Infrared saunas promote relaxation by helping to maintain healthy levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. The heat generated by the sauna also helps relax muscles and relieve tension throughout the body, allowing you to relax and de-stress.
Your skin is the largest organ of your body. An infrared sauna emits rays that penetrate deeply into the tissues. This heat stimulates fat cells to release built up toxins, including heavy metals and other environmental chemicals. Research indicates a far infrared sauna will allow you to eliminate 5-7 times more toxins than traditional Swedish saunas.
Weight loss from sweating is quickly regained. The heat generated by an infrared sauna causes your core temperature to rise, which leads to increased heart rate. Your body has to work harder to lower your core temperature, increasing circulation, which burns calories. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, a 30 minute sauna session can burn up to 600 calories.
Infrared heat penetrates sore, tired or damaged muscles after a workout or competition, increasing blood circulation and oxygen flow and assisting in tissue repair. Infrared heat also helps in the removal of lactic acid, allowing muscles to relax and recover faster.
Several studies have looked at using infrared saunas in the treatment of chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis and have found evidence of benefits. A large study published in the February 23, 2015 Journal of the American Medical Association found that men who use saunas frequently were less likely to die from heart problems.
