Comparing the benefits: Infrared Sauna vs Regular Sauna
As you probably already know, bathing in heat be it for health or purification purposes is a practice that dates back to centuries. Before infrared saunas became all the rage, the traditional Finnish-style saunas were the go-to for people seeking to relax, detoxify, or prevent and treat various health conditions. All about Infrared Sauna vs Regular Sauna just below.
If you haven’t been bitten by the infrared sauna bug, you are definitely missing out on a lot. While the traditional or regular dry sauna is what comes to mind when the topic of saunas is broached, a new type of sauna, the infrared sauna, has taken the medicine world by storm. Truth be told, both infrared and traditional saunas offer unique experiences and have their own set of advantages.
But, which one is truly better? Which one would you prefer? If you find yourself in a dilemma, then this article will answer all your teething questions. We will delve into the world of saunas, comparing the benefits of infrared saunas to regular traditional saunas, so that you can make an informed decision about which type of sauna best suits your needs.
Understanding the basics: Infrared Sauna and Regular/traditional Sauna
Regular Sauna
Traditional Finnish saunas, most commonly referred to as regular saunas, use various types of heaters including wood burning, gas, or even electric to heat the air within the room. The result of this heating is a high-degree temperature environment that induces you to sweat profusely hence aiding in relaxation and detoxification.
Infrared Sauna
In contrast, An infrared sauna emits radiant heat that is directly absorbed by the body using infrared heaters. Infrared saunas heat the body’s surface and enter the skin deeper than conventional saunas, which raises your core body temperature.
For this reason, an infrared sauna is often touted for its ability to provide a more gentle and tolerable heat which makes it the sauna of choice for individuals with low heat tolerance.
Health Benefits: Infrared Sauna vs. Regular Sauna
Infrared SaunA
One of the primary or key benefits of infrared saunas is in their ability to provide the body tissues at a deeper level. This deep body tissue penetration can potentially assist in improving blood circulation, reducing pain, relieving muscle tension, boost metabolism, central nervous system improvement, and accelerated detoxification.
Several studies have shown that infrared therapy can help with a number of conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain, and even cardiovascular health.
The lower temperature in an infrared sauna is what makes it a safer and popular option for those with certain health conditions like heart problems.
Traditional/regular sauna
Regular saunas are characterized by considerably higher temperatures when compared to infrared saunas. These high degrees of temperature cause the body to sweat profusely leading to a sense of relaxation and detoxification. Consequently, the intense heat is also instrumental in helping improve cardiovascular health and blood circulation.
Add to that the fact that regular sauna sessions have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease and improved lung function and you get the idea of why it has been popular since time immemorial. That said, people with certain health conditions such as high blood pressure or respiratory issues should exercise caution when using traditional saunas due to the higher temperatures involved.
Difference in Experience: Infrared vs Regular Sauna
The experience of an infrared sauna is characterized by a milder heat that is often more tolerable for individuals who find the extreme temperatures of regular saunas uncomfortable. The radiant heat feels soothing and can help relax muscles without causing excessive sweating.
Infrared saunas are often praised for providing a comfortable and enjoyable environment for longer sessions.
The high temperature in regular saunas leads to an intense sweating experience that some people find invigorating. The steam and heat create a unique ambiance that many sauna enthusiasts enjoy. However, the intense heat can also be overwhelming for some, limiting their ability to tolerate longer sessions.
A look at the costs and setups: Infrared Sauna vs Regular Sauna
In terms of energy consumption, infrared saunas typically cost less to operate when compared to traditional saunas thanks to their lower operating temperatures. What’s more? They are also easier to install as they don’t require extensive ventilation systems. Infrared saunas can also be portable and come in different sizes hence making them suitable for home use.
On the other hand, traditional saunas require more energy to reach and maintain their high temperatures which can result in higher operating costs. Additionally, the installation of regular saunas often involves proper ventilation systems to manage the steam and heat generated. These saunas are typically larger and may require dedicated space within your home.
Choosing the Best Sauna For You
In the grand scheme of things, we are all different and have different tastes and preferences. With that said, the choosing between an infrared sauna and a regular sauna boils down to your personal tastes and preferences, health considerations as well as your desired experience.
If you have a lower tolerance for extreme heat, are looking for a more gentle therapy, or have specific health concerns, an infrared sauna might be the better option for you.
The deeper penetration of radiant heat can offer benefits such as improved circulation, pain relief, and cardiovascular support.
On the other hand, if you thrive in higher temperatures, enjoy the ritual of intense sweating, and don’t have health conditions that might be exacerbated by extreme heat, a regular sauna could be your preferred choice. The traditional sauna experience offers its own set of health advantages, including relaxation, detoxification, and potential cardiovascular benefits.
What to Expect From A Sauna Session
A sauna session, whether in an infrared or traditional sauna, offers a unique experience that revolves around the therapeutic benefits of heat. In both saunas, the elevated temperature induces the body to produce a cleansing sweat, a natural response that aids in detoxification and relaxation.
During the session, the sauna’s ambient air temperature will rise, and people can expect to feel the enveloping warmth on their skin. In a traditional sauna, the temperature can reach higher degrees, creating an intense but invigorating experience, while infrared saunas provide a milder heat that penetrates deeper into the body, potentially offering better therapeutic effects.
infrared sauna vs regular Sauna : now you know
As you sit in the sauna room, you’ll likely notice the air becoming steamy and damp due to the interaction of heat with any water poured onto the heated sauna stones or coals. This steam contributes to the sensation of heat and can intensify the experience, particularly in regular saunas.
Most sauna sessions typically last between 10 to 20 minutes, allowing the body to gradually adapt to the increased temperature. This time frame is optimal for reaping the health benefits without overstressing the body.
As your body temperature rises, your blood vessels dilate, enhancing blood circulation and promoting a healthier heart. Regardless of the sauna type, the session provides a valuable opportunity for relaxation, releasing tension, and potentially alleviating muscle pain.
Whether you prefer the dry heat of a traditional sauna or the radiant warmth of an infrared sauna, the therapeutic effects on both body and mind make a sauna session a valuable addition to your health and wellness routine.
To conclude, we must reiterate that when comparing an infrared sauna vs regular sauna, it is crucial to weigh the benefits and your personal tastes and preferences. Both have unique advantages and can provide valuable health benefits.
Assess your preferences, health status, and comfort with different heat levels to determine which type of sauna: infrared sauna vs regular sauna will best suit your needs. Whichever you choose, integrating regular sauna sessions into your wellness routine can be a valuable step toward enhancing your overall health and well-being. If you are seeking to buy an infrared sauna or enjoy an infrared sauna session, look no further than Fast and Fit!