Infrared Sauna Sessions
We now offer Infrared Sauna Sessions at Two Rivers Acupuncture Our Sauna is a Two Person Sauna, appointments are booked privately
Infrared Sauna Includes ::
30 Minute Sauna Session and use of the private room up to 45 minutes
Interior Chromotherapy Lighting System
Red Light Therapy
Towels
Cold Facial Towels
Water
* If you would like to book the sauna for two people, please call or email us to add the second person *
What is an Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heating elements to emit radiant heat, which is absorbed directly by the body rather than warming the air around it. This method allows for a more comfortable experience at lower temperatures compared to traditional saunas. Infrared saunas typically operate within a temperature range of 120°F to 150°F, providing a therapeutic environment that promotes relaxation, detoxification, and potential health benefits such as improved circulation, muscle recovery, and lowering inflammation. .
Here are some of the potential health benefits associated with infrared sauna use:
1. Improved Cardiovascular Health
Infrared saunas can help improve circulation by dilating blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow. This may benefit cardiovascular health by temporarily lowering blood pressure and improving endothelial function. Some studies suggest that regular sauna use can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and even mortality related to cardiovascular events. However, those with known heart conditions should consult a doctor before using any type of sauna.
2. Detoxification
Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating toxins. Infrared saunas can promote deep sweating, which may aid in the elimination of heavy metals (like lead and mercury), environmental pollutants, and other toxins. Though the concept of "detoxification" through sweating is debated, it is plausible that saunas could support the body’s natural detox processes.
3. Pain Relief
Many people report relief from chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or muscle strain, after infrared sauna use. The heat can help reduce inflammation and promote muscle relaxation, potentially alleviating discomfort. Infrared therapy has been shown in some studies to improve pain and stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Like traditional saunas, infrared saunas can help reduce stress. The warmth relaxes the muscles and stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood elevators. Many users report a significant reduction in stress levels after regular use, contributing to better mental health and improved sleep quality.
5. Skin Health
Infrared light penetrates deeper into the skin than traditional sauna heat, which may improve circulation to the skin and aid in the healing of wounds, reduction of acne, and promotion of a healthy glow. Some users claim improvements in skin texture and tone, although rigorous scientific evidence in this area is still limited.
6. Weight Loss and Metabolism Boost
While not a substitute for exercise, infrared saunas may have a modest impact on metabolism. The heat increases heart rate and can cause the body to burn calories, similar to moderate exercise. A session in an infrared sauna can result in sweating that burns a small number of calories, but it should not be relied upon solely for weight loss.
7. Improved Immune Function
Regular sauna use, including infrared, may help stimulate the immune system. The heat raises core body temperature, mimicking a mild fever, which can activate immune responses and improve the body’s ability to fight infections.
8. Increased Flexibility and Mobility
Infrared heat helps relax muscles and loosen joints, which can be beneficial for athletes or individuals recovering from injuries. The increase in blood flow and warmth can support faster recovery by reducing muscle soreness and increasing tissue flexibility.
Reducing inflammation is one of the key potential benefits of infrared sauna therapy. Here’s how infrared saunas may help in this regard:
1. Reduction of Inflammation through Heat and Circulation
Infrared saunas emit infrared light, which penetrates deeper into the skin and tissues than the heat from traditional saunas. This deeper penetration helps increase blood flow to muscles and joints. Enhanced circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removes metabolic waste products, which supports the body’s natural healing processes. Better circulation can help reduce inflammatory responses and alleviate pain in areas affected by chronic conditions, such as arthritis or tendinitis.
2. Lowering Systemic Inflammation
Inflammation is a key component in many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. Some studies suggest that regular infrared sauna use may reduce systemic inflammation by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines. These are small proteins released by cells that help regulate the immune response and inflammation. The heat-induced stress of infrared therapy triggers mild changes in immune function that could reduce chronic, low-level inflammation over time.
3. Relief from Muscle and Joint Inflammation
For individuals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or even post-exercise muscle soreness, infrared saunas can provide relief by reducing inflammation in muscles and joints. The infrared heat promotes muscle relaxation, decreases stiffness, and helps to reduce the inflammatory markers associated with these conditions. Research has shown that infrared therapy can reduce pain and improve mobility in people with chronic inflammatory joint conditions.
4. Modulation of Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress plays a major role in chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Infrared sauna therapy has been shown to reduce oxidative stress by boosting antioxidant defenses in the body. Heat exposure can trigger a controlled level of oxidative stress that, in turn, enhances the body’s ability to produce its own antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals. This process can help reduce the chronic inflammation linked to oxidative damage.
5. Reduction in CRP Levels
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker often elevated during systemic inflammation. Some studies have found that regular infrared sauna use may reduce CRP levels, which is an indicator of lower inflammation in the body. Reduced CRP levels are associated with a decreased risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, which are heavily influenced by inflammatory processes.
6. Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Infrared sauna therapy stimulates the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are molecules that help protect cells from stress and damage. HSPs play a role in reducing inflammation by repairing damaged proteins and promoting cellular resilience. This protective mechanism can contribute to lowering inflammation in both acute and chronic conditions.
7. Immune System Modulation
Infrared saunas can help modulate the immune system, promoting a balanced inflammatory response. While inflammation is a natural defense mechanism, excessive or uncontrolled inflammation can lead to tissue damage. Infrared heat helps balance the immune response, ensuring that it fights off infection or repairs tissue without causing excessive inflammation that could worsen the condition.
8. Inflammation and Detoxification
While detoxification claims related to infrared saunas are still debated, the theory suggests that by promoting deep sweating, the body may eliminate certain toxins (like heavy metals and environmental chemicals) that contribute to inflammation. Whether this mechanism plays a significant role is still being studied, but detoxification could hypothetically reduce the body's overall inflammatory burden.
Important Considerations:
Hydration is crucial during and after sauna use to prevent dehydration due to excessive sweating.
Individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or chronic illness) or pregnancy should consult a healthcare provider before using an infrared sauna.
Alcohol consumption and drugs are not advised before or after a sauna session