Sweat Your Way Into Health & Wellness
Benefits of Deliberate Heat Exposure via Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas have been known to have a laundry list of health benefits: improving cardiovascular health, assist in reducing blood pressure, soothing sore muscles after a tough workout or injury, reducing muscle tension, joint pain relief, neck pain, back pain, tension headaches, reducing symptoms related to chronic pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Saunas also have been shown to help increase relaxation, reduce symptoms related to depression, anxiety and stress, help improve quality of sleep, improve your immune system, reduce oxidative stress, improve your skin health and overall sense of wellness. The benefits of deliberate heat exposure by an infrared sauna are endless and easy to obtain, you just have to be willing to sit and spend some time in the heat as the sauna will help aid you in your journey to optimal health and wellness.
Saunas have been around for ages as our forefathers had saunas that were heated with steam or fire. A more up-to-date approach to this concept is with heat created by infrared lamps. This allows for the sauna to operate at a lower temperature all the while providing the same therapeutic benefits. Consider it a modern twist on how our ancestors sweated their way into health and wellness. Infrared saunas have the ability to heat up to a range of 120-150 degrees which is supplied by light panels that penetrate the skin to create a heating effect rather than cranking on the heat to a traditional sauna which is usually between 150-190 degrees. This allows for you to be more comfortable while still obtaining all the benefits.
Whether you’re looking to ease joint pain, relax, or tackle other health issues, infrared saunas could be very helpful in the process. Much like traditional saunas, the risks are minimal, but this doesn’t mean infrared saunas are for everyone. Certain people should exercise caution when using any type of sauna for deliberate heat exposure. If you have medical conditions that could be exacerbated by heat such as high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, taking medications for chronic illnesses, if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, or feeling ill and run down, talk to your healthcare provider before heating up. Never enter a sauna if you’ve been drinking alcohol or taking other drugs.
Time of sessions: It has been advised for best results to start low and slow, getting acclimated to the sauna. Sessions typically range from 30-45 min, as anything more may stress the body. Everyone is a little different and their tolerance to heat varies so it may take a fee sessions to figure out what works best for you. It is also advised to not do more than 4 sessions each week.
Tips of Sauna use: It is best to stay hydrated, drink plenty of water while in the sauna and afterwards. Electrolytes added to the water will be even better as this will help nourish the body and hydrate the cells further. Clean off afterwards with a damp towel, as this will help wipe away any impurities you may have sweated out in your session.
Schedule your session today by either calling our office 616.594.0214 or online at www.greatlakesspineandsport.com.