sauna

Sauna therapy has been around for centuries as a way to detoxify your body, but did you know that full spectrum infrared saunas can go even further by heating up your body's core to a cellular level, where most toxins are stored? Most recently, researchers in Finland, a country where most homes come equipped with a sauna, found that men who used a sauna four to seven times a week for an average length of 15 minutes had a 66 percent lower risk of developing dementia, and 65 percent lower risk of Alzheimer's, compared to men who used the sauna only once a week.

Infrared's deep penetrating heat is what most effectively stimulates metabolic activity, which in turn triggers the release of stored toxins through sweat, as well as through the liver and kidneys. Other reasons may include a boost of brain health, lowering inflammation and blood pressure, improving vascular function and enhancing relaxation and well-being.

Just think about a fever: a hotter body increases metabolic activity, kills unwanted intruders and simulates the release of toxins. Even viruses and sometimes tumor cells can be destroyed in the infrared heat.

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and your sweat glands are one way of cleansing your skin and releasing toxins that build up in your cells. Lack of sweating may actually result in an increased toxic load over time, which in turn can adversely affect your heart and brain.
 
Traditional Sauna vs. Infrared Saunas vs. Full Spectrum Infrared Saunas

• Traditional hot rock and steam saunas operate at extremely high temperatures in excess of 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This kind of heat is uncomfortable for many people, and it is not necessarily effective as it simply heats the air around you. Still better than not sweating.
  
• Infrared light, experienced as heat, is the invisible part of the sun's spectrum and is necessary for all living things. Far infrared has the ability to penetrate human tissue providing a deep, detoxifying sweat. Far infrared saunas are the most common on the market.
  
• Full spectrum saunas emit three infrared wavelengths independently – near, mid and far. At optimal frequencies, the different wavelengths can precisely target specific benefits. Near infrared light shouldn't be confused with ordinary red light. Therapeutic near infrared light is invisible to the naked eye and has a consistent output without extreme heat or light.
  

 
Key Tips for a Positive Sauna Experience

• Pre-sauna session, hydrate with at least 8 ounces of water to prepare your body for an increase in core body temperature. It is best to maintain peak hydration throughout the day by drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water. Example: body weight 160 pounds = 80 ounces of water.
  
• To get your body accustomed to infrared therapy, start with 10-15 minute sessions at 100° F every other day. The optimal sauna experience occurs between 100° and 130°.
  
• Gradually increase session length towards 40 minute daily sessions at the optimal temperature range.
  
• Don't be surprised if you don't sweat during the first few sessions. Sweating will increase with regular use, removing toxins and leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
• Listen to your body and be aware of excessive detoxifying. If you begin to feel flu-like symptoms, discontinue use and consult your physician.
• Post sauna session, drink at least 24 ounces of water or electrolytes (pure sea salt) to rehydrate. Dry off with a clean towel, then and let your body cool naturally.
• You can follow up later with a refreshing shower.

Enjoy your heat session.