People have embraced the health benefits of saunas for centuries. So it’s not surprising that there are many studies suggesting that time in the sauna could benefit humans as much as exercise does.
Nowadays, the infrared sauna is all the rage when it comes to healthy relaxation.
Does this type of sauna offer any extra health benefits, though? Keep reading to find out.
What Is an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared sauna therapy uses infrared light waves to generate heat. The waves penetrate deep into the tissues without raising the temperature of the room and making it uncomfortably hot for some.
These invisible waves penetrate below the skin’s surface. There they generate mitochondrial activity, circulate heat, and positively alter the body tissues.
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Improved Cardiovascular Health
We all know the most common reasons people start going to the sauna. Yet, the benefits of saunas extend way beyond weight loss and getting rid of toxins.
Studies show that infrared sauna therapy improves circulation, so it also offers the following benefits:
- Lower blood pressure
- Improved blood vessel function
- Increased heart rate
Thanks to the above, infrared sauna therapy sessions are also good for your heart. Evidence suggests those who spend time in an infrared sauna have a reduced risk of cardiac conditions like:
- Sudden fatal coronary heart disease
- Cardiac death
- Fatal cardiovascular disease
Some researchers compare sitting in an infrared sauna with going for a brisk walk.
By dilating the blood vessels, Infrared sauna therapy helps deliver more nutrients and oxygen to the skin. These nutrients are building blocks of collagen which keeps skin firm, improves skin tone, and reduces wrinkles.
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Infrared Saunas Combat Pain and Promote Healing
Netherlands researchers suggest patients can also enjoy relief from pain and stiffness after infrared sauna therapy sessions. These four-week sessions involved people suffering from ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers believe the infrared sauna benefits related to reduced inflammation decreases friction in the joints. Thus, it has a soothing effect on people with these conditions.
NASA studies show that infrared therapy can promote tissue growth and cell regeneration to promote faster wound healing.
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An Infrared Sauna Perks You Up
Patients suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), which causes unexplained fatigue, felt better after five weeks of infrared sauna therapy. The method involved infrared sauna sessions interspersed with rest periods
Upon completing the trials, patients reported improved mood, decreased anxiety, reduced depression, and less fatigue.
The jury’s still out on why infrared sauna therapy helped these people. Yet, it’s believed the positive results stem from decreased oxidative stress and improved cardiac output.
A Simple Way to Boost Your Wellbeing
There’s nothing complicated about basking in the rays from an infrared sauna. It has no negative effects, so there’s no harm in trying out one of these treatments as soon as you can.
You’ll emerge feeling invigorated and ready for action, confident in the knowledge that you’ve done yourself a world of good.
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