Sweating is often perceived as something uncomfortable and unattractive. It leaves stains on the clothes, bad odor and makes your skin clammy. That’s why people use all sorts of ways to combat sweat, from deodorants to surgical interventions.

However, sweating didn't always have this bad reputation. Native Americans, Ancient Greeks and Romans all used heated spaces to sweat and eliminate toxins from their bodies. Today, the times are changing and more people are aware of how beneficial good sweating can be. Enter infrared saunas — the latest health craze.

This relatively new trend is widely praised by celebrities and athletes claiming it has relieved their pain, helped them burn calories and detox. Some use it after a workout, performances and competitions, while others see it as the perfect way to relax and get their skin glow. So it’s normal that everyone wants to know what infrared saunas are. Here are the basics:

Differences Between Traditional And Infrared Saunas

You probably know what a traditional sauna is — a closed-off place that uses wood, stones, or charcoal to heat the air to induce sweating. This causes the body to warm up from the outside in, which leads to sweating. For many people, this is not a pleasant experience since the air is heavy and hard to breathe.

An infrared sauna also creates heat but in a completely different way. It uses infrared light to warm up the body from the inside out. This is why it’s tolerably hot — 120°F to 140°F compared to 185°F to 195°Fin a traditional sauna — making it more comfortable to sit inside one. For this reason, spending time in an infrared sauna is easier on the body and leads to similar health benefits.

A Few Words About Infrared Light

Let’s start with a little bit of science! Infrared (IR) light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum present all around us. You use it every day to switch the channels on your TV or play a movie on your Blu-ray player. Although the human eye can't detect it, the body can sometimes sense its heat.

Infrared light was discovered over 200 years ago by Sir Frederick William Herschel, the same astronomer who discovered Uranus. Since then, it has been used across various industries and saved many lives. For instance, one of its applications is detecting humans and animals trapped in fires. Today, several studies have proved that infrared light can have therapeutic benefits for the body [1]. With infrared saunas, these health properties may now be available in every home.

So What Are Infrared Saunas?

Infrared saunas are therapy booths easily installed in your home. You can place one in your garage, bedroom, bathroom, or attic, anywhere you have enough room and a reliable power source. Inside, a person is surrounded by the IR heaters which raise the body’s temperature, inducing perspiration.

Depending on your budget and needs, infrared saunas come in different sizes and with various added perks. Some are made of high-quality wood and have Bluetooth speakers, like the JNH Freedom Collection. Others, like Ensi™ Collection emit ultra-low electromagnetic fields (EMF), making them safer and more effective for those with medical condition that require such an environment.

The air inside isn't stifling and people who can't withstand the high temperatures in a traditional sauna may feel comfortable here. Using an infrared sauna regularly may lead to a faster heartbeat and improved circulation, bringing more oxygen to cells, organs, muscles and joints [2]. Other health benefits may include lower blood pressure, better sleep, reduction of pain and stress relief.

What Are The Risks

The major risk in an infrared sauna, just like in traditional saunas,is overheating. It can cause dehydration and fainting, especially in elderly people. Also, children shouldn't be allowed inside an infrared booth without permission from the pediatrician and heavy adult supervision. Once inside, they should be closely monitored since their body temperature rises more quickly than an adult’s. To stay hydrated, drink a glass of water before entering the sauna and, if necessary, have a bottle close at hand inside.

Just like with a traditional sauna, people with certain health conditions should consult with their physician. People who suffered a heart attack recently, pregnant women and persons with eczema need to see their doctor before using the infrared sauna. If you feel any discomfort when inside, you should immediately leave the booth and monitor your health.

Verdict

As the newest wellness trend, infrared saunas are attracting a lot of attention. Health benefits are some of the most important perks of having a personal infrared sauna. If you are thinking about getting one, it may be the best health investment you’ll ever make. It’ll save you money and time that you would otherwise spend going to a sauna in a spa/gym center. So, take a look at the JNH Lifestyles collections. Your future infrared sauna is waiting for you to take home.

References:

[1]Shang-Ru Tsai, Ph.D., Michael R Hamblin, Ph.D. (2017). “Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, May 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5505738/.

[2]Brunt, V. E., Howard, M. J., et al. (2016). ”Passive heat therapy improves endothelial function, arterial stiffness and blood pressure in sedentary humans.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27270841.