The
latest in saunas: infrared
Recently a new type of sauna has emerged. Unlike the traditional
sauna that uses a wood-burning stove, or the former technology leader,
the electric stove, this new sauna uses an infrared heater. While a
traditional sauna heater heats the air inside the sauna, infrared heaters
heat the people and objects, not the air.
Because the air is not heated, infrared heaters can be used
anywhere, even outdoors. They are used in sauna enclosures simply for
the atmosphere: people are used to going into saunas, and may be more
comfortable in an enclosure than in an open space.
What is infrared?
Infrared is simply a certain frequency band of light that is
invisible to the human eye. The heat from infrared is sometimes called
Infrared Radiation (IR), very different from Ultraviolet Radiation,
which can cause sunburn. Most of the heat that warms the earth is IR
from the sun, and IR is given off by the earth and even the human body,
so this is not a new, nor dangerous phenomenon.
Health benefits of infrared
The health benefits of traditional saunas include alleviation
of pain and stiffness from arthritis, and cleansing of the skin by induced
heavy sweating. In addition, the steam of traditional saunas can help
relieve respiratory problems such as congestion and bronchitis.
Proponents of infrared saunas claim that they have even more
therapeutic properties than traditional saunas.
In addition, Infrared Radiation is said to have unique healing
properties that cannot be found in the radiant heat in conventional
saunas. Proponents say that it can penetrate into the body's internal
organs and muscle tissues to release toxins and strengthen the immune
system. Though there is little medical research to support some of these
claims, there is no known danger associated with infrared saunas, so
you can try it for yourself and see.
Infrared advantages
Infrared saunas have a number of advantages over steam saunas.
Since they operate at a lower heat, some people may find them more comfortable
than regular saunas. The lower heat also means less power consumed,
so infrared saunas are cheaper to operate. Infrared saunas heat up much
faster than conventional saunas, another factor in reducing operating
costs.
Traditional saunas create hot, dry air, which some people find
uncomfortable to breathe. Infrared saunas do not heat up the air, so
the air quality will be similar inside and outside the sauna.
Infrared saunas don't use any water. This makes them more portable
and easier to install, and eliminates the problem of bacterial build-up
that can occur in a damp area.
Some disadvantages
Infrared saunas generate no steam, so they are less effective
in relieving breathing problems. When it comes to building up a sweat
and easing the pain of arthritis, though, infrared saunas have the same
benefits as traditional saunas.
Some people say that infrared saunas don't provide the feelings
of relaxation and refreshment of a conventional sauna. The lack of steam
in an IR sauna may be an advantage or disadvantage, depending on your
preference. Steam can be useful for relieving respiratory problems,
but on the other hand, the normally dry air of the sauna is uncomfortable
for some.
Infrared or conventional?
Each type of sauna has beneficial effects. Saunas are relaxing
and make the skin feel clean and smooth.
Whether they can be useful in treating disease remains an open
question, but many people swear by their therapeutic qualities. Whether
or not some of the medical claims made for Infrared saunas are exaggerated,
there may nevertheless be some special benefits to IR therapy.
In any case, saunas are enjoyable and provide a great way to
unwind. Infrared saunas are easier to use and cheaper to install, and
may have additional health benefits over conventional saunas. So try
both out -- one is likely to feel just right.
