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Infrared saunas have popped up in popularity all over the fitness community and we’re here to test it out and answer the question for you guys if they’re really worth all the hype they’ve been getting. From hot yoga sessions to relaxation, these saunas are used for so many things. We tried it out at ARTHA, our favorite members-only wellness sanctuary in West Hollywood.
First off, what makes these different than typical saunas or steam rooms? These each actually have their own use. Steam rooms add humidity and help to open up airways while typical saunas a hotter and dryer. When it comes to infrared saunas, these are usually not as hot and the lights work to heat your body from the inside, not the room itself, which is where the health benefits lie.
Relaxation and Better Sleep
Let’s get the obvious out of the way – Infrared saunas are amazing for relaxation. Dedicating time to yourself for meditation and mindfulness or even just time away from your phone can be so relaxing for both our bodies and mental health! When you work out or break a sweat, your body releases endorphins; the neurotransmitter that helps to reduce stress and boost happiness. A calm and happier mind will lead to better relaxation and more restful sleep.
Healthier, Glowing Skin
The relaxation benefits of infrared saunas aren’t only great for sleep – they’re great for your skin, too. We’ve all been there. We stress about a big event coming up and then out of nowhere, a breakout pops up, only making matters worse. Taking time to relax your body and mind can keep stress-induced breakouts at bay. Also, while sweating may seem like a gross feeling to have, it’s actually great at helping to regulate your body temperature and pull chemicals and toxins from your skin. Your skin will feel refreshed, vibrant and rid of anything making it look dull or tired.
Muscle Recovery
The warmth helps to soothe your body and help you stretch deeper. Warming up the body helps to loosen up sore muscles and joints and recover faster from life’s stressors and tough workouts. It’s a similar concept to hot yoga; the warmer room allows your body to push further into stretches, helping you alleviate sore muscles more efficiently.
Detox
Let’s be real – Infrared saunas warm up your body big time, meaning you’re going to SWEAT. Sweating is one of the best ways our body flushes out toxins, making this a great healthy reset when you feel like you need a detoxification boost. Extra tip, you’ll want to make sure you’re well hydrated before you go. Our ideal morning? Warm glass of lemon water to hydrate, then head to the infrared sauna.
Immunity Boost
Our immune systems fight daily to keep us healthy and our bodies working optimally, but of course, getting sick happens. Often when our bodies are fighting something off, we raise a fever. A fever normally sounds like a cause for alarm, but it’s actually a good sign! It means our bodies are working hard to fight off what’s trying to make us sick. Infrared saunas heat our bodies similarly to how a fever does, meaning it gives us a little boost in immunity.
Have you guys tried infrared saunas?! We’re so excited to make this part of our health and fitness routine!
xoxo
Team Arika
