As the temperatures drop in Des Moines, I’ve been seeking warmth beyond cozy sweaters and hot drinks. That’s where infrared sauna benefits come in. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas provide deep, therapeutic heat that supports relaxation, detoxification, and overall wellness. My husband and I recently invested in an infrared sauna from Good Health Saunas, and it has quickly become an essential part of my daily routine.
To fully explore the infrared sauna benefits, I’ve committed to a 7-day challenge, using it every day to see how it impacts my energy, recovery, and overall well-being. I’m excited to share my experience, the science behind infrared heat therapy, and why now is the perfect time to incorporate this wellness tool into your routine.
Why Infrared Saunas?
Infrared saunas are having a moment, and for good reason. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared light to penetrate your skin, warming your body directly. This approach allows for a more comfortable experience while offering a host of potential wellness benefits.
Listening to podcasts like Huberman Lab, Peter Attia The Drive, and Joe Rogan Experience, I’ve noticed a common theme: infrared saunas can be a transformative addition to your health regimen. Here are some of the most talked-about benefits:
The Wellness Benefits of Infrared Saunas
- Improved Circulation
The heat from an infrared sauna dilates your blood vessels, improving circulation and oxygen flow. This can aid in recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and even promote glowing skin. - Detoxification
Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways to eliminate toxins. Infrared saunas encourage a deep, cleansing sweat that may help remove heavy metals, chemicals, and other impurities from your system. - Stress Reduction
There’s something meditative about sitting in the warmth of an infrared sauna. It’s a chance to disconnect, unwind, and lower cortisol levels, leaving you calmer and more balanced. - Pain Relief
For those dealing with chronic pain, inflammation, or stiffness, infrared saunas offer a soothing reprieve. The deep-penetrating heat can help relax muscles and ease joint discomfort. - Immune System Boost
Regular sauna use may stimulate your immune system by creating a temporary increase in your core body temperature, mimicking a natural fever response. This can enhance your body’s ability to fight off illness. - Enhanced Sleep
Infrared sauna sessions can promote relaxation and regulate stress hormones, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
My 7-Day Challenge
To fully explore the benefits, I’ve committed to using our infrared sauna every day for the next week. I’m currently at day 4. After just a few sessions, I’m already feeling:
- More energized throughout the day.
- Faster recovery after some intense yoga sessions.
- Warmer (a bonus as the cold weather sets in!).
I’m also curious to see if I notice changes in my skin, recovery time after workouts, or overall mental clarity by the end of this challenge.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time
As the colder months settle in here in Iowa, there’s no better time to embrace the warmth and healing benefits of an infrared sauna. It’s like having a mini wellness retreat at home—perfect for combatting winter blues, staying cozy, and prioritizing self-care.
Podcasts to Dive Deeper into Sauna Science
If you’re curious about the science and benefits of infrared saunas, I recommend checking out these podcast episodes:
- Huberman Lab: “The Science and Benefits of Heat Exposure”
The Science & Health Benefits of Deliberate Heat Exposure | Huberman Lab Podcast #69
- Peter Attia Drive: “How Saunas Support Longevity and Recovery”
Optimizing sleep: bedtime routine, molecule regimen, sleep trackers, & sauna [AMA 42 sneak peek]
- Joe Rogan Experience:
Joe Rogan Experience #1474 – Dr. Rhonda Patrick―
Final Thoughts
Adding an infrared sauna to our home has been one of the best investments we’ve made for our health and well-being. While I’m still in the early days of my 7-day challenge, I can already tell this is a practice I’ll continue long after the week is over.
If you’ve been considering incorporating an infrared sauna into your life, I can’t recommend it enough. And who knows—maybe I’ll become an affiliate for Good Health Saunas soon and share even more of my love for this incredible wellness tool!
Have you tried an infrared sauna? I’d love to hear about your experience or answer any questions about my experience so far. Drop a comment below or send me a message—I’d love to connect!
Stay warm, stay well!
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