Metropolitianmindset

I’ve been hearing a lot about infrared saunas and the wellness benefits they offer, and, as someone who generally prefers warmth over cold, I was naturally intrigued. I’ve enjoyed LED light therapy during facials and loved how my skin felt after, so I wondered if an infrared sauna session could bring me similar benefits, especially when it comes to improving my mood. With the winter months approaching and daylight fading early, I figured this was the perfect time to give it a try.

What Is an Infrared Sauna?

Unlike traditional saunas, which use heat to warm the air and make you sweat, infrared saunas use infrared panels that emit electromagnetic waves, directly heating your body without significantly warming the air around you. This lower-temperature approach, typically between 120°F and 140°F, makes the experience feel gentler while still causing you to sweat intensely and reap the potential benefits.

The infrared waves penetrate the skin more deeply than traditional sauna heat, which means you can enjoy similar benefits—like relaxation, stress reduction, and potential pain relief—at a lower, more comfortable temperature.

Why I Tried Infrared Sauna Therapy

My main reason for trying the infrared sauna was to boost my mood. As the days grow shorter and darker, I’ve been feeling the familiar “winter blues.” I wanted to see if a 30-minute infrared sauna session could offer a mood lift and help me feel more energized.

Chromotherapy: The Color Therapy Connection

A unique feature that some infrared saunas offer is chromotherapy, or color therapy. Chromotherapy is based on the concept that different colors can stimulate various physical and emotional responses. Each color’s frequency and wavelength are believed to impact our body in specific ways. Here’s a quick look at some of the colors commonly used in chromotherapy and their associated benefits:

• Green: Promotes balance and relaxation; helps relieve headaches.
• Red: Stimulates the body and increases energy.
• Blue: Has a calming, mentally soothing effect, helpful for reducing stress.
• Yellow: Eases muscular pain and promotes relaxation.
• Violet: Alleviates cramps and sciatica and connects us with our spiritual side.

These color therapies can be selected based on your specific needs. For instance, blue light can help with relaxation, while red is often used to improve circulation. This targeted approach made my session feel customized to my mood and physical needs.

My First Infrared Sauna Experience

For my first infrared sauna session, I went in prepared for a different type of heat than I’d experienced with traditional saunas. Here’s what I found:

1. The Setup: The sauna room was spacious and quiet, with the option to adjust the lights based on my chromotherapy preferences. I chose blue and green for a calming yet uplifting experience.
2. The Temperature: Initially, the heat felt gentle, almost as if I were basking in the warm sun. About 15 minutes in, though, I started to feel a bit overheated and slightly suffocated. The intensity builds gradually as your body absorbs the infrared energy directly.
3. Sweat & Hydration: One thing I wish I’d known beforehand was to bring a water bottle. I don’t think I’ve ever sweated that much in my life, even during intense workouts. Hydration is key! The intense sweat is a sign your body is releasing toxins and adjusting to the increased thermal energy.
4. Post-Sauna Bliss: When my session ended, I felt a wave of relaxation and mental clarity. I had that “post-workout glow”—calm and energized all at once. Not only did my muscles feel relaxed, but I also felt a noticeable mood lift, exactly what I was hoping for.

Potential Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that infrared saunas might provide several health benefits. Here are a few commonly cited advantages:

• Mood & Stress Relief: The gentle warmth and color therapy can help reduce stress levels and improve mood, a welcome relief for those dealing with seasonal affective symptoms.
• Improved Circulation & Heart Health: By increasing your core temperature, infrared saunas promote blood circulation, which can support heart health and improve overall circulation.
• Pain Relief & Muscle Recovery: The deep-penetrating infrared waves help relieve muscle tension, making it beneficial for post-exercise recovery or general muscle pain.
• Enhanced Skin Health: The sweating process can help clear pores, and some colors, like red and blue light, have known skin benefits that may improve skin clarity and texture.

Key Takeaways for your First Infrared Sauna Experience

If you’re considering trying an infrared sauna, here are my top tips:

• Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle and drink plenty before, during, and after your session.
• Start Slowly: If you’re sensitive to heat, consider starting with a shorter session and gradually working up to 30 minutes.
• Choose Colors Mindfully: Chromotherapy can enhance your experience, so think about what you want out of your session—stress relief, pain reduction, or a mood boost—and select colors accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I’ll definitely be going back for more infrared sauna sessions, especially as the winter months set in. Not only did it provide a mood boost, but the experience left me feeling calm, refreshed, and ready to tackle the day. If you’re looking for a natural way to lift your spirits, relieve stress, or simply warm up on a chilly day, I’d highly recommend giving infrared saunas a try.

Whether you’re interested in the therapeutic benefits, chromotherapy, or just the deeply relaxing warmth, an infrared sauna session could be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.