance or activity into your body should be done in gradual increments. Infrared sauna sessions should be spread apart and shorter at the beginning as your body adapts to the rays and heat of the infrared spectrum. To maximize the benefits and avoid any potential problems, you should allow a day of rest between sessions for the first 3 weeks.

Infrared saunas use invisible rays to penetrate deep into the skin and heat up the body from the inside out. This can be deceiving because the temperature inside infrared saunas is not as high as traditional dry saunas. Despite the significantly lower external temperature, the invisible infrared light penetrates the epidermis to induce profuse sweating. Therefore the rate of perspiration is much higher with infrared saunas than with traditional dry saunas or steam baths. Give your body time to adapt to the heat and pay keen attention to how your body is reacting.

Listen to your body

Is it safe to use an infrared sauna everyday

After 3 weeks of undergoing infrared sauna therapy every other day, you’ll be able to adjust the frequency of use according to your specific needs. Once you’ve completed the introductory period, more frequent use of the infrared sauna is important to make the most out of your body’s response to the heat. Just like any medical treatment or exercise program, commitment and ritualized routine will augment the health benefits of undergoing infrared sauna therapy.

Routine use supported by electrolyte replenishment and increased hydration

Consistency is vital when it comes to maximizing the health benefits you can reap from infrared sauna therapy. During the initial 3-week adaptation period, the body gradually adapts to the infrared heat and you can increase the frequency of sessions while decreasing the periods of rest between sauna sessions. You can develop a committed routine effortlessly mainly because infrared sauna sessions are both relaxing and pleasurable.

If you didn’t experience any negative side effects during the 3-week introductory period, you can set a goal to undergo infrared sauna therapy every day for 30 to 60 minutes per session. However, it’s very important to ensure optimal hydration throughout the day (both before and after sessions).

Set aside a day of rest for absorption and adaptation

It is recommended that you take a day of rest at least every 7 to 10 days of daily sauna use to allow the body to fully incorporate all the changes that have been occurring. As you gradually increase the frequency of sessions, it’s still important to give your body’s physiological network time to seek equilibrium. A break from the heavy perspiration allows your body’s network to fully assimilate the transformative effects of infrared sauna therapy.

Preparation through proper hydration

Preparing your body for the experience of a sauna starts with proper hydration. An infrared sauna session is a detoxification protocol that induces profuse sweating and hence demands proper hydration before and after the session. In fact, experts recommend that hydration begins several days prior to going for the session.

If you are engaged in regular sauna use, you should consume at least 3 quarts of water per day. While the method of using infrared wavelengths is far more effective in detoxification, it can easily cause detoxification especially if you are not properly hydrated before going into the sauna.

Filtered tap water, mineral water, or bottled spring water will hydrate the body adequately before and after your infrared sauna session. Always refuel your body with mineral water or electrolytes after each sauna session regardless of the amount of sweat your body produces during a sauna session.

The bottom-line. Is it safe to use an infrared sauna every day?

Always pay keen attention to how your body responds to any new substance you introduce or activity you engage in. Your body will tell you whether to take a rest or increase the frequency of using an infrared sauna.

Experts who recommend taking two sauna sessions per day (one in the morning just after waking up and one in the evening before bed) also advise users to reduce the duration of each session to about 15 to 20 minutes. However, you should not exceed two 20-minute sessions per day. Infrared saunas are a blessing particularly in this age of drug-resistant infections and toxic exposure.

Can you help treat COVID-19 with Infrared Sauna Therapy? Read more HERE!

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Top 5 Benefits of Infrared Saunas for Cancer

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Throughout history, sauna therapy has been recognized in many parts of the world as a feasible means of cleansing and relaxing the body, promoting a sense of wellbeing, as well as improving overall health. In fact, medical practitioners recommend sauna therapy as an effective adjunctive therapy for detoxifying the body.

Saunas provide a practical and safe means of stimulating the body to get rid of toxic or non-essential trace metals such as lead, cadmium, and nickel through sweat. The logic for using infrared sauna therapy is overheating the body in order to induce an artificial fever, stimulate metabolism, increase the ability of vital organs, inhibit the growth of bacteria, and increase the skin’s capacity to cleanse and detoxify via profuse sweating.

How do infrared saunas work?

Infrared saunas mainly use radiant energy to penetrate tissues to a depth of more than 1.5 inches. The sauna’s energy output corresponds closely to our bodies’ own radiant energy. Therefore, the body absorbs up to 93% of the infrared rays that reach the skin. Infrared energy that is produced within the body is associated with various healing responses. Therefore, our tissues may require a boost to improve the healing response especially in tissues under repair.

Infrared sauna therapy provides gentle whole-body hyperthermia that improves health in many different ways. When it comes to cancer, infrared saunas offer a combination of various therapeutic mechanisms that act synergistically and simultaneously to fight cancer and improve overall health.

1. Direct death of cancer cells

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Cancer cells are intolerant of and more sensitive to high temperatures compared to normal cells. Cancer tumors lack the ability to adapt to the effects of excess heat because they are weaker than our normal body cells. Therefore, excessive heat can kill cancer cells without damaging healthy cells. Numerous studies have shown that hyperthermia (thermotherapy), when combined with other cancer treatments helps reduce tumor size significantly.

Scientists in japan have discovered that sauna therapy with far infrared waves strongly inhibits the growth of cancer tumors in mice, specifically breast cancer without harmful side effects.

2. Detoxification

In addition to hampering the supply of oxygen and nutrients to cells, poor circulation also prevents the elimination of toxins and waste materials. Sauna therapy helps purge our bodies of hundreds of chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals, and other toxins. It also helps neutralize acidic body chemistry. The heat produced by saunas creates perspiration which helps cleanse the skin.

Infrared heat penetrates deep into the skin and helps release toxins from fat layers beneath the skin. These toxins are then flushed out through sweat. Infrared saunas also help eliminate toxins from internal organs such as the kidneys and liver. This helps decongest organs by getting rid of estrogen, toxic metals and chemicals. Congestion, sluggishness, and overload of these organs inhibit the detoxification process of toxic substances in the body. This is a major problem particularly for cancer patients.

3. Improved circulation

Improve your circulation

Infrared sauna therapy boosts circulation, which aids in bringing oxygen, nutrients and other essential substances to cells. Cancer cells often thrive in tissues with impaired circulation, and hence poor oxygenation and nutrition. Improving circulation helps create a high oxygen environment which is unfavorable for cancer cells.

During sauna therapy sessions, the pulse rate increases by up to 30%, hence increasing the amount of blood the heart pumps each second. The body directs a huge percentage of the additional blood flow to the skin in order to get rid of the excess heat. Infrared saunas also increase blood flow in the lungs, boosting oxygenation. Improved circulation is of great benefit especially for cancer patients who should not or cannot exercise much.

4. Immunity activation

Studies show that conventional cancer treatments suppress immune function which puts cancer patients at risk of other diseases and infection. The good news is, infrared sauna therapy can actually boost immunity through various immune cell responses. Saunas produce “heat shock” which destroys proteins on the surface of cancer cells, making them prone to attack and destruction by the immune system.

Moreover, the heat produced during hyperthermia makes cancer cells appear different from normal cells, thereby initiating an immediate and long-lasting immune response. The immune system immediately sends macrophages and natural killer cells to the tumor hence improving the monitoring function of the immune system.

5. Weight loss

Studies published by the American Institute for Cancer Research show that Obesity is a risk factor for cancer as well as cancer death. This is attributed to the fact that carcinogens and cancer-promoting hormones reside in fatty tissue and they are particularly tough to metabolize out. Infrared sauna therapy has been clinically shown to aid in weight loss by burning fat.

According to a 2009 study, saunas help reduce weight as well as waist circumference in just 3 months. This is an ideal weight-loss solution especially for people who are sedentary because of medical conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

The bottom line

According to studies, infrared sauna therapy helps improve outcomes for several cancers including cancers in the neck and head, bladder, brain, rectum, lungs, vagina, vulva, cervix, esophagus, and induces cell death in non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer cells. However, this does not mean that cancer patients should refrain from cancer treatments prescribed by their doctors and jump into a sauna.

Moreover, it’s critical to understand that a sauna can be very risky for people who have underlying medical conditions such as heart issues. Therefore, it’s essential to check with your physician before trying any cancer self-treat methods.

Can you help treat COVID-19 with infrared sauna therapy? Learn more HERE

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Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy for the Skin

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Your skin is the largest and one of the most important organs of your body. Therefore, keeping your skin healthy should be one of the priorities in anyone’s healthcare routine. Moreover, the skin is constantly exposed to a wide range of external forces such as injury, weather elements, and the beauty products we use.

These factors play a huge role in how quickly the skin shows signs of aging. However, there are numerous natural anti-aging practices we can incorporate into our skincare routines to maintain beautiful skin reduce the signs of aging and wear.

Using an infrared sauna is just like taking your skin body-wide into a moisturizer. In addition to protecting and treating the skin, infrared sauna therapy also helps prevent and reverse signs of aging. In just a few weeks of undergoing IST (infrared sauna therapy), you can come out with more radiant and beautiful skin than when you started.

Anti-aging infrared sauna benefits for amazing skin.

  • Better sleep

One of the best ways to keep your skin looking radiant and young is by putting on highly effective skincare products and getting a full night’s rest. Infrared sauna therapy helps with sleep issues such as insomnia, allowing the body to rest and giving your body ample time to absorb the skincare products you use.

  • Reduced irritation

If you have combination skin, you’ve probably noticed that what you use to moisturize one area of your skin can easily irritate other areas. Dry, fussy skin can also cause irritation. Infrared sauna therapy cleanses the skin and reduces irritation without removing naturally occurring oils.

  • Stronger pores

The heat from infrared sauna therapy opens pores and the cooling process afterwards helps close them again. This process of exfoliating adds strength to your skin pores, helping them breathe easily and cleanly without oils and creams filling them with moisture.

Inflammation is one of the main causes of most chronic conditions. Inflammation in the skin oftentimes presents in the form of redness, heat, and swelling. An infrared sauna session helps reduce inflammation in the skin, giving it the chance to function without inflammatory influence.

  • Gets rid of dead skin cells

Cells are constantly replenishing and skin looks vibrant and younger without dead cells de-coloring it, clouding it up, and covering new skin cells. Once old skin cells are washed away, new skin cells get a chance to get to the surface. Infrared sauna therapy helps wash away dead skin cells, giving you a brighter complexion.

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  • Natural moisturizer

Infrared saunas help moisturize your skin from the inside out. It’s a chemical-free, all natural way of treating your skin to the maximum in moisture. What normally appears as dry skin is infused with warmth and moisture thus reducing aging signs.

  • Stimulates collagen production

Collagen gives the skin some bounce and plumpness. However, as we age, the production of collagen declines at a very fast rate. Using a sauna helps stimulate collagen production hence reducing the signs of aging.

  • A rejuvenator

Infrared sauna therapy has been praised as a natural rejuvenator. As infrared heat penetrates the skin it stimulates cellular rejuvenation and activity. This helps the body get rid of old, dead cells and new skin cells are produced. This skin rejuvenation process means newer, healthier skin.

  • Keeps your skin young

Just like any other organ in the body, the skin has a unique system on which it functions. An infrared sauna enhances efficiency throughout your body, allowing various organs to work more effectively. Therefore, regular use of an infrared sauna creates efficient skin that functions and breathes, keeping you looking younger. In order to maintain a younger appearance, it’s essential to ensure that your skin functions like it did when it was young. 

  • Reverses UV damage
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Infrared saunas can help reverse UV damage eliminating the fading, burns and aging signs common among people who spend extended periods of time in the sun.

  • A healthy body is younger, healthier skin

Infrared saunas engage several internal processes that help detoxify your body while strengthening and purifying internal systems and organs. Using a sauna at least 4 times a week helps you develop a healthier body which reflects in the complexion and shine of your skin. This means more protection against weather elements and younger appearances.

The bottom-line

One of the main benefits of infrared saunas for the skin is their detoxifying effect. They help clear away toxins that are buried beneath the skin. When you use an infrared sauna, you sweat out toxins that the body would otherwise be unable to expunge.

The process also helps improve circulation, which means more natural elements can be brought to the skin thus supporting a bright and vibrant look and feel.

Learn more about how Infrared Sauna can help with disease prevention HERE!

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