Far Infrared Sauna

What is a far infrared sauna and how does it work?
“Far infrared” simply refers to the wavelength of the radiated heat. The sauna transmits the most beneficial spectrum of solar radiation without any of the harmful ultraviolet radiation. Far infrared radiation generated within an enclosed sauna penetrates and heats the outer 2 – 3 inches of the body. The heat is generated by a ceramic heating element.

How does the far infrared sauna differ from a conventional sauna?

The far infrared sauna heats the body directly using radiated heat which penetrates several inches beneath the skin. A conventional heats indirectly by heating the air within the sauna which then heats the skin without penetrating deeply. Because of this deep penetration, the detoxification benefits of the far infrared sauna can be achieved at a moderate temperature (115 F), at which the body perspires only moderately. A conventional sauna is operated at 180 – 220 F and causes profuse perspiration.

What are the potential benefits of using the far infrared sauna?

• Detoxification of heavy metals, toxins, drugs, and poisons through the skin by perspiration.
• A sauna session increases body temperature by 1 – 3 F, which stimulates production of antibodies by the immune system, just like a low-grade fever does.
• Relieves stress on the autonomic nervous system.
• The body burns several hundred calories during a sauna session, which promotes weight loss.
• Widens blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, and increases heart rate, cardiac output, and oxygenation.
• Relieves chronic pain of arthritis and muscle and joint pain.
• Cleanses the skin and improves skin disorders such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

How should the far infrared sauna be used?

• Limit sauna sessions to 30 minutes at no more than 115 F. Although the skin may feel cool, internal organs are heating up and there is a risk of hyperthermia.
• Due to the low to moderate perspiration, clothes may be worn in the sauna, although it may be more comfortable to disrobe.
• Drink plenty of water afterward. The body dehydrates in spite of the low perspiration.