Infrared saunas have come a long way – but heat therapy has been around for centuries. The use of saunas track back to ancient Greece, the Romans, and the indigenous people of Finland. The name “Sauna” even refers to the old Finnish word “Savuna”; which literally translates to “in smoke”.
Today, the modern sauna combines traditional heat therapy, with science and technology, formulating the basis of infrared light therapy, and infrared saunas. Over recent years, infrared saunas have become increasingly popular.
In this article, we’ll look into the science behind infrared light therapy, and what this offers in a sauna experience. We’re going to outline what the main differences are from the traditional Finnish sauna, and what the science-backed benefits of infrared sauna therapy.
Let’s dive in:
A Brief History of Infrared Sauna Therapy and the Science Behind It
The infrared sauna has been around since the 1960s when Finnish scientists were looking into creating a sauna that is more efficient in their heating but also more compatible with less heat-tolerant people. However, it originated on the other side of the planet: Japanese inventor Dr. Tadashi Ishikawa invented the actual infrared sauna. In contrast, others credit John Harvey Kellogg for creating an early “light-bath” prototype (Yes, the cereal founder!).
Instead of being “in smoke”, as the Finnish sauna translation suggests, an infrared sauna does not need to heat the air to warm the body. Instead, infrared sauna science relies on infrared light that directly heats the body. This so-called electromagnetic radiation is better at penetrating your skin to relax your muscles and warm from the inside out. Instead of heating the air to 80 – 100 °C, an infrared sauna heats up to 45 – 65°C.
This infrared light has a longer wavelength than the light visible to the human eye but can be detected by special cameras. But it’s there. Another light source you rely on daily emits infrared light, too: the sun.
In quick succession, infrared saunas got popular all over the world. Today they are an integral part of self-care culture, providing relaxation and ease for those who are in to health and wellness. But what aspects of this elixir are backed by science?
Infrared Sauna Benefits Backed by Science
Many people trust the benefits of infrared sauna science and are right to do so! Here are four out of many infrared sauna benefits backed by science.
Pain Relief
Multiple studies show evidence that regular infrared sauna treatments are a great way to help with the pain relief of chronic medical conditions, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. The radiating heat also helps those experiencing stiffness.
Improved Circulation
Another one of many infrared sauna benefits backed by science is increased circulation. Regular infrared sauna sessions improve blood flow through the body as the blood vessels dilate from the heat. Therefore, sore muscles recover faster, and the risk of cardiovascular diseases is reduced.
Another beneficial effect of increased circulation is better transportation of oxygen and nutrients in your body, a beneficial by-product for boosting overall health and well-being.
Increased White Blood Cells
Visiting an infrared sauna regularly can increase the production rate of white blood cells, improving the body’s immune response to fight germs and viruses.
Improved Mood & Sleeping Patterns
In addition to the physical benefits of infrared saunas, regular whole-body heating can help the mind relax through the release of endorphins, making it beneficial for those who suffer from sleeping concerns.
Experience Infrared Therapy with Rimba Sweat
Infrared sauna therapy is beneficial for a range of medical conditions, including high blood pressure, heart conditions, dementia, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Regular infrared sauna treatments can also aid in detoxification, overall health, and well-being.
If you want to try out an infrared sauna in a private and relaxing atmosphere or need more information, consider reaching out to Rimba Sweat today. Our friendly staff in our Manly and Neutral Bay Studios are more than happy to answer your questions. Contact us today.