The Healing Power of Infrared Light: Exploring Infrared Sauna Therapy
What is an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared saunas have been around for several decades. Unlike traditional saunas that use steam or heated rocks, infrared saunas emit infrared light that penetrates the skin and heats the body directly. This induces relaxation and aids in the process of healing. Infrared saunas offer numerous health benefits and are becoming a popular wellness trend worldwide.
History and Development
The concept of infrared radiation was first discovered by William Herschel, a British astronomer, in 1800. The use of infrared therapy for medical purposes started in Japan in the 1960s when infrared lamps were used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis, and high blood pressure.
What is Infrared Light?
The electromagnetic spectrum consists of various light waves, including visible light and infrared, which are differentiated by their interaction with matter. Infrared light is considered to be a natural and safe form of energy that offers numerous health benefits to both human beings and the environment. It provides the perfect amount of energy required by cells to trigger warmth, growth and release, thus helping to promote overall well-being.
The Electromagnetic Spectrum
Understanding the Different Wavelengths
An infrared sauna uses different wavelengths of infrared light to penetrate the skin and produce therapeutic benefits. There are three types of infrared light: near, mid and far, each with a unique set of characteristics that contribute to overall health and well-being.
Near infrared light, with wavelengths between 0.75-1.5 microns, is the shortest of the three and is known for its ability to penetrate the skin deeply. It helps improve skin health by stimulating collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and promoting overall skin regeneration. Near infrared light also helps boost the immune system by increasing white blood cell production.
Mid-infrared light has wavelengths between 1.5-5.6 microns, making it a more penetrating form of infrared light. It helps promote circulation and tissue repair, easing joint pain and reducing inflammation. Mid-infrared light also aids in the detoxification process by increasing sweat production and flushing toxins from the body.
Far infrared light has the longest wavelengths, ranging from 5.6-1000 microns. This type of infrared light penetrates the deepest, making it the most effective for improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and aiding in muscle recovery. It also helps increase metabolism, promoting weight loss and providing a passive cardiovascular workout.
In an infrared sauna, a combination of near, mid, and far infrared light is used to provide a range of therapeutic benefits, including detoxification, improved circulation, pain relief, and relaxation. By utilising different wavelengths of infrared light, an infrared sauna can effectively aid in overall health and well-being.
Click here to find out more information on how an infrared sauna can benefit you.
At West Osteopathy we offer private 60 minute sessions where you are able to choose a variety of different programs to target your health needs which may include: pain relief, detoxification, relaxation, anti-ageing, cardio and weight loss. Each program ranges from 30-45 minutes so you are able to complete multiple programs within the 60 minute timeframe. Our sauna has ambient lighting and a built in tablet so you can watch Netflix or listen to music to add to your relaxation experience. There is plenty of room for two so you can bring a friend if you choose.
Infrared sauna pricing
Private - $50 for 60 minutes
Two People - $85 for 60 minutes
Or alternatively you can purchase a 5 or 10 session pass for ($150 or $200)
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