If you are at all connected to the wellness world, you may have noticed infrared saunas becoming more and more popular.  That’s because when you incorporate the infrared sauna technology into your routine you get benefits that go beyond the basic benefits of sweating.  On top of burning calories and releasing toxins from your body, the infrared sauna can also increase circulation, purify your skin, and relieve unwanted pain.

Here’s how the infrared sauna compares to the typical sauna you might be used to.

In the infrared sauna, Infrared light waves heat the body deeply and release stored toxins seven times more efficiently than traditional saunas. This is because the infrared light heats the body itself whereas the traditional sauna heats the space around the body.  The temperature in the infrared sauna is set slightly lower, ranging from 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit compared to 160 in the conventional sauna. At a lower temperature you are able to experience the sauna for a longer duration, allowing you to reap more benefits.

Let’s talk about those benefits!
+ Detoxification and improved Circulation:
Better blood circulation means more toxins flow from the cellular level to the skin’s surface to improve cell health, aid in muscle recovery and strengthen the immune system.

+ Removes environmental chemicals

+ Relaxation:
Increases mental clarity, lowers Cortisol levels and increases Serotonin levels

+ Weight Loss:
A great option if you’re injured and/or unable to exercise.  Not only does a sauna session release excess water weight and toxins, you can also burn up to 900 calories per 45-minute session!

+ Skin purification and anti-aging:
Removes toxins from your pores and increases circulation which results in much clearer and healthier looking skin!

Tips before you try!
+ Be prepared to sweat! Make sure to constantly replenish with fluids during your treatment and throughout the remainder of the day.

+ Pair it with a lymphatic drainage treatment beforehand for an awesome healing combination.  The buildup of toxic substances released during lymphatic drainage will be sweat out during infrared sauna treatment.

If you’re in Seattle, I highly recommend City Sweats (the Wallingford location is my favorite) for the ultimate relaxation treatments.  City Sweats is now offering my Seattle readers $15 off + free tonics for their first treatment if you mention, ‘Rachael.’