Far Infrared Sauna – FAQs
As professionals, we are always vigilant, always guided by science. We know that far infrared is required for all living things for optimum health as well as producing a huge range of benefits. And we encourage your questions.
Is far infrared safe?
The answer, simply, is yes! Far infrared radiation is entirely harmless. It has no negative impact on the body whatsoever. The medical profession has used infrared lamps to treat muscle and joint issues for decades. In fact it is so safe, infrared heating systems are used by hospitals in incubators to keep new-born babies warm.
Can you explain far infrared heat?
The light that we can see from the sun’s rays is made up of both visible and invisible light. The colours of the rainbow depict the visible light spectrum, and both Ultraviolet (UV) rays and far infrared rays represent the invisible. The wavelengths immediately lower than violet, are the UV rays we protect ourselves from with sunscreen, the wavelengths immediately higher than red, are the infrared rays.
The longest wavelengths of infrared (or far infrared) are thermal, meaning that they produce heat, and this is what makes you feel warm in the sun. Unlike UV rays, infrared rays are not only completely harmless, but are extremely beneficial. This is because they’re absorbed into the body through the skin and have a direct and positive influence on the functioning of cells.
How do far infrared saunas work?
In addition to the sun, our own bodies naturally produce, radiate and absorb far infrared rays as ‘body heat’, as observed by night vision goggles. The key to far infrared saunas, is that they use infrared lamps or panels to increase your body heat directly instead of heating the air. This is what assists you to sweat more intensely at a lower temperature, whilst enabling you to also breathe easier in a more tolerable atmosphere.
What does far infrared do to my body?
Extensive research has been carried out over the last 25 years on the benefits of far infrared. Essentially, far infrared rays (FIR) provide the warmth necessary to cause the peripheral blood vessels to dilate, increasing circulation and oxygen flow. Its deep tissue penetration has a therapeutic effect on sprains, muscle and joint stiffness whilst also inducing sweat, triggering the body’s other natural detoxing mechanisms.
Why are far infrared saunas more effective than standard saunas?
Traditional saunas use steam to heat the air, relying on that to transfer heat onto your body through your skin, which in turn induces you to sweat. Far infrared saunas however use radiant heat which penetrates more deeply than warmed air. Additionally, infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, around 48 °C as opposed to upwards of 90 °C, becoming more accessible if you cannot tolerate higher heat.
What are the benefits of far infrared saunas?
The multiple benefits from stimulation of the cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems may include; enhanced fitness, reducing weight, improved oxidation of tissues and increased blood circulation. Accordingly, removing impurities from your subcutaneous cells, which store waste and harmful toxins such as cholesterol and heavy metals, will leave you feeling cleansed and vibrant. In addition, studies have shown; better heart health, relief from muscle and joint pain, assistance with chronic fatigue, sleeping and stress, and enhanced skin tone and clarity.
What should I know before using an infrared sauna?
As a general guide you should:
- Avoid using the sauna if you feel ill or have a fever.
- Seek your doctor’s advice, prior to using a far infrared sauna, if you have any health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or are under medical care.
- Do not eat anything substantial 2 – 3 hours before your session.
- Do not exercise prior to, or after your session, not even a walk! Above all try to avoid any forms of activity afterwards, e.g. shopping, going out to or hosting dinner etc.
- Avoid alcohol after your sauna; and finally….
- Most importantly, ensure that you are well hydrated and stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water before, and after your visit.
How often should I use an infrared sauna?
You will see wellbeing improvements faster if you use it once a week.
How long do sessions normally last?
Our sauna treatments are untimed, however we suggest that you allow up to 90 minutes for your first time and 75 mins thereafter. This allows time for an initial consultation with our in-house professional, in addition to the warm up, heating and cooling down cycles for optimum benefit.
Come! Try a session in our far infrared sauna. You are, as always, in safe and caring hands.
