You hear the word “sauna” and probably get Scandy vibes – hot, steamy rooms with wooden benches and water being poured over rocks. While an infrared sauna is similar in its concept as well as in the health benefits it provides, there are some differences. But why are saunas so popular to begin with? What exactly are the benefits? Let’s explore that.

While modern infrared saunas are obviously only possible thanks to electricity, the concept has been around for hundreds of years. In addition to the more widely know Nordic saunas or steam rooms, the Native Americans used sweat lodges for cleansing and ceremonial purposes; Central and South American cultures have used temazcals - stone structures with heated rocks placed in the center - to cleanse the body and to recover from extreme physical exertions. As with so many things, our ancestors were onto something. They realized the cleansing and restorative properties of warming the body while at rest. Here are some specifics relating to the differences in the types of saunas as well as the health benefits related to consistent infrared sauna use.

1. 
   Infrared Sauna vs. Standard / Steam Sauna

Yes, they both warm your body, but they do it in completely different ways. While standard saunas use steam to heat up not only your body but also the air around you, infrared saunas emit infrared light which warms your body directly without warming the air and without the high humidity inherent in steam saunas. Standard saunas typically reach an average temperature of about 185°F whereas an infrared sauna typically stays around 120°F. Because of the lower ambient temperature, infrared saunas can be easier to handle, especially for those with heat sensitivities. You can also safely stay in a bit longer, thereby extending the benefits.

1. 
   Physical Benefits

The main physical benefits from an infrared sauna come from the extreme sweating that is induced - this brings the blood closer to the surface of the skin which improves circulation and muscle function, reduces pain and aids in muscle recovery post-work or after an injury or surgery; this also stimulates the immune system as well as releases endorphins (one of the “feel good” hormones). The benefits of infrared sauna don’t stop there. Studies have shown that regular infrared sauna sessions can help improve cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid diseases, and chronic fatigue and pain syndromes. Infrared saunas have also been shown to improve exercise performance, skin moisture barrier properties, quality of deep sleep, reduce blood pressure, lessen joint pain, boost overall brain function (by increasing BDNF), assist in heavy metal detox, support thyroid function, reduce migraine and tension headaches and even aid in weight loss.

1. 
   Mental Benefits

As the body heats up, endorphins are released en masse. These endorphins interact with opiate receptors in your brain and cause not only a reduced perception of pain but also an increased feeling of pleasure and well-being. Increased endorphin levels have been shown time and time again to reduce symptoms of depression, to reduce stress and anxiety and to even boost self-esteem. Not only do endorphins pack a powerful punch on their own, but increased endorphin activity spikes dopamine (another “feel good” hormone), which, in turn, boosts your mood even further. Endorphins also allow the brain to optimize both production of and reception of serotonin (associated with increased feelings of wellness) and norepinephrine (related to alertness and energy).

As our ancestors knew, saunas are a powerfully effective way to boost both physical and mental well-being. Sessions are typically about 40 minutes long, so they’re quite easy to work into even the busiest schedule. Give our infrared saunas a try, and see for yourself why this age-old tradition is still going strong.