Within our daily lives, we are exposed to chemicals through the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the products we use. These potential toxins can play a major role in our quality of health. One holistic approach to reducing the toxins is sweating them out!
There are a variety of ways to sweat, including exercises like running, weight lifting, yoga (extra sweaty in a heated room!), dancing, and biking! But a favorite method of ours that can be even MORE effective than exercise (or ideally in addition to exercise) are Saunas! Less work and even greater benefits for detoxing – heat treatments like saunas have been prized for thousands of years for their ability to support detoxification and relaxation. (I also sleep great after a sauna!)
NOTE: Not all saunas are created equal!!
Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas generally use steam to create temperatures as high as 195°F. Since this creates a humid heat, some may find traditional saunas uncomfortable or unhealthy for sensitive people.
Far-Infrared Saunas
Far-Infrared saunas specifically use light rather than heightened air temperatures. Interestingly, this actually tends to lead to more perspiration, but since the temperature is lower (ranging from 120°F to 150°F), many find it more comfortable and many doctors will actually recommend it to promote health. (Including some cardiologists and holistic cancer doctors – IMPORTANT to check with your doctor before trying a sauna and to get guidance on what temperature and how much time is safe for you.)
Potential health benefits of an infrared sauna include:
- Relaxation
- Detoxification
- Improved circulation
- Muscle recovery
- Reduced stress
- Enhanced mood
Wendy: My cardiologist actually recommended saunas when I was having a blood pressure issue. I’ve also been sweating out toxic chemicals after recent fires in our area. Would you believe I sweat gray dots on my white towels? Yuck! But better out than in!! IMPORTANT to hydrate with water, coconut water and/or mineral salts for electrolytes after saunas (not regular salt) – as mentioned above – check with your Doctor what is best for you!
You can find infrared saunas in spas, gyms, and wellness centers. In our neighborhood in Thousand Oaks, CA we recommended Oasis Wellness for far-infrared sauna rental by the hour. http://www.oasis-wellness.com We loved it so much we bought our own! Let us know if you want a referral for our favorite far infra-red sauna with low EMFs. (hint: Clearlight ;-)) MY BONUS TIP is to exercise on a mini-trampoline or other aerobic exercise for 5 minutes or more just before the sauna to improve the detox results!
Have you tried an infrared sauna or have any questions? Tell us your experience in the comments below!