Benefits of Infared Saunas

Did you know that sweating is a good thing? Our bodies would overheat if they didn't have properly functioning sweat glands to perspire from. Moderate sweating is actually a sign of good health and has added benefits as well. There are so many ways to work up a sweat, but have you ever tried an infrared sauna?

I have always loved to sweat it out in the sauna, followed by an ice cold shower of course. And although I have always loved the way it makes me feel, I would sometimes find myself quite uncomfortable and even struggling to breathe in traditional saunas.

Here’s where infrared saunas come in. My first experience was amazing! Without all that steam in the air, I was able to breathe fully and comfortably the entire session. I also noticed that it didn’t leave me feeling light headed like traditional saunas often do. All around, it was obvious that my body preferred this method.

What is the difference? Well a traditional sauna or steam room uses steam to heat the air in the room, eventually warming your body as well. This is why the air is thick and humid and sometimes can make it difficult to get full deep breaths. An infrared sauna, on the other hand, heats the body directly, rather than the room. This is made possible by the use of electromagnetic radiation via infrared panels (or in some cases lamps) to easily penetrate human tissue. It certainly seems like a much more straightforward process, but that isn’t the only reason I prefer infrared.

Infrared saunas are able to operate at lower temperatures meanwhile penetrating deeper than a traditional sauna. This allows you to experience a more intense sweat even longer as it is more tolerable. Your session can actually help your body to reduce stress and fatigue. I find this to be a great place to meditate, but it can also positively impact your quality of sleep.

Many professionals in the health and medical world agree that regular sauna use can be great for pain management and even circulation as it reduces inflammation and blood pressure. This heat exposure induces protective responses against biological processes that drive cardiovascular disease and related disabilities. Your body's physiological response to sauna use is remarkably similar to those experienced during moderate to vigorous exercise, making it a realistic alternative for those unable to engage in such activity due to chronic disease or physical limitation. Some even say this helps with weight loss.

Sweating in a sauna is great for the skin. As your body detoxes, so does the dermis, leading to clear and tighter skin.What I find most interesting, is that sauna use promotes the release of human growth hormone, leading to cell regeneration and reproduction. So while you detox and shed old dead cells, your body is sending signals out to replace those with new ones.

While all this information is great and exciting, please keep in mind that hydration is key! Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after your session. As always we hope that you will book your next sweat with Transcend!