Sweat your way to better health with an Infrared Sauna.

Traditional saunas and infrared saunas use different methods to heat the body. Traditional saunas use heat to warm the air, which in turn warms the body. The heat is generated by a stove or heater that is powered by electricity, wood or gas. In these saunas, you’ll find a dry and hot environment, which some people find uncomfortable.

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use infrared heaters to directly heat the body, rather than heating the air. The heaters emit infrared radiation, which is absorbed by the body, leading to a rise in body temperature. The heat in these saunas is more gentle and many will find it more comfortable.

While infrared saunas are generally considered to be safe, it can be possible to overheat, which can cause dehydration, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses. To avoid overheating, it is important to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.

Infrared saunas are also contraindicated for people who are pregnant, have a fever, or are experiencing acute inflammation. It is also not recommended for people with certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes without consulting a doctor first. People who have recently had surgery, are taking medications, or have other health conditions should also consult a doctor before using an infrared sauna.

For general health and relaxation, it is recommended to use an infrared sauna 2-3 times a week for 20-30 minutes at a time. This can help to improve overall wellbeing, decrease stress, and promote relaxation.

For specific health conditions, such as chronic pain or skin conditions, a higher frequency of use may be recommended by a healthcare professional. For example, if you are using an infrared sauna to help with chronic pain, you may need to use it every day for a certain period of time. It is important to note that the intensity and duration of an infrared sauna session should be increased gradually to prevent any discomfort or adverse effects. It is also important to listen to your body, if you feel unwell or uncomfortable during or after the session, you should stop and consult a healthcare professional before using it again.

Infrared saunas in P3’s NZ locations typically reach temperatures between approximately 55 – 75°C, while traditional saunas can reach temperatures up to 88°C.

Infrared saunas should not be used during pregnancy due to the potential risk of overheating. The heat from the infrared sauna can cause an increase in core body temperature, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the developing foetus. Additionally, the high temperatures in an infrared sauna can cause dehydration, which can be harmful to both the mother and the baby.

In general, it is best to avoid any unnecessary heat exposure during pregnancy and instead focus on healthy habits such as regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep.

Infrared saunas have been found to have various health benefits for different health conditions. One of the most well-known benefits is the relief of chronic pain, including conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and muscle soreness. The heat from the infrared sauna can help to increase blood flow, which can reduce inflammation and improve pain management.

Infrared saunas have also been found to be beneficial for people with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis as the heat from the infrared sauna can help to improve circulation, increase collagen production, and reduce inflammation, leading to improvements in skin health in some people.

Infrared saunas may also be beneficial for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis as the heat from the infrared sauna can help to open up airways, making it easier to breathe, and also helping to remove toxins and bacteria from the lungs.

Infrared saunas have also been found to be beneficial for people with heart disease, by dilating the blood vessels, which can help to lower blood pressure and improve heart function. Additionally, it helps to improve circulation, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Infrared saunas can also help with stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation, as well as sleep. The heat from the infrared sauna can help to increase the release of endorphins, which can help to improve mood and reduce stress.

It is important to note that these benefits are not proven by scientific studies, and it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using an infrared sauna for any specific health conditions.