What is an infrared sauna and how does it work? There is quite a bit of difference between a traditional steam sauna and infrared sauna therapy. A traditional sauna simply heats the surrounding air, allowing you to sweat out toxins via the skin. Infrared therapy uses a special heater which actually targets the user, heating the body directly and penetrating the tissues. Toxins are still eliminated via the skin by the process of sweating, but with infrared the process works from the inside out, heating the vital organs and tissues rather than just the surface layer of the skin. What are the benefits of infrared ? Proponents of infrared therapy claim that the process of heating the tissues from the inside out accelerates healing and tissue repair. The organs themselves are "sweating out" toxins which are then released by the skin during perspiration. Infrared sauna therapy is a much more specific form of heat therapy than the traditional sauna, which cannot target muscles and tissues. What does the infrared sauna feel like? An infrared sauna treatment will feel very similar to sitting in a traditional sauna, with a couple of noticeable differences. Old fashioned saunas get very hot, up to 160 degrees farenheit. Infrared therapy operates at a slightly cooler level, around 110 to 120 degrees. At this lower temperature, breathing is more relaxed and the overall experience is more enjoyable, making infrared a great choice for those who are intolerant of high heat and humidity. Is infrared sauna therapy safe? As with any form of heat therapy, there are certain precautions that should be taken. It's not advisable to use infrared if you are pregnant, intolerant of heat, or have certain conditions such as lupus or multiple sclerosis. It's a good idea to ask your doctor first if you have any concerns about infrared sauna therapy. Will it help me lose weight or improve my health? Proponents of infrared therapy claim that it will increase the metabolism, thereby making it easier for the body to shed unwanted pounds. The deep heat of infrared is also purported to stimulate detoxification in the organs and tissues, as well as the skin. Deep heat can be beneficial as well in conditions such as arthritis, bringing pain relief and some increased mobility. For more information, there is an excellent page on infrared at the Creighton University School of Medicine's alternative medicine web page. Click on http://altmed.creighton.edu/sauna/ or copy the link into your browser to learn more. . |
FAR Infrared Sauna (913) 648-4343 |